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how to attach a diving gauge to a regulator?

Diving gauges are used to monitor the amount of air consumed from the scuba tank, the depth of the dive, and the time used under the water. The pressure gauge and depth gauge are the most essential gauges used by divers and they are often combined into a composite diving gauge. It is very important to know how to attach the diving gauge to the rest of the diving kit before going into the water. This brief guide outlines the basic procedure for connecting the diving gauge.

Items Required
Make sure you have the following items in place before you start:
* First stage regulator
* Second stage regulator
* Submersible pressure gauge
* Hexagonal allen key
* Silicone grease
* Adjustable wrench
* Soapy water

1. Examine the Ports on the Regulator
The regulator will have both high pressure (HP) and low pressure (LP) ports. Each type of port is usually labelled and it accepts a different size of plug and hose fitting. The submersible pressure gauge (SPG) should be connected to the high pressure port. Inspect the ports carefully and select the high pressure port for the SPG. Other low pressure ports will be used by the second stage regulator and other accessories. More information about these ports can be found in the schematic diagram in the user's manual.

2. Attach Components to the Regulator
With the allen key, take out the plugs from the ports. Then cover the O-rings on the hoses for the pressure gauge and the second stage regulator with silicone grease. A thin layer of grease will be sufficient. This will create a tighter seal after you attach the pressure gauge hose to the port. Tighten the hose with the wrench. But do not make the connection too tight so it does not damage the O-rings. Connect the second stage to the low pressure port in a similar way. Then connect the first stage regulator to the tank using the appropriate valve and tighten it with your fingers.

3. Test the Submersible Pressure Gauge
It is important to check that the connection to the scuba tank is air-tight. Hold down the pressure gauge and open the scuba tank valve very slowly. There will be some hisses as it opens. After the valve is fully opened, put some soapy water at the pressure port and along the hose. If there are no bubbles, it means that the connection is air tight.

Next, confirm that the pressure gauge is actually reading the pressure in the tank. Open the scuba tank valve gradually, observe the reading on the gauge, then open it fully. As you open it fully the reading on the pressure gauge should increase. Then close the valve slowly; the dial on the pressure gauge should decrease and return to its original position.

It is also necessary to test the breathing from the second stage regulator. Use the demand valves to breathe and check that the air is coming through the first stage. Thereafter, ensure that the purge valves are functioning properly. Depress the buttons in front to release the pressure and observe the result. Finally, turn off the valve on the scuba tank and release the pressure from the entire diving kit by using the purge button on the second stage. Disconnect the regulator from the tank before storing the tank and regulator.

Conclusion
Attaching your diving gauge to the regulator is quite simple when you follow the steps given above. Before you start connecting any components, make sure you read the manufacturer's guidelines and user's manual carefully. If you need any clarification, contact a qualified scuba diving technician or the customer support service of the supplier of your diving kit.