Oceanic Safety Systems Freedivers Recovery Vest Mark II-S User manual

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Freedivers Recovery Vest Mark II-S copyright Oceanic Safety Systems LLC., 2015
The Freedivers Recovery Vest Mark II-S
User Manual V6
This manual and the accompanying on-line videos each complement the other.
For a complete understanding of how to use your FRV, it is mandatory that
you both read this manual and view the 6 video chapters. We suggest that
you make a quick review of the manual so that the warnings can be placed
into context when you study a second time. ( http://www.youtube.com/user/
OceanicRecoveryVests)
Contents
I. USER AGREEMENT AND WARRANTY FOR THE FREEDIVERS RECOVERY VEST ...... 3
II. SAFETY INFORMATION ...................................................................................................... 8
III. HAVING SUFFICIENT CO2 IS ESSENTIAL .................................................................... 15
IV. FRV COMPONENTS......................................................................................................... 16
V. CUSTOM FITTING THE VEST. ......................................................................................... 19
VI. PREPARING THE ACTUATOR FOR SERVICE................................................................ 22
VII. PROGRAMMING THE FRV............................................................................................. 25
VIII. CARE AND CLEANING ................................................................................................. 28
IX. SUGGESTED GET-ACQUAINTED TRIAL DIVE SCHEDULE ........................................ 31
X. NEW USER ISSUES.......................................................................................................... 33
XI. TROUBLE SHOOTING..................................................................................................... 34
XII. PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................... 35
XIII. REQUIRED INSPECTION & SERVICE.......................................................................... 36
XIV IMPORTANT USER MANUAL UPDATES: ..................................................................... 37
APPENDIX 1 — AIR TRAVEL WITH THE FRV. ..................................................................... 38

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Freedivers Recovery Vest Mark II-S copyright Oceanic Safety Systems LLC., 2015
The Freedivers
Recovery Vest
Mark II-S

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Freedivers Recovery Vest Mark II-S copyright Oceanic Safety Systems LLC., 2015
The FRV is designed to deliver the freediver, who exceeds self-set parameters, to the surface in
a face-up position where recovery and rescue attempts may be possible. There is no guarantee
that the diver will be able to surface, with or without the FRV. There could be obstructions in the
path (e.g., overhead seaweed, other divers, or boats) that could prevent surfacing. The FRV is only
intended to inate when the user’s parameters are exceeded. There is no guarantee of survival.
A. You Assume Risks and Responsibilities
Freediving is an inherently dangerous and risky activity. Even with the best training, planning,
and equipment, you may be injured or you may die. If you choose to participate in freediving,
you accept the risk of injury or death on behalf of yourself, your heirs, beneciaries, trustees,
successors, assigns, partners and executors. It is your responsibility to take all necessary steps to
reduce these risks. Therefore, it is your sole responsibility to obtain appropriate training, to conduct
appropriate pre-dive tests, and obtain maintenance and check appropriate diving equipment, to
dive only within your abilities and experience, and to always dive with a capable buddy.
Note about freediver blackout: It is important to understand that the FRV will NOT
prevent freediver blackout (FB), nor is it designed to prevent FB. FB occurs when the level of ox-
ygen in the brain decreases below the level necessary to support consciousness. Only good diving
practices, tness and good judgment will prevent FB. FB may occur under the water during any
phase of the freedive and it may also occur on the surface immediately after ascent.
B. IMPORTANT NOTICE
THIS OCEANIC SAFETY SYSTEMS LLC (OSS) FRV USER AGREEMENT AND WARRANTY
(“AGREEMENT”) IS AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN YOU AND OSS. YOUR USE OF THE FRV
IS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SET OUT IN THIS AGREEMENT. THIS
AGREEMENT ALSO SETS OUT OSS ’S WARRANTY OF THE FRV, EXCLUSIONS AND
LIMITATIONS OF OSS ’S LIABILITY TO YOU, AND OTHER IMPORTANT PROVISIONS.
IF YOU DO NOT AGREE WITH ANY TERM OF THIS AGREEMENT, YOU MUST NOT USE THE
FRV. YOU MUST READ THE ENTIRE FRV USER MANUAL AND VIEW THE TRAINING VIDEOS
AT: http://www.youtube.com/user/OceanicRecoveryVests. INCORRECT USE OF THE FRV
OR ITS ACCESSORIES WILL INVALIDATE THIS WARRANTY AND CAN CAUSE PERMANENT
DAMAGE TO THE FRV AND/OR ITS ACCESSORIES AND CAN CAUSE YOU SERIOUS INJURY
OR DEATH. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO
HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE AND COUNTRY.
C. Initial Return Policy
You may return the unused FRV within 30 days after the date you receive the FRV for a complete
refund less shipping and handling. Before you use the FRV, you agree to thoroughly read and
understand the User Agreement, the Warranty, and the User Manual and watch the YouTube
Channel training videos at:http://www.youtube.com/user/OceanicRecoveryVests. When you
use the FRV, you have agreed to the User Agreement and Warranty. Once used, the FRV may not
be returned.
I. USER AGREEMENT AND WARRANTY FOR THE FREEDIVERS RECOVERY VEST

