Waydoo Subnado User Guide | Manual | Safety
Version 3.1 | 2024.06
Waydoo Technical Support
This guide may be updated without notice. Check the official Waydoo website for the latest version: www.waydootech.com
I Disclaimer
Please read this product manual and related warnings and Safety Guidelines carefully before use. Understand your legal rights, responsibilities, and safety instructions. This product is an underwater scooter. Improper use may cause severe injury or death. Use this product at your own risk. Users must understand and accept the inherent risks. Misuse may cause personal injury or property/product damage. Use only original or Waydoo certified accessories. By using this product, you accept its terms and content. Users are responsible for their actions and consequences. Waydoo reserves the right to change components, specifications, or information without prior notice. For the latest information, visit www.waydootech.com.
WARNING: Minors under 16 years of age must be good swimmers and accompanied by a competent guardian fully familiar with the product and manual, including Safety Guidelines. Safety Guidelines provide partial knowledge; combine with general safety knowledge and common sense. Read the Disclaimer and Safety Guidelines carefully. Familiarize yourself with the product's functions. Improper operation may cause serious injury or damage. Users must be fully familiar with the product before operating. Never use damaged, unmaintained, or non-Waydoo supplied/recommended parts. Follow Waydoo instructions for installation and use. This document contains safety instructions, operation information, and maintenance. Read all instructions and warnings carefully before assembling, setting up, and using.
FCC Cautions: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference. (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Shenzhen Waydoo Intelligence Technology Co., Ltd. MADE IN CHINA. (3) Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
II Overview
2.1 Brief Introduction
Established in 2018, Shenzhen Waydoo Intelligence Technology Co., Ltd. is a high-tech enterprise integrating R&D, production, and sales of water sports high-tech products. Waydoo launched the first underwater scooter, Waydoo Subnado, through technical innovations. Subnado features an advanced built-in battery design, integrating a 98Wh lithium battery, brushless motor, motor drive, control, and charging circuit inside a 60mm diameter aluminum cylinder, significantly reducing product volume. It is the first in the industry to use a USB-C charging system, supporting fast charging protocols like PD 3.0 and charging up to 100W, also capable of charging other USB devices. The power system uses a small diameter water jet for propulsion, achieving up to 6.5 kg thrust. Its compact size and portability make it ideal for travel. Waydoo offers accessories like board and arm accessories. Arm accessories allow users to fix Subnado on the arm without occupying both hands. The quick-release & installation system enables switching between multiple scenarios, providing a perfect underwater experience.
2.2 Safety Guidelines
Failure to follow these guidelines may result in serious injury or death.
- Minors under 16 must be accompanied by a guardian.
- Refer to the user manual and watch tutorial videos before use.
- Do not use if under the influence of alcohol/drugs, or if not physically or mentally fit for water sports.
- Keep away from fire. Avoid heavy pressure, squeezing, and dropping.
- Operate only underwater. Do not let the motor run in air for more than 10 seconds.
- Ambient temperature for use: 0°C ~ 40°C (32°F ~ 104°F). Storage temperature: -10°C ~ 50°C (14°F ~ 122°F). Keep in shade when not in use.
- Keep fingers, hair, clothes, swimwear, drawstrings, necklaces, jewelry, netting, and loose items away from the propeller to avoid injury or damage.
- Do not use in waters with mud, sand, debris, seaweed, algae, or floating objects to prevent foreign objects from entering the propeller and damaging the power unit.
- Pay attention to water conditions; ensure suitability for water sports.
- Before use, check for product damage, ensure the waterproof cover is in place, and verify the propeller is working normally.
- Recommended to wear a swimming cap or helmet, avoid loose clothing, and maintain a safe distance from others, especially those with long hair or loose clothing.
- Hold the Handle Bracket tightly and do not point the front or tail at faces, especially eyes.
- Do not use a damaged or defective product.
- Do not use until operating procedures and risks are fully understood.
- Do not disassemble or repair personally due to internal batteries and circuitry to avoid short-circuiting, electric shock, and fire.
- This product is not a substitute for basic swimming ability.
