Garmin Descent S1 User Manual

Introduction

WARNING: Please read the Important Safety and Product Information guide in the product box for warnings and other important information.

NOTICE: For optimal performance, all devices paired with the Descent S1 must have their software updated to the latest version. Failure to update devices may result in compatibility or functionality issues.

Device Overview

The Descent S1 features the following components:

• (1) Power Button: Used for turning the buoy on and off.
• (2) Status LED: Indicates the operational status of the buoy.
• (3) Side Line Attachment Point: For attaching a line to a boat or surface buoy.
• (4) Bottom Anchor Line Attachment Point: For attaching a line to an anchor.

Getting Started

Follow these steps for the first use of your buoy. To ensure compatibility when pairing devices, go to an area with internet access so devices can download required software updates.

1. Charge the buoy (Charging the Buoy, page 3).
2. Turn on the buoy (Turning the Buoy On and Off, page 3).
3. Configure the buoy using the Garmin Dive app (Configuring the Buoy with the Garmin Dive App, page 6).
4. Check for software updates (Updating Device Software, page 10). Regular software updates provide changes and improvements that enhance privacy, security, and features.
5. Create a dive network by connecting your dive computer and Descent T2 transceiver to other divers and the buoy (Dive Network, page 6).
6. Start a dive session (Starting a Dive Session, page 8).

Charging the Buoy

WARNING: This device is powered by a lithium-ion battery. Refer to the Important Safety and Product Information guide in the product box for warnings and other important information.

NOTICE: To prevent corrosion, thoroughly clean and dry the contacts and the area around them before charging and connecting the device to a computer. See “Caring for Your Device,” page 10.

1. Squeeze the sides of the charging clip.
2. Align the clip with the contacts on the bottom of the buoy and release the clip.
3. Connect the cable to the USB-C charging port or a 5W or higher rated USB power adapter. The Status LED indicates the battery charge level.

LED Indicator Operation:

Turning the Buoy On and Off

• To turn on the buoy, press and hold the button for two seconds until you hear a beep. The buoy beeps and the Status LED flashes green when it turns on. The buoy beeps and the Status LED flashes slowly white when it is ready to connect.
• To turn off the buoy, press and hold the button for five seconds until you hear a beep. The Status LED remains solid white while you press and hold the button, and beeps when the buoy turns off.

Status LED

The Status LED indicates the system status, connection status, and charging status.

System Status

Connection Status

Charging Status

Diving

To begin a dive, you can use a compatible Descent dive computer paired with a Descent T2 transceiver and the Descent S1 buoy. While diving, surface users can send and receive messages from divers, view the approximate location below the water surface, and view diver depth and tank pressure information. Divers can send messages to the surface and return to the buoy using the location data shown on their dive computers. At the end of the dive activity, divers can sync their computers with the buoy to view underwater heatmaps in the Garmin Dive app. For more information, see the Descent dive computer owner’s manual.

Dive Warnings

WARNING:

• Do not exceed the maximum depth rating for the device (Specifications, page 11).
• Ensure you fully understand how to use the device, its displayed data, and its limitations. If you have any doubts or uncertainties about this manual or the device itself, clarify them before diving with it. Remember that each of us is responsible for our own actions.
• When properly configured and connected to a compatible device, this device can monitor the estimated tank pressure of a connected diver. This is for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as the sole source of this information.
• Perform safety checks before diving, such as verifying: device operation and settings, display operation, battery level, tank pressure, and air bubbles to ensure hoses and connections are secure.
• For safety reasons, never dive alone. Dive with a designated buddy, even if someone is monitoring your dive from the surface. You should also remain with others for a period of time after diving, as symptoms of decompression sickness (DCI) can be delayed or occur as a result of surface activities.
• This device is not intended for commercial or professional use. It is for recreational use only. Commercial or professional diving activities may expose the user to extreme depths or conditions, increasing the risk of decompression sickness.