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Freedivers Recovery Vest Mark II-S copyright Oceanic Safety Systems LLC., 2015
D. Warranty Information
NOTE: The original purchaser is automatically registered. If you are not the original
purchaser, please consult the OSS website: www.oceanicss.com to validate your warranty and to
update warranty registration information within 15 days of transfer. All warranty transactions must
be accompanied by proof of original purchase. Be sure to save your sales receipt and present it
whenever you return your FRV for warranty service or when selling your FRV to another person.
The receipt contains the FRV’s serial number.
Limited Lifetime Warranty Limitations and Exclusions: The Warranty Is Subject to the Fol-
lowing Limitations and Exclusions:
1. Limited 5-year Warranty (Excludes Batteries and the Vest Soft Parts)
Your FRV must be used in accordance with the FRV User Manual. The Warranty does not apply
to defects or damage caused by: (i) misuse, neglect or improper or rough handling (including
punctures, bending, compressing or dropping of the FRV); (ii) any use of the FRV not in
accordance with the FRV User Manual; (iii) using the FRV with or connecting the FRV to any
product, accessory software and/or service not manufactured, supplied or approved by OSS ;
(iv) normal wear and tear; or (v) accidents, re, power changes, other hazards, acts of God and
other causes beyond the reasonable control of OSS . Cosmetic damage(s), such as scratches,
nicks and fraying are not covered under warranty except when the product is new, out of the
original packaging. This warranty does not extend to the FRV or its accessories used for rental,
commercial or military purposes. The Warranty will be void if: (i) the FRV has been opened,
modied or repaired by any person other than OSS ; (ii) the FRV’s serial numbers have been
removed, erased, defaced or altered in any way or is illegible, as determined by OSS in its sole
discretion; or (iii) the FRV has been exposed to chemical products, including, but not limited to,
solvents and insect repellents; (iv) This product has been used in excess of 100 meters (328 feet)
or in unmanned submersions including, but not limited to, submersions in an unmanned vehicle or
on a rope, (v) damaged by accidents, re, power changes, other hazards, acts of God and other
causes beyond the reasonable control of OSS. Only the FRV remote communicator, the actuator
and the vest have been designed for underwater use. Never dive with the charger connected to
the FRV. Doing so will damage the accessories and/or the FRV, and will also void the Warranty.
Warranty coverage on your FRV covers the product for 5 years subject to the conditions listed
above and utilizes a prorated replacement policy below. OSS warrants to the purchaser for 5
years, from the date of shipping, that the product will be free from defects in materials and work-
manship, provided that it is subjected to normal use, proper care and prescribed service subject
to the limitations listed above. Some components may be replaced with another component with
a different serial number. The replacement component will be either completely re-manufactured
and tested like new, or at our option, we will make the replacement with new components.

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1 a. FRV Components Replacement—Actuator and Remote
FRV products that malfunction due to material or manufacturing defects will be replaced by OSS. In
fulllment of the Warranty, OSS may, at its sole discretion, use parts that are new, equivalent to new
or reconditioned, or may provide a new, equivalent to new or reconditioned FRV in replacement of the
FRV you have returned.
1 b. FRV Lithium Ion Battery Warranty Limitations and Exclusions 2-year limited Warranty
The Lithium Ion Battery Warranty is subject to the following limitations and exclusions:
(i) The Battery Warranty does not apply if the FRV is recharged while in direct sunlight or while
exposed to temperatures in excess of 45°C (113°F) or while using a charger other than the charger
supplied with the product.
(ii) The Battery Warranty does not apply to battery failure caused by: (a) misuse, neglect or
improper or rough handling (including punctures, bending, compressing or dropping of the FRV);
(b) any use of the FRV not in accordance with the FRV User Manual; (c) use of the FRV with or
connection of the FRV to any product, accessory, software and/or service not manufactured, supplied
or approved by OSS; (d) accidents, re, power changes, other hazards, acts of God and other causes
beyond the reasonable control of OSS.
You are responsible for ensuring that the battery in your FRV is adequately charged before
each dive. The Warranty Period is the two (2) year period commencing on the date of shipment of the
FRV. In the event the battery fails, OSS’s sole liability and obligation to you, and your sole right and
remedy against OSS, is for OSS, at its option, to replace the battery according to the prorated basis
below. The condition of the battery for purposes of prorating replacement costs is to be determined
solely by OSS. See page 12 for the optimal use and care of the battery.
Prorated values for the Lithium Ion battery:
(i) Like new and less than 1 year old—OSS pays 100%, customer pays 0%.
(ii) Slightly used and less than 2 years old—OSS pays 50%, customer pays 50%.
(iiI) More than 2 years old— customer pays 100% of replacement cost.
Out-of-Warranty Battery Replacement
The FRV battery can only be replaced or repaired by OSS. OSS offers a battery replacement service
for a fee, which will be available for a period of a minimum of (10) years from the original date of pur-
chase of the FRV.
1 c. FRV Vest soft parts: 2-year limited Warranty and Prorated values for replacement
The FRV soft parts, dened as actuator pouch, sleeve, straps and ination bladder are the least
durable and the most vulnerable parts subject to potential user abuse. Therefore, the warranty period
is less than other FRV components. To extend the utility of the soft parts, be sure to carefully observe
handling and cleaning of your FRV components. These parts will be replaced on a pro-rated basis as
determined by the date of shipment of the FRV and the condition of the parts as determined solely by
OSS.

