{"id":22858,"date":"2025-01-08T12:52:18","date_gmt":"2025-01-08T04:52:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/?p=22858"},"modified":"2025-01-08T12:52:18","modified_gmt":"2025-01-08T04:52:18","slug":"shearwater-dive-computer-settings","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/","title":{"rendered":"Shearwater Dive Computer Settings: A Guide to Gradient Factors"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Shearwater Dive Computer Settings: Become A Power User!<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>Shearwater dive computers have gained immense popularity among scuba divers. Unfortunately, many Shearwater users don&#8217;t leverage the full potential of these awesome dive instruments. If you&#8217;ve been hesitant to explore the advanced Shearwater dive computer settings because they seem too complex, you&#8217;re missing out on an incredible tool for enhancing your diving safety. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This article aims to help you become a Shearwater power user!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 ez-toc-wrap-center counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-transparent ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Article Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Why-use-advanced-features-in-your-Shearwater-dive-computer-settings\" >Why use advanced features in your Shearwater dive computer settings?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Become-A-Shearwater-Power-User-eBook\" >Become A Shearwater Power User! (eBook)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#What-are-Shearwater-Gradient-Factors\" >What are Shearwater Gradient Factors?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#De-mystifying-decompression-models\" >De-mystifying decompression models<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#The-primary-aim-of-a-diving-ascent\" >The primary aim of a diving ascent<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#The-secondary-aim-of-a-diving-ascent\" >The secondary aim of a diving ascent<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Balancing-nitrogen-removal-against-bubble-formation\" >Balancing nitrogen removal against bubble formation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#An-optimal-diving-ascent\" >An optimal diving ascent<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-and-Buhlmann-ZHL-16C\" >Shearwater dive computer settings and B\u00fchlmann ZHL-16C<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Gradient-Factors-in-the-Buhlmann-ZHL-16C-model\" >Gradient Factors in the B\u00fchlmann ZHL-16C model<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Gradient-Factor-High\" >Gradient Factor High<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Gradient-Factor-Low\" >Gradient Factor Low<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#GFLo-and-emergency-decompression-stops\" >GFLo and emergency decompression stops<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-in-recreational-mode\" >Shearwater Gradient Factors in recreational mode<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-Using-custom-Gradient-Factors\" >Shearwater dive computer settings Using  custom Gradient Factors<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Using-Sheawater-Gradient-Factors-information-during-your-dives\" >Using Sheawater Gradient Factors information during your dives<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#What-is-GF99\" >What is GF99?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#GF99-pressure-difference-in-a-nutshell\" >GF99 pressure difference in a nutshell<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#What-GF99-looks-like-on-a-scuba-dive\" >What GF99 looks like on a scuba dive<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#On-gassing\" >On-gassing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Saturation\" >Saturation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Super-saturation\" >Super-saturation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#GF99-and-decompression-stress\" >GF99 and decompression stress<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#What-is-SurGF\" >What is SurGF?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#The-relationship-between-GF99-and-SurGF\" >The relationship between GF99 and SurGF<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#GF99-and-SurGF-displays-in-your-Shearwater-dive-computer-settings\" >GF99 and SurGF displays in your Shearwater dive computer settings<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Ascent-Rate-indicator\" >Ascent Rate indicator<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Shearwater-GF99-and-SurGF-displays-on-a-normal-dive\" >Shearwater GF99 and SurGF displays on a normal dive<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#During-descent\" >During descent<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#During-bottom-time\" >During bottom time<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#At-the-end-of-bottom-time\" >At the end of bottom time<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#At-the-start-of-ascent\" >At the start of ascent<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#During-ascent\" >During ascent<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#At-the-start-of-the-safety-stop\" >At the start of the safety stop<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#At-the-end-of-the-safety-stop\" >At the end of the safety stop<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Surfacing-from-the-dive\" >Surfacing from the dive<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#How-you-can-use-Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-to-better-manage-your-dive-profiles\" >How you can use Shearwater dive computer settings to better manage your dive profiles<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#1-Multi-level-diving\" >1. Multi-level diving<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Example-of-off-gassing-efficiency-at-different-depths\" >Example of off-gassing efficiency at different depths<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#2-Optimizing-safety-stop-depth\" >2. Optimizing safety stop depth<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#A-standard-5m-16ft-safety-stop\" >A standard 5m (16ft) safety stop<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Using-GF99-to-set-an-optimal-safety-stop-depth\" >Using GF99 to set an optimal safety stop depth<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#3-Adding-greater-conservatism-to-your-dive\" >3. Adding greater conservatism to your dive<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-44\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Example-of-using-SurGF-to-extend-a-safety-stop\" >Example of using SurGF to extend a safety stop<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-45\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Get-the-most-out-of-your-Shearwater-dive-computer-settings\" >Get the most out of your Shearwater dive computer settings<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-46\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-GF99-and-SurGF\" >Shearwater dive computer settings GF99 and SurGF<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-47\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#More-resources-on-Shearwater-dive-computer-settings\" >More resources on Shearwater dive computer settings<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-48\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Online-articles-on-Gradient-Factors-and-Buhlmann-ZHL-16\" >Online articles on Gradient Factors and B\u00fchlmann ZHL-16<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-49\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Mark-Powells-Intro-To-Deco-Theory-Lecture\" >Mark Powell&#8217;s Intro To Deco Theory Lecture<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-50\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Shearwater-Computer-User-Manuals\" >Shearwater Computer User Manuals<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-51\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Become-A-Shearwater-Power-User-eBook-2\" >Become A Shearwater Power User! (eBook)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-52\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#About-The-Author\" >About The Author<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-53\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Purchase-my-exclusive-diving-ebooks\" >Purchase my exclusive diving ebooks!<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-54\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-FAQ\" >Shearwater dive computer settings FAQ<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why-use-advanced-features-in-your-Shearwater-dive-computer-settings\"><\/span>Why use advanced features in your Shearwater dive computer settings?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Leaving your Shearwater computer default display settings is akin to owning a Ferrari and never driving beyond second gear. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I want to encourage you to go beyond the defaults by making this article as simple and &#8216;non-technical&#8217; as possible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, I will illustrate everything you need to know about Shearwater gradient factors and how to use them effectively. That starts by defining what Shearwater gradient factors are and how they keep you safe. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Then, I will guide you on how to set advanced display options unique to Shearwater computers. In doing so, I will explain why the GF99 and SurGF displays empower you to conduct much safer diving ascents. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, I will explain how you can interpret the gradient factor information provided by Shearwater during a dive. You will learn how customizing your display options can improve your multi-level diving efficiency and the effectiveness of safety stops. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"scuba-b4-h2-2\" style=\"margin-top: 10px;margin-bottom: 10px;\" id=\"scuba-2083068386\"><div class=\"scuba-adlabel\">Sponsored Link<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-9354033900485448\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-9354033900485448\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"2393012471\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"false\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Become-A-Shearwater-Power-User-eBook\"><\/span><strong>Become A Shearwater Power User! (eBook)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-stretch is-layout-constrained wp-block-column-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/233171\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Shearwater-Settings-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater Power User Settings GF Gradient Factors eBook\" class=\"wp-image-26260\" style=\"width:250px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Shearwater-Settings-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Shearwater-Settings-Book-Cover-Image-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Shearwater-Settings-Book-Cover-Image-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Shearwater-Settings-Book-Cover-Image-96x150.jpg 96w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Shearwater-Settings-Book-Cover-Image.jpg 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-content-justification-left is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-column-is-layout-12dd3699 wp-block-column-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"flex-basis:40%\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background\" style=\"line-height:1.3\">An Illustrated Guide to Gradient Factors and Advanced Shearwater Computer Settings for safe scuba diving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"line-height:1.3\"><strong>42 Pages. Printable PDF format. Fully Illustrated.<\/strong> <strong>$9<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:700;line-height:1\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/233171\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong><\/strong><\/a><\/strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/233171\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Become A Shearwater Power User eBook<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.313), 18px);\">As featured on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=zTjVXugn-m0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">DiveTalk Podcast<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-are-Shearwater-Gradient-Factors\"><\/span>What are Shearwater Gradient Factors?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many recreational divers believe that consideration of decompression models is only for technical divers. However, every dive is a decompression dive; even if you stay within no-stop diving limits. