dive computers
Buying Guide
What Is A Dive Computer?
Dive computers are an essential piece of equipment for any diver. They provide a wealth of information about the dive, including depth, time, and nitrogen levels. Dive computers are also designed to help divers stay safe by providing warnings when they are approaching their dive limits.
With the right dive computer, divers can maximise their safety and enjoyment of the underwater world. In this article, we will discuss the features and benefits of dive computers, as well as how to choose the right one for your needs. We’ll also provide tips on how to use a dive computer safely and effectively, and will explore the latest advancements in dive computer technology and how they can help divers stay safe and have more fun underwater.
Different Types Of Dive Computer
Wrist Style
Wrist style dive computers are portable and convenient for divers, allowing them to constantly monitor their dive parameters. They typically feature an easy-to-read display and user-friendly buttons for easy operation. Additionally, many dive computers offer a wide range of features, from wireless connectivity and GPS capabilities to gas blending and multi gas dive planning tools.
Watch Style
Watch style dive computers are similar to wrist style dive computers, but they are designed to look like a traditional watch. They are battery powered and include a range of sensors that provide important dive metrics. Watch style dive computers are typically more expensive than wrist style dive computers, but they are more stylish and can be worn as a fashion accessory.
Console Computer
Console computers are the most advanced type of dive computer. They are typically mounted on the diver’s tank and feature a large display that shows the diver’s depth, time, and other important information. Like other types of dive computers, they include a number of sensors that measure the diver’s depth, time, and other important factors. Console computers are typically the most expensive type of dive computer and are usually the most feature-rich. They are typically used by professional divers and feature advanced features such as air integration, multiple gas mixes, and more.
How Computers Contribute To A Better Diving Experience
Diving computers are essential pieces of equipment for any scuba diver. They provide a wealth of information that can help divers stay safe and maximise their underwater experience.
Diving computers provide real-time data on depth, time, and nitrogen levels allowing divers to monitor their dive profile and make informed decisions about their dive.
They also provide warnings when divers are approaching their no-decompression limits, helping them to avoid decompression sickness. Additionally, diving computers can be used to plan dives, which allows the user to plan their dive profile and stay within their limits.
Features Of Dive Computers
No Stop Limits
The no-stop limit feature on a dive computer is an incredibly useful tool for scuba divers. It alerts the diver when they have reached pre-set no-stop limits, allowing them to stay within their accepted dive time and depth safely.
This feature can be incredibly beneficial, as it helps the diver to remain within the limits of their dive plan and reduces the risk of decompression sickness. It also provides peace of mind, as the diver knows that their dive computer is looking out for them and alerting them when they are close to exceeding their dive plan.
Dive Depth Stats
Dive Depth Stats is a feature on many dive computers which tracks the depth and time of a dive. It is a great way to keep track of your dive data and can be beneficial in a variety of ways. For instance, it can be used to monitor dive safety and plan a dive profile.
It can also help divers identify certain dive sites, record maximum depths, and review dive details quickly and easily. Additionally, Dive Depth Stats can provide a reference for divers to compare dive data with friends or compare dive data from a previous dive. Overall, Dive Depth Stats is a great feature to have on a dive computer and can be beneficial in a variety of ways.
Previous Dive Information
Previous dive information is a feature found on dive computers that can be incredibly beneficial for scuba divers. This feature allows divers to recall and review their previous dive information and stats, such as dive time, depth, temperature, and more.
This feature also allows divers to compare dive data over multiple dives and track their progress over time. Being able to review previous dive information can be especially useful for safety, as the diver can be aware of any changes in their dive profile.
Accessing dive information can help divers plan future dives more effectively by allowing them to review their performance, and is a great feature for divers of all levels.
Emergency Decompression
Diving time is an important feature of dive computers that can be beneficial for scuba divers. It is the amount of time that a diver can safely stay underwater before needing to ascend. It is calculated using the dive computer's algorithm which takes into account the diver's depth, the amount of time they have been underwater, and the pressure of the water. This allows divers to stay safely underwater for longer without having to worry about exceeding their time limit and risking decompression sickness. The dive computer will also alert divers when they are close to or have exceeded their dive time limit. Having this feature on a dive computer can help divers to stay safe and enjoy their dive for longer.
Ascent Rate
The Ascent Rate feature on a dive computer is an important tool for any scuba diver. It helps the diver keep track of their ascent rate during a dive, ensuring that they don’t ascend too quickly and risk getting decompression sickness.
The feature allows the diver to set a maximum rate of ascent – usually 30 feet (9 metres) per minute – and will alert them if they exceed this rate.
Diving Time
Diving time is an important feature of dive computers that can be beneficial for scuba divers. It is the amount of time that a diver can safely stay underwater before needing to ascend. It is calculated using the dive computer's algorithm which takes into account the diver's depth, the amount of time they have been underwater, and the pressure of the water. This allows divers to stay safely underwater for longer without having to worry about exceeding their time limit and risking decompression sickness. The dive computer will also alert divers when they are close to or have exceeded their dive time limit. Having this feature on a dive computer can help divers to stay safe and enjoy their dive for longer.