WARNING: This product contains an internal lithium-ion battery, posing risks of fire, explosion, and burns. Inspect product housing for damage before charging. Never charge if damaged, near heat, or in water. Ensure battery connections are dry. Avoid excessive vibration, bumping, or collision. Keep away from volatile substances, acidic materials, sharp objects. Dispose of batteries according to local laws. Never place in fire or furnace. This is not a lifesaving device or buoyancy aid. Use appropriate safety equipment like a wetsuit, life vest, or personal flotation device. Check battery life often and return to shallow water before it depletes. Always have a companion or spotter. Maintain safe distance from watercraft, people, animals, plants, obstacles, and recreational equipment. Do not use in bad weather, strong offshore winds, or hazardous waters like riptides or undercurrents. If released underwater, the unit will sink.
III Waydoo Subnado
3.1 Product Diagram
The Waydoo Subnado consists of the following main components:
- Rear cover
- Handle Bracket
- Power switch
- Propeller
- Trigger
- Main unit
- Waterproof cover
3.2 Product Feature
- Two-speed thrust: Switch between high and low gear by pressing the trigger twice quickly. One beep indicates low gear, two beeps indicate high gear.
- Super gear: Quickly press the trigger three times. Three beeps indicate Super gear. Within 1 minute, press the trigger to start the propeller at maximum speed for ultimate thrust. After one minute, the unit automatically exits Super gear and returns to the previous gear. To re-enter Super gear, press the trigger three times quickly again.
Note: The battery State of Charge (SOC) must meet specific ranges to enter setting gear (refer to Table 1).
Gear | Battery SOC requirement |
---|---|
High gear | >25% |
Super gear | >37.5% |
Note: When battery SOC is below 25%, it automatically switches to low gear. When SOC is below 37.5%, it automatically exits super gear and switches to high gear.
IV Charging
4.1 How to charge Subnado
- Select a charger that supports PD protocol for faster charging.
- Open the waterproof cover, facing it down to prevent water ingress. Check the USB-C port for moisture. If wet, dry it thoroughly. If seawater is present, clean with alcohol. Ensure the port is dry before proceeding.
- Insert the USB-C charging cable to start charging. The power indicator displays circularly as a marquee, with the number of lights indicating current power.
- The speed of the marquee indicates charging speed; a faster marquee means faster charging.
Note: A humidity-sensing sticker is attached to the USB-C port. If it turns from white to red, moisture is present. Dry the port with a cotton swab or tissue before placing the device upside down. Contact Waydoo After-sales Team for support if necessary.
4.2 Reverse charging function
- Open the waterproof cover, ensuring no water enters the USB-C plug or remains on the surface.
- Power on the Subnado first, then plug in the USB-C cable. Connect the cable to the target device to begin charging. (Subnado must be powered on before connecting the device).
- After charging is complete, unplug the cable and turn off the Subnado.
- Install the waterproof cover.
4.3 Waterproof cover installed securely in place.
The waterproof cover prevents water from entering the USB-C port. Improper installation or lack of grease can cause water ingress and damage. Ensure the USB-C port is free of water. Grease acts as a seal for the waterproof cover. Install securely to prevent seawater leakage.
4.4. Reference Charging Time
Charger Wattage | Charging Time |
---|---|
10W Charger | approx. 10 hours |
18-24W Charger | approx. 7 hours |
36W Charger | approx. 3.5 hours |
45W Charger | approx. 3 hours |
60-66W Charger | approx. 2 hours |
100W Charger | approx. 1.2 hours |
V Assembly Steps
5.1 Install the handle bracket on the main unit, and make sure the Wired Thumb Controller interface aligns with the correct position. (Take the handle bracket as an example)
Diagram shows attaching the handle bracket to the main unit.
5.2 Instructions for grease
Diagram shows applying grease.
The controller connector is designed to prevent water from entering the connector port. Moisture can cause the motor to run nonstop, lead to a nonconductive connector, or cause permanent damage due to corroded pins or contacts. Keeping the connector port dry is critical.
Please follow Waydoo's official checklist and maintenance notes. Before connecting the controller:
- Check the connector for water. If present, wash with fresh water, clean with cotton swabs or paper tissue, and air dry.
- Check grease application. If insufficient, add 2-3mm of grease to the connector, plug and unplug multiple times to spread evenly. Remove excess grease.