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding what is happening with nitrogen inside your body helps you make decisions that preserve your health and vitality. Issues like <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/why-does-diving-make-me-feel-tired\/\">post-dive fatigue<\/a> are easily avoided if you understand the theory behind optimizing your ascents to the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"De-mystifying-decompression-models\"><\/span>De-mystifying decompression models<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Diving exposes you to increased pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You absorb nitrogen into your body tissues<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>During ascent, the surrounding pressure decreases<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nitrogen in your body remains at a higher pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>That difference in pressure causes bubbles to form<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Greater pressure difference creates more and larger bubbles<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Only large bubbles cause <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/types-decompression-sickness-dcs\/\">decompression sickness<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/types-decompression-sickness-dcs\/\">DCS<\/a>).  You diving computer is programmed to avoid large bubbles from forming. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, tiny bubbles (<a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/sub-clinical-decompression-sickness-stress-micro-bubbles\/\">micro-bubbles<\/a>) will still form inside your body on every diving ascent. These are too small to cause injury. However, in large numbers they have a physiological effect. That effect is to cause <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/subclinical-dcs-decompression-stress-fatigue\/\">post-dive fatigue<\/a>. This is known as <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/subclinical-dcs-decompression-stress-fatigue\/\">decompression stress<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Large bubbles cause physical injury<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/types-decompression-sickness-dcs\/\">DCS<\/a> is injury from large bubbles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dive computers avoid large bubbles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/sub-clinical-decompression-sickness-stress-micro-bubbles\/\">Tiny bubbles<\/a> don&#8217;t cause injury<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Too many tiny bubbles cause <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/subclinical-dcs-decompression-stress-fatigue\/\">post-dive fatigue<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/subclinical-dcs-decompression-stress-fatigue\/\">Post-dive fatigue<\/a> is know as decompression stress<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Because your diving computer isn&#8217;t programmed to avoid tiny bubbles, you have to do this for yourself. Read on to learn how.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The-primary-aim-of-a-diving-ascent\"><\/span>The primary aim of a diving ascent<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The primary aim of a diving ascent is to minimize the speed and severity of pressure change on your body. In turn, this reduces the formation of bubbles inside your body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Reducing the speed of pressure change is as straightforward as reducing your ascent speed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, the task isn&#8217;t as simple as just <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/best-ascent-speed-scuba-diving\/\">ascending slowly<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A very slow ascent means you stay deeper for longer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nitrogen continues to be absorbed into your body<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Getting shallower with more nitrogen in your body causes more bubbles<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The-secondary-aim-of-a-diving-ascent\"><\/span>The secondary aim of a diving ascent<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The secondary aim of a diving ascent is to remove as much nitrogen from your body before you surface. This reduces the formation of bubbles after your dive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Pressure difference forces nitrogen to leave your body<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Greater pressure difference causes faster nitrogen removal<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In short, you want more pressure difference to increase the efficiency of nitrogen removal from your body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Balancing-nitrogen-removal-against-bubble-formation\"><\/span>Balancing nitrogen removal against bubble formation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>As you can see, ascending from a scuba dive has to balance two conflicting aims: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You need to avoid rapid decrease in pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You need pressure difference to remove nitrogen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Too much emphasis on one aim can cause problems from neglecting the other. Getting the balance wrong can cause decompression stress, or even DCS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"An-optimal-diving-ascent\"><\/span>An optimal diving ascent<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>For the greatest safety from DCS, an ideal diving ascent has to hit a sweet spot. You need to get shallower to maximize nitrogen removal, whilst avoiding spikes in pressure difference that cause too many, or too large, bubbles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To find that sweet spot, you need real-time information during your dives. Thankfully, you can opt to display that information through your Shearwater dive computer settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-and-Buhlmann-ZHL-16C\"><\/span>Shearwater dive computer settings and B\u00fchlmann ZHL-16C <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Shearwater computers use the <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/a-simple-guide-to-dive-computer-algorithms\/\">B\u00fchlmann ZHL-16C decompression model<\/a>. That is simply a mathematical algorithm which calculates your bottom time and ascent to avoid DCS. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It works by estimating how quickly nitrogen is absorbed into your body, and how quickly it is removed on ascent. It keep you safe by limiting the difference between the pressure of nitrogen inside your body and the outside pressure pushing onto your body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, a decompression model needs flexibility to enable different levels of conservatism. <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/gradient-factors-dummies\/\">Gradient Factors<\/a> provide that flexibility on Shearwater computers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Gradient factors refer to the <em><strong>pressure gradient<\/strong><\/em> between the surrounding pressure on your body and the pressure of nitrogen inside your body. This is just a scientific way of saying &#8220;<em><strong>pressure difference<\/strong><\/em>&#8220;.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Any time you hear Gradient Factors mentioned, simply understand that it is talking about controlling pressure difference to prevent bubble formation and allow nitrogen to enter or exit your body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Gradient-Factors-in-the-Buhlmann-ZHL-16C-model\"><\/span>Gradient Factors in the B\u00fchlmann ZHL-16C model<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Gradient Factors (GF) are easy to understand. Two numbers modify the computer calculations: <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/gradient-factors-m-values\/\">GF High and GF Low<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>GF High:<\/strong> Sets the overall conservatism.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>GF Low:<\/strong> Sets the depth of the first deco stop.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The good news is that you can ignore the GF Low unless you&#8217;re a technical diver planning decompression dives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-low-and-GF-high-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater dive computer settings. The GF high and GF low figures. These modify your dive profile and ascent.\" class=\"wp-image-22871\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-low-and-GF-high-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-low-and-GF-high-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-low-and-GF-high-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-low-and-GF-high.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Gradient-Factor-High\"><\/span>Gradient Factor High<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Gradient Factor high (GFhi) allows you to set overall conservatism on your Shearwater computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>B\u00fchlmann ZHL-16C model has zero conservatism<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It calculates to avoid pressure difference that causes large, harmful bubbles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The maximum safe pressure difference is called the <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/understanding-m-values-eric-baker\/\">m-value<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A GFhi of 100% is the <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/understanding-m-values-eric-baker\/\">m-value<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This equates to 0% conservatism<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Obviously, that m-value (GFhi 100%) does not account for individual predisposing factors to DCS. Divers need to reduce their limit below 100% to add further risk insulation from getting bent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-high-explanation-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater dive computer settings. Gradient factor high (GFhi)\" class=\"wp-image-22870\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-high-explanation-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-high-explanation-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-high-explanation-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-high-explanation.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The GFhi setting allows you to reduce the maximum tolerance below 100%. For instance, setting the GFhi at 85%, provides you with 15% conservatism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As such, setting GFHi 85% will shorten your dive time and increase your insulation from the risk of DCS. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alternatively, if you set GFHi 70% you&#8217;d have an even shorter bottom time, but far higher safety. In this instance, the conservatism would be 30% below the m-value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Gradient-Factor-Low\"><\/span>Gradient Factor Low<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Gradient Factor low (GFlo) only has an affect on mandatory decompression stops. <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/gradient-factors-application-use-settings-open-circuit-tech\/\">Technical divers use the GFlo to modify their decompression profile<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-low-explanation-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater dive computer settings. Gradient factor low (GFlo)\" class=\"wp-image-22869\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-low-explanation-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-low-explanation-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-low-explanation-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF-low-explanation.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The GFlo setting determines the depth where your first decompression stop occurs during ascent. A lower number determines a deeper stop depth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For instance, GFLo 30% starts the series of decompression stops deeper than a GFLo of 50%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, GFLo has little relevance to recreational divers. If there are no decompression stops, the depth of the first stop is irrelevant. GFLo only becomes a factor if a recreational diver accidentally goes into decompression. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a general rule-of-thumb, recreational divers should use a higher GFlo setting for emergency decompression. You will want your emergency deco stop to be shallow. