8
V.A.D. System
The Abyss second stages features the exclusive V.A.D. (Vortex Assisted Design) system, patented by MARES. This system, which
ensures low inhalation effort at all depths, uses a by-pass tube to route the air coming in from the hose through the second stage valve
directly into the mouthpiece (Fig. 4). Inside the mouthpiece, the air takes on a "vortex" flow pattern, a the centre of which a low pressure
zone is formed. This low pressure contributes to keeping the second stage diaphragm flexed during the inhalation phase, thereby
increasing the sensitivity of the regulator.
Abyss Octopus
The second stage of the Octopus version is equipped with a hose of considerable length (100cm (39in.)) to facilitate use by a diving
companion if necessary. It is immediately identifiable in any condition by its yellow color.
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
Connecting the hoses to the first stage
The hoses and accessories should be connected in such a way as to avoid damaging the O-ring. Use a suitable wrench to remove the
plug from the first stage port, and screw the terminal fitting of the hose firmly but gently into the first stage port.
PRE-DIVE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
- Ensure that all the hoses have been correctly assembled onto the first stage, and check them for cuts, signs of wear or other damage. If
the hoses are loose enough to be unscrewed manually, they must be tightened with a wrench before being pressurised.
-Make sure that the first and second stages do not show signs of damage.
- Position the tank control valve so that the valve opening is directed towards the diver.
- Remove the dust cap from the regulator yoke and position the A-clamp or DIN fitting so that it is centered on the tank valve opening.
- The first stage should be oriented in such a way that the hose leading to the second stage is routed over the diver's right shoulder (Fig. 5).
- Tighten the yoke nut finger tight only, being careful not to damage the O-Ring on the tank valve.
- Check the submersible pressure gauge, making sure that the pressure reading is zero.
- Very slowly open the tank valve, allowing air to enter the regulator gradually.
- Do not turn the first stage connected to the tank when the system is pressurized!
!!
WARNING
The regulator in and of itself is not a complete SCUBA unit, but only one of its components. Under the EN 250: 2000
standard, a complete SCUBA unit must include at least the following minimum equipment:
a) Air tank(s).
b) Regulator.
c) Safety device, e.g. pressure gauge/computer, reserve mechanism or alarm.
d) Transport and retaining system, e.g. backpack and/or straps.
e) Facepiece (mouthpiece assembly or full-face mask or diving helmet).
f) User instructions.
Your MARES regulator has been designed for use in conjunction with other SCUBA unit components conforming to the
EEC/89/686 directive and certified with the EC mark. The air inside the tanks must conform to the requirements for
breathable air set out in EN12021.
BEFORE ASSEMBLING THE COMPONENTS OF YOUR SCUBA UNIT, CAREFULLY READ ALL THE USER INSTRUCTIONS
AND ANY WARNINGS WHICH THEY CONTAIN.
!!
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to use your regulator unless you have performed all of these pre-dive operating procedures. Failure to do
so may lead to serious injury or death if the regulator malfunctions.