- Check the connector port O-ring for wear. Replace damaged O-rings and ensure sufficient greasing for waterproofness.
Notes:
- If the Subnado is irresponsive after grease application, check for corroded copper contacts, excessive grease hindering installation, or corroded controller pins (replace controller if necessary).
- Apply grease to O-rings around the waterproof cover for waterproofness.
- Unplug and check the wired controller after each use. Clean and dry the connector if moisture is present.
Accessories Use Instruction
Use M4x8 screws to connect the handgrip to the Arm mount.
Arm Mount Assembly:
- Hold the handgrip and place the Arm mount on the outside of the forearm. Wrap the strap around the forearm 1-2 times, depending on arm circumference.
- Fasten the buckle on one end of the strap.
- Wrap the strap around the forearm 2-3 times and fix with nylon tape.
- Install the main unit to the Arm mount through the quick release part.
Subnado Leg Mount Assembly:
Fix the Subnado leg mount to the outside of the leg. Install the main unit to the leg mount through the quick release part. Use the specially designed straps for the leg mount.
Waist belt Assembly:
Fasten the belt around the waist. Pass the straps on both sides of the waist belt through the holes above the leg mount, and then fix them with nylon straps.
Cylinder Clip Assembly:
Insert the bottom plate of the cylinder clip through the cylinder strap. Tighten the cylinder clip screw to fix it on the cylinder. The Subnado main unit can be installed on the cylinder clip through the quick release part.
Slide-in Fin Box Mount Installation:
- Ensure the Quick Release Clamp of the Slide-in Fin Box Mount is firm. Pull out the latch on the mount to prepare for insertion.
- Insert the mount into the base slot and align it properly.
- Reinsert the latch to secure the mount.
- Align Subnado with the mounting base, press until it clicks, and ensure it is firmly attached and stable.
Controller Wire Clip Installation:
- Confirm the surface is clean and even before installation. Wipe off any dirt or dust, and keep the surface dry.
- Peel off the protective liner on the controller wire clip's adhesive pad, attach the clip to the board, and firmly press to ensure a tight bond.
- Let the adhesive cure for half an hour for a stronger bond. Gently rock the clip to check adhesion security before entering the water.
Subnado accessories mount:
Install the accessories mount on the main unit and tighten the screws to secure.
Assembly Steps Continued
Handle Bracket Installation:
Install the handle bracket on the main unit. Turn the waterproof cover counterclockwise to the illustrated position. Install the wired thumb controller to the corresponding port. Tighten the waterproof cover clockwise.
Wrist Strap: A wrist strap is recommended to prevent dropping the product. Use the first screw hole to secure the wrist strap. Warning: To prevent entanglement, DO NOT use the two rear screw holes to secure the wrist strap.
Installation steps for Subnado Water Cannon Kit:
- Unscrew the main unit's rear cover clockwise.
- Install the shell on the rear cover. Press down on the nozzle base to connect the hose to the shell.
- Installation of Water Cannon Kit is complete.
Note: Please turn clockwise and apply force to the unit first. After feeling two sudden jumps, the thread is in the best installation position. Apply appropriate force along the motor axis and rotate the shell counterclockwise. Otherwise, it is easy to fail to install or install crookedly.
Notes on Use:
- DO NOT use twin handle bracket with a single Subnado.
- Install the wired thumb controller in a dry environment. Dry the port before installation if wet. Clean and dry the connector and port with cotton swabs or tissue paper before use.
- Fully charge the Subnados before use to avoid imbalanced performance.
- Connect the controllers before using the handle bracket. Do not submerge the disconnected controller connector and port in seawater to prevent poor connection due to corroded pin connectors.
- Ensure Subnados are on the same gear during operation to prevent imbalanced thrust output.
Finger Safe-guard Installation:
If users' fingers are slender and they worry about injury, they can install the finger safe-guard. (Note: Using a finger safe-guard increases water resistance, resulting in increased power consumption, affecting efficiency and reducing battery life/thrust.)
- Turn off the main unit. Unscrew the rear cover clockwise, remove the O-ring, and take off the propeller.
- Remove the pin.
- Put the finger safe-guard into the groove, press each end into place, and ensure the end of the finger safe-guard is engaged with the notch in the groove.