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"GFLo-and-emergency-decompression-stops\"><\/span>GFLo and emergency decompression stops<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Shallower emergency decompression stops are preferable because they:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Maximize the speed your body releases nitrogen.<\/strong> This creates a shorter decompression stop.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Extend the duration of your <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/scuba-gas-planning-management-divers\/\">gas supply<\/a>.<\/strong> You are likely to be low on gas. Shallower depth means low <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/gas-density-diving-research-risks-recommendations\/\">gas density<\/a> and, consequently, a lower <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/scuba-gas-planning-management-divers\/#Respiratory-Minute-Volume\">Respiratory Minute Volume<\/a> (RMV).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are manually setting Gradient Factors on your Shearwater computer, set a higher GFLo to ensure that your mandatory stops will be shallower and shorter. This can make a difference if you ever accidentally exceed your no-stop limit on a dive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-in-recreational-mode\"><\/span>Shearwater Gradient Factors in recreational mode<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Recreational diving mode on a Shearwater computer keeps the issue of Gradient Factors very simple. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Gradient Factors are always displayed as GFlo\/GFhi. For instance, 30\/90 would indicate a GFlo of 30% and a GFhi of 90%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can choose from three pre-defined conservatism settings:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Low:<\/strong> GFlo 45 and GFhi 95 (45\/95). This provides just <em>5% conservatism<\/em>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Medium:<\/strong> GFlo 40 and GFhi 85 (40\/85). This is the default setting and provides <em>15% conservatism<\/em>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>High:<\/strong> GFlo 35 and GFhi 75 (35\/75). This provides a generous <em>25% conservatism.<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Those three Gradient Factors options will be suffice for the vast majority of divers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can add further conservatism in real-time on your dives by using the SurGF display. I will describe how to do that later in the article.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-Using-custom-Gradient-Factors\"><\/span>Shearwater dive computer settings: Using  custom Gradient Factors<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to set precise amounts of conservatism, or have more than 25% conservatism, set the GF to custom mode and input a lower GFHi value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Accessing custom gradient factors can differ depending on the model of Shearwater computer you use. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Shearwater Perdix and Petrel:<\/strong> Enable OC Tec mode. You can then quickly adjust Gradient Factors in the Dive Setup menu.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Shearwater Peregrine:<\/strong> In the System Setup menu, go to Mode Setup and select &#8220;Custom&#8221; conservatism.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Once enabled, you can change custom Gradient Factors in the Dive Settings screen:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Dive-Computer-GF-Settings-with-circle-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater dive computer settings. Altering the conservatism with custom gradient factors.\" class=\"wp-image-22865\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Dive-Computer-GF-Settings-with-circle-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Dive-Computer-GF-Settings-with-circle-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Dive-Computer-GF-Settings-with-circle-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Dive-Computer-GF-Settings-with-circle.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"scuba-b4-h2-3\" style=\"margin-top: 10px;margin-bottom: 10px;\" id=\"scuba-494758291\"><div class=\"scuba-adlabel\">Sponsored Link<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-9354033900485448\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-9354033900485448\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6151212517\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"false\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Using-Sheawater-Gradient-Factors-information-during-your-dives\"><\/span>Using Sheawater Gradient Factors information during your dives<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two display settings on your Shearwater computer that are game-changers for improving your safety from DCS:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>GF99<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>SurGF<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These display options give you real-time information about what is happening with the nitrogen dissolved inside your body. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, they empower you to make informed decisions about your ascents and safety stops that reduce your <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/types-decompression-sickness-dcs\/\">risk of DCS<\/a> and help you avoid <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/subclinical-dcs-decompression-stress-fatigue\/\">fatigue from decompression stress<\/a> after dives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-is-GF99\"><\/span>What is GF99?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The GF99 display tells you the real-time relationship between the pressure of nitrogen dissolved within your body and the ambient pressure surrounding you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"GF99-pressure-difference-in-a-nutshell\"><\/span>GF99 pressure difference in a nutshell<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>0%:<\/strong> Nitrogen isn&#8217;t entering or exiting your body<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>1-49%:<\/strong> Less and smaller bubbles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>50-100%: <\/strong>More and larger bubbles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Greater than 100%:<\/strong> Call an ambulance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-39-2-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"GF99 display on a Shearwater dive computer\" class=\"wp-image-22982\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-39-2-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-39-2-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-39-2-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-39-2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Shearwater GF99 display indicating 30% pressure difference<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Greater pressure difference increases the risk of bubble formation. However, you need a difference in pressure for nitrogen to release from your body on ascent. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The aim of a scuba diving ascent to achieve an optimal balance between those two factors. You want to release as much nitrogen as possible before surfacing, but you don&#8217;t want to cause many, or very large, bubbles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During a dive, the GF99 display lets you know:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Whether you are absorbing or releasing nitrogen<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How efficiently you are off-gassing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/subclinical-dcs-decompression-stress-fatigue\/\">decompression stress<\/a> being created<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A higher GF99 value indicates faster nitrogen release from your body. Your goal should be to remove as much nitrogen as possible before surfacing from your dive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, a higher value also suggests more <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/sub-clinical-decompression-sickness-stress-micro-bubbles\/\">micro-bubbles will be created in your body tissues<\/a>. An excess of micro-bubbles can cause <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/subclinical-dcs-decompression-stress-fatigue\/\">post-dive fatigue<\/a>.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-GF99-looks-like-on-a-scuba-dive\"><\/span>What GF99 looks like on a scuba dive<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"On-gassing\"><\/span>On-gassing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The GF99 display indicates when your body is absorbing nitrogen. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-On-Gas-1-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater dive computer setting. GF99 indicating you are absorbing nitrogen\" class=\"wp-image-22896\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-On-Gas-1-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-On-Gas-1-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-On-Gas-1-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-On-Gas-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Saturation\"><\/span>Saturation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When GF99 indicates 0% you are at the point of saturation. The pressure of nitrogen inside your body matches the ambient water pressure surrounding you.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-zero-1-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22938\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-zero-1-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-zero-1-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-zero-1-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-zero-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Super-saturation\"><\/span>Super-saturation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The GF99 display indicates when your body is releasing nitrogen.  Higher % means better off-gassing. efficiently. Going beyond 100% seriously risks getting bent.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-39-1-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater dive computer settings. GF99 indicating 30% super-saturation. You are releasing nitrogen efficiently\" class=\"wp-image-22897\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-39-1-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-39-1-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-39-1-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-39-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"GF99-and-decompression-stress\"><\/span>GF99 and decompression stress<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>In this example, GF99 is 70%. You are 30% below the m-value and off-gassing nitrogen quickly. However, this amount of pressure differential will provoke micro-bubbles and you may experience post-dive fatigue.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-at-70-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater dive computer settings. GF99 gives the diver real-time information about their saturation status.\" class=\"wp-image-22931\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-at-70-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-at-70-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-at-70-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-at-70.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>A lower GF99 of 42% would approximately half of your preset GFHi. This limits the creation of micro-bubbles. It is nonetheless an efficient speed of nitrogen removal.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-at-42-max-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater dive computer settings. GF99 indicates off-gassing efficiency and risk of micro-bubble formation.\" class=\"wp-image-22932\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-at-42-max-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-at-42-max-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-at-42-max-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-at-42-max.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-is-SurGF\"><\/span>What is SurGF?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Surfacing Gradient Factor (SurGF) display lets you know what the pressure difference would be if you immediately surfaced. As you become more accustomed to using it, it allows ever more refined decision making during your dives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>SurGF information allows you to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Have real-time control over your conservatism<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decide the optimum length of a safety stop<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monitor how quickly your nitrogen levels drop<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Understand the DCS risk level if you ascended immediately in an emergency<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>SurGF indicates your real-time surfacing gradient factor. This differs from the maximum GFhi setting that determines your overall conservatism.