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Pro-rated value for Vest Soft Parts:
(i) Like new and less than 1 year old—OSS pays 100%, customer pays 0%.
(ii) Slightly used and less than 2 years old—OSS pays 50%, customer pays 50%.
(iii) Very used and less than 2 years old—OSS pays 25%, customer pays 75%.
(iv) After 2 years or when worn out—OSS pays 0%, customer pays 100%.
2. Warranty Procedure
If you believe you have a warranty claim with respect to the FRV, please consult the on-line help
resources available at www.oceanicss.com or the FRV User Manual before submitting your warranty
claim and seeking warranty service. OSS will perform its warranty obligations. You are responsible
for prepaying all shipping costs (including insurance) incurred when sending the FRV to OSS and for
returning your repaired or replacement FRV to you.
3. Transfer of Your FRV
You agree not to sell, give, or lend your FRV, or otherwise permit any person
to use your FRV, unless that person has agreed to this User Agreement and
Warranty, read the User Manual and watched the on-line training videos. You may
sell, give, or lend your FRV to another person, provided that you give that person this Agreement at
the same time and notify them that by using the FRV, they agree to be bound by this User Agreement
and Warranty. You also agree to give any person to whom you give or sell your FRV, simultaneously
with the FRV, proof of your date of purchase of your FRV, without which they will not be entitled to
submit a claim under the Warranty. It is important to have the purchaser register their ownership
with OSS so that OSS may communicate directly with them regarding offers, upgrades and safety
information regarding the FRV and so that we can record the FRV serial numbers for the current
owner. This information is important for communication for such things as product updates, notices or
for recalls.
4. Terms of Warranty and User Agreement Apply to Borrowers, Transferees, Assigns, Users
The terms of this User Agreement and Warranty are binding on all transferees, buyers, assigns, users
and borrowers of the FRV, their heirs, successors, executors, trustees, and beneciaries.
5. Personal Injury or Death
YOU AGREE THAT YOU UNDERSTAND AND ACCEPT ALL RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH
FREEDIVING, AND THAT OSS, ITS OWNERS, MANAGERS, PARTNERS, AGENTS,
REPRESENTATIVES, HEIRS, SUCCESSORS, BENEFICIARIES, ASSIGNS, EXECUTORS,
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS ARE NOT LIABLE TO YOU OR ANY OTHER PERSON, INCLUDING,
BUT NOT LIMITED TO, YOUR HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, TRUSTEES, SUCCESSORS, ASSIGNS,
PARTNERS, EXECUTORS, AND PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, FOR ANY LOSS, DAMAGE,
COST, EXPENSE OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF, CAUSED BY OR RELATING TO PERSONAL
INJURY OR DEATH WHILE DIVING, EVEN IF THE PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH IS CAUSED
IN WHOLE OR IN PART, OR DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY BY THE FRV, AND REGARDLESS OF
WHETHER OR NOT THE FRV FUNCTIONED PROPERLY OR WAS DEFECTIVE IN ANY WAY

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YOU HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVE AND RELEASE AND AGREE TO INDEMNIFY OSS, ITS
OWNERS, MANAGERS, PARTNERS, AGENTS, REPRESENTATIVES HEIRS, SUCCESSORS,
BENEFICIARIES, ASSIGNES, EXECUTIVE TRUSTEES, AND OFFICERS FROM ANY AND
ALL LIABILITIES OR OBLIGATION TO YOU OR YOUR HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, TRUSTEES,
SUCCESSORS, ASSIGNS, EXECUTORS AND PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES FOR ANY LOSS,
DAMAGE, COST, EXPENSE OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF, CAUSED BY OR RELATING TO YOUR
PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH WHILE DIVING, EVEN IF YOUR PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH
IS CAUSED IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, BY THE FRV, REGARDLESS OF
WHETHER OR NOT THE FRV FUNCTIONED PROPERLY OR WAS DEFECTIVE IN ANY WAY.
6. NOTICE
This warranty gives you specic legal rights. You may have rights which vary from state to state and
country to country.
OCEANIC SAFETY SYSTEMS LLC. DISCLAIMS AND EXCLUDES ANY LIABILITY FOR
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. SOME STATES IN THE U.S. AND CERTAIN
FOREIGN COUNTRIES DO NOT ALLOW EXCLUSIONS OR LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY FOR
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THIS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
Acronyms used in this manual:
Oceanic Safety Systems LLC is OSS; and
Freedivers Recovery Vest is FRV; and
Overpressure Valve is OPV.