How To Choose The Best Dive Computer
The best dive computer will depend on a number of factors that are important to each diver. Some of the features to look out for include:
Is It Easy To Use?
Make sure the computer is user-friendly and easy to read so that you can quickly access all the information you need while underwater. It should also be reliable and provide accurate readings. It’s also important to ensure that the battery life is long enough to last the duration of your dive.
Does It Provide Decompression Times?
When choosing a dive computer, it is important to make sure it provides decompression times. This will help you to plan your dives safely and accurately.
Can It Upload Previous Diving Information?
It is important to consider whether a dive computer can upload previous diving information. This can be useful for tracking progress, analysing trends, and staying organised. Additionally, this feature can help you keep a detailed log of all your dives, which can be beneficial for safety and record-keeping.
Does It Have An Air Transmitter?
One of the most important features to consider is whether or not the dive computer has an air transmitter. Air transmitters allow divers to monitor their air consumption and get more accurate readings of their tank pressure. This information can be extremely useful in ensuring that divers are not running low on air during a dive. Additionally, air transmitters can provide useful information about air consumption rates, allowing divers to plan their dives more effectively.
Does It Have Rechargeable Batteries?
Rechargeable batteries are an important factor to consider when choosing a dive computer. Rechargeable batteries can be more expensive than non-rechargeable batteries, but they can save you money in the long run. They are also more environmentally friendly and can help to prolong the life of your dive computer.
Dive Computer Maintenance Tips
Maintaining a dive computer is essential for any diver. Here are some top tips for keeping it in working order:
1. Make sure you read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use and maintain your dive computer.
2. Store your dive computer in a cool, dry place when not in use.
3. Always check the battery status and replace the battery if needed.
4. Before each dive, check to make sure the dive computer is functioning properly and that all settings are correct.
5. Clean the dive computer after each dive to keep it in optimal condition. Rinse it with clean tap water to remove any salt, and dry with a soft cloth.
6. Have your dive computer inspected and serviced regularly by a qualified technician to ensure it is functioning properly.
7. Consider investing in a travel cover or case to keep your dive computer safe and secure while travelling.
How To Use A Dive Computer
Using a dive computer is an important part of any dive, and it’s essential to understand how to use it properly for a safe and enjoyable dive. Here are some steps to help ensure a successful dive using a dive computer:
1. First, make sure the dive computer is properly fitted and adjusted for the individual diver. It should sit comfortably on the wrist and all settings should be adjusted according to the diver’s needs (depth, dive duration, etc).
2. Before entering the water, make sure the dive computer is powered on and all settings are correct. Also, make sure that the dive computer is connected to any wireless devices that the diver will be using, such as a dive torch or a dive light.
3. Once in the water, the dive computer should be activated and the dive should be started. The dive computer will then track the dive profile, which includes the time, the depth, and any other readings it is measuring.
4. During the dive, the diver should pay close attention to the dive computer and follow its instructions. This includes monitoring the dive time, depth, and any other readings that the dive computer is providing.
5. After the dive is complete, the dive computer should be shut off and the dive data should be reviewed and noted. The dive computer should then be left to recharge for the next dive.
Dive Computer FAQs
What Does A Dive Computer Do?
A dive computer is a device that helps divers monitor their dives and stay safe underwater. It tracks and displays information such as depth, time, remaining air supply, and decompression status. It also records dive data for later review. The dive computer helps divers to stay within their dive limits, avoid dangerous decompression situations, and plan the safest possible dives.
What Is The Difference Between A Dive Computer & A Dive Watch?
The main difference between a dive computer and a dive watch is that a dive computer is a device that monitors and displays current dive data, while a dive watch is simply a time-keeping device. A dive computer tracks and records dive time, depth, and bottom time, as well as any decompression calculations that need to be made. A dive watch, on the other hand, just tells time and doesn't provide any dive-related information.
Do You Need A Dive Computer For An Open Water Course?
Yes, you need a dive computer for an open water course. Dive computers are essential for tracking your dive time and depth, which are important safety measures.
How Long Does A Dive Computer Last?
A dive computer can last anywhere from 5-10 years and upwards, depending on the model and how it's taken care of. It's important to make sure to keep up with the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, as well as to keep the computer out of the water when it's not in use. Additionally, if the computer is used in saltwater, it should be rinsed off in fresh water after every dive. Taking these precautions will help to ensure that your dive computer will last as long as possible.
How Often Should Dive Computers Be Serviced?
Dive computers should typically be serviced every two to three years, but this depends on the manufacturer's recommendations. It is important to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer in order to ensure that the device is in proper working condition. The servicing should include a full inspection of the device by a qualified technician, and any necessary repairs should be completed. Additionally, the device should be checked for any software updates, and the batteries should be replaced as needed.