SUUNTO Gekko - Manual (Page 27)

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CEILING, CEILING ZONE, FLOOR AND DECOMPRESSION RANGE
When in decompression, it is important that you understand the meaning of ceil-
ing, fl oor, and decompression range (Fig. 3.19.):
- The ceiling is the shallowest depth to which you should ascend when in
decompression. At this depth, or below, you must perform all stops.
- The ceiling zone is the optimum decompression stop zone. It is the zone
between the minimum ceiling and 1.8 m [6 ft] below the minimum ceiling.
- The fl oor is the deepest depth at which the decompression stop time will
not increase. Decompression will start when you pass this depth during
your ascent.
- The decompression range is the depth range between the ceiling and fl oor.
Within this range, decompression takes place. However, it is important to
remember that the decompression will be very slow at, or close to, the fl oor.
The depth of the ceiling and fl oor will depend on your di ve profi le. The ceiling
depth will be fairly shallow when you enter the decompression mode, but if you
remain at depth, it will move downward and the ascent time will increase. Likewise,
the fl oor and ceiling may change upwards while you are decompressing.
When conditions are rough, it may be diffi cult to maintain a constant depth near
the surface. In this case it will be more manageable to maintain an additional
distance below the ceiling, to make sure that the waves do not lift you above the
ceiling. Suunto recommends that decompression takes place deeper than 4 m [13
ft], even if the indicated ceiling is shallower.
NOTE!
It will take more time and more air to decompress below the ceiling than
at the ceiling.
WARNING!
NEVER ASCEND ABOVE THE CEILING! You must not ascend above the
ceiling during your decompression. In order to avoid doing so by accident, you
should stay somewhat below the ceiling.
DISPLAY BELOW THE FLOOR
The blinking ASC TIME and an upw ard pointing arrow indicate that you are
below the fl oor (Fig. 3.15.). You should start your ascent immediately. The ceiling
depth is shown on the right top corner and the minimum total ascent time on the
right side of the center window.