Ocean Reef GSM Mercury User manual

underwater, naturally.
by
INSTRUCTION MANUAL

MERCURY COMMUNICATION UNIT OWNER’S MANUAL
Table of Contents
Introduction
General precautions and warnings
Product Specs
PTT/MIC
Functioning Scheme
Antenna
Battery compartment
Mounting the GSM Mercury on the Extender Frame
Microphone
Replacing the New D-Mic
Replacing the Battery
Checking before use
Basic Instructions for underwater communication
Warnings & Troubleshooting
Technical Specifications
Warranty
1
1
2
3
6
7
8
9
11
12
12
13
14
16
18
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Introduction
GSM Mercury communication unit is the latest in OCEANREEF range of products.
The frequencies it uses are compatible with other communication systems on the
market.
The high quality of the product does not allow the user to ignore the
problems connected with the correct use of the product and the rules for
safe diving.
General Precautions and Warnings
Use of SCUBA equipment by uncertified or untrained persons is dangerous
and can result in serious injury or death.
NEVER wash any part of the communication with anything else than fresh
water and the compartments opened/unscrewed.
DO NOT apply any type of aerosol spray on the GSM Mercury
communication unit. Doing so may cause permanent damage to
certain components.
Continue to breathe while surfacing from a dive even if you are listening
to the communications unit. Lung expansion injuries may result if you
ascend while holding your breath. DO NOT STOP BREATHING WHILE
SURFACING FROM A DIVE.
Speaking can result in higher air consumption. Check your air supply
periodically when communicating as this may affect your normal air
consumption. ALWAYS MONITOR YOUR PRESSURE GAUGE.
Before attempting to use this device in open water you must practice
using the unit in confined water (such as a pool).
1

Product Specs
Mercury, the new ultrasonic communication unit is made to work only in
combination with the SPACE EXTENDER FRAME.
The main features are:
•two speakers with volume adjustment
•new PTT/MIC assembly for a more ergonomic use
•two channels
•D.A.T. mode (handsfree mode)
•rechargeable/replaceable battery
•micro USB cable for charging the battery
•the unit is foldable into the mask for an easier storing and carrying of the
mask
•25h autonomy, 1h charging time
•250m range of operation
•40m depth rating (100m available soon)
2

The new GSM DC2 consists of three main parts:
1. PTT/MIC
3

The switchboard consists of two buttons
The yellow button has 3 functions:
•During a “normal” use it is activating the transmission mode when pressed
and the receiving mode when released (PTT)
•When into the programming mode it is used to make the desired selection
by pressing once quickly.
•When the D.A.T. mode is activated, a quick press will exit the D.A.T.
mode.
4

The blue lever style button has 2 functions:
•Volume adjustment; by pressing it quickly it is increasing the receiving
volume. There are 3 volume level steps, the unit is always turning on level
2, by pressing it once the volume will rise to level 3, by pressing it again it
will lower to level 1… etc.
•Programming mode navigation: by keeping it pressed 2 seconds the unit will
enter the programming mode guided by voice “programming mode”
followed by the first selection possible “channel one”, pressing quickly
again the blue lever will take the unit to the next step of programming
“D.A.T. mode ON”, another quick press will exit the programming mode.
5

Functioning scheme:
D-MIC
The new D-MIC is assembled to be less invasive and delicate than any other
underwater microphone.
It is still possible to detach and replace by using two screws.
Speak
Listen
LEVER
QUICK
PRESS
Volume
Level 1
NORMAL USE
As soon as the unit is submerged it is turning automatically ON and the diver
hears a «unit ON» message. Now the unit is working in «PTT mode (D.A.T. OFF),
Volume 2.
The unit is always in listening phase until the diver pushes the PTT yellow
button, keeping it pressed the diver is able to communicate to other underwater
or surface units activated on the same channel. Releasing the PTT button will
bring the unit back lo listening phase.
When in normal use and listening phase the volume may be adjusted by quickly
pressing the blue lever style button, the volume lever will increase cyclically
from 1, 2, to 3 and back to 1.
PROGRAMMING MODE
LEVER
2 SECONDS
PPT
QUICK
PRESS
Channel
1
Channel
2
LEVER
QUICK
PRESS
D.A.T.
ON
D.A.T.
OFF
LEVER
QUICK
PRESS
EXIT
PROGRAMMING
MODE
PPT
QUICK
PRESS
PPT
Volume
Level 2
Volume
Level 3
6
Talk

2. Main electronic housing with L speaker strap holder, wet activation screws
and foldable support for SPACE EXTENDER FRAME
On the internal side there is the left ear speaker, on the external side the
antenna and the two wet contacts for the automatic turning on/off of the unit,
on the sides there is the strap holder to keep the left strap in a streamline
position after the adjustment of the mask and the new foldable support for the
extender frame to bend the communication unit towards the inside of the mask
to store it in an easier and more compact way.
7
WARNING: These screws are should not be unscrewed or screwed in,
more, at any time.