CAUTION:

• Sending messages and navigating while diving requires two compatible receivers with the latest compatible software version to be in a direct line of sight. Obstructions and other environmental factors can affect receiver connectivity and delay or prevent messages from being sent and received. With good connectivity, data can be successfully transmitted between divers in less than 20 seconds. If connectivity is poor, devices will attempt to send data for up to two minutes. This is a supplementary feature and is not a primary means of obtaining rescue assistance, nor should it replace traditional dive safety tools and procedures.
• To send messages and/or track the location of compatible devices, this device must be connected to a compatible mobile device using the device’s Wi-Fi connection and the Garmin Dive app. The range of the device’s Wi-Fi connection will vary depending on the make and model of the mobile device used. This product should not be treated as a primary means of obtaining rescue assistance, nor should it replace traditional dive safety tools and procedures.
• Surface conditions can affect device performance and connectivity. Certain objects, including but not limited to, boat hulls, swim platforms, reefs, or kelp, can block the device’s signal and cause interruptions or delays in data transmission.
• Do not rely solely on the buoy for underwater navigation. To use the return-to-buoy feature, you must have it in sight. Buoy location and distance information is not precise and should be used to supplement, not replace, diver training in navigation, search, and positioning.
• This device does not function like a life vest and therefore cannot support the weight of a person or dive gear. Using this device in such a manner may cause injury and/or loss or damage to property.
• The device’s range and availability of messages and/or location tracking depends on the type of compatible devices it is communicating with (Dive Product and Feature Compatibility, page 12).

Dive Notes

NOTICE:

• For best results, ensure the buoy is attached to a line, surface buoy, or anchor line at the surface where it is not obstructed by a boat hull and is within sight of divers with compatible devices.
• If towing the buoy, ensure it is attached to a proper surface buoy and flag so it is visible to watercraft.
• Submerging the device for extended periods may reduce its performance and/or damage it.

Configuring the Buoy with the Garmin Dive App

Before first use, you must connect to the buoy using the Garmin Dive app and configure Wi-Fi connectivity. To ensure compatibility when pairing devices, go to an area with internet access so devices can download required software updates.

1. To turn on the buoy, press and hold the button for two seconds until you hear a beep. The buoy beeps and the Status LED flashes green when it turns on. The buoy beeps and the Status LED flashes slowly white when it is ready to connect.
2. Select an option:
   • Download the Garmin Dive app using the mobile device you will use at the surface during your dive session.
   • If you already have the Garmin Dive app installed on your mobile device, update the app to the latest version.
3. Scan the QR code on the bottom of the buoy using your mobile device’s camera. When your mobile device connects to the buoy’s Wi-Fi network, the Status LED flashes blue for three seconds. The Status LED then double flashes white when your mobile device is connected.

NOTE: You can manually connect to the buoy’s Wi-Fi network using your mobile device’s system settings. The Wi-Fi network name is “DescentS1-” followed by the six-digit device ID located next to the QR code. On your mobile device, select the buoy’s Wi-Fi network and enter “TSB” followed by the six-digit device ID.

NOTE: You can change the Wi-Fi password in the Garmin Dive app if needed. To change the Wi-Fi password later, select More > Garmin Devices, select the buoy, and select General > Manage Wi-Fi Password.

Dive Network

After pairing devices, the Descent S1 buoy creates a dive network that connects surface users, via the Garmin Dive app, to divers using a Descent dive computer and a Descent T2 transceiver. After the dive, the buoy syncs data with dive computers, allowing each user to view their underwater heatmap and get approximate location information in the Garmin Dive app.

Pairing Dive Computers and Transceivers

For more information on pairing and software updates, see the Descent device owner’s manual. To ensure compatibility when pairing devices, go to an area with internet access so devices can download required software updates.

• Pair each user’s dive computer with a Descent T2 transceiver and set the location to My Tank.
• Pair each user’s dive computer with the Garmin Dive app on their phone.
• Use the Garmin Dive app to check for software updates for each dive computer and Descent T2 transceiver.
• Pair dive computers with available Descent T2 transceivers and set the location to Next Diver.

Pairing Dive Computers Using Bluetooth

You can pair compatible Descent dive computers with the buoy using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi (Pairing Dive Computers Using Wi-Fi, page 8). NOTE: Descent Mk2i dive computers can only be paired using Wi-Fi.

1. Connect all Descent dive computers and transceivers, and check for software updates (Pairing Dive Computers and Transceivers, page 7).
2. Place compatible Descent dive computers within 10 m (33 ft) of the buoy.
3. To turn on the buoy, press and hold the button for two seconds until you hear a beep. The buoy beeps and the Status LED flashes green when it turns on. The buoy beeps and the Status LED flashes slowly white when it is ready to connect.
4. Double-press the button to enter Bluetooth pairing mode. A beep sounds and the Status LED flashes blue when pairing begins.