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/SurGF-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater dive computer settings. SurGF display\" class=\"wp-image-22900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/SurGF-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/SurGF-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/SurGF-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/SurGF.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"scuba-b4-h2-4\" style=\"margin-top: 10px;margin-bottom: 10px;\" id=\"scuba-1266670783\"><div class=\"scuba-adlabel\">Sponsored Link<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-9354033900485448\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-9354033900485448\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"2954736365\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"false\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The-relationship-between-GF99-and-SurGF\"><\/span>The relationship between GF99 and SurGF<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>GF99 tells you how much pressure differential exists between the excess nitrogen dissolved in your body and the water pressure surrounding you. A bigger difference in pressure means faster removal of nitrogen from your body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-high-SurGF-lowers-quickly-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22926\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-high-SurGF-lowers-quickly-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-high-SurGF-lowers-quickly-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-high-SurGF-lowers-quickly-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-high-SurGF-lowers-quickly.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you increase the speed of nitrogen removal, you will notice that your surfacing gradient factor (SurGF) reduces faster. In turn, a lower SurGF means you are getting out of the water with less nitrogen remaining inside your body. Ultimately, that means less risk of DCS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In contrast, a lower GF99 means less nitrogen off-gassing efficiency. You will remove less nitrogen during a given amount of time. This means that your SurGF will decrease slower.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-low-SurGF-lowers-slowly-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22935\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-low-SurGF-lowers-slowly-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-low-SurGF-lowers-slowly-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-low-SurGF-lowers-slowly-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/GF99-low-SurGF-lowers-slowly.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The key to optimized ascents from scuba dives it to keep your GF99 high enough to allow a meaningful speed of nitrogen removal. At the same time, you should be cautious about allowing it to quickly spike. That would provoke micro-bubble formation and cause decompression stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"GF99-and-SurGF-displays-in-your-Shearwater-dive-computer-settings\"><\/span>GF99 and SurGF displays in your Shearwater dive computer settings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Shearwater Peregrine:<\/strong> Select GF99 and SurGF for the bottom row display within the System Setup menu.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Shearwater Perdix and Petrel:<\/strong> Configure GF99 and SurGF in the center row, also within the System Setup menu.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"656\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Dive-Computer-SETTINGS-center.jpg\" alt=\"Configuration menu for GF99 and SurGF on a Shearwater Perdix or Petrel computer.\" class=\"wp-image-22864\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Dive-Computer-SETTINGS-center.jpg 800w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Dive-Computer-SETTINGS-center-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Dive-Computer-SETTINGS-center-768x630.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Configuration menu for GF99 and SurGF on a Shearwater Perdix or Petrel computer.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ascent-Rate-indicator\"><\/span>Ascent Rate indicator<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>I also like to display the accurate ascent rate on my Shearwater computer. The standard bar display doesn&#8217;t enable accurate ascent rates to be achieved. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-Rate-10m-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater dive computer settings. Displaying precision ascent rate. 9-10m per minute from the bottom to the safety stop.\" class=\"wp-image-22920\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-Rate-10m-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-Rate-10m-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-Rate-10m-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-Rate-10m.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>Knowing your exact ascent speed, in meters or feet per minute, is especially useful as you get shallower. It helps you develop more consistent accuracy as you gain experience.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-Rate-3m-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater dive computer settings. Ascent rate indicator. 3m per minute from safety stop to the surface\" class=\"wp-image-22921\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-Rate-3m-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-Rate-3m-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-Rate-3m-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-Rate-3m.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>I will always ascend at <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/best-ascent-speed-scuba-diving\/\">9-10m per minute from the bottom to my safety stop<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Then, from the <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/how-to-ascend-when-scuba-diving\/\">safety stop to the surface, I will ascend at a rate of 3m per minute<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This strategy works very well for avoiding <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/subclinical-dcs-decompression-stress-fatigue\/\">post-dive fatigue<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Shearwater-GF99-and-SurGF-displays-on-a-normal-dive\"><\/span>Shearwater GF99 and SurGF displays on a normal dive<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In this section, I will describe the information provided by the GF99 and SurGF displays as you progress through the phases of a scuba dive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For better understanding, I advise you to first read my detailed explantions of GF99 and SurGF.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The following example is for a no-stop dive to 30m (100ft) with 18 minutes of planned bottom time. This example assumes a preset default conservatism of GF 40\/85. All figures are given purely for illustrative purposes only.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"During-descent\"><\/span>During descent<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>GF99 indicates that you are absorbing nitrogen. As no nitrogen is yet absorbed, your surfacing gradient (SurGF) remains zero.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Descent-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater gradient factors. GF99 and SurGF on descent\" class=\"wp-image-22880\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Descent-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Descent-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Descent-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Descent.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"During-bottom-time\"><\/span>During bottom time<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As time passes at your bottom depth, you continue to absorb nitrogen. The surfacing gradient factor (SurGF) increases to reflect the nitrogen in your body. The deeper you are, that faster SurGF will rise. The NDL is 20 minutes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Bottom-START-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater gradient factors. GF99 and SurGF during bottom time\" class=\"wp-image-22881\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Bottom-START-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Bottom-START-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Bottom-START-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Bottom-START.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"At-the-end-of-bottom-time\"><\/span>At the end of bottom time<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>After 18 minutes on the bottom, you are still absorbing more nitrogen. Over that time, your surfacing gradient factor has risen to 75%. Because you are closer to your preset GFHi of 85%, there is less NDL time remaining.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Bottom-END-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater gradient factors. GF99 and SurGF at the end of bottom time\" class=\"wp-image-22882\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Bottom-END-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Bottom-END-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Bottom-END-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Bottom-END.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"At-the-start-of-ascent\"><\/span>At the start of ascent<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As you first leave the bottom, there is not yet any difference between the pressure of nitrogen in your body and the ambient water pressure. Consequently, GF99 reads 0%. You are in equilibrum.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-START-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater gradient factors. GF99 and SurGF at the start of ascent\" class=\"wp-image-22883\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-START-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-START-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-START-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-START.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"During-ascent\"><\/span>During ascent<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As you ascend and the water pressure around you decreases, the GF99% rises. You are super-saturated. A higher GF99 indicates faster removal of nitrogen from your body.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-MID-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater gradient factors. GF99 and SurGF during ascent\" class=\"wp-image-22884\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-MID-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-MID-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-MID-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-MID.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"At-the-start-of-the-safety-stop\"><\/span>At the start of the safety stop<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As you reach your safety stop at 5m (16ft), your GF99 has risen to 30%. This is an effective amount of super-saturation to quickly remove nitrogen from your body. The SurGF has only dropped 1% over less than 3 minutes of ascent.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-STOP-start-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater gradient factors. GF99 and SurGF at the start of the safety stop\" class=\"wp-image-22885\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-STOP-start-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-STOP-start-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-STOP-start-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-STOP-start.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"At-the-end-of-the-safety-stop\"><\/span>At the end of the safety stop<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>After 3 minutes has elapsed your GF99 has reduced. This is because your body has released nitrogen during the safety stop. Simultaneously, that release of nitrogen has lowered your surfacing gradient factor (SurGF) by 10%. In essense, the safety stop added 10% more conservatism to your dive.