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The User Manual is available at the OSS website: www.oceanicss.com/support
You must read this entire FRV User Manual before using your FRV. Incorrect use of the FRV or
its accessories will invalidate your Warranty and can cause permanent damage to the FRV or its
accessories and to the user of the FRV.
This manual is copyrighted, all rights reserved. It may not, in whole or in part, be copied,
photocopied, reproduced, translated or reduced to any electronic medium or machine-readable
form without prior consent in writing from OSS. It may not be distributed through the Internet or
computer bulletin board systems without prior consent in writing from OSS. ©2013, Oceanic
Safety Systems LLC.
Pay special attention to information provided in warnings, cautions and notes that are accompanied
by one of these symbols:
II. SAFETY INFORMATION
Warnings indicate a procedure or situation that may result in serious injury or death if
instructions are not followed correctly.
Cautions indicate any situation or technique that will result in potential damage to the
FRV, or render the FRV unsafe if instructions are not followed correctly.
Notes are used to emphasize important points, tips and reminders.
Symbols for Warnings, Cautions, and Notes
General Precautions & Warnings
Warning Although this manual provides some basic guidelines for certain aspects of
freediving, it is not a substitute for training from a professional diving instructor. Do not
dive until you have obtained the necessary instruction from a diving instructor.
Warning Before using this FRV, you must review this agreement, the user manual and
the training videos on the YouTube channel and have had basic instruction in freediving.
Use of the FRV by untrained persons is dangerous and can result in injury or death.
Warning Study the contents of this manual and accompanying YouTube videos
and become familiar with the FRV rst in a controlled environment ,such as a deep
swimming pool or in shallow, clear water, in order to weight yourself properly and to
become comfortable with using the FRV’s many features and adjustments.
Warning This manual provides essential instruction for the proper tting, adjustment,
inspection and care of your new FRV. Because OSS. utilizes patented and patents
pending technology, it is very important to take the time to read these instruction in order
to fully understand the features of this product made specically for freedivers. Improper
use of this FRV could result in serious injury or death.

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Warning The FRV is not intended to replace a freediver’s dedicated
partner who is capable of monitoring the user’s progress and assisting in
an emergency. Use of the FRV in the presence of other divers may lead to
collision with them should the other divers be positioned above the user when
the user’s vest deploys.
Caution Do not place the FRV in microwave ovens, high-pressure containers,
or on induction cookware.
Warning The FRV is manufactured to utilize CO2 cylinders, which could
result in explosion hazards if mistreated. Please review the special warning
and use section dealing with carbon dioxide cylinders.
Warning The FRV is not to be used for duration and/or depth diving, which
exceed the FRV’s specications. The FRV should not be used when it is not
being worn by the diver, such as sending the unit down under the water on a
rope line.
Caution Your usual breath hold-time may be cut in half by factors including , but not
limited to, your physical condition, the surface interval from your last dive, the depth
of the dive, anxiety or excitement, and the amount of work during the dive, as well as
many other factors. Consider this carefully when you set your maximum time and depth
triggers.
Warning The FRV is not for use in environments with overhead hazards, or
line or net entrapment environments, which might trap the diver under the
water when the vest inates.
Warning The FRV is not a substitute for safe freediving practices, including but
not limited to: sufcient surface intervals between freedives, diving within the
freediver’s physical ability, and diving with a dedicated partner.
Warning The FRV will not protect the unconscious diver from avoiding a
collision with any hazard, including, but not limited to, oncoming boats, kelp
beds, oil rigs, or sea life.
Warning Never use this device while scuba diving and be very careful about
combining freediving activities with scuba diving. Conducting freedives within
a 24-hour period after conducting scuba dives, combined with the effects of
multiple rapid freedive ascents, increases your risk of decompression
sickness, which may cause serious injury or death.
Warning The FRV is intended for use with the standard weight belt worn
around the waist or on the back below the vest collar. Any other items worn
over the FRV will compromise its effectiveness and could be hazardous.
Divers should always apply their weight belt last so that it can be ditched
easily if needed.

