Atomic Aquatics BC1 User manual

OWNERS MANUAL

2| ATOMIC AQUATICS BC1 OWNERS MANUAL
Table of Contents
BC1 Key Design Features .................................................. 3
BC1 Features ...................................................................... 4
Warranty Registration ........................................................ 6
Precautions and Safety Information ................................... 7
Adding ballast ..................................................................... 8
High Performance Inflator Options ................................... 10
Setting up the inflator on the BC1 .................................... 11
Attaching the inflator to the corrugated hose of the BC1 .. 11
Attaching the low pressure hose with
quick disconnect to the regulator ..................................... 12
Ratcheting CAM-LOK tank band ...................................... 13
Placement of the band in the backpack .......................... 14
Attaching the BC1 to the tank. ......................................... 14
Tank buckle operation ...................................................... 15
EZ-LOK Integrated Weight Release System .................... 17
Loading the EZ-LOK weight pouches .............................. 18
Securing the weight pouches into the BC1 ...................... 19
Tips for using the EZ-LOK weight system ........................ 20
Non-releasable trim weight pockets ................................ 21
Maximum weight capacity ............................................... 22
Pre-Dive Inspection .......................................................... 23
Accessories ...................................................................... 24
10 D-Rings ....................................................................... 24
Accessory Pockets with Sand-Resistant Zippers ............ 25
Fitting the BC1 ................................................................. 26
Size and Lift Chart ............................................................ 26
Waistband adjustment ...................................................... 27
Lumbar adjustment .......................................................... 28
Donning and final adjustments ......................................... 28
Operation .......................................................................... 29
Inflation ............................................................................. 29
Deflation ........................................................................... 29
Post Dive Cleaning ........................................................... 32
General Care ................................................................... 33
Warranty ........................................................................... 34

Congratulations…
The New Atomic BC1 is for the diver who wants the absolute BEST World-Class BC available. As with every Atomic Aquatics
product, we design it with the intention of redefining the product category. Just as we did with regulators, fins, masks and
computers…we decided it was time to design the ultimate BC. We reexamined every detail of traditional BC design. We started
with the realization of the hard punishment the ocean inflicts on dive equipment. Our first priority for a BC was durability. The
Atomic BC1 was created using exclusive engineering grade plastics, polyurethane coated fabric, and corrosion-resistant
metals. It is designed for the roughest ocean environment.
BC1 Key Design Features
•The TOUGHEST BC in the world, created using exclusive engineering grade plastics, polyurethane coated fabric, and
corrosion resistant metals.
•Unique, attractive double-laminated/coated fabric actually sheds water
– a DRY BC.
•Patented EZ-LOK Weight Release System – undeniably the EASIEST
integrated weight system ever designed. Weight pouches lock in place
with a “snap” and release with a simple tug.
•Ratcheting CAM-LOK Tank Band – an all new Atomic design exclusive
that makes it incredibly easy to mount and secure the BC1 to your tank
with minimal effort.
•High performance Atomic Aquatics inflation and Safe Second options.
KEY DESIGN FEATURES |3

4| ATOMIC AQUATICS BC1 OWNERS MANUAL
1. Hose routing shoulder strap
2. Shoulder pad
3. Inflator elbow with
overpressure relief/
cable dump
4. Backpack handle
5. Backpack pad
6. CAM-LOK tank band
7. Titanium coated 316
Stainless Steel D-rings
8. Knife grommets
9. EZ-LOK weight pouches/
release handles
10. Waist strap and buckle
11. Cummerbund
12. Sand-resistant accessory
pocket zippers
13. Power Inflator/SS1
BC1 Features

BC1 FEATURES |5
14. Chest strap
15. Shoulder strap/buckle
16. Right shoulder
dump knob
17. Low pressure
hose retainer
18. Low pressure hose
19. Corrugated hose
20. Right shoulder dump/
overpressure valve
21. Trim weight pockets
22. Lower rear dump knob
23. Lower rear dump/
OPR valve
24. Backplate grip surface
25. CAM-LOK tank band/
buckle
26. Tank positioning loop

