Cressi Donatello, Michelangelo, Raffaello Dive Computer Manual

Main Features

Dive Computer

• CRESSI RGBM Algorithm: A new algorithm developed in collaboration with Cressi-Bruce Wienke, based on the Haldane model integrated with RGBM factors for safe decompression calculations in repetitive multi-day dives.
• Tissues: 9 tissues with saturation times ranging from 2.5 to 480 minutes.
• “Dive” Program: A complete dive data processor, including decompression for dives made with Air or EAN (Enhanced Air Nitrox).
• Dual Gas Capability (Michelangelo): Ability to use two different hyperoxic Nitrox mixtures selectable during the same dive.
• Triple Gas Capability (Raffaello): Ability to use three different hyperoxic Nitrox mixtures selectable during the same dive.
• Complete Nitrox Parameter Setting: Set %O2 (oxygen percentage) and PO2 (oxygen partial pressure) with PO2 adjustable between 1.2 and 1.6 bar, and %O2 between 21% and 50% for the first mixture, 21% to 99% for the second (Michelangelo), and 21% to 99% for the second and third (Raffaello).
• Nitrox Dive After Air Dive: Ability to perform a Nitrox dive after an air dive, even with ongoing desaturation.
• Deep Stop: Insertable or disinsertable.
• GAGE Function: For dives without decompression calculation and with a resettable depth chronometer.
• FREE Function: For freediving with disengageable alarms.
• PCD System Display: For perfect comprehension and readability of values.

General Warnings and Safety Regulations

IMPORTANT: Read the instructions carefully! Understand the use, functions, and limitations before operating. Do not use without reading this manual.

IMPORTANT: This instrument is an aid to diving and does not replace dive tables. Always ensure cylinder pressure is adequate and monitor it frequently.

DANGER: DO NOT perform altitude dives without setting the correct altitude level. Remember that dives above 3000m significantly increase the risk of DCS.

DANGER: Before flying, wait for the “NO FLY” icon to disappear from the display.

IMPORTANT: This instrument is for personal use only. The information provided relates exclusively to the user during the dive.

DANGER: CRESSI DISCOURAGES using this instrument for decompression dives. However, if limits are exceeded, the computer will provide all necessary decompression, ascent, and surface interval information.

IMPORTANT: Always verify Nitrox mixture content and %O2 before diving. Set the correct %O2 on the computer.

IMPORTANT: Verify instrument settings before each dive. Check battery status and display. Do not dive if the display is unclear or faded, or if the low battery icon is displayed.

IMPORTANT: During dives, carry a depth gauge, submersible pressure gauge, timer, or watch, and decompression tables.

DANGER: The computer cannot eliminate the risk of DCS. User physical condition can change daily. Regular medical check-ups are recommended. Factors increasing DCS risk include cold, poor physical condition, multiple dives, fatigue, alcohol, drugs, and dehydration. Avoid these situations.

IMPORTANT: This instrument should only be used by certified divers. Proper training is essential for dive safety.

IMPORTANT: This computer is for recreational use only, not for professional use.

DANGER: The computer does not eliminate the risk of blackout or barotrauma. It provides dive times, surface intervals, and depth. This information is valuable data that becomes safety information only when processed by the user's mind. Thorough theoretical preparation is recommended.

IMPORTANT: Always check the battery charge and display indications before diving. Do not dive if the display is unclear or faded, or if the low battery icon is shown.

DANGER: Before flying or traveling to altitude, do not engage in strenuous freediving for 48 hours prior.

IMPORTANT: Verify instrument settings before each dive.

IMPORTANT: Deep freediving is a risky discipline requiring extensive practical and theoretical preparation. Obtain certification from an accredited dive school. Be aware of your limits and always dive with a buddy.

IMPORTANT: No validated scientific literature currently explains the causes of Taravana syndrome. Avoid strenuous freediving for extended periods with short surface intervals, and do not dive if you are unwell or dehydrated.

