XS Scuba Boating Equipment Buoyancy Compensator User Manual

EVERYTHING FOR THE PERFECT DIVE...  
Buoyancy  
Compensator  
Owner’s  
Manual  
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BC Owner’s Manual 3.  
Table of Contents  
GENERAL WARNINGS & PRECAUTIONS........................................4  
INTRODUCTION.........................................................................5  
INTENDED USE & FUNCTION........................................................5  
OVERVIEW OF STANDARD FEATURES............................................6  
PREPARATION & SETUP.............................................................10  
INTEGRATED WEIGHT SYSTEMS.................................................12  
X-LOCK™ WEIGHT POCKET SYSTEM INSTALLATION...................13  
PRE-DIVE INSPECTION...............................................................15  
DIVING WITH YOUR XS SCUBA BC..............................................16  
POST DIVE CARE & MAINTENANCE..............................................20  
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES & SPECIAL FEATURES.........................20  
DEALER INSPECTION & SERVICE................................................21  
WARRANTY.............................................................................22  
DEALER INSPECTION & SERVICE RECORD..................................23  
This owner’s manual is copyrighted, all rights reserved. It may not, in whole or in part,  
be copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated or reduced to any electronic medium or  
machine readable form without prior consent in writing from XS Scuba, Inc  
XS Scuba, the XS logo, Advantage, Nekton, Paragon, X-Lock Weight Release System,  
Micro Pac, AirWave Inline, are registered and unregistered trademarks of XS Scuba. All  
rights are reserved. All other names are trademarks of their respective owners.  
© 2005 XS Scuba BC Owner’s Manual, PN BCM-0305  
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.4 BC Owner’s Manual  
General Precautions and Warnings  
Do not use this Buoyancy Compensator (BC) if you have not received supervised  
instruction and certification in SCUBA diving and buoyancy control from a recognized  
training agency. USE OF SCUBA EQUIPMENT BY UNCERTIFIED OR UNTRAINED  
PERSONS IS DANGEROUS AND CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.  
• Before using this BC, it is important to completely read and understand all of the  
instructions provided in this owner’s manual, any accompanying inserts, and labels or  
markings affixed to the BC. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR DO NOT COMPLETELY  
UNDERSTAND THESE INSTRUCTIONS, CONSULT YOUR AUTHORIZED XS SCUBA  
DEALER.  
• Before diving with this BC in open water, it is important to familiarize yourself with  
it first in confined shallow water with the assistance and supervision of an instructor  
or experienced buddy. DO NOT ENTER OPEN WATER UNTIL YOU HAVE WEIGHTED  
YOURSELF PROPERLY AND HAVE BECOME COMFORTABLE WITH USING ALL OF ITS  
FEATURES AND ADJUSTMENTS.  
• Before every dive, perform a complete pre-dive inspection following the instructions  
provided in this manual. Check to ensure that all valves are functioning properly and no  
signs of damage or leaks are present. IF ANY SIGNS OF DAMAGE OR MALFUNCTION  
ARE FOUND, DO NOT DIVE WITH THE BC UNTIL IT HAS RECEIVED SERVICE FROM  
AN AUTHORIZED XS SCUBA DEALER.  
• Before entering the water, check to ensure that you can remove and ditch your  
weight quickly and easily, without any obstruction or entanglement with any hoses or  
accessories. IN THE EVENT OF AN OUT OF AIR EMERGENCY OR UNCONTROLLED  
DESCENT, DO NOT HESITATE TO REMOVE AND DITCH WEIGHT.  
DO NOT USE YOUR BC TO LIFT HEAVY OBJECTS TO THE SURFACE. Doing so may  
cause permanent damage to the BC, and could easily result in an uncontrolled ascent.  
• DO NOT over inflate your BC or rely on using the power inflator to lift yourself toward  
the surface. Control all ascents. A RAPID, UNCONTROLLED ASCENT MAY CAUSE  
ARTERIAL GAS EMBOLISM OR DECOMPRESSION SICKNESS, AND COULD LEAD TO  
SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.  
IN THE EVENT OF AN UNCONTROLLED, RAPID ASCENT, IT IS IMPORTANT TO  
IMMEDIATELY VENT AS MUCH AIR AS POSSIBLE FROM THE BC TO SLOW YOUR  
ASCENT RATE. CONTINUE VENTING AIR TO SLOW YOUR ASCENT RATE IF NEUTRAL  
BUOYANCY CANNOT BE REESTABLISHED.  
• DO NOT attempt to modify your XS Scuba BC for use with more than one cylinder.  
Doing so could damage the structural integrity of the BC’s backpack and harness system,  
and could lead to its failure underwater.  
DO NOT INHALE FROM YOUR ORAL INFLATOR. The BC air cell may contain harmful  
contaminants or gasses, which could cause suffocation, serious injury, and infection of  
the lungs.  