6| ATOMIC AQUATICS BC1 OWNERS MANUAL
Warranty Registration
Please take a moment to locate, complete and return your warranty registration card to Atomic Aquatics. This card is very
important. It will help you obtain warranty service and it provides us a means to contact you in the event of safety notices,
service updates, or changes regarding this product. You may also register your warranty online at: www.atomicaquatics.com
Precautions and Safety Information
This section contains information that may affect your safety. Please read it completely before attempting to use the product. If
you do not understand this information, contact your Atomic Aquatics Authorized Dealer for clarification or more information.
There are warning messages throughout this manual that require your attention to understand and avoid certain conditions that
may be hazardous to you. Use of these symbols indicates the following:
WARNINGS, CAUTIONS AND NOTES
WARNING: Indicates situation that may, if not avoided or not corrected, result in serious injury or death.
CAUTION: Indicates situation that may, if not avoided or not corrected, result in minor or moderate injury
or significant damage to the product.
NOTE: Used to direct attention to emphasize an important detail.
WARNING
You must receive training and certification from a nationally recognized scuba training agency before you
attempt to use this product. Failure to obtain proper training could result in serious injury or death. Training
must include buoyancy control skills and emergency weight ditching training. If you are uncertain as to the
meaning of this statement, contact your Atomic Aquatics Authorized Dealer or Atomic Aquatics for clarification.

This manual is intended to help acquaint you with the basic features and operation of the Atomic BC1, but it is impossible to
provide you with all of the information and the hands-on training you need in order to use the product in a safe and enjoyable
manner. This is the reason for requiring certified instruction. The information contained here is not sufficient as a substitute
for certified training.
General Precautions and Safety Information
WARNING
Please read this section carefully as it contains information that may affect your safety. If you don’t
understand any of the information provided, consult your professional dive instructor, Atomic Aquatics
Authorized Dealer or Atomic Aquatics for clarification or additional information.
The primary purpose of the BC is to provide a means for a diver to adjust buoyancy to remain neutrally buoyant at all times
while diving. Maintenance of neutral buoyancy reduces the physical effort required to dive and allows the diver to maintain a
controlled position in the water. There are circumstances in which this may be essential for your safety and this skill must be
mastered before attempting to dive in open water.
A secondary function of the BC is to provide an option to increase buoyancy to allow you to rest more comfortably on the
surface of the water, but you should not rely on the BC as your sole means to remain afloat at the surface.
WARNING
Your Atomic BC is not a lifejacket or a PFD ( Personal Flotation Device).
PFDs have specific operational features that are not compatible with acceptable BC operation. The BC will
not guaranty face up flotation for a disabled diver and should not be relied upon to prevent drowning on the
surface of the water. Failure to be able to control your position or to receive assistance under these conditions
may result in serious injury or death.
WARRANTY REGISTRATION / PRECAUTIONS AND SAFETY INFORMATION |7

8| ATOMIC AQUATICS BC1 OWNERS MANUAL
Adding ballast
The selection of the amount weight or ballast you should add to your body or equipment in order to achieve proper
buoyancy control is a very important aspect of preparing for an efficient and safer diving experience.
Proper use of any BC requires that you adjust the weight (ballast) that you add to yourself or your equipment, so
that you will be neutrally buoyant or nearly neutrally buoyant (less than 5 lbs (2 kg) negatively buoyant) at the surface
of the water with no air in the BC and approximately 500 psi (35 bar) in your diving cylinder.
Adding too much weight can create several problems including the need for more frequent buoyancy adjustments and
possibly an increased risk of uncontrolled ascent or descent from loss of buoyancy control.
You are considered neutrally buoyant when you can remain motionless in an upright position at about eye level with the
surface of the water with your lungs about half full.
The amount of weight needed may change if you make changes to the equipment you use. For example, changing from an
aluminum to a steel cylinder may change the buoyancy characteristics of the collection of equipment and you may have to
adjust the weight you carry as ballast accordingly. Buoyant force in seawater is greater than in fresh water and you may have
to slightly increase ballast for diving in seawater.
You should do a buoyancy check in a confined water environment before you move into open water whenever you have
made changes to the equipment you expect to use.
Setting up your weights for optimum ballast will minimize the frequency and degree of adjustments to buoyancy you will
have to make as you dive, help conserve air usage and decrease swimming effort caused by drag. If you are unsure how to
properly set up your weights, consult with a professional diving instructor for advice.