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-STOP-end-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater gradient factors. GF99 and SurGF at the end of the safety stop\" class=\"wp-image-22886\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-STOP-end-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-STOP-end-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-STOP-end-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-STOP-end.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Surfacing-from-the-dive\"><\/span>Surfacing from the dive<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ascending slowly from the safety stop at an ascent rate of 3m (10ft) per minute allows further nitrogen release. Pressure reduces quickly as you near the surface. As a result, the GF99 will spike increasingly closer to the SurGF. Those figures will match when you reach the surface.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-SURFACING-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater gradient factors. GF99 and SurGF when surfacing from the dive\" class=\"wp-image-22887\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-SURFACING-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-SURFACING-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-SURFACING-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Ascent-SURFACING.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-you-can-use-Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-to-better-manage-your-dive-profiles\"><\/span>How you can use Shearwater dive computer settings to better manage your dive profiles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As you can see from the previous example, the GF99 and SurGF displays keep you informed about what is happening with the nitrogen inside your body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Simply being aware of that information helps you develop better diving intuition. In turn, with experience you will become more adept at managing your dive profile and ascent for optimal safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, this gradient factors information also enables you to make real-time judgments on your dives. There are three specific circumstances where GF99 and SurGF are invaluble aids to decision making:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1-Multi-level-diving\"><\/span>1. Multi-level diving<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The GF99 display shows how effectively you are releasing nitrogen in real-time. Instead of simply ascending to a new level to extend your NDL, you can use the GF99 display to ensure that your new diving level maximizes nitrogen removal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Put simply, GF99 empowers you to choose multi-level dive depths that will get you out of the water with far less nitrogen remaining in your body. Obviously, less nitrogen means less DCS risk and a smaller chance of experience decompression stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Example-of-off-gassing-efficiency-at-different-depths\"><\/span>Example of off-gassing efficiency at different depths<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Multilevel-WEAK-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater dive computer settings. Using GF99 to optimize multi-level diving depths. A low GF99 indicates inefficient nitrogen removal.\" class=\"wp-image-22905\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Multilevel-WEAK-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Multilevel-WEAK-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Multilevel-WEAK-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Multilevel-WEAK.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">GF99 1% indicates neglible nitrogen release, even if you dive time is extended<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Multilevel-STRONG-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater dive computer settings. Using GF99 to optimize multi-level diving depths, A high GF99 indicates more efficient nitrogen removal.\" class=\"wp-image-22906\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Multilevel-STRONG-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Multilevel-STRONG-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Multilevel-STRONG-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Multilevel-STRONG.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">GF99 26% shows you are getting rid of nitrogen, not just extended dive time<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2-Optimizing-safety-stop-depth\"><\/span>2. Optimizing safety stop depth<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The GF99 display also informs you about off-gassing efficiency at your current depth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A-standard-5m-16ft-safety-stop\"><\/span>A standard 5m (16ft) safety stop<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>In this example, you conduct a standard safety stop at 5m (16ft). After a shallower dive, you have only reached GF99 8% at that depth. It is  a low number and indicates poor nitrogen release speed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Low-GF-before-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22914\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Low-GF-before-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Low-GF-before-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Low-GF-before-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Low-GF-before.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>After 3 minutes on the safety stop, your SurGF has only dropped by a paltry 2%. Weak off-gassing efficiency means that a safety stop offers little value in adding conservatism. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Low-GF-after-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22915\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Low-GF-after-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Low-GF-after-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Low-GF-after-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Low-GF-after.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>On shallower dives, it isn&#8217;t uncommon to have a single-digit GF99. For that reason an arbitrary safety stop depth of 5m (16ft) can be a complete waste of your time. You won&#8217;t remove any significant amount of nitrogen from your body with a small GF99. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In contrast, you can use the GF99 display to ascend to a depth that guarantees more efficient nitrogen removal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a rule-of-thumb, you should aim for anywhere between 1\/3 and 1\/2 of your preset GFhi. For instance, if your GFhi is set at 85%, aim to conduct your safety stop at a depth that creates a GF99 between 28% and 42%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Using-GF99-to-set-an-optimal-safety-stop-depth\"><\/span>Using GF99 to set an optimal safety stop depth<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>In this example, you have ascended to a depth of 3m (10ft) to conduct your safety stop. Shallower depth allows a higher GF99 of 35%. This indicated faster nitrogen removal.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/High-GF-before-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22916\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/High-GF-before-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/High-GF-before-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/High-GF-before-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/High-GF-before.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>Because nitrogen is leaving your body at a faster speed, the same 3 minute safety stop reduces your SurGF to 65%. The extra efficiency in off-gassing means you now create 10% conservatism from your safety stop.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/High-GF-after-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22917\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/High-GF-after-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/High-GF-after-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/High-GF-after-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/High-GF-after.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>As you can see, varying the depth of your safety stop can pay huge dividends to your safety. There is no ideal safety stop depth, because it depends on specific dive parameters. Using GF99 in your Shearwater dive computer settings gives you the information you need to set that depth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3-Adding-greater-conservatism-to-your-dive\"><\/span>3. Adding greater conservatism to your dive<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Whilst you set your predefined conservatism prior to diving, there may be situations that arise on dives where you feel it is prudent to add a little more safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For instance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You get unexpectedly cold on the dive<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The dive demands more physical effort than expected<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You exceed the safe <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/best-ascent-speed-scuba-diving\/\">maximum ascent rate<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The SurGF display lets you do that in an informed way. It is far better than merely hanging around for an unspecified amount of time and hoping it might help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Example-of-using-SurGF-to-extend-a-safety-stop\"><\/span>Example of using SurGF to extend a safety stop<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>Let&#8217;s say you reach your safety stop after 40 minutes of diving. The SurGF indicates 85%. You are at the limit of the default conservatism.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-START-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22909\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-START-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-START-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-START-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-START.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>After 3 minutes on the safety stop, your SurGF has reduced to 79%. You have effectively added 6% insulation against DCS risk.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-3-MIN-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22910\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-3-MIN-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-3-MIN-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-3-MIN-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-3-MIN.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>If you wish to add further conservatism, you can remain on your safety stop until the SurGF reaches a desired level. In this case, a further 3 minutes brings the SurGF down to 70%. This is a very safe 30% insulation against DCS risk.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-END-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22911\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-END-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-END-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-END-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Safety-Stop-END.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Get-the-most-out-of-your-Shearwater-dive-computer-settings\"><\/span>Get the most out of your Shearwater dive computer settings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In conclusion, if you&#8217;re a Shearwater dive computer owner it&#8217;s time to start exploring the advanced settings and become a Shearwater power user. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By opting for advanced Shearwater dive computer settings you can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Improve your safety from DCS<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid post-dive fatigue<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gain an intuitive understanding of how pressure affects the behavior of nitrogen in your body. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This article has provided a comprehensive guide to understanding Gradient Factors and how they work in the B\u00fchlmann ZHL-16C decompression model used in Shearwater computers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-GF99-and-SurGF\"><\/span>Shearwater dive computer settings: GF99 and SurGF<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>My article has also explained how and why to use the unique Shearwater GF99 and SurGF displays:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Know if you are absorbing or releasing nitrogen<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Understand your off-gassing efficiency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid causing&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/subclinical-dcs-decompression-stress-fatigue\/\">decompression stress<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Have flexible real-time control over conservatism<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Optimize the length and depth of safety stops<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monitor how quickly your nitrogen level drops<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conduct ideal multi-level dives<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Understand DCS risk from immediate ascents<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember, leaving your Shearwater computer in with the default display settings is like owning a Ferrari and never pushing beyond second gear!