• It is important to obtain factory prescribed service for this BC from an Authorized XS  
Scuba Dealer at least once each year, or according to the same scheduled intervals for  
your regulator. Annual service consists of a complete overhaul of the power inflator, and  
a general air leak inspection of the air cell and valve connections.  
• Disassembly, repair, or lubrication must only be performed by persons who are factory  
trained and authorized by XS Scuba. UNAUTHORIZED SERVICE WILL RENDER THE  
WARRANTY NULL AND VOID, AND COULD CAUSE THE BC TO MALFUNCTION.  
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BC Owner’s Manual 5.  
Introduction  
Thank you for choosing XS Scuba. Your new BC has been designed, manufactured  
and individually tested to ensure that it consistently meets the highest performance  
and safety standards possible. This Owner’s Manual describes the unique functions  
and features of XS Scuba’s BC equipment and various optional accessories. By  
following the instructions in this manual, you will understand how your BC works,  
how to make best use of its features, and how to ensure that it lasts a long time. It  
is very important to take the time to read the instructions provided in this manual.  
If you have any questions, please consult your Authorized XS Scuba Dealer.  
Intended Use & Function of Your BC  
The main purpose for wearing a Buoyancy Compensator is to achieve and maintain  
neutral buoyancy at all times while you are underwater, regardless of changes in  
depth or cylinder pressure. This allows you to be much more relaxed while you  
dive – and safer – since you won’t need to struggle against the forces of positive  
and negative buoyancy. Modern jacket and back inflation style BC’s provide  
the most effective and streamlined buoyancy control, since they are specifically  
designed to support the diver in a comfortably balanced, face-down position while  
swimming underwater. Stress and exertion can now be minimized, if not eliminated  
altogether.  
Since the introduction of the jacket style and back inflation designs, the modern  
BC has evolved into a consolidated harness and pack system that carries the  
cylinder and serves as a fixture point for first stage regulators, instrumentation,  
and accessories. For even greater convenience and comfort, many models are now  
available with integrated weight systems that can supplement or replace the weight  
belt.  
Your BC can also provide you with non-emergency flotation to help you rest on the  
surface, but you should never rely on it to function as a life preserver or personal  
flotation device (PFD). In order to meet approval by U.S. Coast Guard regulations,  
a PFD must be designed so that it automatically rights you to a face-up position  
and supports your head out of the water on the surface to prevent drowning. The  
design characteristics and intended function of a PFD are therefore very different  
from those of a BC, since a PFD is specifically designed to function on the surface  
and a BC is primarily designed to function underwater.  
It is important to remember that other equipment you wear in addition to your  
BC, including your cylinder, exposure suit, or weight system, will also affect your  
position in the water. An empty cylinder, for instance, can create counter-buoyancy  
that could roll you into a face down position if you were to lose consciousness.  
For this reason, XS Scuba recommends that you always dive with a buddy, and  
remain close enough to them to be able to render assistance to each other in the  
event of an emergency. Do not depend on your BC, exposure suit, or any other  
equipment to hold your face above the surface in the event that you are rendered  
unconscious in the water while diving.  
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.6 BC Owner’s Manual  
Standard Features  
WARNING: A Buoyancy Compensator (BC) is NOT a life jacket! It is  
not designed to provide face-up flotation in all situations, and it does  
not meet U.S. Coast Guard regulations for a life preserver or personal  
flotation device (PFD). If you become unconscious in the water without  
a buddy present to immediately assist, you may suffer serious injury or  
death from drowning.  
Overview of Standard Features & Adjustments  
Please take the time to acquaint yourself with your BC’s features, including  
standard inflation/deflation valves and adjustments that can be found on every  
model of an XS Scuba BC. Specific instructions for using these features will be  
provided throughout this manual. Additional options and special features will  
be explained in the section titled Optional Accessories & Special Features.  
Valves  
Integrated Inflator System – With this system, you have two methods to inflate  
the BC, two methods to deflate the BC, and automatic venting of excess  
pressure. Be sure to read and understand these instructions describing how  
this system operates before attempting to dive with your XS Scuba BC.  
Power Inflator – This assembly is actually made up of  
two different valves. The oral inflation valve can be  
used to manually inflate or deflate your BC. The power  
inflation valve is connected directly to your regulator’s  
first stage, and can be used to inflate your BC with the  
push of a button.  
Overpressure Relief Valve (OPV) / Rapid Exhaust Valve  
(REV) – The integrated Overpressure Relief Valve (OPV)  
vents excess pressure from the BC during ascent or if  
over-pressurized from the power inflator. This component  
of the Integrated Inflator System operates automatically  
so no instructions for its manual use are necessary.  
The Rapid Exhaust Valve (REV), located within  
the upper shoulder unit of the integrated inflator, is  
connected to the lower Power Inflator by a cable located  
inside the corrugated hose. This valve can be opened to  
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BC Owner’s Manual 7.  
vent air by pulling the power inflator straight down. It works best while you are  
in a vertical heads-up position or in a face-down swimming position.  
