Maybe you know or remember the days preceeding the diving computer era when each diver had to calculate his own diving, based on the maximum depth and time spent underwater. Not the most favourite time to pass, was it?
Dive computers have passed the stage of ‘ toys for boys’. Sometimes diving computers are referred to as feature-packed devices; and rightfully so. One would be tempted to ask what a diving computer does NOT do.
Why would you want a dive computer? What does it do for you? A dive computer automatically recalculates your no-decompression status. It ensures longer time underwater, guarding your no-decomperssion time.
A dive computer can also ‘supervise’ your tank pressure and ascent rate by constantly registering and monitoring. It indicates when it would be safe to fly. They can also log your dives. Needless to say, a dive computer has promoted from a ‘ gadget’ to a extremely versatile diving tool. Today’s dive computers are equipped with both audio and visual alarms to alert you. Most dive computers automatically trigger an alarm when it rises too fast.
Don’t by a sophisticated Swiss knife when you ony need to unscrew a plug. The same applies for dive computers. You should focus on the bare essentials and the most important features:
· Tank pressure
· Decompression status
· Depth time
Make sure if the model you desire indicates information in numeric and graphic displays; or both. You want an easy-to-read device, not a complicated scientific display with an overloading mix of information. A wrist dive computer seems an obvious choice; as if you were wearing a watch. But you really have to consider mounting options as future options to ‘ combine’ your dive computer with a gauge console or to attach them to your buoyancy control device.
Before you buy, you really have to determine your diving needs. Will you be flirting in the future with enriched air nitrox? Are you goin deep or stay ‘ shallow’?
We have a nice indicator for you. When you visit a dedicated retail outlet or a dive store, ask for the manual. If you are not comfortable with the explanatory illustrations or the instructions; our advice is to stay away for the model and don’t by.