3. Battery compartment with rechargeable Li-Ion 3.7v Battery, battery
charger management electronics, strap holder and foldable support for SPACE
EXTENDER FRAME
The compartment may be opened to recharge or replace the battery.
WARNING: check that the two seals are in position, clean and lubricated
before closing the compartment and dive.
When connecting the micro usb cable to charge the battery a red LED will show
battery under charge while a green LED will show battery fully charged. The
micro usb cable may be connected to a wall adapter, 12v adapter, power bank,
P, any 5v USB power supply.
On the sides there is the strap holder to keep the left strap in a streamline
position after the adjustment of the mask and the new foldable support for the
extender frame to bend the communication unit towards the inside of the mask
to store it in an easier way.
RED LED GREEN LED
8

Mounting the GSM Mercury on the Extender Frame
The Bridges R & L and screws are comprised with the unit.
Start removing from the Extender Frame both side connections as shown in the
picture below.
Begin mounting the L, antenna earphone of the Mercury. Securing it to the
Extender Frame exactly like a Neutral or an earphone support. Bridges have L
and Rwritten on them for identification. finish by screwing firmly the bridges on
the inside.
Be careful to insert the support in the correct position with no gap between the
support and the frame.
YES NO
9

Proceed connecting the PTT/MIC on the COMMUNICATION side port of the mask
by screwing it on. The crown around the PTT will turn until flush.
Last, connect the battery compartment to the right side of the Extender Frame
by having the cable connecting the two ears passing underneath the straps into
the face seal groove.
10
YES NO

The GSM Mercury uses a dynamic microphone, ”D-Mic II” encapsulated and
protected by a hydrophobic membrane.
It is very similar to the D-Mic but in a different housing allowing a much easier
handling and use of it.
The microphone allows dependable clear reproduction of the human voice. It
removes unnecessary noise such as the noise of bubbles being exhaled from the
mask.
The D-Mic II microphone uses a hydrophobic membrane that allows air to pass
through while protecting the microphone from water. This membrane also
reduces the “muffling” effect allowing a phonic performance that is very high.
Another characteristic of the hydrophobic membrane is its mechanical strength.
The D-Mic II, is fitted with a membrane that is designed to handle pressure of
more than 1bar (14.7 PSI). If the membrane brakes, the microphone will flood
causing transmission to stop. OCEAN REEF IDMs masks are designed to operate
with “balanced” pressure. If the mask is removed underwater the microphone
WILL NOT suffer any damage. However, continuing to descend WITHOUT the
mask sealed on the face the microphone may result in exceeding the 1 bar
mecahnical resistance of the membrane, resulting in damaging permantly the
microphone (in relation to the depth at which the mask was removed).
Ascending must be done in accordance with the dive tables or dive computer to
avoid decompression problems. The communicator and microphone should be
rinsed with fresh water (immersed, high pressure water is not reccomended as it
can damage components) after each dive and should be placed in a well
ventilated area that is not exposed to direct sunlight to dry.
D-Mic II does not have a polarity restriction when assembled on the PTT
contacts. Be careful to unscrew the two screws before removing it.
Clean the contacts and lubricate them on a timely base.
Microphone
11

Replacing the New D-Mic
Remove the PTT/MIC assembly from the mask, unscrew few threads of the two
little side screws and pull off the new D-MIC. Replace with the new one being
careful not to overtight the little screws to avoid damages to the contacts.
Replacing the Battery.
The battery is replaceable by disconnecting the white plug.
The polarization of the plug has an orientation. Do not force it if it is hard to
push it down.
12
YES NO

