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Algorithm - A step-by-step mathematical formula designed to accomplish a particular result (i.e. Dive Time Remaining in
the ATMOS 1).
Alternate Display - Additional information accessible by pressing a control button.
Altitude Dive - A dive made at an elevation above sea level (2,000+ ft. / 610+ m.) where a different set of no decompression
tables is used .
Ascent Rate - The speed that a diver ascends toward the surface.
Caution Zone - The yellow sections of the Nitrogen Bar Graph and Variable Ascent Rate Indicator that give a visual warning
of a divers proximity to decompression limits and ascent rate, respectively.
Ceiling - See decompression ceiling.
Clean Dive - A dive preceded by 24 hours of no diving activity.
Competitive Dive - A dive conducted for profit or prize.
Compartment - A term applied to the hypothetical modeling of nitrogen absorption in the tissues (more accurate than the
term tissue because dive computer models have no direct relation to human tissues).
DCS - Abbreviation for decompression sickness, i.e., the bends.
DECO - Abbreviation for Decompression.
Decompression Ceiling - The shallowest depth a diver may reach upon ascent without risking decompression sickness.
Decompression Stop - The depth(s) at which a diver must pause during ascent to allow absorbed nitrogen to escape naturally
from the tissues.
Depth Sensor - an electro-mechanical device that converts water pressure into an electrical signal, that is converted to a visual
depth display.
Diagnostic Mode - The first display seen on dive computers after initial activation during which time a self-check for internal
faults is performed.
Display - A visual readout of information.
Dive Log Mode - A computer display of previous dive information.
Dive Time Remaining - A display of the time before a diver must surface based on no decompression status.
Elapsed Dive Time - The total time spent underwater during a dive between 5 feet (1.5 meters) on initial descent to 3
feet (1 meter) on final ascent.
GLOSSARY