NOTE: Wait approximately half a second between button presses. The buoy does not register rapid button presses.

5. On the dive computers, select Dive Setup > Dive Network & Air Integration > Buoys > Add New.
6. Select the buoy ID that matches the number printed on the bottom of the buoy next to the QR code.
7. Press BACK, select SubWave Features, and verify that Share Position and Send Message are enabled.
8. Repeat steps 5 through 7 for all dive computers to be used during the dive.
9. Double-press the button to exit Bluetooth pairing mode. A beep sounds and the Status LED flashes white when Wi-Fi connectivity mode is enabled.

The next time you turn on the buoy and a paired dive computer (one device must be within range of the other), they will connect automatically.

Pairing Dive Computers Using Wi-Fi

You can pair compatible Descent dive computers with the buoy using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth (Pairing Dive Computers Using Bluetooth, page 7).

1. Ensure all Descent dive computers and transceivers are paired and their software is up to date (Pairing Dive Computers and Transceivers, page 7).
2. Place compatible Descent dive computers within 10 m (33 ft) of the buoy.
3. To turn on the buoy, press and hold the button for two seconds until you hear a beep. The buoy beeps and the Status LED flashes green when it turns on. The buoy beeps and the Status LED flashes slowly white when it is ready to connect.
4. On the dive computers, select Dive Setup > Dive Network & Air Integration > Buoys > Add New.
5. Select the buoy ID that matches the number printed on the bottom of the buoy next to the QR code. NOTE: Dive computers automatically attempt to connect using the default Wi-Fi password. If you have changed the Wi-Fi password, you must enter the current password.
6. Enter the Descent S1 buoy Wi-Fi password if prompted.
7. Press BACK, select SubWave Features, and verify that Share Position and Send Message are enabled.
8. Repeat steps 4 through 7 for all dive computers to be used during the dive.

The next time you turn on the buoy and a paired dive computer (one device must be within range of the other), they will connect automatically.

Starting a Dive Session

CAUTION: For best results, calibrate the compass before each dive. Failure to calibrate the compass may result in poor location data, and divers may receive incorrect direction to the buoy.

NOTICE: Calibrate the compass outdoors. To improve direction accuracy, do not stand near objects that affect magnetic fields, such as vehicles, buildings, or high-voltage lines.

Before starting a dive session, you must configure the buoy using the Garmin Dive app (Configuring the Buoy with the Garmin Dive app, page 6) and then set up the dive network for everyone in your group (Dive Network, page 6).

1. To turn on the buoy, press and hold the button for two seconds until you hear a beep. The buoy beeps and the Status LED flashes green when it turns on. The buoy beeps and the Status LED flashes slowly white when it is ready to connect.
2. On your mobile device, open system settings and connect to the Descent S1 buoy Wi-Fi network.
3. In the Garmin Dive app, select More > Garmin Devices, select the buoy, and select Start Session.
4. Follow the on-screen compass calibration instructions, and slowly rotate the device in three directions. The Garmin Dive app will notify you when calibration is complete.
5. Select Divers and confirm all divers appear on the list.
6. Attach the buoy to your boat or a surface buoy using a safety line, and drop the buoy in the water (Buoy Placement Tips, page 9).
7. Begin your dive and use the Garmin Dive app to monitor divers from the surface.
8. Select Location to view the approximate location of divers below the water surface. TIP: Divers can return to the buoy during a dive using the location data displayed on their dive computer. See the Descent owner’s manual for more information.
9. Select Send Message to send messages to one or more divers and view received messages.
10. Select Stats to view depth and tank pressure data for each diver.
11. When the dive session is complete, select : > End Session.

After the dive, when paired dive computers are out of the water and within range of the buoy, they connect and sync automatically, allowing you to view underwater heatmaps and get approximate location information in the Garmin Dive app. If needed, you can select Dive Setup > Dive Network & Air Integration > Buoys, select the buoy, and select Sync to manually sync with the buoy after your dive.