NOTE: Carry the instrument in your carry-on luggage during air travel.

Cressi reserves the right to make technical modifications to its products without prior notice.

Introduction

The CRESSI DONATELLO/MICHELANGELO/RAFFAELLO computer is an advanced recreational dive computer that provides all necessary information on depth, dive times, decompression needs, ascent rate, and surface intervals between dives (AIR and NITROX). It processes nitrogen absorption and release using sophisticated software, adapting to the gas mixtures used. Information is displayed via the PCD System (Priority Compartment Digit Display) for clear and direct communication between diver and computer. The computer also features a clock, calendar, and a versatile dive logbook. The mathematical model used allows for saturation and desaturation calculations for dives using air or hyperoxic Nitrox mixtures. For Nitrox dives, users can set parameters like maximum PO2 (1.2 to 1.6 bar) and oxygen percentage (%O2) for different gas mixtures (up to 50% for the first mixture, up to 99% for the second and third mixtures on Michelangelo and Raffaello respectively). The computer can also switch between metric (meters, °C) and imperial (feet, °F) units. It can be connected to a PC/Mac via an optional interface and software. It is crucial to read and understand this manual to ensure safe operation and avoid health risks.

How the Computer Works

Clock Function

The DONATELLO/MICHELANGELO/RAFFAELLO is equipped with an intuitive, multi-level circular menu.

Button Functions

• Short Press: Used to scroll through menus and increase settings.
• Long Press (1 Sec.): Used to enter menus and confirm selections.
• Long Press (3 Sec.): Used to return to the previous menu.
• Long Press (1 Sec. in Predive/Time/Dive mode): Activates the backlight for 5 seconds.

Switching On

Press the Short button briefly to turn on the computer. The computer displays the PRE DIVE screen with all dive-related data. The computer is now ready for a dive. Always check data accuracy before diving.

NOTE: The computer can automatically turn on underwater at depths below 1.2m/4ft within 20 seconds. However, Cressi recommends manually turning it on and checking parameters.

The computer enters standby mode after 10 minutes of inactivity on the surface.

Desat Time

After a dive, if DESAT time is still active in AIR, FREE, or GAGE mode, the computer will alternate between the DESAT and PREDIVE screens. In NITROX mode, it will alternate between DESAT and PREDIVE, PREDIVE GAS1, GAS2 (Michelangelo), or PREDIVE GAS1, GAS2, GAS3 (Raffaello).

Switch On (Desat) Air

Displays pre-dive information, including surface time, dive time, no-fly time countdown, and desaturation time countdown.

Switch On (Desat) Nitrox

Displays pre-dive information for Nitrox dives, including surface time, desaturation time countdown, no-fly time countdown, and gas mixture information (%O2, PO2).

Main Menu

From the TOP screen, a short press of the Short button cycles through the main menu screens: PREDIVE, TIME/DATA, MODE-S, LOGBOOK, DIVE-S, TIME-S, PLANNING, PC LINK, SYSTEM. A long press from any of these screens accesses the respective functions.

Pre Dive Air

The computer is ready for immersion.

Pre Dive Nitrox

The computer is ready for immersion. If multiple gas mixtures are used, the screens will change every second, displaying the relevant settings for each dive.

Ora/Data (Time/Data)

This screen displays the current time and date.

Mode-S (Mode-Set)

The MODE-S function allows selection of the desired dive mode:

• AIR: For air dives.
• EAN: For enriched air Nitrox dives.
• FREE: For freediving.
• GAGE: For depth gauge function.

Confirm the selected mode with a long press of the Long button. A short press of the Short button cycles through options, and a long press of the Long button (3 sec.) returns to the main menu.

Logbook

From the Logbook screen, a long press of the Long button accesses the dive log. The AIR dive log consists of two scrollable pages, accessed by short pressing the Short button. Page 1 displays safety factor, dive time, max depth, page number, average depth, minimum temperature, mountain icon (if applicable), and PO2 limit icon (if applicable). Page 2 displays maximum partial pressure of oxygen (PPO2) and dive type (AIR).

