How do these 12Volt Diving Systems Work?

The Powerdive range of products utilises a small but highly efficient 12 volt operated 'oilless diaphragm' air compressor and a combination of diving components to provide a realistic and safe alternative to traditional diving equipment, such as scuba.  There are two different types of units, the 'DeckSnorkel' remains on your boat and is powered by the boat's battery (perfect for underwater boat maintenance).   The PowerSnorkel floats on the surface, powered by it's own internal rechargeable battery.

Where does Powerdive carry it's air supply?

That's what makes it so revolutionary and versatile.  As Powerdive has its own mini air compressor, it draws in fresh air from the surface and then compresses it inside the unit.  The compressed air is then stored in a floating reservoir to supply the diver - just like a scuba tank!  All the equipment needed to breathe underwater floats on the surface, which means you don't have to wear any bulky equipment, making your dives really enjoyable.

How long can you go diving for with Powerdive?

The PowerSnorkel (floating model) carries it's own rechargeable battery.  Typically, this will provide a running time of 60 mins. for 2 divers using the one machine.  The DeckSnorkel (boat model) is designed to run from your boat's batteries bank or a large auxiliary battery.  The running time depends on the size of your battery; generally a standard marine grade boat battery will allow 3-4 hours of continuous operation.

How do you know when the battery is running out of power?

 

As the battery gets towards the end of it's charge, the pump starts to gradually slow.  This causes the divers to slowly return to the surface - safely controlling their ascent rate.  Generally this period of time lasts approximately 15mins+ (depending on battery size).  As a result, this automatically controls the rate of ascent of the diver to the surface, avoiding any potentially dangerous decompression issues.

How safe is it to use?

Powerdive's (self imposed) depth limitation of 8 to 10 metres is designed to keep the diver "off the dive" tables!  This means that a Powerdiver can safely dive all day without having to worry about the dangers of decompression sickness, (more commonly known as the bends!).   This makes it great for family and friends to enjoy.

 

What about diving with your buddy?

 

For diving couples and families, the double-person PowerSnorkel offers it all. This compact machine is designed for two divers to use down to 7m (22 ft.), or one diver to over 12m (38 ft).  This system is all you need for a holiday or that diving weekend away.

 

What sort of power is required to run the Powerdive units?

No longer do you have to let the excuse, "Out of Air!" spoil your day.

 

Powerdive's 12 volt rechargeable battery can be recharged from any 12 volt DC power supply, or if you have a second battery, replaced and ready to use again in minutes. On your boat, the Powerdive batteries are so small, there's no need to waste valuable deck space on bulky empty air tanks! For ultra quick charging times, Powerdive's quality 'Odyssey ESV-800' Dry Cell batteries are exceptional.  They can be recharged directly from your boat's or vehicles generator in around 30 minutes*.   Alternatively, the batteries can be trickle charged in 3 to 5 hours. Our recommended batteries can be easily recharged from: boat / vehicle alternators, 240 volt battery chargers, wind generators, solar panels and even car cigarette lighters!

 

*Time quoted from manufactures users manual; charging current 90 Amps, 14.2volts.

Do I need to do a training course to use Powerdive equipment?

Although there is no requirement in Australia to be qualified to use 'surface air supply equipment; we have, in conjunction with Scuba Schools International (SSI), developed a course that will teach you everything you need to know to operate this equipment safely.  Courses are held regularly in each state of Australia and are conducted by qualified diving instructors for the best tuition possible.

Powerdive instruction covers important topics such as correct breathing technique, use of weights, equalising ear pressure, mask squeeze, mask clearing, buddy diving, hand signals, emergency ascent and equipment maintenance.

Following some interesting theory about diving, you will learn some easy underwater skills in a shallow pool with an instructor.  Once mastered, you then 'graduate' into a deeper pool (5m max.) to have some fun with your Powerdive. 

Generally a course takes only about 4 to 5 hours to complete, which is made up of a couple of hours theory and the rest doing practical diving skills and having fun!

Important Note: As Powerdive diving uses compressed air, it is highly recommended to have authorised diving instruction or certification to use this equipment safely.  Diving unqualified can be dangerous, and proper training is strongly recommended.

Comparison to traditional scuba courses.

	Only 1/3rd the price of your average Scuba course.
	Only takes half a day to complete - roughly 1/5th of the time!

You don't have to own a Powerdive to attend one of our courses, which makes it perfect for somebody who wishes to experience the thrill of underwater diving.

Please contact your local Powerdive representative about the next training course in your area.