- Check the grease condition. If insufficient, add grease. Install the propeller with the pin properly seated.
- After installing the O-ring, check grease condition. If insufficient, add grease. Align the rear cover center with the shaft and tighten the rear cover counterclockwise.
For assembling and using other accessories, please refer to relevant documents on the official website: www.waydootech.com.
VI How to use
Users must be fully familiar with the product before operation. Waydoo recommends reading and following each step.
- Check if the waterproof cover is in place (refer to IV - Charging).
- Check the plug for water and the grease condition (refer to installation steps).
- Press the trigger to confirm normal function and check throttle control.
- Power on the device, check the battery level (refer to Figure 1), and confirm the main unit's self-check tone is normal.
- Gear Selection: Quickly pull the trigger twice to switch between low and high gear. Quickly pull the trigger three times to engage Super gear. The number of beeps indicates the gear: one beep for low gear, two beeps for high gear, and three beeps for Super gear. (Super gear lasts for 1 minute. To re-enter, press the trigger three times quickly.)
Cruise Mode: To turn on/off cruise mode, simultaneously hold down the trigger and power on the machine.
Figure 1: LED Light vs. Capacity
LED Light | Capacity |
---|---|
(All lights on) | <8% |
(7 lights on) | 8%-18% |
(6 lights on) | 18%-25% |
(5 lights on) | 25%-37.5% |
(4 lights on) | 37.5%-50% |
(3 lights on) | 50%-62.5% |
(2 lights on) | 62.5%-75% |
(1 light on) | 75%-87.5% |
(No lights on) | 87.5%-100% |
Note: All of the above and below half-segment LED lights represent flashing LED lights.
Operation Modes:
Regular Working Mode:
Power-on indication: 8 LED lights flash twice and show the battery power level.
How it works: Under regular working mode, the propeller rotates when the trigger is pressed and stops after releasing.
Cruise Mode:
Power-on indication: 8 LED lights flash once and show the battery power level.
How it works: Under cruise mode, the propeller rotates when the trigger is pressed. After 15 seconds, a transient speed change enters auto cruise. Users can release the trigger, and the propeller will continue rotating. Press the trigger again to stop rotating and exit auto cruise.
VII Product Specifications
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Product weight | About 1.4kg |
Product diameter | About 377*60mm (propeller cover: 70mm) |
Maximum speed | 1.4m/s |
Maximum depth | 60m |
Battery life (maximum) | 56mins |
Operating temperature | 0°C~40°C (32°F~104°F) |
Maximum thrust | 6.5kg (1min) |
Accessories Mount | Support three 1/4 inch threaded mounting holes |
Charging voltage | 5V~20V |
Plug type | USB-C |
Maximum power | 100W (PD3.0) |
Charging temperature | 0~40°C (32°F~104°F) |
Charging time | 1.2H (100W) |
Firmware Upgrade: Download the Subnado Upgrade Tool from Waydoo's official website "Download" page to upgrade Subnado to the latest firmware for better product experiences.
VIII Error and Tone Indication
Diagram shows LED indicators on the charging port (LED 1 on the left, LED 8 on the right).
8.1 Error indication and solution
Fault Indicator | Fault | Solution |
---|---|---|
(6 green, 2 black LEDs) | Battery Over-discharge | Please contact Waydoo support team. |
(4 green, 4 black LEDs) | Motor Communication Failure | Update the firmware. |
(3 green, 5 black LEDs) | PD Communication Failure | 1. Use recommended chargers that meet published charging protocol requirements (e.g., PD/QC). 2. If the problem persists with a new charger, contact Waydoo support team. |
(2 green, 6 black LEDs) | MCU Overheat | 1. Shut down the device immediately. 2. Place the device in a low-temperature environment and wait for it to cool down until the fault light disappears. |
(1 green, 7 black LEDs) | Charging Overheat | 1. Shut down the device immediately. 2. Place the device in a low-temperature environment and wait for it to cool down until the fault light disappears. |
Note: Half-segment LEDs represent flashing LED lights.