The DONATELLO/MICHELANGELO/RAFFAELLO memory stores up to 50 dives per type (air/ean-free-gage) with pressure and temperature data. Older dives are deleted as new ones are added. Dives are numbered by date. Short pressing Short scrolls through dive dates. The current dive's day, month, and year are shown on the first line, and the start time on the second. Nitrox, FREE, and GAGE dives display corresponding icons. A long press of Long displays dive-specific data.

NOTE: The logbook is not resettable.

Log EAN (Donatello)

The EAN (Nitrox) dive log consists of two scrollable pages. Page 1 displays safety factor, dive time, max depth, page number, average depth, minimum temperature, mountain icon (if applicable), and PO2 limit icon (if applicable). Page 2 displays maximum partial pressure of oxygen (PPO2) and oxygen percentage in the mixture.

Log EAN (Michelangelo)

The EAN (Nitrox) dive log consists of three scrollable pages. Page 1 displays safety factor, dive time, max depth, page number, average depth, minimum temperature, mountain icon (if applicable), and PO2 limit icon (if applicable). Page 2 displays maximum partial pressure of oxygen (PPO2) and oxygen percentage in the mixture (for GAS 1). Page 3 displays PO2 and oxygen percentage for GAS 2.

Log EAN (Raffaello)

The EAN (Nitrox) dive log consists of three scrollable pages. Page 1 displays safety factor, dive time, max depth, page number, average depth, minimum temperature, mountain icon (if applicable), and PO2 limit icon (if applicable). Page 2 displays PO2 and oxygen percentage for GAS 1. Page 3 displays PO2 and oxygen percentage for GAS 2. Page 4 displays PO2 and oxygen percentage for GAS 3.

Log Free

The FREE (freediving) log consists of two scrollable pages. Page 1 displays session time, max session depth, page number, dive number, and minimum session temperature. Page 2 displays previous dive's surface time, previous dive's immersion time, current surface time, number of dives, and temperature.

A long press of Long from either page accesses the log for individual dives. A short press of Short scrolls through the individual dive data.

NOTE: Individual dive logs are only visible if the session has fewer than 100 dives. For sessions with more than 100 dives, use the PC/MAC interface.

Log Gage

The GAGE log consists of one page displaying dive time, max depth, average depth, and minimum temperature.

Dive-Set: Setting Dive Parameters

After setting the MODE-S menu to AIR or NITROX, parameters can be adjusted in the DIVE-SET menu. A long press of Long accesses the DIVE-SET menu. Adjustable parameters include:

• DEEPSTOP
• SAFETY FACTOR (SF)
• ALTITUDE (ALT)
• DEPTH (MAX DEPTH ALARM)
• OXYGEN PERCENTAGE (%O2 NITROX MODE)
• OXYGEN PARTIAL PRESSURE (PPO2)
• OXYGEN PERCENTAGE GAS 2 (OFF/21%-99% for Michelangelo/Raffaello)
• PARTIAL PRESSURE GAS 2 (for Michelangelo/Raffaello)
• OXYGEN PERCENTAGE GAS 3 (OFF/21%-99% for Raffaello)
• PARTIAL PRESSURE GAS 3 (for Raffaello)

Deep Stop

The DEEP STOP icon indicates activation of the deep stop. Press Long to activate/deactivate. Short press to toggle, Long press to confirm.

SF (Safety Factor)

The Safety Factor (SF) is an additional parameter to increase dive safety. It can be set to SF0 (off), SF1, or SF2. The default is SFO. Press Long to adjust, Short to select the desired factor, and Long to confirm.

ALT (Altitude)

For altitude dives, set the altitude level accordingly (no mountain, one, two, or three mountains). Ensure the altitude setting corresponds to the actual altitude. Allow 12-24 hours for acclimatization after reaching altitude before diving.

