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Now Talk on your Cell Phone while SCUBA Diving too

Now Talk on your Cell Phone while SCUBA Diving too

Written by Nevin
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Published on September 24, 2009

Cell Phone technology has been increasing at such a rapid pace nowadays that it comes as no surprise when we were informed about the latest development in being able to answer and make cell phones calls underwater. One of the newest gadgets to be introduced for diver communication is the ALPHA UWCP – Underwater Cellular Phone created by renowned specialists in underwater communication, Ocean Reef.

Ocean Reef has been in the business of underwater communication nearly 50 years and has a wide range of Diver products, from fins and snorkels to the most modern systems of underwater communication. Being always on the cutting edge of underwater communication innovation, it comes as no surprise that they would come up with the ALPHA-UWCP.

The Alpha-UWCP comprises of a speaker and microphone that can be fitted into any of Ocean Reef’s full face masks. This is connected to a quick release cable of up to 50m that spools from a surface buoy equipped with a water resistant box which contains the interface which can connect to your cellular phone via Bluetooth. The interface works on a 9 volt alkaline battery, and even though not included as standard, you can opt for the cell phone to be provided with the unit as well at an additional cost. Any cell phone that supports voice dialing and Bluetooth capabilities will work with the Alpha-UWCP.

The Alpha-UWCP makes it possible for communication between 2 divers or diver to surface wherever cell phone connectivity is available. Operation is rather simple, the diver must first record voice dialing commands on his/her cell phone before hand while wearing the mask, so that the phone recognizes the commands once underwater. The diver once underwater can press the PTT (Push to talk) button and after the confirmation signal is heard, say the name of the person he/she wishes to call. To receive incoming calls, the ringing will be heard through the face mask speaker and by simply pressing the PTT button, you can answer it.

So what if you run out of cable or want to dive in a wreck or cave? The Alpha-UWCP has a quick release waterproof rubber connection allows the diver to separate from the cable at any given moment.  Also the unit is not cumbersome as you do not need to carry a heavy transceiver with you like with the VHF communication units.

So how much does all of this cost? The unit comes with the inflatable buoy, 2 dive flags, underwater microphone and speaker unit, 40 meters of cable and the cellular phone protective box with interface and Bluetooth. The kit does not include the Full Face Mask and cell phone which you have to buy separately. The kit sans mask and cell phone will cost a whopping $1, 120 (approx), which seems like a lot of money, but not for divers requiring the flexibility that the UWCP offers.