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, take advantage of your dive instrument&#8217;s full potential and enhance your <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/what-is-diving-experience-diving-expertise\/\">diving experience<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"More-resources-on-Shearwater-dive-computer-settings\"><\/span>More resources on Shearwater dive computer settings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Deco-Divers-Decompression-Theory-Physiology\/dp\/1905492294?crid=9TZ9ZBGV6G65&amp;keywords=deco+for+divers&amp;qid=1681215297&amp;sprefix=deco+fo%2Caps%2C1002&amp;sr=8-3&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=scubtechphil-20&amp;linkId=a6eae910585bc3ecdd1910666c506d97&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Deco for Divers<\/a> by Mark Powell<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mark&#8217;s book is the foremost explanation of diving decompression theory. It contains an excellent section on how Gradient Factors work. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<iframe sandbox=\"allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin\" style=\"width:120px;height:240px;\" marginwidth=\"0\" marginheight=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" frameborder=\"0\" src=\"\/\/ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/widgets\/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&#038;OneJS=1&#038;Operation=GetAdHtml&#038;MarketPlace=US&#038;source=ss&#038;ref=as_ss_li_til&#038;ad_type=product_link&#038;tracking_id=scubtechphil-20&#038;language=en_US&#038;marketplace=amazon&#038;region=US&#038;placement=1905492294&#038;asins=1905492294&#038;linkId=f787c998a5fcc69ce7f6a3ab669717d7&#038;show_border=true&#038;link_opens_in_new_window=true\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Deep-Into-Deco-Decompression-Textbook\/dp\/1947239090?pd_rd_w=t91oi&amp;content-id=amzn1.sym.6ab4eb52-6252-4ca2-a1b9-ad120350253c&amp;pf_rd_p=6ab4eb52-6252-4ca2-a1b9-ad120350253c&amp;pf_rd_r=HTEV19604WT7CTVMW9DE&amp;pd_rd_wg=QrHGB&amp;pd_rd_r=fd1a42d9-70bc-4f03-8a4c-a58529ecd490&amp;pd_rd_i=1947239090&amp;psc=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=scubtechphil-20&amp;linkId=4619ac31380aa19f0473b86a5bbbd447&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Deep Into Deco<\/a> by Asser Salama<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is another excellent read on diving theory, and also includes a clear and thorough explanation of how Gradient Factors work with the B\u00fchlmann ZHL-16 model.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<iframe sandbox=\"allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin\" style=\"width:120px;height:240px;\" marginwidth=\"0\" marginheight=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" frameborder=\"0\" src=\"\/\/ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/widgets\/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&#038;OneJS=1&#038;Operation=GetAdHtml&#038;MarketPlace=US&#038;source=ss&#038;ref=as_ss_li_til&#038;ad_type=product_link&#038;tracking_id=scubtechphil-20&#038;language=en_US&#038;marketplace=amazon&#038;region=US&#038;placement=1947239090&#038;asins=1947239090&#038;linkId=8566ff6e975fd7c17e1de3b1486cc49e&#038;show_border=true&#038;link_opens_in_new_window=true\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Online-articles-on-Gradient-Factors-and-Buhlmann-ZHL-16\"><\/span>Online articles on Gradient Factors and B\u00fchlmann ZHL-16<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shearwater.com\/monthly-blog-posts\/evolution-of-dive-planning\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Evolution of dive planning<\/a>. by Mark Powell<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shearwater.com\/monthly-blog-posts\/flexible-control-of-decompression-stress\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flexible control of decompression stress<\/a>. by Neal Pollock<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shearwater.com\/monthly-blog-posts\/surface-gf-teric-musings\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Surface GF and other Teric musings<\/a>. by Gabriel Pineda<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.scubadivermag.com\/the-evolution-of-dive-planning-with-shearwater-research\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The evolution of dive planning with Shearwater Research<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mark-Powells-Intro-To-Deco-Theory-Lecture\"><\/span>Mark Powell&#8217;s Intro To Deco Theory Lecture:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"Mark Powell: Intro to Deco Theory &amp; Deep Stops\" width=\"1290\" height=\"726\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/fhfNph3GKRw?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Shearwater-Computer-User-Manuals\"><\/span>Shearwater Computer User Manuals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>1. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shearwater.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/Peregrine_Manual-metric.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Shearwater Peregrine Manual<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>2. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shearwater.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Teric_Manual-metric_2021.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Shearwater Teric Manual<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>3. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shearwater.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/Perdix-Operating-Instructions-Manual.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Shearwater Perdix Manual<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>4. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shearwater.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/08\/PetrelManual_DocRevD.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Shearwater Petrel Manual<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Become-A-Shearwater-Power-User-eBook-2\"><\/span><strong>Become A Shearwater Power User! (eBook)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-stretch is-layout-constrained wp-block-column-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/233171\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Shearwater-Settings-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Shearwater Power User Settings GF Gradient Factors eBook\" class=\"wp-image-26260\" style=\"width:250px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Shearwater-Settings-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Shearwater-Settings-Book-Cover-Image-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Shearwater-Settings-Book-Cover-Image-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Shearwater-Settings-Book-Cover-Image-96x150.jpg 96w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Shearwater-Settings-Book-Cover-Image.jpg 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-content-justification-left is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-column-is-layout-12dd3699 wp-block-column-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"flex-basis:40%\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background\" style=\"line-height:1.3\">An Illustrated Guide to Gradient Factors and Advanced Shearwater Computer Settings for safe scuba diving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"line-height:1.3\"><strong>42 Pages. Printable PDF format. Fully Illustrated.<\/strong> <strong>$9<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:700;line-height:1\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/233171\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong><\/strong><\/a><\/strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/233171\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Become A Shearwater Power User eBook<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.313), 18px);\">As featured on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=zTjVXugn-m0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">DiveTalk Podcast<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-content-justification-center is-layout-constrained wp-block-column-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-medium is-resized is-style-default\"><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/andy-davis-technical-diving\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"296\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1-300x296.png\" alt=\"Andy Davis Technical Sidemount Wreck Diving Subic Bay Philippines RAID Courses Training\" class=\"wp-image-6812\" style=\"width:225px;height:222px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1-300x296.png 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1-1024x1009.png 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1-768x757.png 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1.png 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-constrained wp-block-column-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About-The-Author\"><\/span>About The Author<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"274\" height=\"77\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/bmc-button-1-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-27046\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/bmc-button-1-1.png 274w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/bmc-button-1-1-250x70.png 250w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 274px) 100vw, 274px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/andy-davis-technical-diving\/\">Andy Davis<\/a> is a <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/raid-diving-courses-philippines\/raid\/\">RAID<\/a>, PADI TecRec, ANDI, BSAC, and SSI-qualified independent <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/what-is-technical-diving\/\">technical diving<\/a> instructor who specializes in teaching <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/sidemount-courses\/\">sidemount<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/technical-diving-courses\/\">trimix<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/technical-diving-courses\/\">advanced wreck<\/a> diving courses.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Currently residing in <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/subic-bay-wreck-diving-sites\/\">Subic Bay, Philippines<\/a>; he has amassed more than 10,000 open-circuit and CCR dives over three decades of challenging diving across the globe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Andy has published numerous diving magazine articles and designed advanced certification courses for several dive training agencies, He regularly tests and reviews new dive gear for scuba equipment manufacturers. Andy is currently writing a series of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/extras\">advanced diving books <\/a>and creating a range of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redbubble.com\/people\/andydavistech\/shop\">tech diving clothing and accessories<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Prior to becoming a professional technical diving educator in 2006, Andy was a commissioned officer in the Royal Air Force and has served in Iraq, Afghanistan, Belize, and Cyprus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 2023, Andy was named in the &#8220;<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/gue.com\/blog\/sidemount-andy-davies\/\" target=\"_blank\">Who&#8217;s Who of Sidemount<\/a>&#8221; list by GUE InDepth Magazine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-palette-color-7-color has-vivid-red-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-dd81a6de961563c5bf17302e4376cbd2\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Purchase-my-exclusive-diving-ebooks\"><\/span>Purchase my exclusive diving ebooks!