DANGER: The computer does not automatically manage altitude dives. Correctly set the altitude level and respect acclimatization periods.

DANGER: Dives above 3000m significantly increase DCS risk.

Depth (Maximum Depth Alarm)

The computer features a settable maximum depth alarm. It can be adjusted from 50m (164ft) down to 10m (32ft) in 2m (6ft) increments. Press Long in the DEPTH screen to set, Short to adjust the depth, and Long to confirm.

Oxygen Partial Pressure PO2

The computer is factory-set with a PO2 of 1.4 bar for both Air and Nitrox dives, ensuring maximum safety. This value can be adjusted between 1.2 and 1.6 bar. The computer automatically signals the maximum reachable depth based on the set PO2 and the gas mixture used.

Setting PO2 (Air)

In the PPO2 screen, press Long to enter. Adjust the PO2 value using Short, and confirm with Long.

Setting %O2 and PO2 (Nitrox)

Donatello: In the %O2 screen, long press Long to enter. The %O2 value will flash. Use Short to increase the percentage (21%-50% in 1% increments). Confirm with Long. Then, short press Short to go to the PO2 screen. Long press to enter the PO2 setting, use Short to adjust, and Long to confirm.

Michelangelo: In the %O2 GAS1 screen, long press Long to enter. The %O2 value will flash. Use Short to increase the percentage. Confirm with Long. Short press Short to go to the PO2 GAS1 screen. Long press to enter, use Short to adjust, and Long to confirm. Long press Long to return to the main menu or Short to enable GAS2.

Raffaello: In the %O2 GAS1 screen, long press Long to enter. The %O2 value will flash. Use Short to increase the percentage. Confirm with Long. Short press Short to go to the PO2 GAS1 screen. Long press to enter, use Short to adjust, and Long to confirm. Long press Long to return to the main menu or Short to enable GAS2.

The computer is factory-set with GAS2 OFF. To enable GAS2 and modify its percentage, long press Long. Use Short to set the desired percentage (21%-99% in 1% increments). Confirm with Long. Short press Short to go to the PO2 GAS2 screen. Long press to enter, use Short to adjust, and Long to confirm.

The computer is factory-set with GAS3 OFF. To enable GAS3 and modify its percentage, long press Long. Use Short to set the desired percentage (21%-99% in 1% increments). Confirm with Long. Short press Short to go to the PO2 GAS3 screen. Long press to enter, use Short to adjust, and Long to confirm.

IMPORTANT: The computer retains the last entered PO2 value until manually reset. The PO2 limit is factory-set at 1.4 bar, with a maximum depth of 56.6m (186ft) for air. PO2 can be adjusted from 1.2 to 1.6 bar.

NOTE: Adjusting PO2 and %O2 may affect the maximum reachable depth.

Dive Alarms

The computer monitors PO2 and provides warnings for excessive exposure or exceeding the maximum PO2 limit. The PO2 limit can be set between 1.2 and 1.6 bar. The computer signals the maximum reachable depth based on the set PO2 and the gas mixture.

Display Toxicity CNS

The computer graphically displays the Oxygen Toxicity (CNS) level, which is linked to partial oxygen pressure and exposure time. The display shows a 5-segment bar indicating accumulated oxygen. Reaching 100% (all segments lit) indicates severe hyperoxia risk. The bar flashes and an audible alarm sounds when nearing maximum toxicity levels (4 segments lit). The alarm continues until the PO2 drops below 0.6 atmospheres. The bar stops flashing, but the alarm is logged.

Ascent Rate

Ascent rate is indicated by a dot indicator. Exceeding the maximum allowed ascent rate triggers a SLOW warning and flashing icons. Stop ascent until the warning disappears. If the maximum ascent rate (12m/min) is exceeded for a prolonged period, the computer will make subsequent dives more conservative (within the desaturation time) to preserve the diver from DCS risk. The icon indicates that the penalty factor is active.