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Warning Factory prescribed service for this FRV must be performed any time the
FRV malfunctions. Disassembly of the hard and soft goods may only be accom-
plished by OSS. Unauthorized service will render the warranty null and void.
Warning This FRV is designed for use with carbon dioxide cylinders only. Any use of
other gas mixtures may cause corrosion, deterioration, and/or premature aging of the
FRV leading to component failure of the metal and rubber parts. The component failures
could lead to a loss of buoyancy control and/or pressure integrity of the FRV resulting in
injury or death.
Warning You must not use the FRV to extend your dive prole. Using the FRV
can never be an excuse for unsafe practices. Don’t exceed your safe dive prole
and don’t depend on the FRV to protect you from unsafe dive practices.
Warning DO NOT inhale from your oral inater. The FRV is not a breathing apparatus
or a source for emergency air. Air in the FRV may contain harmful contaminants or gas-
es, which could cause suffocation or air embolism injuries.
Specic Warnings Regarding Carbon Dioxide (CO2) cylinders Precautions for use in freezing
temperatures:
CO2 gas expands in hot weather, and contracts in cold weather. At -30 degrees °F (-33 degrees °C,
the bladder ll is just 87% of the volume created at 70 degrees °F (22 degrees C.)
Under freezing conditions, the CO2 gas charge lls the bladder more slowly and less completely.
Conrm that each cylinder is full:
Never assume the CO2 ination gas is in the cylinder. The burden of inspection of the cylinder is
yours. In order to know if the gas is in the cylinder, the rst step is to remove the cylinder from the
ination system or package and look at the narrow end; the puncture surface. This surface is where
the ination system penetrates and allows the gas to ll your FRV. If this surface has any puncture
marks, holes, or any sign that is has been pushed in, DISCARD THE CYLINDER IMMEDIATELY.
Every CO2 cylinder has a ‘Minimum gross weight’ marked on the side of the cylinder. This marking is
the sum of the empty steel cylinder AND the weight of CO2 that is supposed to be contained in the
cylinder. Ultimately, weighing is the only accurate method known to ensure that the full CO2 charge
is in the cylinder. A scale, such as a digital postage scale, may be used if it is accurate enough for the
intended measurement. For example: A cylinder with a marked minimum gross weight of 68g MUST
weigh 68g OR GREATER, never less. If you weigh a cylinder and the actual weight is less than the
marked weight, remove it from service and discard it. Typically, CO2-lled cylinders do not lose their
charge unless they are punctured, rusted, crushed, overheated, or altered.
Warning Your FRV is not a lift bag. DO NOT use it to bring heavy objects to the surface.
Doing so may cause permanent damage to the FRV.
Warning Before every dive day, perform a complete pre-dive inspection according to the
procedure prescribed in this manual to ensure that all components are functioning proper-
ly and no signs of damage or leaks are present. If you nd that your FRV is not function-
ing properly or is damaged, remove it from service until it can be repaired by OSS.

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Use only “low force” piercing cylinders designed specically for automatic life vests, which
are generally recognized by the inset dimple. The at top cylinders designed for life vests are
more difcult to pierce and will not reliably cause ination when the actuator is red.
Warning Always install TWO cylinders in your FRV actuator. Leaving one out will not
allow the bladder to ll, and it will allow salt water to enter the system causing internal
corrosion.

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DO
• Weigh and conrm contents
• Handle cylinders carefully to avoid damage, especially to threads, which could prevent proper
connection to mating parts.
• Hand tighten the cylinder only. Do not over-tighten or use a wrench.
• Always carry the FRV in a manner which protects the actuator in the event it is unexpectedly
dropped.
DO NOT
• Don’t store cylinders exposed to the sun, or allow them in hot environments.
• Don’t store used and unused cylinders together.
• Don’t use cylinders with no commodity label identifying its contents.
• Don’t strike or drop cylinders.
• Don’t touch cylinders recently emptied in air. The cylinder will become so cold that it may
cause frostbite.
CO2 Cylinder DOs and DON’Ts
Warning DO NOT force the CO2 cylinders into or out of the actuator. Excessive
force may damage the threads. To help loosen the threads, try soaking the apparatus
in a 1-1 solution of warm water and vinegar for 3 hours.
Handling and storage of cylinders
CO2 cylinders are single use; dispose and recycle spent cylinders. Handle cylinders carefully. Do not
modify or erase marks or other items on cylinders. Store cylinders in a dry and well ventilated area.
Keep cylinders away from corrosive uid. Keep cylinders away from direct sunlight and at an ambient
temperature of 0 to 40 degrees C (32 to 104 degrees F).
Specic Warnings and Cautions regarding batteries while being used. Because the battery is
sealed into the actuator, it must not be accessed or tampered with by the user.
Warnings
• Do not place the battery in re or heat the battery.
• Do not disassemble or modify the battery. The battery (Lithium Ion in the back unit
only) contains safety and protection devices which, if damaged, may cause the battery to
generate heat, rupture, or ignite.
• Do not place the battery on or near res, stoves, or other high-temperature
locations.
•Do not place the battery in direct sunlight, or use or store the battery inside cars in
hot weather. Doing so may cause the battery to generate heat, rupture, or ignite. Using
the battery in this manner may also result in a loss of performance and a shortened life
expectancy.
Caution In the event the battery leaks and the uid gets into one’s eye, do not rub the
eye. Flush for 15 minutes with water and immediately seek medical attention. If left un-
treated, the battery uid could cause damage.
Caution Immediately discontinue use of the battery if while using, charging, or storing
the battery, the battery emits an unusual smell, feels hot, changes color, changes shape,
or appears abnormal in any other way. Contact OSS if any of these problems are ob-
served.

