O2 Sensors

[Inspirationdiver]

Hey Mark,

From what I have read about this, it's still highly debated.  In theory, by preventing o2 exposure to the cells, you should be able to extend the life of the cell.  However, many argue that it doesn't actually make any difference in the long run.  A cell (model R22-BUD-2) should last about a year in 21% o2.  Those that have tried the sensor savers claim that their cells still only last about a year. 

The other side of this arguement relates to your comment about the cells "sleeping".  When you reexpose the cell to o2, it takes a while for the reaction to start again.  So you can't simply remove the caps, calibrate, and go diving.  Some even argue that the stopping and starting of the reaction itself can reduce the lifespan of the cell. 

So if preventing exposure to o2 can extend its life, and starting and stopping the cells shortens it, maybe that's why they seem to have no effect on the cell life overall???

In my mind, I wouldn't use them simply because I don't want to be guessing if my cells are awake enough to calibrate and go diving....