IMPORTANT WARNING:
Per the Shearwater Research product manual:
“This computer will fail. It is not whether it will fail but when it will fail. Do not depend on it. Always have a plan for how to handle failures. Automatic systems are no substitute for knowledge and training. No technology will keep you alive. Knowledge, skill, and practiced procedures are your best defense.”
Background
Shearwater Research has identified a potential failure mode in specific Petrel 3 dive computers, controllers, and monitors. The issue involves an unexpected loss of power, which in extreme cases, may occur while the computer is in use during a dive.
Although the likelihood of encountering this failure is low, Shearwater, in its ongoing commitment to safety and reliability, has implemented a product improvement initiative for all Petrel 3 units. This improvement is aimed at increasing the reliability of the device, ensuring that divers can continue to rely on their equipment with confidence.
As part of this initiative, Shearwater is recommending all Petrel 3 owners to bring their computers in for servicing, where the product improvement will be applied free of charge.
Does This Impact New Petrel 3 Computers?
All new production and sales of the Petrel 3 have been temporarily suspended while the improved procedures are tested and implemented. For existing customers, Shearwater encourages servicing the device to incorporate the latest product improvements, which are also available at no cost.
Can I Still Use My Petrel 3?
In diving, the principle of "two is one, and one is none" serves as a critical reminder about the importance of redundancy. It’s not a matter of if a product will fail but when. For your safety, always carry redundant systems and ensure you have a solid plan in place for handling potential equipment failures. Relying on automatic systems alone is never enough—thorough training, practiced emergency protocols, and a comprehensive understanding of your equipment are key to staying safe underwater.
Even though the likelihood of the Petrel 3 failure is low, Shearwater strongly advises all users to take a proactive approach and return their units for the recommended product improvement service. Doing so is crucial to maintaining the high standards of safety and performance that the diving community expects from Shearwater equipment.
How to Get Your Petrel 3 Serviced
If you are a Petrel 3 owner, here’s what you need to do:
- Contact Shearwater, or Mike's Dive Store: Simply bring your Petrel 3 to any Mike’s Dive Store location, or reach out to our customer service team to initiate the process of getting your dive computer serviced. With our expert team and years of experience in the diving industry, we will ensure that your equipment will be handled with the utmost care.
- Arrange for Service: Your dealer or Mike's Dive Store will guide you through the process of sending in your Petrel 3 for servicing. You’ll receive the necessary shipping instructions and paperwork to ensure your computer is updated with the product improvement.
Shearwater Petrel 2 Users
This service bulletin only affects the Petrel 3 dive computers. Shearwater has not identified any similar failure mode in the Petrel 2. However, it’s always good practice to maintain your equipment with regular servicing and care, even if no specific issue has been identified.
Questions?
For more information or if you're unsure about where to send your Petrel 3, feel free to contact Shearwater directly at info@shearwater.com, or visit Mike’s Dive Store for assistance. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to ensure the continued reliability of our products.
Stay safe, and dive smart!
