At first glance this dive computer is simply a stunner to look at. With an elegant and slim form factor more resembling a digital watch than a dive computer, the Suunto D6 is the perfect product combining practical everyday wrist-watch functionality with a full featured dive computer.
Weighing just 113g the D6 is made from a solid stainless steel body and is also available in a metallic bracelet version or the standard D6 Elastometer which has a rubber wrist strap.
Suunto D6 is full-decompression wristop dive computer with an integrated digital compass. Its three operating modes, gas-switching functionality, and the Suunto RGBM deep stop algorithm combine to make it one of the most feature-rich and versatile dive computers available. – Suunto.com
The D6 features 3 primary modes, Time, Dive and Memory. In the Time/watch mode, the D6 provides the user with all the basic features of a watch, with daily alarm, calendar, a stopwatch and the option of a second time zone (dual time) which is a handy feature for travelling divers. Certain features of the dive computer such as the compass and temperature readings may be used in watch mode as well.
The Dive Computer mode allows you to dive on both , Air or Nitrox, and also has a gauge mode which turns off the computer and acts as a bottom timer with relevant information. Nitrox mode allows the user to select from 21-100% oxygen concentrations and also features the ability of Gas switching during a dive. The D6 utilizes the RGBM or Reduced Gradient Bubble Model algorithm developed by Suunto and Bruce R Wienke for determining nitrogen loading for the diver.
The Dive Log or the memory mode of the D6 displays detailed dive profile graphs as well as all the usual dive information, and can be downloaded to a PC using Sunnto’s optional PC Download Kit which can be purchased as an extra. The memory mode allows for up to ~100 hours of diving information to be stored in its memory.
featured above is the Suunto PC Download Kit (USB) for D9, D6 & D4 Computers available at Scuba.com
One of the best features of the Sunnto D6 is the integrated digital compass which can be used in both dive modes as well as on land, in the watch mode. The compass prominently displays the cardinal compass directions (N, NE, S, SW etc), as well as provides bearings in a degree readout in the lower corner of the display. The best feature of the compass is the ability to lock on to a bearing, after which the compass will indicate with left or right arrows when you are off course. This is especially useful for underwater navigation and making your way back to the boat.
The main difference between the Suunto D6 and its larger brother the Suunto D9 is that the D9 is wireless air integrated, slightly thicker and has a Titanium case instead of the Stainless Steel of the D6, otherwise features and functionality are the same.
The battery life of the D6 is expected to last 2-3 years depending on use of compass and backlight, however the battery is not user replaceable which means you would need to have the battery shipped or taken to an authorized dealer/service center to have the batteries replaced.
Overall the Suunto D6 is an excellent product and a must buy for anyone looking for a reasonably priced wrist mounted dive computer with all the bells and whistles.