WARNING: The OPV in the Integrated Inflator is set at a lower relief  
pressure than the optional OPV located on the back of some BC models  
to prevent damage to the material of the BC air cell. It is imperative  
that the Integrated Inflator System be the only inflator used with this  
BC. Never dive with the BC if the inflator does not function properly,  
or if it has been tampered with, modified, or replaced with an inflator,  
airway assembly, or shoulder dump of a manufacturer other than XS  
Scuba.  
Rear Dump Valve – This valve can be used to dump air  
by pulling on the ball and cord. This Rear Dump Valve  
works best while you are in a heads-down position or in  
a face-down swimming position.  
Primary Adjustment Points  
Shoulder Straps  
The shoulder straps of your BC are connected with side-  
squeeze fasteners, and can be easily adjusted by pulling  
upward on the buckle to loosen, or downward on the D-  
ring at the end of the strap to tighten.  
Cummerbund Waistband  
The cummerbund is designed to provide a wide range  
of adjustment to hold your BC snug and secure below  
your rib cage and above your hips. All XS Scuba  
cummerbunds feature a high quality Velcro® touch  
fastener,andcanbeadjustedforlengthatthebackpack.  
Some models feature an elastic stretch cummerbund  
that can compensate for the contraction of your wetsuit  
at depth. To fasten the cummerbund, simply pull the  
left side containing the loop Velcro® snug across your  
waist, and then pull the right side snug over it. Finally,  
press firmly down to fasten the hook Velcro®.  
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.8 BC Owner’s Manual  
Cylinder Band with Buckle  
This mechanism attaches your BC to your cylinder  
so that it is securely held at the desired height,  
without slipping. Some models are equipped with the  
exclusive Micro Pac™ and two cylinder bands for extra  
support.  
The nylon webbing should already be woven through  
the buckle(s), but instructions for re-weaving are  
provided in the following section, titled Preparation  
& Setup.  
Tank Locator Strap  
To ensure that your BC is set at the correct height on  
the cylinder, simply loop this strap over the cylinder  
valve and adjust it to raise or lower the BC. Then,  
fasten the cylinder band(s).  
Sternum Strap  
Most models are equipped with this feature, or it  
can be purchased separately as an accessory option.  
Using two dimes, you can disassemble the post pin on  
the female buckle to reverse the strap’s direction, or  
remove it altogether.  
Integrated Weight Systems  
Some XS Scuba BC models are equipped with built-in compartments and  
pockets to hold X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System and trim weights. Either  
“soft weight” (pouches filled with lead shot) or solid weight can be used, but  
soft weight is strongly recommended, since it will fill the weight compartment  
to its fullest capacity and provide the maximum comfort.  
If your XS Scuba BC is a weight integrated model, it is very important to read  
the following instructions in order to understand the difference between these  
two types of weight pockets and how to use them correctly. For installation and  
removal instructions, see the following section, titled Preparation & Setup.  
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BC Owner’s Manual 9.  
Releasable Trim Weights  
If your BC is equipped with this feature, you will find  
two releasable weight compartments located on the  
backside of either the air cell or the harness – on  
opposite sides. These are each designed to hold up to  
5 pounds (10 pounds total) of weight to supplement  
and counter-balance the weight that you wear on your  
weight belt or X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System.  
The weight in these pockets can be “dumped” by  
grasping the strap on the bottom of the pocket and  
pulling downward firmly.  
X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System  
Some XS Scuba models are also equipped with two  
X-Lock™ weight pockets, located inside the front  
lower portions of the BC. These pockets can be easily  
identified by their plastic pull handles that face toward  
the center of the waistband. The X-Lock™ pockets  
are designed to each hold a maximum weight of 10  
lbs., for a combined total of 20 lbs.  
Experiment with different sizes of weight until you arrive at the configuration  
that best suits your personal preference and provides maximum comfort.  
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.10 BC Owner’s Manual  
Preparation & Setup  
XS Scuba recommends that you bring your BC, together with your regulator, to  
your Authorized XS Scuba Dealer for the installation of the low pressure (LP)  
quick disconnect inflator hose that is provided with your BC. If it is not possible  
to return with your regulator to your Authorized Dealer, you may install the LP  
inflator hose by carefully performing all the steps in the following procedure.  
LP Inflator Hose Installation  
WARNING: DO NOT attach the low pressure inflator hose to a high  
pressure (HP) port (greater than 200 psi / 13.6 bar). This may cause  
the hose to burst when pressurized, which can result in serious injury.  
The LP hose has a 3/8” (9.5mm) male fitting that will only fit the standard  
LP ports found on most first stages, and is smaller than the standard 7/16”  
(11mm) HP port. Some older regulators have HP and LP ports that are the  
same size (3/8”-9.5mm). All XS Scuba regulators, and most provided by other  
manufacturers, have a high-pressure port that is clearly marked “HP,” with a  
small restrictive orifice that is visible when the plug is removed.  
If your regulator has all 3/8” ports and you cannot decide if a port is LP or  
HP, bring it with the hose to your dealer for installation.  
