The AAD Cyores 2 jump log counter

The AAD (Automatic Activation Device) is a backup system that is installed on a parachute rig. These devices have been around for 30 or more years and have proven valuable in saving lives. They work by sensing airspeed and altitude of a freefalling body. In the event the person passes through a preset altitude (usually 1000 feet) at a high rate of speed, the AAD activates the reserve parachute. Just like parachutes, this technology has also changed. At present time there is only one AAD that is truly state of the art. It is called the CYPRES. (Cybernetic Parachute Release System) made by Airtec Corp. in Germany. It was designed and engineered in the late 1980s and reached the American market in about 1990. Since then, it has been upgraded and supported by Airtec to the point where it is considered the only device most jumpers will consider owning.

The old fashioned AADs, with brand names such as Sentinels or FXCs used simple on- off switches or spring loaded trip switches to activate the reserve parachute system. The Cypres actually consists of a small computer which analyzes hundreds of bits of data that is sensed during freefall. It's hi-tech microprocessor knows virtually for sure where you are and how fast you are going and if reserve parachute activation is needed. This type of reliability is simply unachievable with the obsolete analog or spring loaded AADs found on outdated equipment. Although these old AADs are better than nothing, there is little or no use for them in modern skydiving. If you want the best in skydiving equipment, choose only the Cypres AAD.

How can you tell which is which? The Cypres has only a small control head visible under a flap or in a window on the reserve parachute container, or some are conveniently located under a clear plastic flap outside the container. In any case if you don't have one of these:

Cypres 2 jump log - access jump number

With either a Blue, Red, or Yellow square on it, then you are trusting your life to less than the best. The CYPRES is the most popular AAD in the industry by a factor of over 500, so is the most tried and tested. Ask any experienced jumper which AAD they would choose and the answer will universally be "THE CYPRES" For more information about the CYPRES, see www.pia.com/ssk.

Here's how to push the button on a Cypres 2 digital jump log to make it display how many jumps the jump counter logged:

Right after you turn on your Cypres 2 in the usual manner, press and hold the button as soon as the zero displays like the picture above, and it will tell you how many jumps it has counted since it was new. If you have an older Cypres 2, you can send it in and they'll activate the cypres jump log feather for you at no cost. Original Cypres do not have a jump log.