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Specic Warnings and Cautions regarding batteries while being discharged.
Warning Do not discharge the battery using any device except the FRV. When the
battery is used in devices aside from the FRV, it may damage the performance of the
battery or reduce its life expectancy. If the device causes an abnormal current to ow, it
may cause the battery to become hot, rupture, or ignite and cause serious injury.
Caution The temperature range over which the battery can be charged is 32 °F (0 °C)
to 114 °F (45 °C.) Charging outside of this range may cause excessive heating, break-
age or may reduce battery performance.
Caution The temperature range over which the battery can be discharged is - 4 ° F
(-20 °C) to +140 °F (+60 °C .) Use of the battery outside of this temperature range may
damage the performance of the battery or may reduce its life expectancy.
Specic Warnings and Cautions regarding the charging of Lithium Ion batteries.
Warnings
• When charging the battery, use only the specied charger supplied by OSS.
• Do not attach the batteries to a power supply plug or directly to a car’s cigarette
lighter.
• Do not place the batteries in or near re, or into direct sunlight. When the battery
becomes hot, the built-in safety equipment is activated, preventing the battery
from charging further. Heating the battery can destroy the safety equipment
and cause additional heating, breaking, or ignition of the battery.
• Do not continue charging the battery if it does not recharge within the specied
charging time of 4 to 8 hours. Doing so may cause the battery to become hot,
rupture and ignite.
LITHIUM ION BATTERY INFORMATION TO HELP PROLONG THE LIFE OF YOUR BATTERY
Since the battery pack will discharge over time in storage, it must be partially charged every few
months to extend cycle capacity or else it may fail to charge or hold power in the future. The battery is
best stored at charge levels between 20% through 80%. Do not allow the battery to remain in a fully
discharged state and do not continually charge the battery. Check the battery level after a dive trip. If
the level is 40% or more, put the FRV away. After 2 to 3 months of disuse, recharge the battery for an
hour and recheck that the charge level is between 40% and 80%—do not fully charge. Of course, the
day before a dive trip, always fully charge the battery.
The battery typically has a lifespan of between 300 and 500 cycles under normal usage and operating
conditions. Using the FRV in a higher or lower ambient temperature affects the total number of cycles
in the battery’s service life.
Lithium Ion batteries are less efcient with age and in near-freezing temperatures. Batteries age
naturally over time and will not retain as much energy. After several years, a normal battery may
have a decreased charge capacity of 60% of new. Additionally, Lithium Ion batteries do not perform
optimally at temperatures nearing freezing levels. For both reasons listed above, we recommend
you do not use the FRV in freezing temperatures with a battery charge indication of 50% or
less.
DO
• Store battery with a charge level between 20% and 80%
• Partially charge the battery every 2 to 3 months.

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CHARGING THE FRV BATTERY: The FRV is equipped with a powerful battery capable of driving the
unit for more than 30, 8-hour days. The level-of-battery-charge screen alternates between “Batt” and
the charge percentage. To charge the unit, use a quarter to remove the charge port screw. Connect
the battery charger provided with this unit where the battery charger green light turns red. A fully dis-
charged battery will take 4- 8-hours to charge. When the battery is fully charged, the light on the wall
charger will change from red to green. The charger will shut off automatically when the battery is full.
Be sure to replace the charge plug or the unit will ood. Take care not to strip the threads. Removing
the charger from the wall socket, but leaving it attached to the actuator drains the battery.
Experts agree that you are properly weighted at the surface when you will not sink even if you fully
exhale. Successful use of the FRV calls for another criteria.
You must not be more than 3 lbs (1-kilo) negative weight at your trigger depth. It is entirely
possible for the diver to overweight and thus defeat the lift values at the trigger depth. Take for
example the diver who dives deep for grouper, who routinely wears 10 kilos (22 lbs) of weights to
be neutral at 2 meters (6 feet) and who is also wearing a 7-mm wetsuit. Suppose he sets his trigger
depth to 41 meters (135 feet) and has installed two 38-gram cylinders, which together will provide 8
kilos (18 lbs) of lift at that depth. (See table on page 14. Should the diver descend to 41 meters (135
feet), it is entirely possible that because of the wetsuit compression and his excessive weights, his
combined negative weight will exceed 8 kilos (18 lbs), which will render the FRV useless. For proper
use of the FRV, it is critical that you do not overweight so that you are more than 1 kilo (2.2 lbs)
negative at your trigger depth. In the above example, the diver should remove extra weight and/or
decrease his trigger depth to a level that will support a higher lift value, or use larger cylinders.
WEAR PROPER WEIGHTS FOR YOUR CURRENT DIVE PROFILE
REMOVE THE CHARGE
PORT PLUG WITH A
QUARTER TO PREVENT
FLOODING, BE SURE TO
REPLACE THE PLUG.
CONNECT THE CHARGER AND LOOK FOR THE CHARGING LIGHT
(RED) ON THE CHARGER. IT WILL TURN GREEN WHEN FULLY
CHARGED. (Unfortunately, a few have forgotten to replace their
charger plug and ruined their unit when it ooded—DON’T FORGET!)
DO NOT
• Continually charge the battery to 100% when not being used.
• Use the FRV with a battery charge less than 50% in freezing conditions.
• Allow the battery to remain in a fully-discharged state.
• Do not store the battery in very high or low ambient temperatures.
Caution. Be sure and screw the plug back in. If not, the unit will ood and be ruined.
Wrap the charge plug around the charge wire so you don’t forget it.
WRAP THE
CHARGER PLUG
CORD AS A
REMINDER