If you can identify your regulator’s LP ports, follow this procedure:  
1. To select the best LP port, mount the first stage on a cylinder valve to  
determine the correct orientation and hose routing.  
2. Remove the port plug from a low-pressure port on the regulator using  
the appropriate size wrench or key.  
3. Your BC was shipped with the LP hose connected to the power inflator.  
Remove the inflator hose from the power inflator body by sliding the  
grooved sleeve back while pulling the fitting off the QD nipple.  
4. Check the male end of the LP hose to ensure the O-ring is present and  
in good condition, and screw the threaded end of the hose into the  
port. Tighten the hose to 50-60 inch pounds (7 kg/cm) with a 9/16”  
wrench.  
Cylinder Mounting  
Threading the Cylinder Band & Buckle  
NOTE: All XS Scuba BC’s are shipped with the nylon band pre-threaded  
through the buckle. If rethreading is necessary, follow these steps:  
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BC Owner’s Manual 11.  
1. Ensure that the metal bale of the buckle is as close to the rear of the  
BC as possible. This provides the greatest range of adjustment.  
2. With the buckle fully open, thread the cylinder band up the middle slot  
and back down through the slot closest to the metal bale. Pull the end  
to increase the tension in the band.  
3. Loosely thread the webbing through the open slot in the end of the  
buckle, but do not cinch it tight at this time.  
Attaching the BC to the Cylinder  
NOTE: Some models are equipped with the Micro Pac™ and two  
cylinder band assemblies.  
1. First, wet the cylinder band(s) and then fit the BC over the cylinder.  
Loop the tank locator strap over the cylinder valve and adjust it as  
needed to hold the BC at the desired height and position.  
2. While holding the cylinder secure, pull the free end of the cylinder  
band until there is a very tight fit between the pack and the cylinder.  
3. Close the buckle halfway to hold the cylinder band taut, and thread the  
end of the band through the open slot in the end of the buckle.  
4. Pull the cam buckle closed so that it snaps down against the cylinder.  
Fasten the end of the webbing securely over the loop Velcro® on the  
cylinder band.  
5. Test the tightness by vigorously pulling and shaking the BC by the  
shoulder straps.  
WARNING: The cylinder band may initially stretch after it becomes wet.  
Always wet the band prior to attaching your BC to the cylinder and apply  
enough tension to ensure that the cylinder is held completely secure.  
Test this connection before every dive. If the cylinder is allowed to slip  
free from the BC while you are diving, you could become separated  
from your air supply, which could result in serious injury or death.  
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.12 BC Owner’s Manual  
Integrated Weight System  
Releasable Trim Weights  
To install weight in each compartment, unfasten the Velcro® to open each  
flap. Insert the desired weight and refasten the Velcro® flap.  
It is important to remember at all times that weight installed in these  
compartments MAY NOT be easily released during an emergency situation.  
Before diving with trim weight installed in your BC, it is extremely important  
to check your buoyancy in shallow water while wearing the BC attached to a  
fully charged cylinder. While standing in chest deep water, completely deflate  
the BC and verify that you can easily achieve positive buoyancy by ditching  
your X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System pockets. For more information about  
weighting and performing a buoyancy check, refer to the section titled, Diving  
with Your XS Scuba BC.  
WARNING: The trim weight compartments should only be loaded  
with weight that supplements the releasable weight carried on your  
weight belt or your BC’s X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System pockets.  
Do not install weight into the trim weight compartments unless you  
are certain you can achieve positive buoyancy at depth by ditching  
your releasable weight while your BC is completely deflated. You  
may otherwise experience difficulty ascending to the surface in an  
emergency situation, which could lead to serious injury or death due  
to drowning.  
X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System  
Filling the Weight Pockets  
To fill the X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System pockets with weight, it will be  
necessary to first remove each one from its respective compartment by firmly  
pulling the release handle straight out, toward the opposite side of the BC.  
Open the sealed flap, and fold it back out of the way.  
While holding the pocket fully open, insert the weight  
and then close the flap. When each pocket has been  
loaded with weight, firmly run your hand over the flaps  
to seal the Velcro® fastener securely in place.  
When filling the X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System  
pockets, it is important to fill each pocket with the  
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BC Owner’s Manual 13.  
same amount of weight in order to provide optimum balance in the water. You  
may otherwise experience a tendency to roll to one side if one pocket is more  
heavily loaded than the other.  
X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System Pocket Installation  
WARNING: Before every dive, it is important to inspect the condition  
of all connections between the X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System  
pockets and the BC to ensure that they are clean and free of any  
wear or damage that may impair their function. Carefully follow the  
instructions provided below to install the pockets correctly and ensure  
that all connections are securely sealed. Accidental release of the  
weight pockets may otherwise result in an uncontrolled ascent, which  
could lead to serious injury or death due to embolism or decompression  
sickness.  