Buoy Placement Tips

• To secure your boat with a line, tie the line to the boat’s stern line or anchor line and the side line attachment point on the Descent S1 buoy.
• If divers are towing the buoy, attach the line to a surface buoy and the side line attachment point on the Descent S1 buoy, with the diver’s reel attached to the surface buoy.
• To anchor the buoy, attach a line to an anchor and the bottom anchor line attachment point on the Descent S1 buoy. For visibility, tie another line to a surface buoy and the side line attachment point on the Descent S1 buoy. Do not tie a flag directly to the buoy.
• For best results and to maximize connectivity, place the buoy within 60 m (197 ft) of the surface support personnel in the direction of the dive site.
• Ensure there is an unobstructed, line-of-sight reception between the buoy and the diver below the surface. Any obstructions, such as a boat hull or underwater objects, can interfere with sending and receiving data.

Garmin Dive App

The Garmin Dive app allows you to download dive logs from a compatible Garmin device. You can add more details to your dives, including environmental conditions, photos, notes, and dive buddies. Using the map, you can find new dive sites and view location details and photos shared by other users. While diving with the Garmin buoy and compatible Garmin devices, you can view underwater heatmaps to get approximate location information. The Garmin Dive app syncs data to your Garmin Connect™ account. You can download the Garmin Dive app to your phone from your app store (garmin.com/diveapp).

Updating Device Software

The Garmin Dive app allows you to update the Descent S1 software when your mobile device is connected using Wi-Fi.

1. Connect your mobile device to the buoy’s Wi-Fi network (Configuring the Buoy with the Garmin Dive app, page 6).
2. In the Garmin Dive app, select More > Garmin Devices.
3. Select the buoy from the list.
4. Select General > Check for Updates. The app checks for software updates and prompts you to install the update if one is available.

Device Information

Caring for Your Device

NOTICE: Do not use sharp objects to clean the device. Do not use chemical cleaners, solvents, or insect repellents, as they can damage plastic components. After exposure to chlorinated or salt water, sunscreen, cosmetics, alcohol, or other harsh chemicals, rinse the device thoroughly with fresh water. Prolonged exposure to these substances can damage the casing. Avoid severe shock and undue abuse by avoiding unnecessary and abusive usage, which can shorten the lifespan of the product. Do not store the device where it can be exposed to extreme temperatures, as this can cause permanent damage. Stop using the device and its accessories if they are damaged or if they are operated outside the specified storage temperature ranges.

Cleaning the Buoy

1. After each dive, rinse the buoy with fresh water to remove salt and contaminants.
2. If necessary, clean the buoy with a soft cloth.

Long-Term Storage

If you are not going to use your Descent S1 for several months, charge the battery to at least 50% before storing it. Store the device in a cool, dry place with a temperature similar to average room temperature. Fully charge the device before using it again.

Specifications

Troubleshooting

Additional Resources

For more information about this product, visit the Garmin website.

• For additional operating instructions and articles, and to download software updates, visit support.garmin.com.
• Visit buy.garmin.com or contact your Garmin dealer for information about optional accessories and replacement parts.

Resetting the Buoy

You can reset the buoy to clear all paired devices and reset the Wi-Fi password.

1. With the buoy off, press and hold the button for ten seconds until you hear three beeps. The Status LED is solid green while you press and hold the button, and flashes orange as the buoy resets.
2. Wait for the buoy to reset. The buoy beeps once and the Status LED flashes green when it turns on. The buoy beeps and the Status LED flashes slowly white when it is ready to connect.

Dive Product and Feature Compatibility

You can pair multiple Descent devices to create a dive network that includes you and your dive buddies. Not all features are available for older devices. For more information, see the Descent device owner’s manual.

NOTICE: To access all features and enhancements, update your devices to the latest software versions. If software versions are incompatible, your dive computer displays the message: Connection to transmitter %1 failed. %1 is the name of the transceiver.

Displays your tank pressure and the tank pressure of divers connected in the dive network.

Displays the depth of divers connected in the dive network.

Displays the distance between divers connected in the dive network.

Displays the direction of travel for divers connected in the dive network.

Displays the public name of your transceiver and the names of transceivers connected in the dive network.

Allows you to send preset messages to divers with a Descent T2 transceiver or to the surface with the Descent S1 buoy.

Allows you to receive messages during a dive from divers with a paired Descent T2 transceiver or from the surface with the Descent S1 buoy.

Displays distance and direction information to return to the Descent S1 buoy.

About SubWave™ Technology

Compatible Descent devices use SubWave sonar technology to communicate with other compatible Descent devices. Several factors can affect communication between devices. For more information, see garmin.com/subwave.