DANGER: Rapid ascent significantly increases DCS risk. Cressi recommends a safety stop of 3 minutes at 5m (16ft) for every dive.

Safety Stop - Safety Stop

The computer automatically signals a safety stop after dives deeper than 10m, as recommended by dive training agencies. This stop is performed at a depth between 5m (16ft) and 3m (9ft) for 3 minutes. The display shows the SAFE icon and a countdown timer. The safety stop is not mandatory but highly recommended. Press Short during the safety stop to view the maximum depth.

NOTE: Maximum depth is visible during the safety stop by pressing Short.

Decompression Pre-Warning Alarm

When the available no-decompression time (NO DECO) drops to 3 minutes, the computer emits an audible alarm, indicating that decompression stops will be required.

Deep Stop

To prevent risks associated with microbubbles during ascent, the computer can suggest a deep stop of one or two minutes at a depth determined by the dive profile. If the deep stop is missed, the computer recalculates the ascent plan without it.

NOTE: Check if Deep Stop is activated (see DIVE SET). Maximum depth will be visible by pressing Short.

NOTE: Maximum depth will be visible by pressing Short.

Dive Outside Safety Curve (Decompression)

DANGER: Do not use this instrument for decompression dives. Cressi advises against using this computer for such dives. However, if you exceed safety curve limits due to inattention or emergency, the computer will assist with ascent and decompression stops. Upon exiting the safety curve, the computer emits an audible alarm and displays information including: a flashing DEC icon, planned stop depth and duration, total ascent time, and current dive time.

NOTE: Maximum depth is visible by pressing Short.

DANGER: Never ascend above the decompression stop depth. To avoid this, stay slightly deeper than the indicated stop depth but within the allowed range. Decompression stops increase the required gas supply.

Missed Decompression Stop Alarm

If you ascend above the indicated decompression stop depth, an audible alarm sounds, and the decompression arrow flashes downwards, indicating the need to descend. You have 2 minutes to correct this situation. If not corrected within 2 minutes, the computer enters an ERROR program, displaying a flashing STOP icon. It will be unusable for subsequent dives for 48 hours, with access limited to Logbook and History. The PRE DIVE screen will then show a flashing STOP icon and the DECO warning.

Freediving (Apnea)

The DONATELLO/MICHELANGELO/RAFFAELLO offers a dedicated freediving mode with functions for counting dives (time and depth) and surface recovery times.

IMPORTANT: This instrument should only be used by certified divers. Proper training is essential for freediving safety.

DANGER: NO dive computer can protect against blackout or barotrauma. The computer provides dive times, surface intervals, and depth data, which become safety information only when processed by the user. Solid theoretical preparation is recommended.

In FREE mode, the display shows:

• Maximum depth reached.
• Current dive time.
• Current depth.
• Current dive number.
• Current temperature.

Surface Interval (Freediving)

During the surface interval between dives, the display shows:

• Maximum depth of the previous dive.
• Immersion time of the previous dive.
• Surface interval time (minutes and seconds).
• Number of dives performed.
• Temperature.

NOTE: After 30 minutes of surface interval, the session automatically closes.

Gage Mode: Depth Gauge and Timer

In addition to AIR, NITROX, and FREE modes, the computer has a GAGE mode for technical divers. It provides basic dive parameters: depth, dive time, average depth, and temperature, without decompression calculations. Cressi reminds users that recreational dives should be within the 40m safety curve. Exceeding this limit increases DCS risk.

In GAGE mode, the display shows:

• Maximum depth reached.
• Current depth.
• Dive time (seconds).
• Dive time (minutes).
• Average depth (A.).
• Temperature.

IMPORTANT: This computer is for recreational use only. Professional use, requiring prolonged dive times, increases DCS risk.

DANGER: Cressi strongly advises against using gas mixtures other than air without specific training, as technical dives carry different risks, including severe physical injury or death.

IMPORTANT: After a GAGE mode dive, the computer does not perform saturation and desaturation calculations for the next 48 hours.

