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Frequently Asked Questions About the Descent Mk2 Series and a SubWave Transmitter
Compiled below is a list of frequently asked questions for the Descent™ Mk2 series dive computer and SubWave™ wireless connectors like the Descent™ T1 and Descent™ T2 transmitters.
- What is the Difference Between the Descent Mk2, Descent Mk2S and Descent Mk2i?
- What Type of Screen Does the Descent Mk2 Have Compared to the Mk1?
- Is the Mk2i Compatible With Non-Garmin Transmitters?
- What is SubWave?
- My SubWave Transmitter Generates an Audible "Chirp" When Diving. Is This Normal?
- Will the SubWave “Chirp” Harm or Scare Away Sea Life?
- Is It Compatible With the Other Dive Apps?
- What Dive Algorithm Is the Watch Using?
- Can I Control the Gradient Factor and Set It How I Would Like?
- Can I Replace the Battery and O-Rings on My Descent T1 Transmitter on My Own?
- Are SubWave Transmitters Oxygen Ready?
What is the Difference Between the Descent™ Mk2, Descent™ Mk2S and Descent™ Mk2i Dive Computers?
The Descent Mk2, Descent Mk2S and Descent Mk2i dive computers are similar in almost all ways. The exception is that the Descent Mk2i watch supports air integration from the Descent T1 and T2 transmitters. The Descent Mk2 and Descent Mk2S watches do not support air integration.
What Type of Screen Does the Descent Mk2 Dive Computer Have Compared to the Descent™ Mk1?
Descent Mk2 and Descent MK2i watches have a larger 1.4” transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display which allows for superior sunlight readability and low power consumption.
Is the Descent Mk2i Compatible With Non-Garmin Transmitters?
No. The Descent Mk2i is only compatible with the Descent T1 and T2 transmitters. The Descent Mk2i uses ANT wireless protocol on the surface and SubWave underwater.
What is SubWave?
SubWave underwater communication, found on the Descent Mk2i watch, is Garmin technology that expands what divers can do with air integration. SubWave technology increases the range of the Descent T1 and T2 transmitters allowing for more air integration options. See our Dive Science page to learn more.
My SubWave Transmitter Generates an Audible “Chirp” When Diving. Is This Normal?
This is normal. SubWave transmitters do generate a subtle audible, “chirp”-like noise as it sends data over the SubWave sonar network. Sound travels much better through water than radio waves, and is why the SubWave is able to support such a long range when compare with traditional radio-based solutions.
Will the SubWave “Chirp” Harm or Scare Away Sea Life?
The SubWave network uses a very low power sonar signal, much lower than that of traditional marine sonar systems. SubWave transmitters generate SubWave signals at an average of 1W of power, up to a peak of 10W. For comparison, common consumer-grade fish finders average power output of around 1000W. Our testing has not indicated any impact to sea life.
Is It Compatible With the Other Dive Apps?
Many partners are updating their apps to work with the Descent Mk2 series watches. Check with the app maker for current compatibility.
What Dive Algorithm Is the Watch Using?
The Descent Mk2 series watches uses the Buhlmann-ZHL16c algorithm with Gradient Factors.
Can I Control the Gradient Factor and Set It How I Would Like?
Yes. We provide presets for low, medium, and high conservatism, and a custom option which lets the user choose their own Gradient Factor (GF) High and GF Low values. See the Descent Mk2 owner's manual to learn to how setup your dive profile.
Can I Replace the Battery and O-Rings on My Descent T1 Transmitter on My Own?
Yes. The battery is user replaceable with a Lithium CR123A and we offer replacement parts, including o-rings, online. To learn more about the battery, see the owner's manual. For steps on replacing the o-rings, see - How to Service a Descent Transmitter.
Are SubWave Transmitters Oxygen Ready?
The Descent T1 and T2 can be used with up to 40% oxygen.