WARNING
Proper weighting or addition of ballast to your equipment is very important for effective buoyancy control.
Failure to achieve effective buoyancy control could result in your inability to control descent or ascent and
possibly lead to serious injury or death.
There are other limitations to this product that must be observed.
•DO NOT use your BC as a lift bag. Using it to bring heavy objects to the surface while you are wearing it creates a hazard.
If you should lose your grip on the object while transporting it to the surface, you will experience a sudden change in
buoyancy and possibly an uncontrolled ascent leading to an increased risk of serious injury or death.
•NITROX – The Atomic BC1 is intended for use with compressed air or EAN (enriched air nitrox) containing not
more than 40% oxygen. Use of other gas mixtures may pose a fire hazard or cause accelerated deterioration of
materials used in the BC.
•Cold water use – Diving in water temperatures of less than 50°F (10°C) can affect regulator performance and
temperatures of less than -4°F (-20°C) may affect BC valve operation. Do not use this BC under such conditions
without proper training in cold water procedures including the proper emergency response to a free flowing regulator or
inoperable valve.
ADDING BALLAST |9

10 | ATOMIC AQUATICS BC1 OWNERS MANUAL
High Performance Inflator Options
Atomic Aquatics offers two popular inflation options for your BC1: the Atomic Ai Power Inflator; or the Atomic SS1 Safe
Second Inflator Regulator. The BC1 is supplied with the special inflator quick disconnect already installed on the corrugated
inflator hose. Instructions for attachment are the same for either model. Please consult the specific owners’ manuals
supplied with these products for complete information. Other inflators not manufactured by Atomic Aquatics could require
modification to fit and operate properly. The company accepts no liability or responsibility for the use or installation of
non-Atomic Aquatics inflators.
Ai Power Inflator SS1 Safe Second Inflator

Setting up the inflator on the BC1
CAUTION
These instructions are provided for the convenience of those capable and familiar with set-up of this type of
equipment. It is strongly recommended that your professional retailer or scuba repair technician do the final
installation and check of the SS1 or Ai Power Inflator
Attaching the inflator to the corrugated hose of the BC1
The corrugated hose attached to the left shoulder of
the BC1 comes fitted with a threaded quick disconnect
coupling designed to screw directly to the Ai Power Inflator
or SS1 Safe Second inflator regulator. To attach the SS1 or
Ai to the adapter, slide the adapter into the threaded fitting
on the SS1 or Ai and tighten hand tight. It should be snug
enough that it will not become unscrewed accidentally yet
not so tight as to damage the plastic parts. Likewise the
inflator can be easily removed by unscrewing. The adapter
on the corrugated hose is connected via an internal cable
to the dump valve at the shoulder. Tugging on the inflator
will open the dump valve on the top left shoulder via a
cable connection inside the corrugated hose and is one
option to let air out of the BC1. Threaded quick disconnect coupling
HIGH PERFORMANCE INFLATOR OPTIONS / SETTING UP, ATTACHING THE INFLATOR |11

12 | ATOMIC AQUATICS BC1 OWNERS MANUAL
Attaching the low pressure hose with quick disconnect to the regulator
WARNING
When attaching the low pressure hose for connecting the inflator or SS1 to the first stage regulator be certain
to locate the port marked “LP”. If the port is not marked, you may still be able to identify it as it should have a
3/8-24 female thread. If you are uncertain that you have located the correct port do not proceed, but seek the
assistance of a trained professional to attach the hose. If the low pressure hose is incorrectly attached to a
high pressure port it could rupture and potentially cause serious injury.
The low pressure hose with quick disconnect fitting installs into one of the low pressure ports of your first stage regulator. It
is compatible with any conventional first stage operating with an intermediate pressure of 125-145 psi.
Your regulator first stage will normally have multiple low pressure ports for the attachment of second stages and inflators
(usually thread size 3/8-24), and one or more high pressure ports for the attachment of pressure gauges and dive computers
(usually a larger thread size 7/16-20). Choose the low pressure port that gives you the best orientation for your particular BC
set-up. The low pressure hose and quick disconnect is usually routed over the left shoulder where it follows the corrugated
hose of your BC1. The low pressure port plug is removed by unscrewing with a 5/32 (4mm) hex wrench. Install the low
pressure hose with quick disconnect into the port of choice and snug up with a wrench. Do not over tighten as this will not
improve the seal and may damage the threads.
The low pressure hose quick disconnect is attached to the Ai or SS1 inflators by simply sliding back the sleeve and pushing
it onto the metal nipple then releasing the sleeve. For easiest installation, connect the sleeve before turning the air on and
disconnect it after turning it off and purging the air pressure from of the hose.