DANGER: Resetting the instrument in system mode erases nitrogen memory, preventing future dive calculations. Never use this function unless at least 48 hours have passed since the last dive.

The GAGE icon appears when the function is active. Press Short to view the current time.

NOTE: The computer is factory-set to AIR mode. Press Short to view the current time.

Using the Computer in Low Visibility

To activate the backlight for low visibility, press the LIGHT button. The backlight lasts for a few seconds. Dark spots on the display are normal for high-contrast displays and not a defect.

Surface Interval

After an AIR or NITROX dive (MODE-S), when ascending to depths below 0.8m, the display shows:

• Surface interval (SURF.T) in hours and minutes.
• Desaturation time (DESAT) before flying (hours and minutes).
• NO FLY time and icon. Avoid air travel or travel to higher altitudes than the dive site if the icon is present.
• Maximum depth of the just-completed dive.
• Duration of the just-completed dive.

IMPORTANT: Cressi follows guidelines for no-fly times: 12 hours after a single dive (no decompression), 24 hours after a decompression dive or repetitive/multiday dives, and 24 hours after using GAGE mode or if significant dive errors occurred.

NOTE: If a dive is started less than 2 minutes after the previous one, the computer treats it as a continuation. Dives started after at least 2 minutes of surface interval are considered subsequent dives. If GAGE mode was used, the computer does not calculate saturation/desaturation for 48 hours after the dive.

Care and Maintenance

The DONATELLO/MICHELANGELO/RAFFAELLO is designed for rugged underwater use but requires care. Avoid strong impacts, excessive heat, and rinse with fresh water after each use. Dry thoroughly and do not store wet. Avoid contact with heavy equipment like cylinders.

IMPORTANT: Do not expose the computer to solvents or chemicals. Do not use compressed air for drying. The button requires no lubrication. Never use oils or sprays.

NOTE: When changing the battery, check the compartment for moisture. If moisture is present, send the instrument to an authorized Cressi service center. If the instrument malfunctions, do not use it underwater and contact an authorized Cressi dealer for servicing.

Battery Replacement

Battery replacement is a delicate operation. Replace the battery when the low battery icon appears. A solid battery icon means all functions are available, but replacement is recommended, especially in cold conditions. A flashing battery icon disables dive functions.

IMPORTANT: Do not replace the battery during desaturation, as this will erase desaturation data. Do not dive for 48 hours after changing the battery. Reset time and date after replacement. Unscrew the back cover with a coin. Check the battery and compartment for corrosion. If corrosion is present, contact Cressi service. If all is well, remove the battery, respecting polarity. Before closing, clean the compartment and apply silicone grease to the seal. Do not overtighten the cap.

NOTE: Battery life varies depending on storage time, dive duration, backlight use, and temperature.

NOTE: Do not overtighten the cap. Do not touch or clean the pressure sensor.

NOTE: Ensure the instrument is watertight.

IMPORTANT: Malfunctions or water damage due to incorrect battery replacement are not covered by warranty.

Warranty

LIMITED WARRANTY: Cressi provides a limited warranty for Cressi dive computers and accessories to the original purchaser. This warranty does not limit consumer rights under applicable national legislation.

Cressi or an authorized service center will repair or replace defective products at their discretion during the warranty period. The warranty is valid in the country of purchase. For EU countries, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Turkey, the warranty is valid across these countries. For other countries, service may be available upon payment of maintenance fees and shipping costs.

Warranty Period: Two years for dive computers, one year for consumables and accessories (straps, buckles, etc.).

How to Obtain Warranty Service: Contact your authorized Cressi dealer for instructions on how to file a claim. Ensure shipping is prepaid if returning the product.

Important Notes: Data stored on the product may be lost during repair or replacement. Cressi is not responsible for any loss of data. Create backups of important data. Replaced parts become Cressi property. Cressi or authorized service centers may use new, like-new, or refurbished parts.