The weight pockets should be installed while the BC is fully deflated, either  
before or after it has been donned. It is easier, however, to install them before  
donning the BC. If the weight pockets are filled to their maximum capacity  
and installed into the BC, XS Scuba strongly recommends that you seek the  
assistance of a buddy before attempting to don the BC. You may otherwise risk  
injury, due to muscle strain or a temporary loss of balance.  
NOTE: If the amount of weight being used does not fill the pocket to  
capacity, turn the pocket over to slide the weight as far forward inside  
the pocket as possible, toward the closure flap. After the X-Lock™  
pocket has been correctly installed, a Velcro® connection inside the  
BC compartment will hold the end of the pocket closed to prevent the  
weight from shifting.  
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.14 BC Owner’s Manual  
To install either pocket, slide the closed end into the opening of the  
compartment, with the band of loop Velcro® facing up. Guide it firmly inward  
until the Velcro® connection has fully engaged near the end of the compartment.  
Then, fold the pocket’s retaining flap over the Velcro® connection on the outside  
of the BC, and firmly run your hand over the flap. Finally, secure the release  
buckle.  
For information about using the X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System and  
ditching weight, refer to the section titled, Diving with Your XS Scuba BC.  
Donning the BC  
CAUTION: To avoid possible injury and/or damage to your equipment,  
XS Scuba recommends that you should always don your BC with  
assistance from a buddy.  
1. Ensure that the side-squeeze buckles of both shoulder straps are securely  
fastened. Fully extend each strap to its maximum length by pulling up on  
the tab of the lower slide buckle, and then pulling the webbing down until  
the D-ring slides up near the buckle.  
2. While your dive buddy holds the cylinder supported behind you, reach back  
to place your arms through the shoulder straps.  
3. While your buddy continues to hold the cylinder, fasten the cummerbund  
snug around your waist (not hips). The best positioning is between your  
hips and your rib cage. The weight of the cylinder should rest on the  
lumbar region (lower part) of your back.  
4. After your buddy has released the cylinder and the BC feels comfortably  
supported on your hips and shoulders, bend forward at the waist and adjust  
the shoulder straps to a comfortable length by pulling straight down on the  
D-rings.  
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BC Owner’s Manual 15.  
NOTE: Remember, adjusting the shoulder straps too tightly will transfer  
the cylinder weight from the hips onto the shoulders, and may restrict  
your arm movement.  
5. Readjust the cummerbund, if necessary, so that it is comfortably snug but  
not restricting, with an overlap of at least 3 inches. Fasten together the  
male and female side-squeeze buckles of the outer waist strap over the  
cummerbund.  
NOTE: Your BC is equipped with an elastic outer waist strap. It can  
be adjusted inside the BC, behind the cummerbund, so that it will be  
snug when fastened. This will help your cummerbund to remain snug  
when your wetsuit becomes compressed at depth, and can also help  
prevent squeeze when your BC is inflated on the surface.  
6. Fasten the sternum and waist straps, if equipped, and pull the free ends  
until they are comfortably snug but not restricting.  
WARNING: Be sure to avoid over tightening your BC’s adjustments.  
Check to ensure that you can move your arms comfortably and take  
deep, full breaths. Over tightening can restrict your respiration and  
blood circulation, which can lead to serious injury or death.  
Pre-Dive Inspection  
Before each use, the BC must be visually inspected and tested. NEVER dive  
with a BC that shows any signs of damage to its air cell or valves until it has  
been serviced by an Authorized XS Scuba Dealer.  
Inspection Checklist:  
1. Connect the power inflator to a clean air source via the LP quick disconnect  
hose. Depress and release the inflator button intermittently to ensure that  
the airflow is unobstructed, and that the airflow stops completely when the  
button is released.  
2. Ensure that the air cell does not contain any water from a previous dive or  
from internal rinsing. An excessive amount of water inside the air cell can  
reduce the BC’s internal air volume and lift capacity.  
3. Manually operate the lower overpressure valve (OPV) by pulling on the  
attached ball and cord to release air from inside the BC, and then fully  
inflate the BC until the shoulder OPV valve opens. Examine the operation  
of the shoulder OPV valve by repeatedly inflating the BC to ensure that it  
opens to relieve excess pressure, yet close immediately afterward to allow  
the air cell to remain fully inflated.  
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.16 BC Owner’s Manual  
4. Check the function of the oral inflator button, rapid exhaust valve (REV),  
and OPV to ensure a rapid and unobstructed exhaust from each valve.  
Fully inflate the BC once again, and disconnect the Power Inflator to listen  
for any leakage.  
CAUTION: If any leakage can be heard, or if the air cell begins to  
deflate within 5-10 minutes, DO NOT attempt to use the BC until it  
has received service from an Authorized XS Scuba Dealer.  
5. Make a final check of the cylinder band’s tension to ensure that it is as  
tight as possible and the cylinder is securely held without any noticeable  
slippage. Retighten if necessary.  
6. Before entering the water, check the trim weight compartments to ensure  
they are closed, and the X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System pockets to  
ensure that they are correctly installed into to the BC. Refer to X-Lock™  
Weight System Pocket Installation for details.  