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/233191\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Gas Management For Scuba Divers Book\" class=\"wp-image-26264\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-96x150.jpg 96w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image.jpg 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/233171\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Become A Shearwater Power User Book\" class=\"wp-image-26382\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-978x1536.jpg 978w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-95x150.jpg 95w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/111242\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-26656\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-96x150.jpg 96w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE.jpg 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/262907\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A Comprehensive Guide to Backplate &amp; Wing BCDs\" class=\"wp-image-26808\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-96x150.jpg 96w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image.jpg 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/260377\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Diving Psychology The Path to Proficiency: Mental Strategies for Scuba Divers (eBook)\" class=\"wp-image-26633\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-96x150.jpg 96w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image.jpg 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-FAQ\"><\/span>Shearwater dive computer settings FAQ<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682658977949\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the default Shearwater gradient factors?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><strong>Low:<\/strong>\u00a045\/95<br \/><strong>Medium:<\/strong>\u00a040\/85<br \/><strong>High:<\/strong>\u00a035\/75<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682659004524\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What decompression model is used in Shearwater computers?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Shearwater diving computers use B\u00fchlmann ZHL-16C with Gradient Factors. There are 3 default gradient factor settings, or they can be customized. Some models also permit aftermarket upgrade with the <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/varying-permeability-model-vpm-for-dummies\/\">VPM-B<\/a> decompression model.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682659027208\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What does 40\/85 gradient factor mean?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The high gradient factor is set at 85% of the m-value. This equates to 15% conservatism. The low gradient factor is 40% of the m-value. This dictates the pressure differential where mandatory decompression stops will begin.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682659057600\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the default gradient factor on a Shearwater computer?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The default gradient factor is 40\/85. This represents medium conservatism. Shearwater computers also have low (45\/95) and high (35\/75) preset conservatism options.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682659082407\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is GF99 on a Shearwater dive computer?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">GF99 is a display option that gives information on the diver&#8217;s real-time pressure differential status. A higher figure indicates more effective nitrogen off-gassing, but a higher risk of bubble formation.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682659119193\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is SurGF on a Shearwater dive computer?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">SurGF indicates the diver&#8217;s gradient factor if they were to surface instantly. A higher % indicates more risk of DCS. 100% is the controlling maximum value (m-value) for safety.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682659222526\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are tissue compartments?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Tissue compartments are used to model inert gas (i.e. nitrogen) absorption and release in decompression algorithms. They hypothetically represent different speeds, calculated as half-times.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682659337913\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is tissue compartment half-time?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The half-time of a tissue compartment is the number of minutes that it takes for a compartment to absorb or release half of the inert gas (i.e. nitrogen) pressure from the body. <\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682659824761\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What tissue compartment half-times are used in the Buhlman ZHL-16 algorithm?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The Buhlmann ZHL-16A tissue compartment half-times, in minutes, are: <br \/>4<br \/>8<br \/>12.5<br \/>18.5<br \/>27<br \/>38.3<br \/>54.3<br \/>77<br \/>109<br \/>146<br \/>187<br \/>239<br \/>305<br \/>390<br \/>498<br \/>635<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n<p id=\"rop\"><small>Originally posted 2023-04-11 20:04:07. <\/small><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>An illustrated guide to getting the best out of your Shearwater dive computer settings. Don&#8217;t be intimidated by the advanced display options! <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":22963,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1826],"tags":[1741,1742,1744,1745,1743,1746,1735,1747,1737,619,773,1739,1740,1738],"class_list":["post-22858","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-how-to-guide-diving","tag-best-settings-for-shearwater-computers","tag-gradient-factors-on-shearwater-dive-computers","tag-reducing-decompression-stress","tag-reducing-post-dive-fatigue","tag-reducing-risk-of-dcs","tag-shearwater-display-settings","tag-shearwater-dive-computer-settings","tag-shearwater-functions","tag-shearwater-perdix-dive-computer","tag-shearwater-petrel-3-diving-computer","tag-shearwater-teric-dive-computer","tag-understanding-gf99-on-shearwater-computers","tag-understanding-surgf-on-shearwater-computers","tag-using-gradient-factors-on-shearwater-dive-computers"],"blocksy_meta":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Shearwater Dive Computer Settings: Become A GF Power User!<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"An illustrated guide to getting the best out of your Shearwater dive computer settings. Don&#039;t be intimidated by the advanced display options!\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Shearwater Dive Computer Settings: Become A GF Power User!\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"An illustrated guide to getting the best out of your Shearwater dive computer settings. Don&#039;t be intimidated by the advanced display options!\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Andy Davis Sidemount Technical Wreck Diving Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"ScubaTechPhilippines\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:author\" content=\"ScubaTechPhilippines\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-01-08T04:52:18+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-gradient-factors-GF99-SurGF.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1256\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"628\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Andy Davis\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@Divephilippines\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@Divephilippines\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Andy Davis\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"28 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Andy Davis\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#\/schema\/person\/97db30481ec4e5c92a61fdb6c818acec\"},\"headline\":\"Shearwater Dive Computer Settings: A Guide to Gradient Factors\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-01-08T04:52:18+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/\"},\"wordCount\":4135,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#\/schema\/person\/97db30481ec4e5c92a61fdb6c818acec\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-gradient-factors-GF99-SurGF.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"Best settings for Shearwater computers\",\"Gradient factors on Shearwater dive computers\",\"Reducing decompression stress\",\"Reducing post-dive fatigue\",\"Reducing risk of DCS\",\"Shearwater display settings\",\"Shearwater dive computer settings\",\"Shearwater functions\",\"Shearwater Perdix dive computer\",\"Shearwater Petrel 3 Diving Computer\",\"Shearwater Teric dive computer\",\"Understanding GF99 on Shearwater computers\",\"Understanding SurGF on Shearwater computers\",\"Using gradient factors on Shearwater dive computers\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Diving How To Guides\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":[\"WebPage\",\"FAQPage\"],\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/\",\"name\":\"Shearwater Dive Computer Settings: Become A GF Power User!\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-gradient-factors-GF99-SurGF.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-01-08T04:52:18+00:00\",\"description\":\"An illustrated guide to getting the best out of your Shearwater dive computer settings. Don't be intimidated by the advanced display options!\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#breadcrumb\"},\"mainEntity\":[{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682658977949\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659004524\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659027208\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659057600\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659082407\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659119193\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659222526\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659337913\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659824761\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-gradient-factors-GF99-SurGF.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-gradient-factors-GF99-SurGF.jpg\",\"width\":1256,\"height\":628,\"caption\":\"Shearwater-dive-computer-settings\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Scuba Diving Articles\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/scuba_diving_articles\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"Diving How To Guides\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/scuba_diving_articles\/how-to-guide-diving\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":4,\"name\":\"Shearwater Dive Computer Settings: A Guide to Gradient Factors\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/\",\"name\":\"Andy Davis Sidemount Technical Wreck Diving Blog\",\"description\":\"Sidemount Technical Wreck Diving Blog | Articles and Resources\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#\/schema\/person\/97db30481ec4e5c92a61fdb6c818acec\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":[\"Person\",\"Organization\"],\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#\/schema\/person\/97db30481ec4e5c92a61fdb6c818acec\",\"name\":\"Andy Davis\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Cartoon-Andy-Vanilla-250px.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Cartoon-Andy-Vanilla-250px.png\",\"width\":250,\"height\":250,\"caption\":\"Andy Davis\"},\"logo\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\"},\"description\":\"Passionate scuba educator, technical sidemount diving fanatic and wreck diving explorer. RAID, PADI, TecRec, SSI and BSAC qualified technical diving instructor. Subic Bay, Philippines. Former Royal Air Force officer.\",\"sameAs\":[\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\",\"ScubaTechPhilippines\",\"andydavistechnicaldiving\",\"andrewdavis7\",\"https:\/\/x.com\/Divephilippines\",\"AndyDavisTechnicalDiving\"],\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/author\/scubatec\/\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682658977949\",\"position\":1,\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682658977949\",\"name\":\"What are the default Shearwater gradient factors?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"<strong>Low:<\/strong>\u00a045\/95<br\/><strong>Medium:<\/strong>\u00a040\/85<br\/><strong>High:<\/strong>\u00a035\/75\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659004524\",\"position\":2,\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659004524\",\"name\":\"What decompression model is used in Shearwater computers?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Shearwater diving computers use B\u00fchlmann ZHL-16C with Gradient Factors. There are 3 default gradient factor settings, or they can be customized. Some models also permit aftermarket upgrade with the VPM-B decompression model.