Ratcheting CAM-LOK tank band
Yet another Atomic design exclusive. You will be amazed how easy this
is to use, and how securely it holds your tank in place. The concept is
similar to the bindings on ski boots and snowboards. The ratcheting
band quickly adjusts to accommodate a variety of tank sizes and the
over-center buckle locks everything tightly in place with an easy push.
The CAM-LOK tank band is infused with a durable polyurethane
coating that seals it from moisture and will not stretch like other bands
that loosen when they get wet. There is no need to wet the strap
before mounting as with most nylon web bands. This coating also
adds a tacky surface that increases traction to aid in securing the tank
to the BC. The cam style buckle engages ratcheting teeth that are
permanently molded onto the band assembly.
Low pressure quick disconnect
Tank band Cam buckle
ATTACHING THE LOW PRESSURE HOSE / RATCHETING CAM-LOCK TANK BAND |13
High-pressure port
Low-pressure ports

14 | ATOMIC AQUATICS BC1 OWNERS MANUAL
Placement of the band in the backpack
The tank band will fit all popular tank sizes up to 8" (203mm) diameter. The
BC1 is shipped from the factory with the band in the position for a standard
80 Cu ft. (10 liter) tank. The band assembly does not need to be changed to
accommodate different size tanks. It can be repositioned within the backpack
when using small diameter or large diameter tanks to locate the buckle in the
optimum position near the tank to shield it from accidental opening or impact.
There are external ribs on the band that fit into recesses inside the backpack
to lock it into different positions. To change the band position, grasp the free
end of the band with one hand and the buckle end with the other. Push the
webbing into the backpack with one hand and pull slightly out with the other
to move the band. You will feel the ribs slip in and out of place as you move
the band assembly. The band can be completely removed from the backpack
if needed for storage or while packed for travel.
Attaching the BC1 to the tank
Place the webbing tank positioning loop over the valve and tighten or loosen
the loop such that the top of the backpack rests on the shoulder of the tank.
Once in position the band can be installed around the tank. Note: twin tank
use is not supported with the BC1.

Tank buckle operation
The tank band is attached to the buckle, which is composed of 4 parts.
The band itself, the link which attaches the band to the cam handle that
opens or closes the buckle, the ratchet frame which is connected to the
cam handle, and the ratchet lock that is used to adjust the band tension.
To feed the tank band into the buckle, first open the buckle completely.
If it is locked, lift the cam handle and rotate it open towards the link. Now
you will see the ratchet mechanism. Spread the buckle open and insert the
toothed end of the band into the slot between the ratchet frame and the
ratchet lock (Fig. 1). Push the toothed end through the gap between the link
and the cam handle. Do not let the buckle fold backwards (Fig. 2). Keep it
spread apart until the toothed end of the band comes out behind the link.
Once the tank band is through the link, pull the ratchet frame snug against
the tank until it stops. Close the cam handle to lock the tank tightly into
the band. The buckle will lock into place. If the tank is not secure enough,
release the handle by lifting it. Pull the band tighter (another click on the
ratchet) and close the cam handle
again. You do not need to overtighten
the band assembly as it will not relax
when wet. The inside of the back
pack also has a soft, elastomeric
surface to grip the tank. Tuck the
excess tank band end into the recess
channel on the band assembly.
Fig 1
Correct
Fig 2
Incorrect!
Tuck excess tank band into recess channel
PLACEMENT OF THE BAND / ATTACHING THE BC1 TO THE TANK / TANK BUCKLE OPERATION |15
Tank Band
End
Tank Band
Link
Ratchet Frame
Ratchet
Lock
Cam
Handle

16 | ATOMIC AQUATICS BC1 OWNERS MANUAL
To remove the band from the tank, lift open the cam handle. Depress the ratchet lock to loosen the band. You can loosen it
just enough to lift off of the tank, or pull the tank band completely out of the buckle.
WARNING
Before attempting to wear the BC, check the security of the tank to BC attachment by lifting the BC by
the shoulder straps and shaking it while observing for movement of the tank relative to BC back pack. If
movement is observed then increase the tension of the tank band to create a secure attachment.
Do not enter the water until you are certain the tank is secure. Slippage of the tank from the BC could
separate you from your air supply or cause the tank to strike a bystander. In either case there is a possibly of
serious injury or death.
Lift cam handle. Press ratchet lock.

