Freedive is Salvimar's new computer. I usually use the Deeper and even though I've been using it for about two years, I haven't had to replace the battery yet. That’s why I'm very satisfied with it not only for this feature but also for its ease, simplicity, and spontaneity of use. The Freediver replicates the same operational functions as my other model, but the aesthetic appearance and the depth sensor have been revamped. The project is "design and technical concept" by Salvimar, while the unit is produced in China. I was very excited to receive the package and immediately removed the computer from its box. Its appearance was intriguing : a cardboard box with a silver exterior and honeycomb graphics - very "technical." Salvimar always surprises with the design of its products! When I opened the box, I found the Freediver attached to  foam rubber,  with the label on the bottom indicating that the instructions are available on the website. The Freediver stands out for its elegant aesthetics with its polished stainless steel crown. The case, control buttons, and ergonomic strap are made of black plastic material, while the stainless steel crown protecting the dial and the back with the 4 perimeter screws that secure it, stand out the most. Among the new features, we have a new depth sensor, with new firmware, but the basic functions remain the same as in the previous model. Ome can learn the main operations in a few minutes. Keep in mind that the instrument does not start automatically, one needs to turn on the Dive function  and exceed 1.20 meters in depth. In this mode, the descent parameters are recorded, such as the maximum depth, water temperature, and dive duration. The new sensor is capable of updating the reading every 0.5 m/s and consumes very little energy. On the surface, it shows the surface interval time in seconds and minutes. The Freediver includes a very useful function, namely a physical time display by pressing the Start/Split + button on the upper right side. Of course, in addition to the time, you can also check the main information related to the descent. The button cell battery (CR 2032) guarantees many months of continuous use, and when it runs out, an icon appears on the dial showing it’s level. During the test, I wore the computer over the sleeve of the Kryspis 101 wetsuit, which is 5.5 millimeters thick and the length of the strap was easily adjusted. The water temperature revealed on the surface by the instrument in early October was 24.5 degrees Celsius. The Freediver's software is almost identical to the that of the Deeper, but this new model struck me for its less flashy, non-colored aesthetic appearance and for the stainless steel crown. Furthermore, the polycarbonate screen is good at resisting scratches and marks. I informed the Ligurian company that I have been using the Deeper for almost two years and the indication of a low battery icon has not yet appeared. I was told that the Freediver consumes even less energy thanks to the new and more accurate depth sensor and updated and optimized firmware! This computer is a user-friendly tool, very easy to understand and programme. It's enough to play with it for a few minutes to understand how it works. The strap is also long enough and secure.

The screen visibility is also good with the characters being visible under various lighting conditions. I recall that the Freediver must be "activated" directly by the user before starting the dive. If you don't switch to Dive mode by pressing the "B" button, then the dive mode won't activate. This is done to extend battery life. Once back on the surface, it automatically switches to displaying the surface interval. This data is important. It's good to know that before diving again, you should wait for the correct interval to avoid decompression sickness. The Freediver therefore allows you to program your diving sequence safely. One of the aspects that intrigued me the most about the Deeper and that I find on the Freediver, is the ability to recall the time and water temperature reading. This is a a useful function to take into account the possible different thermal gradient of the thermocline.