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659027208\",\"position\":3,\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659027208\",\"name\":\"What does 40\/85 gradient factor mean?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The high gradient factor is set at 85% of the m-value. This equates to 15% conservatism. The low gradient factor is 40% of the m-value. This dictates the pressure differential where mandatory decompression stops will begin.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659057600\",\"position\":4,\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659057600\",\"name\":\"What is the default gradient factor on a Shearwater computer?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The default gradient factor is 40\/85. This represents medium conservatism. Shearwater computers also have low (45\/95) and high (35\/75) preset conservatism options.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659082407\",\"position\":5,\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659082407\",\"name\":\"What is GF99 on a Shearwater dive computer?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"GF99 is a display option that gives information on the diver's real-time pressure differential status. A higher figure indicates more effective nitrogen off-gassing, but a higher risk of bubble formation.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659119193\",\"position\":6,\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659119193\",\"name\":\"What is SurGF on a Shearwater dive computer?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"SurGF indicates the diver's gradient factor if they were to surface instantly. A higher % indicates more risk of DCS. 100% is the controlling maximum value (m-value) for safety.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659222526\",\"position\":7,\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659222526\",\"name\":\"What are tissue compartments?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Tissue compartments are used to model inert gas (i.e. nitrogen) absorption and release in decompression algorithms. They hypothetically represent different speeds, calculated as half-times.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659337913\",\"position\":8,\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659337913\",\"name\":\"What is tissue compartment half-time?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The half-time of a tissue compartment is the number of minutes that it takes for a compartment to absorb or release half of the inert gas (i.e. nitrogen) pressure from the body. \",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659824761\",\"position\":9,\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659824761\",\"name\":\"What tissue compartment half-times are used in the Buhlman ZHL-16 algorithm?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The Buhlmann ZHL-16A tissue compartment half-times, in minutes, are: <br\/>4<br\/>8<br\/>12.5<br\/>18.5<br\/>27<br\/>38.3<br\/>54.3<br\/>77<br\/>109<br\/>146<br\/>187<br\/>239<br\/>305<br\/>390<br\/>498<br\/>635\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Shearwater Dive Computer Settings: Become A GF Power User!","description":"An illustrated guide to getting the best out of your Shearwater dive computer settings. Don't be intimidated by the advanced display options!","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Shearwater Dive Computer Settings: Become A GF Power User!","og_description":"An illustrated guide to getting the best out of your Shearwater dive computer settings. Don't be intimidated by the advanced display options!","og_url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/","og_site_name":"Andy Davis Sidemount Technical Wreck Diving Blog","article_publisher":"ScubaTechPhilippines","article_author":"ScubaTechPhilippines","article_published_time":"2025-01-08T04:52:18+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1256,"height":628,"url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-gradient-factors-GF99-SurGF.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Andy Davis","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@Divephilippines","twitter_site":"@Divephilippines","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Andy Davis","Est. reading time":"28 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/"},"author":{"name":"Andy Davis","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#\/schema\/person\/97db30481ec4e5c92a61fdb6c818acec"},"headline":"Shearwater Dive Computer Settings: A Guide to Gradient Factors","datePublished":"2025-01-08T04:52:18+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/"},"wordCount":4135,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#\/schema\/person\/97db30481ec4e5c92a61fdb6c818acec"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-gradient-factors-GF99-SurGF.jpg","keywords":["Best settings for Shearwater computers","Gradient factors on Shearwater dive computers","Reducing decompression stress","Reducing post-dive fatigue","Reducing risk of DCS","Shearwater display settings","Shearwater dive computer settings","Shearwater functions","Shearwater Perdix dive computer","Shearwater Petrel 3 Diving Computer","Shearwater Teric dive computer","Understanding GF99 on Shearwater computers","Understanding SurGF on Shearwater computers","Using gradient factors on Shearwater dive computers"],"articleSection":["Diving How To Guides"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":["WebPage","FAQPage"],"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/","url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/","name":"Shearwater Dive Computer Settings: Become A GF Power User!","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-gradient-factors-GF99-SurGF.jpg","datePublished":"2025-01-08T04:52:18+00:00","description":"An illustrated guide to getting the best out of your Shearwater dive computer settings. Don't be intimidated by the advanced display options!","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#breadcrumb"},"mainEntity":[{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682658977949"},{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659004524"},{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659027208"},{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659057600"},{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659082407"},{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659119193"},{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659222526"},{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659337913"},{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659824761"}],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-gradient-factors-GF99-SurGF.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Shearwater-dive-computer-settings-gradient-factors-GF99-SurGF.jpg","width":1256,"height":628,"caption":"Shearwater-dive-computer-settings"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Scuba Diving Articles","item":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/scuba_diving_articles\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Diving How To Guides","item":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/scuba_diving_articles\/how-to-guide-diving\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Shearwater Dive Computer Settings: A Guide to Gradient Factors"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/","name":"Andy Davis Sidemount Technical Wreck Diving Blog","description":"Sidemount Technical Wreck Diving Blog | Articles and Resources","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#\/schema\/person\/97db30481ec4e5c92a61fdb6c818acec"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":["Person","Organization"],"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#\/schema\/person\/97db30481ec4e5c92a61fdb6c818acec","name":"Andy Davis","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Cartoon-Andy-Vanilla-250px.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Cartoon-Andy-Vanilla-250px.png","width":250,"height":250,"caption":"Andy Davis"},"logo":{"@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/"},"description":"Passionate scuba educator, technical sidemount diving fanatic and wreck diving explorer. RAID, PADI, TecRec, SSI and BSAC qualified technical diving instructor. Subic Bay, Philippines. Former Royal Air Force officer.","sameAs":["https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com","ScubaTechPhilippines","andydavistechnicaldiving","andrewdavis7","https:\/\/x.com\/Divephilippines","AndyDavisTechnicalDiving"],"url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/author\/scubatec\/"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682658977949","position":1,"url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682658977949","name":"What are the default Shearwater gradient factors?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"<strong>Low:<\/strong>\u00a045\/95<br\/><strong>Medium:<\/strong>\u00a040\/85<br\/><strong>High:<\/strong>\u00a035\/75","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659004524","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659004524","name":"What decompression model is used in Shearwater computers?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Shearwater diving computers use B\u00fchlmann ZHL-16C with Gradient Factors. There are 3 default gradient factor settings, or they can be customized. Some models also permit aftermarket upgrade with the VPM-B decompression model.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659027208","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659027208","name":"What does 40\/85 gradient factor mean?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The high gradient factor is set at 85% of the m-value. This equates to 15% conservatism. The low gradient factor is 40% of the m-value. This dictates the pressure differential where mandatory decompression stops will begin.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659057600","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659057600","name":"What is the default gradient factor on a Shearwater computer?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The default gradient factor is 40\/85. This represents medium conservatism. Shearwater computers also have low (45\/95) and high (35\/75) preset conservatism options.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659082407","position":5,"url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659082407","name":"What is GF99 on a Shearwater dive computer?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"GF99 is a display option that gives information on the diver's real-time pressure differential status. A higher figure indicates more effective nitrogen off-gassing, but a higher risk of bubble formation.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659119193","position":6,"url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659119193","name":"What is SurGF on a Shearwater dive computer?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"SurGF indicates the diver's gradient factor if they were to surface instantly. A higher % indicates more risk of DCS. 100% is the controlling maximum value (m-value) for safety.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659222526","position":7,"url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659222526","name":"What are tissue compartments?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Tissue compartments are used to model inert gas (i.e. nitrogen) absorption and release in decompression algorithms. They hypothetically represent different speeds, calculated as half-times.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659337913","position":8,"url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659337913","name":"What is tissue compartment half-time?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The half-time of a tissue compartment is the number of minutes that it takes for a compartment to absorb or release half of the inert gas (i.e. nitrogen) pressure from the body. ","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659824761","position":9,"url":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/shearwater-dive-computer-settings\/#faq-question-1682659824761","name":"What tissue compartment half-times are used in the Buhlman ZHL-16 algorithm?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The Buhlmann ZHL-16A tissue compartment half-times, in minutes, are: <br\/>4<br\/>8<br\/>12.5<br\/>18.5<br\/>27<br\/>38.3<br\/>54.3<br\/>77<br\/>109<br\/>146<br\/>187<br\/>239<br\/>305<br\/>390<br\/>498<br\/>635","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22858","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=22858"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22858\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/22963"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=22858"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=22858"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=22858"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}