EZ-LOK Integrated Weight Release System U.S. Patent # 9,296,451
Quickly, easily load your weights while in or out of the water. Two zippered weight pouches each hold up to 10 pounds of
hard or soft weights. The weight pouches glide into the weight pockets under the arms and lock into place with a reassuring
“SNAP.” A simple one-handed tug on the handle is all it takes to release. The same principle has been used for years on our
popular Atomic EZ-LOK fin straps.
In the event of an emergency you can choose to jettison one or both weight pouches, thereby creating more buoyancy.
The weight pouches can be easily reloaded into the BC1 pockets while you are wearing the BC for use during training.
WARNING
You must master and be able to demonstrate the skill required to ditch your weights in the event of an
emergency before attempting to dive in open water. Be certain the amount of weight you are carrying is
correct and it is configured so that you can release at least enough weight to enable you to swim to the
surface and remain there with no air in the BC if necessary. Failure to be able to ditch added weights to gain
additional buoyancy could lead to a situation in which you would be at risk of serious injury or death.
EZ-LOK INTEGRATED WEIGHT RELEASE SYSTEM |17

18 | ATOMIC AQUATICS BC1 OWNERS MANUAL
Loading the EZ-LOK weight pouches
The weight pouches can be filled with either hard “block” weights or lead-filled mesh “soft” weights. Regardless of the type
of weight being used, fill each pouch with equal amounts of weight so the BC1 will be balanced in the water.
CAUTION
Observe the maximum weight capacity printed on the weight pouch. Each standard size pouch holds a
maximum of 10 lbs (4.5 Kg). The extra-large size BC1 has larger weight pouches and will each hold 14 lbs.
(5.4 Kg). Do not use extra-large BC1 weight pouches in any smaller size BC1 as they will NOT fit properly.
Unzip the zipper completely. Hold the pouch open and insert the weights. Try to distribute the weights evenly inside the
pouch, close the flap the fully close the zipper. Tuck the zipper pull into recessed flap in the pouch. Be careful not to overfill
the pouch or you may damage the zipper trying to close it. After diving, the weights should be removed, rinsed and dried
before storage.

Securing the weight pouches into the BC1
Each weight pouch will fit into either left or right weight pocket on the BC1. With the fabric side of the pouch facing out,
slide the pouch into the pocket and push it in until you hear or feel it “SNAP” or “click” into place. To confirm that it is locked
in place, tug on the small webbing test tab on the front of the pocket. To remove the pouch, just grasp the large red handle
and pull.
Push weight pouch into place until it “clicks”. Test tab.
EZ-LOK INTEGRATED WEIGHT RELEASE SYSTEM |19

20 | ATOMIC AQUATICS BC1 OWNERS MANUAL
Tips for using the EZ-LOK weight system
You may choose to install the weights before donning the BC1 or afterwards, whichever works best for you. The weight
pouches will load and unload easier if the BC1 is not fully inflated. The weight pouches can be easily removed in the water or
swim step and handed to someone on board to assist in getting out of the water. Be sure to have a good grip on the handle
before releasing so as not to drop it overboard.
When locked in place, the weight pouches are very secure and cannot be accidentally released without pulling the large red
handle. Pulling on any other part of the pouch will not release it! The amount of force to release the weights by pulling the
handle is controlled by a preset spring at about 10 lbs. (4.5Kg). The amount of weight in the pouches does not affect the
release force. Always test that the pouch is locked in place before entering the water by pulling on the webbing test tab.
To jettison the weights, remember that there are two weight pouches and they work independently. You may choose to ditch
only one weight to better control your ascent. Grasp the handles and pull them forward until they are out and away from
your body before dropping them. Practice until you are confident in the procedure and make sure your buddy knows how to
release your weight.
WARNING
Make sure that your weight pouches and release handles are not obstructed by any straps, lines, etc. DO
NOT add weight to the BC1 accessory pockets, as this may interfere with the removal of the pouches in an
emergency. Failure to ditch weight in an emergency may lead to serious injury or death due to drowning.