About
V-Planner is a comprehensive decompression planning tool built for experienced technical divers who need precise, bubble-model-based dive profiles. It implements the VPM-B (Varying Permeability Model/Baker) algorithm, the most widely adopted bubble model in technical diving today, originally developed by Yount and Hoffman in 1986 and refined through 2002. Unlike traditional decompression models based on M-values, V-Planner calculates ascent ceilings using allowable gradients for bubble formation, tracking VPM nuclei of critical initial radii to simulate micro-bubble growth. This results in deeper decompression stops and lower overall supersaturation — aligning with established deep-diving practices like Pyle Stops, DIR, and ratio deco. The software supports virtually every modern dive configuration: Nitrox, Trimix, TriOx, HeliOx, Open Circuit (OC), Semi-Closed Rebreather (SCR), Closed Circuit Rebreather (CCR), RB80, KISS, and multilevel dives. Planning features include lost deco gas scenarios, turn pressure calculations, range plans, rebreather bailout planning, and customizable deep and extended stops. Additional tools include a built-in Gas Mixer, graph visualization, data export, layout saving for complex dive plans, and configurable airbreak management. V-Planner runs natively on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS (iPhone and iPad), making it accessible across the full technical diving workflow. This software is intended exclusively for certified, experienced mixed-gas decompression divers with formal technical training.
Key Features
- VPM-B Bubble Model: Uses the scientifically validated Varying Permeability Model (VPM-B) to calculate ascent ceilings based on micro-bubble growth gradients rather than traditional M-values.
- Comprehensive Gas Mix Support: Plans decompression for Nitrox, Trimix, TriOx, HeliOx, OC, SCR, CCR, RB80, KISS, and multilevel dives with full gas switching support.
- Advanced Planning Tools: Includes lost deco gas scenarios, turn pressure calculations, range plans, rebreather bailout planning, and customizable deep and extended stops.
- Built-in Gas Mixer & Data Export: Integrated Gas Mixer tool, graphical dive profile visualization, layout saving for complex plans, and data export for external use.
- Cross-Platform Availability: Runs natively on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iPhone, and iPad, giving divers access to their plans on any device.
Use Cases
- Planning multi-gas technical decompression dives with Trimix or HeliOx using a scientifically validated bubble model.
- Generating rebreather (CCR/SCR) decompression profiles with custom bailout scenarios.
- Calculating lost deco gas contingencies and turn pressures for deep technical expeditions.
- Creating and saving complex multilevel dive plan layouts for cave, wreck, or deep open-water diving.
- Validating decompression schedules against VPM-B bubble formation thresholds for safer ascent planning.
Pros
- Industry-Standard Bubble Model: VPM-B is the most widely adopted bubble model among technical divers and is recognized by major technical training agencies worldwide.
- Extensive Dive Configuration Support: Handles virtually every modern technical dive setup — from open circuit to closed circuit rebreathers — in a single application.
- True Cross-Platform Coverage: Available on desktop (Windows, Mac, Linux) and mobile (iOS, Android), ensuring dive plans are accessible before and during trips.
Cons
- Steep Learning Curve: Designed for experienced technical divers; users without formal mixed-gas decompression training will find the software difficult and potentially dangerous to use.
- No Beginner Guidance: The application provides no in-app training or contextual help for novice divers — it assumes expert-level knowledge of decompression theory.
- Dated Interface: The user interface reflects an older software design aesthetic and may feel less polished compared to modern dive planning applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What decompression model does V-Planner use?
V-Planner uses the VPM-B (Varying Permeability Model/Baker) algorithm, a bubble model that calculates decompression stops based on allowable gradients for micro-bubble formation rather than traditional M-values.
What types of dives and gas mixes does V-Planner support?
V-Planner supports Nitrox, Trimix, TriOx, HeliOx, Open Circuit (OC), Semi-Closed Rebreather (SCR), Closed Circuit Rebreather (CCR), RB80, KISS, and multilevel dive configurations.
Which platforms is V-Planner available on?
V-Planner is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iPhone, and iPad.
Is V-Planner suitable for beginner divers?
No. V-Planner is designed exclusively for certified, experienced technical divers with formal training in mixed-gas decompression diving. Beginners should not use this software.
Does V-Planner include tools beyond decompression scheduling?
Yes. It includes a Gas Mixer, turn pressure calculator, lost deco gas planning, rebreather bailout scenarios, graphical dive profiles, data export, and layout saving for complex dive plans.