WARNING: The X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System pockets may fall  
out unexpectedly if the buckle connections are not securely fastened.  
Involuntary release of both weight pockets can cause a sudden increase  
in buoyancy and rapid ascent, and could lead to serious injury or death  
due to arterial gas embolism or decompression sickness.  
Diving With Your XS Scuba BC  
Rules For Personal Weighting  
Before diving with your new XS Scuba BC, it is important to establish the  
correct amount of weight you will need to wear to achieve neutral buoyancy,  
without being too heavy (negatively buoyant) or light (positively buoyant). While  
following the procedures taught in an open-water training course, it is important  
to observe some basic rules for properly weighting yourself:  
1. Be aware of the factors that can cause your personal buoyancy to change,  
including personal weight loss or gain, the type and thickness of  
the exposure suit you wear, and the buoyancy characteristics of your  
cylinder when it is full and empty.  
2. Weight yourself in chest deep water while wearing all your equipment,  
including your exposure suit and BC, and with the cylinder you will be  
using while it contains no more than 500 psi.  
3. Experiment with different amounts of weight until you are able to float at  
eye level on the surface while holding your breath, and slowly begin to sink  
as you exhale.  
4. Conduct a personal buoyancy check whenever your body weight has changed,  
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BC Owner’s Manual 17.  
or if you use a different cylinder, BC, or exposure suit.  
Diving With an X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System  
It is important to remember that the X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System  
pockets are connected to the BC independently of each other, unlike a weight  
belt that has only one release mechanism, and must be released accordingly.  
This feature provides you with the advantage of being able to ditch only half  
your weight initially, and thereby maintain better control of your ascent rate in  
an emergency.  
In the event of an emergency that requires you to ditch your weight, firmly  
pull the release handle of each weight pocket towards the opposite side of your  
waist. When the pocket is completely disengaged from its compartment, hold  
it out and away from your body before dropping it.  
CAUTION: To avoid injuring other divers, always look below you before  
dropping weight.  
WARNING: Always ensure that your X-Lock™ Integrated Weight  
System is not obstructed by any straps, lines, etc. DO NOT add weight  
to your BC anywhere other than the designated weight compartments,  
since doing so may prevent you from being able to ditch weight in  
an emergency. Failure to ditch weight in an emergency may lead to  
serious injury or death due to drowning.  
Before diving with a BC that features a X-Lock™ Integrated Weight System,  
it is very important to explain its function and design to your dive buddy. Thus  
will ensure that they are as familiar with it as you are so they can assist you in  
case of an emergency.  
Inflating Your BC  
Oral Inflation  
To orally inflate your BC, hold the oral inflator  
mouthpiece to your mouth and depress the oral inflator  
button while exhaling into the mouthpiece. Release  
the button when done or while taking another breath,  
and repeat this procedure until the BC is satisfactorily  
inflated.  
NOTE: Oral inflation of your BC underwater is a practiced skill that  
must be achieved under the supervision of your diving instructor,  
since it requires the removal of your second stage regulator from your  
mouth.  
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.18 BC Owner’s Manual  
Power Inflation  
To connect the LP hose, grip the grooved sleeve at the connection fitting  
between your thumb and forefinger, and slide the sleeve back. Place the fitting  
over the inflator valve QD nipple, and firmly push inward while releasing the  
sleeve. Check to ensure that the hose is securely attached.  
To inflate your BC, depress the power inflator button. DO NOT hold the  
inflator button depressed continuously underwater, as this could cause you to  
become excessively buoyant. Instead, depress the button in short bursts until  
you become neutrally buoyant.  
WARNING: Do not rely on the power inflator as the only means for  
inflating your BC. It is important to maintain proficiency in the skill  
of orally inflating your BC. You may otherwise be unable to achieve  
positive buoyancy in an emergency situation, which could lead to  
serious injury or death.  
Venting & Dumping Air  
Throughout the course of a dive, it will be necessary to vent or dump air from  
the BC using one of the three methods described in the following instructions.  
Each method uses a valve that is in a different location, and is designed either to  
vent air or dump it very quickly. The method you should choose will depend on  
whether you are descending feet-first, head-first, maintaining neutral buoyancy  
underwater, or controlling your ascent. To release air as effectively as possible,  
remember to utilize the valve that is at the highest point on the BC and nearest  
to the surface, depending on your position in the water.  
WARNING: Wheneveryouascend, whetherintentionallyoraccidentally,  
you must simultaneously vent air from the BC as needed to maintain  
buoyancy control. If air is allowed to expand inside the BC unchecked,  
you may experience a rapid, uncontrolled ascent, which could lead to  
serious injury or death due to arterial gas embolism, decompression  
sickness, or drowning.  
To regain buoyancy control during an  
uncontrolled ascent, you must dump air from the BC as quickly as  
possible until you have stopped ascending.  
Venting With the Oral Inflator  
Air can be vented through the inflator by holding the inflator above your  
head and depressing the oral inflator button. This method is recommended for  
making an initial feet-first descent, but is not as effective while you are in a  
facedown swimming position.  