8.2 Tone Indication
Tone | Indication |
---|---|
1 2 3 4 | Main unit Self-checking passes. |
(beep) (beep) (beep) | Gear switch: One beep indicates switching to low gear; Two beeps indicate switching to high gear; Three beeps indicate switching to Super gear. |
(long beep) | Unable to enter the setting gear. |
(short beep, repeated) | Reminds users to power off the main unit to avoid running out of power (e.g., no trigger press within 15 minutes, or not charging/charging complete). |
XI Maintenance
Improper maintenance, disassembly, or repair can cause damage, personal injury (including electric shock), and void the warranty. Follow these guidelines:
9.1 Cleaning after use
- After using the product in seawater, rinse the whole unit with fresh water and dry it promptly to avoid exterior corrosion and discoloration.
- Ensure the waterproof cover is tightened before rinsing with fresh water.
- Check for stones, salt, sand, or dirt in parts like connecting parts and propellers. Clean them regularly if necessary.
- If foreign objects are wrapped around the propeller, carefully remove the main unit's rear cover and clean.
- After cleaning the main body, remove the waterproof cover and clean the charging port with clean, dry cotton swabs to ensure no water, sand, or foreign objects remain.
- Dry the main unit before removing the waterproof cover to avoid seawater dripping inside and damaging the USB-C port. If water enters the charging port, dry it immediately.
- If seawater gets into the wired thumb controller's connector, use a little fresh water or alcohol to clean it and dry it promptly to avoid poor contact caused by corrosion.
- If the oxide layer of the shell is accidentally damaged, repair it promptly to avoid accelerating shell corrosion.
9.2 Storage
- Ensure the power switch is off and keep the product away from strong magnetic environments.
- Store within a temperature range of -10°C~50°C.
- Do not store in humid, direct sunlight, or harsh environments that may damage electronic devices.
- Do not place in open flames and keep out of reach of minors under 16.
- Prevent the battery from being over-discharged due to prolonged non-use.
- If not using the product for a long time, ensure the power level is between 50% and 62.5%. Charge every three months to maintain this level.
Warranty Terms
Limited Warranty
Waydoo warrants the original buyer against material and workmanship defects for one (1) year from the date of receipt for specific parts. Repair or replacement does not extend the warranty period beyond its original expiration date. Refer to Appendix I for specific coverage periods. Proof of purchase is required; otherwise, the dispatch date will be used as the warranty start date.
How Do I Get After-Sales Service?
If a product malfunctions during the warranty period, obtain after-sales service by contacting your local authorized dealer or Waydoo After-Sales Support Team via email at support@waydootech.com. Waydoo may not provide service in all regions, and policies may vary. Charges may apply for services not covered by this Limited Warranty.
Request For Warranty Service
To request warranty service, please contact Waydoo or an authorized dealer. Users may need to fill out a product warranty card and return the product to an authorized service center. Follow these steps:
- Fill out and submit a Warranty Claim Form, providing photos and videos to help assess the request.
- Waydoo AFS will contact you via email to offer troubleshooting instructions or request further information.
- Waydoo AFS will provide instructions on what to do next based on their findings.
What Should I Do Before Getting Warranty Service?
When contacting Waydoo, provide a detailed description of the product problem. Waydoo technical support will attempt remote diagnosis and resolution. If the problem persists, you may need to send the product back. Follow Waydoo's service process:
- Agree that Waydoo is not responsible for loss or disclosure of data (confidential, proprietary, personal) contained in returned products.
- Provide Waydoo with sufficient and safe access to your product for service.
- Remove all functional parts, additional parts, alterations, modified parts, and attachments not covered by this warranty.
- Ensure the product or part is free of legal restrictions preventing replacement.
- If you are not the owner, obtain authorization from the owner for Waydoo to provide service.
Replacement Products and Parts
When a product or part is replaced, the replacement item becomes your property, and the replaced item becomes Waydoo's property. Only unaltered Waydoo products and parts are eligible. Replacements may not be new but will be in good working order and functionally equivalent.
Use of Personal Contact Information and Data
By obtaining service, you authorize Waydoo to store, use, and process your contact information for service, recalls, or safety issues. Waydoo may transfer your information to entities acting on its behalf and may disclose it as required by law.
What is NOT Covered by This After-Sales Policy?
This policy does not cover:
- Parts not specified in the APPENDIX *.
- Damage from normal wear and tear, color change, etc.
