 |
|
|
|
Now enhanced with a massive 8.24 megapixel image size and a claimed super-fast image capture time of around a tenth of a second, the 8000G digital camera replaces the popular 5000G with few outwardly visible changes. It shoots macro with subjects as close as 1cm, has a 3:1 wide-angle zoom lens, and has both automatic aperture-priority and manual exposure modes. Its purpose-designed housing is rated to 55m and has dual fibre-optic ports, as well as the ability to take an optional auxiliary wide-angle adaptor lens. Not only that, but at £699 it's less expensive than its predecessor!
Sea & Sea, 01803 663012
|
|
|
|
|
The XLT, the latest in a long line of SeaQuest Pro BCs, is notable for the extra lift it is said to provide when fully inflated (20kg in size ML). That's thanks to the Cordura buoyancy-chamber with its patented three-way expanding gusset. Swivelling shoulder-strap buckles are intended to add comfort and convenience, while the integrated weight pockets with the Sure-Lock weight-release system are designed to keep weights secure, but without the worry that they could be difficult to jettison if necessary. Three ways to dump air and six D-rings are included in a BC that comes in a range of six sizes. £410.
Aqua Lung 0116 212 4200
|
|
|
|
|
Aimed at those divers who like to turn off their lamps during shallow night dives to watch for flashlight fish, or even just to witness the phosphorescence tumbling off their own bodies, this little glowing beacon will mark where they attached their lamp. It is said to be visible from up to 10m away and is rated to 30m. You can also attach a Glowring to anything you might need to find in the dark, such as your boat keys. Available in red, green or blue, it costs £9.
Aquastuff, www.aquastuff.net
|
|
|
|
|
The JMD hand lanterns reviewed last month in DIVER Tests came fitted with simple on/off switches. Since the time of writing, JMD has improved the design by providing them with a safety-lock intended to prevent them switching on accidentally. If you own one of these lamps, you can return it to JMD for a free retro-fit, or simply ask the company to provide you with a new rear end to your lamp, so that you can do it yourself.
JMD Technologies 01751476972
|
|
|
|
|
This latest undersuit is aimed at women. It's available in 21 standard sizes (or custom-made) and features hip pockets, a fastened top pocket, a two-way zipper, elasticated back, mandarin collar, thermal cuffs and elastic thumb loops and foot straps. Optional features include a lumbar pad, leg patch for a P-valve and socks attached. It has a Tactel outer shell lined with Type C Thinsulate 200gm, and is laminated to a warm wicking fleece. Price is £160.
C-Bear 01566 777636
|
|
|
|
|
In the wake of our Nitrox for Free feature last month comes a timely reminder from Go-Dive, the diving retailer in the Midlands, that it has been supplying air and nitrox 32 to suitably certified divers at no charge for several years. The latest nitrox membrane system is about to be installed on its premises, which means that customers' cylinders will no longer need to be oxygen-clean, either. You do not have to certify with Go-Dive or buy your equipment there, but if you avail yourself of this facility, it might be polite to return the favour in some way! We suggest that anyone else who already supplies nitrox for free lets us know about it.
Go-Dive 01322 755488
|
|
|
This is a liquid wash claimed to have as many uses as there are drops in the bottle. From clothes to fruit to pots and pans or even you, it is said to work in both soft and hard water and even sea-water. Its mild fruity scent is claimed to leave skin, hair and clothes feeling fresh and it's so concentrated that one small bottle can last a whole trip. No matter how little your checked-baggage allowance may be, you'll have no excuse not to be squeaky-clean. Yes, it's a tiny bottle of soap, but 50ml of the stuff will set you back £2.
Nomad Travel Store, www.nomadtravel.co.uk
|
|
|
|
|
We are assured that DIR Zone wings are available to anyone with the money to buy them, not restricted to those committed to the holistic DIR way of doing things. Available in modular parts or as a complete item, these wings are suitable for use with twin tanks and come in 20 and 25 litre sizes, with either an aluminium backplate (including a sexy anodised black version) or stainless steel. They have a one-piece harness, storage pocket and sheathed knife. Price is £340 complete but the wing is also available in a style to suit use with a single tank with a 15 litre cell at £329.
DIR Zone, www.divingniknaks.co.uk
|
|
|
|
|
Not strictly a diving accessory, but anyone who has to work in dark conditions such as the engine compartment of a small boat, or preparing an underwater camera in a cabin or room with low-quality lighting, will appreciate an additional light source that is hands-free. Claimed to be the brightest headlamp available, the L1 combines a 3W Luxeon LED with electronic controls designed to allow the light output to stay constant until the rechargeable battery has only a few percentages of power remaining. It's waterproof for marine conditions, but not for use under water. £70.
Silva 01506 406277
| |
|
|
|
|