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BC Owner’s Manual 19.  
NOTE: Depressing the oral inflator while the BC is empty may allow  
water to enter the air cell.  
Venting With the REV  
Inside the power inflator’s corrugated hose is a cable that attaches the power  
inflator to the rapid exhaust valve at the top of the airway assembly. You can  
thus vent air from the BC by pulling straight down on the power inflator.  
The amount of air vented depends on how far open the exhaust valve is (i.e.,  
the distance you pull the inner cable) and how long it is open. Short pulls vent  
small amounts of air for minor changes in buoyancy, and a long pull will vent  
the entire BC in a matter of seconds.  
You retain just as much control over your buoyancy using the Rapid Exhaust  
Valve as with the oral inflator button. You also get the benefit of eliminating  
water entry even if the exhaust valve remains open after release of all the air.  
This valve provides an effective and convenient way to vent air from the BC  
while you are in either an upright or face-down swimming position, and is more  
convenient to use than the oral inflator.  
Rear Dump Valve – If your BC has a Rear Dump Valve located on the lower rear  
portion of the air cell, it can be opened manually to quickly dump air by pulling  
on the ball and cord assembly. This valve works best while making a head-first  
descent, or in a face-down swimming position.  
CAUTION: The proper function of the overpressure relief valve is  
essential to prevent damage to the BC air cell. Unauthorized service  
or tampering may render this valve inoperable, and could cause the air  
cell to leak or burst. This type of damage is not repairable, and is not  
covered under the terms and conditions of the XS Scuba Warranty.  
NOTE: Most training agencies recommend that you should descend  
in an upright, feet-first position, in order to maintain a slower and  
more controlled descent. This is especially true if you experience  
difficulty equalizing your ears, or if you are descending in low visibility  
conditions.  
Right Shoulder OPV / Dump Valve (not featured on all models)  
Some models may featurea redundant OPV/Dump valve, located  
at the top of the right shoulder. A ball and cord assembly  
extends to the shoulder buckle assembly for quick dumping  
of air.  
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.20 BC Owner’s Manual  
Post Dive Care & Maintenance  
With proper care, your XS Scuba BC will provide many years of reliable  
service. The following preventative maintenance must be performed to extend  
the life of your BC:  
• Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and extreme heat. Nylon fabric  
can quickly fade when exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, and extreme  
heat may damage the welded seams of the BC’s air cell.  
• Avoid repeated or prolonged use in heavily chlorinated water, which can  
cause the BC fabric to discolor and decay prematurely.  
• Do not allow the BC to chafe against any sharp objects or rough surfaces  
that could abrade or puncture the air cell. Do not set or drop heavy objects  
such as block weights on the BC.  
• Avoid any contact with oil, gasoline, aerosols, or chemical solvents.  
• To preserve the life of the air cell, thoroughly rinse it inside and out with  
fresh water after every day of use, following these steps:  
1. Pressurize the power inflator with low pressure air via the LP hose.  
2. Using a garden hose, direct water through the oral inflator to flush  
the interior of the air cell, and then thoroughly rinse the exterior of  
the BC. Before rinsing, ensure that the power inflator is pressurized  
with air. This will prevent debris and contaminants from entering  
the inflator valve if the inflator button is accidentally depressed.  
3. Completely drain the air cell of water through the lower OPV/dump  
valve by pulling the ball/cord assembly.  
4. Fully inflate the BC, and allow it to dry inside and out. Then store  
it partially inflated, away from direct sunlight, and in a clean, dry  
area. Do not store the BC in an enclosed space, such as a car  
trunk, where it may be exposed to temperatures below 0º F  
(-18º C) or above 120º F (49º C).  
5. To avoid stress on the air cell or harness assembly, remove all  
weight from the trim weight and X-Lock™ releasable compartments  
before storing the BC. Soft weights especially, can discolor the BC  
over time.  
CAUTION: DO NOT attempt to perform any disassembly or service  
of your XS Scuba BC. Service requiring disassembly must only be  
performed by a factory trained XS Scuba technician. To obtain any  
service or repair, it is important to bring your BC to an Authorized XS  
Scuba Dealer.  
Optional Accessories & Special Features  
You can purchase the following accessories for your new BC from your Authorized  
XS Scuba Dealer:  
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BC Owner’s Manual 21.  
Safety Tube (part no. AC190)  
This high-visibility surface signal device can be inflated to a  
length of 6’, and is carried inside a compact 5”x35” nylon  
mesh bag that can be clipped to your BC or stored in a  
pocket.  
AirWave Inline™ Octopus  
(part no. RG325)  
Tostreamlineyoursystemwithfewer  
hoses and keep your octopus where  
you’ll always be able to find it, you’ll  
want the AirWave Inline™ Octopus – a backup second  
stage regulator that is worn on your BC connected by  
your power inflator. This option is available separately  
from your Authorized XS Scuba Dealer, and can be  
added to any XS Scuba BC.  