- Damage caused by crash, physical impact, fire, user error, or non-manufacturing factors.
- Damage caused by unauthorized modification, disassembly, improper installation, incorrect use, or operation not in accordance with manuals.
- Damage caused by cleaning products or parts not in accordance with manuals.
- Damage caused by an unauthorized service provider.
- Damage caused by unauthorized modification of circuits, mismatch or misuse of battery/charger.
- Damage caused by activities not following official instructions or manuals.
- Damage caused by operating in bad weather (strong winds, rain, sand/dust storms, direct sunlight).
- Damage caused by operating in unsafe/improper environments (water depth less than 1.2m, waters with debris, animals, rocky shores).
- Damage caused by forced operation when components are deteriorated or damaged.
- Damage caused by reliability or compatibility issues with unauthorized third-party parts.
- Damage caused by operating with a drained or defective battery.
- Further damage caused by continued use after warranty claim submission or problem reporting.
- Loss of, or damage to, data by an unauthorized product.
- Waydoo Subnado warranties are non-transferable and apply only to the original purchaser.
- Problems determined not to be manufacturing defects after Waydoo's inspection, or if the purchaser cannot provide valid proof of the issue source.
- Failure or damage caused by third-party products integrated into the Waydoo product.
- Products or parts with altered or missing serial numbers.
Disclaimer
Limited Warranty policies and costs vary by local laws and Waydoo service availability. You may need to send the faulty product back to Waydoo or an authorized service center. Waydoo will examine the product to identify the problem and responsibility. Waydoo will cover repair/replacement costs if the issue qualifies under this Limited Warranty policy; the customer is responsible for shipping costs. If the issue is not covered, Waydoo will inform you of the cost for Customer Paid Repair Service or return the product. Waydoo will not start repair until you agree to the cost. If you disagree, Waydoo may return the product at your expense. Waydoo does not provide a global warranty; service is generally available only in the region of purchase. Cross-regional repair may be possible at an additional charge, subject to Waydoo's discretion. The customer is responsible for losses incurred from providing an incorrect or invalid delivery address or refusing delivery. For international transport, you must obtain Waydoo's consent and bear customs duties, taxes, and clearance costs. If the product is extremely damaged due to non-manufacturing factors (crash, impact), its performance may be severely affected beyond repair. Waydoo may not be able to provide service. If service is restricted due to force majeure or other objective factors, Waydoo may charge a necessary fee. Waydoo reserves the right to refuse warranty service if the user cannot provide sufficient proof of compliance with the limited warranty.
Before sending your product for repair: Remove any attached customized decorations and items; Waydoo is not responsible for their damage or loss. To guarantee your legal rights, check your product upon delivery. Report any defects within 24 hours; otherwise, it will be deemed intact. Waydoo reserves the right to update this policy.
Limitation of Liability: Waydoo is responsible for loss or damage to your product only while it is in Waydoo's possession or transit. Waydoo is not responsible for data loss. Waydoo, its affiliates, suppliers, resellers, or service providers are not liable for consequential damages, lost profits, business revenue, goodwill, or anticipated savings. Total liability for damages from any cause shall not exceed the amount paid for the product, except for bodily injury (including death) or damage to real property/tangible personal property for which Waydoo is liable by law. Limitations may not apply if states/jurisdictions do not allow exclusion of incidental or consequential damages.
Your Other Rights: This Limited Warranty provides specific legal rights. You may have other rights according to applicable laws or written agreements with Waydoo. For other after-sales policy details, technical support, and requests, email Waydoo at support@waydootech.com or contact local authorized dealers.
Appendix I warranty period
Part | Northern America | Europe | Australia | New Zealand | Other countries or areas |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Main unit | 1 year | 2 years | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
Rear cover | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months |
Charger | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months |
Twin Engine Handle Bracket/Handle Bracket/Wired Thumb Controller | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months |
*The accessories are subject to the packing list of your purchased product.
*The main unit contains only the main control system, motor, and battery.
*Any parts not specified in the official warranty key-parts list will not enjoy this limited warranty policy.
Safety/Certification Icons: [General Information Icon] [Fire Hazard Icon] [Electrical Hazard Icon] [Age Restriction: 16+]