Suunto CB-71, User Manual

Page: 7 / 12

7
SUUNTO Console Compasses CB-71/SK-7/STD and CB-71/SK-7/DS
The high-quality, liquid-fi lled Suunto diving compasses are durable, reliable and easy to use.
The CB-71/SK-7 is available in two versions: the CB-71/SK-7/STD for attachment on top of
the combo modules or the Cobra dive computer, and the CB-71/SK-7/DS for attachment on
the back side of the CB-ONE module.
Compass use for divers
General instructions
Usually a compass must be held precisely in a horizontal position, otherwise the needle will
sting. The SK-7 compass may however be inclined about ±30 degrees.
Sighting a compass bearing
Hold the compass so that the compass is in a horizontal position and the direction line points
away from you. Turn with the compass until the direction line points at your destination, then
turn the direction ring until the magnetic North needle is aligned between the slit marks. The
front end of the direction line on the SK-7 shows your compass bearing, and as long as the
North needle is aligned between the slit marks, the direction points toward your destination.
The SK-7 compasses also have a side reading window, which also enables you to take a
bearing by directing the compass towards the destination and by reading the compass bear-
ing from the side window. This bearing can be memorized by turning the direction ring to that
bearing.
Setting a given bearing or direction
The scale division on the SK-7 is 360 degrees clockwise from 0 degrees at North. Turn the
direction ring until the front end of the direction line is at the desired direction. Turn the com-
pass until the needle falls between the slit marks. The direction line now points in the desired
direction.
Magnetic declination
Maps and marine charts are drawn in correlation to the geographic poles, while the magnetic
compass needle is subject to magnetic declination which varies according to the location.
General orientation on the diving site
Before diving, check the main compass bearings at the dive site, paying special attention to
memorizing the direction of the shoreline and bearings of landmarks that may be of impor-
tance.
Natural aids to underwater navigation
• The underwater extension of the shore’s inclination tells the diver if he is following the
shoreline. Be careful however as underwater ridges may lead you astray.
Surface occasionally to check your position.
• The dip and stratifi cation of rocks on the shore can often be followed over large areas
under water
• Sand ripples usually form long lines parallel to the shore
• The direction of currents should be noted by their effect on algae or drifting particles.
Use the compass to check the bearing of the current