Dealer Inspection & Service  
1. Do not assume that a BC is in good working condition just because it has  
had little use since its last servicing. Prolonged or improper storage can  
still result in internal corrosion and/or deterioration of O-ring seals and  
valve springs, as well as air cell seam degradation.  
2. You should obtain factory-authorized service for your BC at least once a  
year from an Authorized XS Scuba Dealer, regardless of the amount of use  
it has received. This service includes a general air leak inspection and  
complete overhaul of the power inflator and OPV valve(s). Your BC may  
require this service more frequently, depending on the amount of use  
and quality of maintenance that it receives.  
3. If the BC is used for rental or training purposes, it will require complete  
overhaul and service every three to six months. Chlorinated swimming  
pool water is an especially damaging environment for SCUBA equipment,  
due to the high level of chlorine and pH balance chemicals which cause  
certain parts to rapidly deteriorate.  
4. DO NOT attempt to perform any disassembly or service of your BC. Doing  
so may cause the BC to malfunction, and will render the XS Scuba  
Warranty null and void. All service must be performed by an Authorized  
XS Scuba Dealer.  
HAVE YOUR BC SERVICED AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR FROM AN AUTHORIZED  
XS SCUBA DEALER. YOUR PERSONAL SAFETY AND THE MECHANICAL  
INTEGRITY OF YOUR BC MAY DEPEND ON IT.  
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.22 BC Owner’s Manual  
Limited Two-Year Warranty  
XS Scuba, Inc. warrants to the original owner, this product to be free of  
defects in materials and/or workmanship for a period of two years from date of  
original purchase. Warranty applies only under normal sport and skin diving  
use and with proper care and maintenance. This warranty is non-transferable  
and limited to repair or replacement at the discretion of XS Scuba. BC must be  
returned with proof of purchase.  
What Is Covered  
All non-wearing valve parts and the welded seams of the BC air cell are  
covered under this warranty. Should any part of your XS Scuba BC be found  
defective, XS Scuba, at its discretion, will repair or replace the component at  
no charge to you.  
What Is Not Covered  
1. This warranty does not extend to abrasion, punctures, or tears of the air  
cell, or seam separation caused by chemical attack; including, but not  
limited to prolonged exposure to chlorine or other pool chemicals.  
2. This warranty does not extend to damages caused by improper use,  
improper maintenance, neglect, unauthorized repairs, modifications,  
accidents, fire, or casualty.  
3. Cosmetic damage, such as scratches, fraying, and nicks are not covered by  
this warranty.  
4. This warranty does not extend to equipment used for rental, commercial,  
or military purposes.  
What You Need To Do  
1. Keep a copy of the original purchase receipt and subsequent inspections  
with this manual.  
2. Your XS Scuba BC should be inspected and serviced by an authorized  
XS Scuba repair facility at least once a year.  
3. Provide proof of original purchase and annual servicing by an Authorized  
XS Scuba Dealer in the form of receipts/invoices.  
Disclaimers / Exclusions  
Thiswarrantyisnontransferablefromtheoriginalowner. Nosalesperson,dealer  
or representative is authorized to make any modification to this warranty.  
It is dangerous for untrained and uncertified persons to use the equipment  
covered by this warranty. Therefore, use of this equipment by an untrained  
person renders any and all warranties null and void. Use of SCUBA equipment  
by anyone who is not a trained and certified diver, or receiving training under  
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BC Owner’s Manual 23.  
the supervision of an instructor, could lead to serious injury or death.  
This warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may have rights, which vary  
from state to state and country to country.  
XS SCUBA DISCLAIMS AND EXCLUDES ANY LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL  
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Some states in the U.S. and certain foreign  
countries do not allow exclusions or limitations of liability for incidental,  
consequential, or indirect costs, expenses, or damages incurred while using  
this product, so this may not apply to you.  
Returning Your BC For Service  
Whenever your BC requires annual service or warranty repair, it is important to  
bring it to an Authorized XS Scuba Dealer. Be sure to provide the dealer with  
photocopies of your original sales receipt and service records. For the location  
of the dealer nearest you or additional information, visit our website at: www.  
XSscuba.com.  
Service Record  
Model: _______________ Serial Number: ______________ Purchase Date: ___________  
XS Scuba Dealer: ____________________________________________________________  
Address: ___________________________________________________________________  
_________________________________________ Phone: ___________________________  
SERVICE #1  
XS Scuba Dealer: ____________________________________________________________  
Technician Signature: _______________________________ Date: ___________________  
SERVICE #2  
XS Scuba Dealer: ____________________________________________________________  
Technician Signature: _______________________________ Date: ___________________  
SERVICE #3  
XS Scuba Dealer: ____________________________________________________________  
Technician Signature: _______________________________ Date: ___________________  
XS Scuba, Inc  
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2740 S. Harbor Blvd., Suite E  
Santa Ana, CA 92704  
tel: 714.424.0434  
fax: 714.424.0454  
©2005 XS Scuba, Inc.  
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