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Note: The danger is if you use cylinders too small for
your trigger depth. Using cylinders with more capac-
ity is acceptable because the extra gas is vented pas
the over-pressure valve. For example, the deepest
you want to dive with two 38gm cylinders is 41 me-
ters. Diving deeper than that will not provide enough
lift.
Setting your maximum depth trigger to achieve 8
kilos (18 lbs) of lift is dependent upon the number
of grams of CO2 contained within the cylinders. For
exact information, use the table at the right. For an
approximation, use the rules of thumb below:
For CO2 weights of 136 gms or less, just divide the
total by 2 to arrive at a value in meters. For example,
if you are using two 38 gram cylinders, you would add
their weights together and divide by two (38+38)/2 = 38
to arrive at the depth providing 8 kilos (18 pounds) of lift.
For equal-weight cylinders use the weight of one cylinder
as the maximum depth in meters to provide 8 kilos (18
pounds) of lift. Note the chart at the right, where two 38
gram cylinders provide 18 kilos (18 pounds) of lift at 41
meters.
For CO2 weights of 136 gms or more, add the
combined weights of the cylinders and divide by two.
Then add 10% of the combined weight for the total
depth in meters to provide 8 kilos (18 pounds) of lift. For
example, with two 68 gram CO2 cylinders, the combined
weight of CO2 is 136 grams (2 x 68.) 10% of 136 is 14.
Add 68 plus 14 to arrive at 82. See the lower arrow in
the chart to the right.
III. HAVING SUFFICIENT CO2 IS ESSENTIAL
Warning Do not use with less than 66
grams total of CO2.
Note Some international travelers
have found CO2 cylinders at marine
stores and sailing shops.

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BUTTONS
LEDs
LCD SCREEN SHOWING
DEPTH TRIGGER
CHARGING PORT
PLUG
CORD FOR MANUAL
PULL INFLATION
COMPRESSION
SPRING CAP
ACTUATOR
FRONT
CONNECTION
TO INFLATION
BLADDER
WIRE TO REMOTE
COMMUNICATOR
ACTUATOR
BACK
REMOTE
COMMUNICATOR
REMOTE BUTTON
ACTUATOR COMPONENTS
IV. FRV COMPONENTS
SPANNER
WRENCH
Used to assist
cocking the
trigger spring

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A. The Actuator
The actuator is the heart of the system. Connected to it is the ination vest, the manual ination pull
cord, CO2 ination cylinders, and the remote communicator. The actuator is built from anodized
aluminum and polycarbonate plastic on the outside, and the internal trigger components are made
from high-grade stainless steel—all low-corrosion components. The unit is controlled with 3 buttons
and supplies the user feedback with 3 LEDs and a LCD screen. It can also be partially controlled with
the remote communicator.
The LEDs provide the following feedback
Green: the unit is on.
Blue: designates the unit is in setting mode.
Red: Indicates trouble with the actuator.
To conserve battery, after 20 seconds of inactivity, the LEDs and screen automatically turn off .
3 Buttons turn the unit on and provide user input and feedback
ON button: Used to turn the unit on—requires a 3-second push. To turn the unit off, press the ON
button continuously for 7 seconds. To prevent accidental pressing, this button is positioned in a well .
Mode button: Used to cycle through the various screens and to set the Surface Minder option. After
20 seconds, when the LEDs and screens turn off, pressing the mode button for 5 seconds will again
wake up the blue LED and allow you to cycle through the screens by pressing the mode button.
Set button: Used to increase trigger time and trigger depth in the trigger screens in concert with the
Mode.
The LCD screen messages the cause for ination When ination is due to pressing the remote
button 4 times, the screen will read “SOS.” When ination is due to exceeding the time trigger, it
will display the time trigger, for example “t 1:30”; exceeding the depth trigger will display the depth
trigger for example, “d 10.” If ination is due to ignoring or forgetting to press the remote button when
Surface Minder is on, the LCD will display “Surf” as the cause of ination; and it will display “Pre” for
ination when the diver fails to press the blinking remote button during a premature dive.
Resetting the actuator after ination: In addition to providing messages, Ination causes the 3
LEDs to blink. To make your FRV ready again, press the ON button for 7 seconds to shut off the
unit and then press the ON button for 3 seconds to restart the FRV actuator. It will remember your
previous settings.
B. The remote communicator
The remote communicator is used to relay information to the diver. Normally, it is dark. Pressing the
button for two seconds will light the button, which informs the user the unit is on. When the light is
blinking, the unit is set to Surface Minder mode. When the light is steady, the unit is not in Surface
Minder mode. To inate the bladder, press the button 4 times quickly.
NOT SURE IF THE UNIT IS ON? Press the remote and it will light. This tells you the unit is on, and
which mode it is in. Pressing the mode button will do the same. The actuator turns itself off in 24
hours.
C. The manual ination cord The manual ination cord runs in the left lapel to the pull handle and
is used to inate the ination bladder manually. To inate the bladder manually, give the cord a brisk
tug with about 15-pounds of force or more. To avoid accidental manual ination, do not carry the unit
by the manual pull cord.
D. The ination vest and actuator pouch
A pouch under the collar of the OSS vest houses the actuator and provides a route for the remote
wire and the manual ination cord into the left lapel. In the right lapel is an oral inater hose. At
the bottom of the right lapel is the over-pressure valve (OPV), which appears when the bladder is
inated and is used to vent pressure from the vest. The valve automatically vents excess pressure
during ination. Using the manual ination pull cord, the user may also manually vent gas, used most
commonly during repacking after deployment.