Checking before use
•Once the battery has been charged and the battery compartment lid has been
closed properly, wet your fingers and touch the two wet contact screws
(On/Off switch contacts) to turn on the unit. You will hear a voice saying
“Unit ON” indicating activation.
•When the unit is turning on it will always and automatically go on channel
one and volume level 2. The unit will turn off immediately when the contacts
are released (or when the unit is going out of the water).
Keep your fingers on the wet contact screws.
Run another finger along the antenna. You will hear a “zzzzzz” type sound
coming from the speaker.
Push the blue level style button to increase the volume to 3, 1 and back to
level 2.
•Bring the antenna transducer near the antenna of another active unit (about
5 cm / 2 inches), keeping your fingers on the On/Off contacts. You should
also be able to hear the communication when the unit is not immersed in
water.
Pushing the PTT button you will hear a “beep” indicating that you can
transmit, speak keeping the PTT button pressed and check that the other unit
is receiving.
Do the opposite operation to check the receiving of your GSM Mercury.
•Push and hold for two seconds the blue level style button, you will enter the
“program mode”, check the settings of you r unit and exit by following the
instruction at page 6.
If you need to use the D.A.T. mode remember that only one diver per
time should use the DAT mode!!
Disregarding this direction will cause communication to be confused and
useless.
A repeated voice signal “Battery Low” (about every 30 seconds) means
that the battery is running low. You still have about 2 hours depending on
your use prior to recharge.
13

Basic Instructions for Underwater Communication
The GSM Mercury is activated for reception as soon as it is immersed in water,
and it turns off a few seconds after it dries out.
When it’s switched on, this is confirmed by a message “Unit ON”.
Push the PTT button and the activation of the transmission phase is anticipated
by a “beep”, wait until this is over before speaking.
When a message is incoming from your buddy or from the surface you’ll hear the
“beep” that anticipate the transmission, breath slowly to avoid bubbles to
disturb communication.
Inform your buddies before switching to a different transmission channel!
Notes
•When speaking to other divers, remember that they are diving. It is best to
attract their attention before sending a message.
•Talking and listening while underwater requires practice. With experience,
divers will become more proficient in the use of the communications system.
•Speak slowly, and pronounce each word clearly. Only speak after having sent
a call impulse by pressing the PTT button. It is advisable to practice in a
swimming pool before using the device in open water.
•Bubbles, and especially, small air bubbles, that are in contact with or near
those communicating reduce the transmitting power.
•Obstacles such as rocks may reduce your communication range.
•It is normal to receive a background noise in certain moments, movement of
sand and pebbles on the seabed, marine motors, cetaceans, and other sources
can create vibrations in the water that give rise to a range of ultrasonic
waves that can be picked up by the GSM Mercury.
14

•When using the device in shallow water, you may experience difficulty
communicating because:
1. The surface is full of air bubbles formed by the waves.
2. The sand under water is causing ultrasonic noise due to the waves.
For more information:
https://diving.oceanreefgroup.com/support/
15

Warnings & Troubleshooting
•Do not use solvents (such as diluents) to clean the unit. They can cause
irreparable damage. Only use neutral detergents.
•Use fresh water to remove the seawater from your GSM Mercury after each
use. The product must be stored completely dry.
•Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight for prolongued periods of time.
•Do not leave the unit in your car. Take in the consideration that the unit is
dark color and may become very hot if left under direct sunlight. Handle with
caution.
•Do not keep the unit in places that are too hot or too cold, such as near air
conditioners.
•Do not keep the unit near magnetic fields.
•Do not allow it to fall or be knocked around.
•Make sure there is no dirt, debris or water in any part of the unit, especially
in the battery housing or under the o-ring. If any dirt, debris or water is
found, remove it.
•When recharging/replacing the battery check the o-ring for damage. If it is
damaged, replace it. The O-ring must be lubricated with silicone lubricant.
•Do not dismantle or repair this unit yourself.
•Follow the instructions for correct maintenance of the microphone and
battery housing, given in previous chapters.
•Routinely clean the microphone contacts and check the integrity of the
hydrophobic membrane and the casing. If the microphone is flooded, it
CANNOT BE recovered and must be replaced.
•Do not touch the hydrophobic membrane with any sharp objects that may
damage it.
16

Communication clarity and distance may depend on environment.
Not a cellular phone, expect to speak slowly and clearly for maximum
clarity. Sounds of the water may make it difficult to hear perfectly. Talk
slowly and take your time. Signal end of your communication to tell your
listeners they are now free to reply i.e. "OVER".
Being it a Push To Talk system, like a walkie-talkie unit, if one person
talks, all other units can only listen. One at a time talking.
Speaking in the mask for prolonged sentences may result in “need to
catch breath” feeling. This is normal, due to speaking in a mask. It is
like trying to speak after or while running. Take your time. Rest and
breathe. Always remember that you are in water and follow safe and
healthy behaviors.
Warnings
17
© OCEAN REEF 2019