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RED LED
E. Overpressure Valve (OPV)/Dump
Valve
The OPV’s primary function is to relieve
excess air pressure inside the bladder.
The OPV can also be opened manually
by pulling on the ball-and-cord assembly
to quickly dump air, which might be re-
quired if you are exiting a conned space
and when you want to repack and rearm
the FRV. Do not tamper with this valve.
The valve spring continually presses
against the rubber gasket, which presses
against the plastic valve seat. It is possi-
ble for the plastic and rubber to stick so
tightly the resulting internal pressure upon ination exceeds the burst strength of the bladder material.
You must lubricate the valve seat at a minimum of every three months. Pull the valve spring to unseat
the gasket and spray rubber-safe silicone spray into the valve. Open and close the valve several times
to work the lubricant thoroughly through the valve. Two suitable silicone sprays are 3-In-One Silicone
Spray and M Essentials Silicone spray.
Always pull your over-pressure valve cord to test its function as part of your pre-dive inspection.
Note Avoid opening the OPV in the water while testing your FRV because this will
allow water to enter the bladder, which will later require cleaning by rinsing with fresh
water at the end of the day.
F. Oral ination hose
You may inate your FRV orally with the oral ination hose found packed with the bladder near
your biceps area of your right lapel. To operate this valve, unsnap the lapel cover, then unscrew the
retainer to allow full depression of the valve, then depress the end and blow. When not in use, the
valve retainer should be screwed closed to prevent accidental opening of the valve.
Note While rinsing the FRV at the end of the day, be sure to screw the retainer in and out
to keep it functioning smoothly and to prevent it from corrosion or excess salt build up.
ORAL INFLATION TUBE OPEN CLOSED
SPACE SPACE
CLOSED
GREEN LED
Warnings The proper function of the OPV is vital to prevent damage to the ination
bladder. Do not tamper with this valve and test it monthly by inating the vest and
checking for retention and release of gas. Return a malfunctioning FRV to OSS.
Unauthorized service or tampering may render these valves inoperable, and could cause
the bladder to leak or burst. This type of damage is not repairable.
OVER PRESSURE VALVE (OPV) AND PULL
CORD

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V. CUSTOM FITTING THE VEST.
Your FRV is equipped with multiple custom tting location points.
1. Start by putting on your FRV, over your wetsuit if you use one.
2. Check and adjust the arm holes as necessary with the strap adjustments
3. Position the chest lapel pads to your side. Loosen the back straps if needed.
4. Make the front adjustments so that lapels in the upper chest angle inward giving your arms freedom.
5. Work from the front to back to achieve a snug t that does not hinder movement or deep breathing.
6. Adjust the crotch strap by bending over.
7. In general, make the FRV t snugly, but again so that it does not hinder movement or deep
breathing.
8. For most divers, there will be an excess of strap material. To enhance streamlining, we suggest
you cut the excess webbing, sear the end with a lighter and then sew the end in position with nylon
thread.
Note, the FRV vest will t most sizes from medium to extra large. Adjust the back center strap to the
mid-back center.
ARM BAND FOR
REMOTE WIRE
NOTE: ADJUST
SHOULDER STRAPS
FIRST WORK FROM
FRONT TO BACK
MANUAL PULL
ARM BAND REMOTE
HOLDER SLEEVE—
(May be worn above
or below elbow)
BUBBLING NOISE? To avoid making bubbles, the
FRV is designed to shed excess and trapped air as
you descend through its mesh cover. However, if there
is air IN the bladder it will make a bubbling sound. To
completely remove all air, dunk the unit in the water
leaving just the over-pressure valve above water and
pull the OPV cord to vent the air.

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Freedivers Recovery Vest Mark II-S copyright Oceanic Safety Systems LLC., 2015
ARM BANDS
ADJUSTMENT
POINTS
LAPEL PLACEMENT IS CRITICAL TO OPERATION IN THE SURFACE MINDER ON OPTION:
The theory for the Surface Minder option is if you come to the surface and are disabled, after the
30-second surface interval is exceeded (15-seconds steady light, 15-seconds blinking) the vest
will inate and tip you over on to your back—face up. If you choose to use this option, it is your
responsibility to conrm the vest will turn you face up. To conrm the overturn, activate the FRV while
oating relaxed on the surface. You should roll onto your back. Because the bladders deploy to the
center, the vest should ip you over. If the bladder conguration does not ip you promptly, bring
the lapels closer together over your chest. Test the new conguration several times to conrm the
distance is adequate. CONFIRM IT!
SURFACE MINDER ON
ACTUATOR POUCH
ORAL FILL TUBE
REMOTE WIRE