Dive Computer Suggestions

[NudeDiver]

When I worry about what the Navy or its members think, I'll be sure to let you know.

In the meantime, the Shell Collector specialty is pretty funny

 

[scubadada]

Boy, did this thread wander off the path. My primary recreational computer was an Oceanic PP now a PP2. I like the AI for a number of reasons, many have pointed out. It adapts to new depths and/or breathing rates very rapidly. I dive with a Dive Rite Duo as backup or for accelerated decompression with a SPG. A1 Scuba (A1scuba.com) has the Tusa IQ-700 DC Hunter (= the Seiko manufactured Dive Rite Duo, Cressi Archimedes 2, Zeagle N2ition, Apeks Quantum) for only $200, I would consider grabbing one.

 

[halocline]

To be honest, I am still hugely cynical about "Peak Performance Bouyancy".

Actually, this is a very good class and well worth it for many divers, especially for those who take AOW immediately after OW. I never took it but I assisted on several during my DM internship. I learned a lot then. Of course, it is quality dependent on the instructor as are all dive classes, but this one has real exercises that do build useful dive skills.

I think it's best to think about AOW as an "advanced OW certification" class, not one for advanced divers. In other words, it's a good 'add on' for the basic OW class. I'm sure that's really how PADI intends it.

 

[1_T_Submariner]

My vote is for the Aeris XR2. I don't see to much of a need for AI. I do have a Cochran AI computer and use it but, I still like to have an analog gauge.

 

[DwayneJ]

One point I do not see in this long thread. Gauges are less accurate than AI computers. A gauge can more easily be off by a few hundred psi than a AI as the years go by.

Both could be off, but AI are less prone.

My AI computer is reading 5100lbs from my last dive. Electronic gauges can fail just as easy as mechanical gauges.

 

[DwayneJ]

Having initially dived an AI computer and now a non AI with SPG after my AI computer failed, I'm going to stick with non AI. Since I am either diving to no stop limits or tank pressure limits - AI for all its benefits is just combining the two numbers into one (time). Certainly having a computer which tracks pressures in multiple tanks is a benefit but I now believe diving to a AI number is over rated.

 

[Darnold9999]

Good thread made me think about what it is I want in my next computer.

Am about to replace mine - works, but I want a backup for long trips. Computers die and I would rather have one I choose and dive the same one all day. In any event after owning this one for 200 dives or so I find I look at exactly four things - current depth - run time on the dive - a timer for safety stops and if I am doing multiple dives, time left at this depth in NDL. Lots of other available functions but I find I have no interest in them in the water.

Things I need - easy buttons to use in water, easy to get to back light, big numbers, only the 3 numbers I use on screen, easy to tell which number is which. Easy to tell what PO2 and O2 settings are current and a flexible safety stop (my current computer only kicks in at 15 feet and sometimes I want to stop at 20). Wrist mount so I don't have to go fishing for it when I want to see something. Strap that will not break and if it does a safety strap attached to the computer. Battery I can change.

Not interested in air integrated, as wireless just doesn't work all that well even though it would be nice to have pressure on my wrist as well. Can't get a hose to my wrist.

With depth and time you should know your pressure so having pressure always visible is nice but not essential. I don't want to have to go looking for a console to get depth or bottom time, I like it always right in front of me as I can see myself checking it less if I had to reach for it.

Anyway, just my current thinking.

 

[Doc Harry]

I'd get something extremely cheap at first. Later, when you're more experienced, you can decide on something pricey.

 

[leapfrog]

I'm fairly new to diving (OW certified about one year ago) and am looking for a dive computer. I'd like one that has enough features such that it will offer what I'll need as I build up my skills and experience over the next few years. The Suunto D6 looks great, though the price is a little steep. Any suggestions?

You need a computer that: Does Air or Nitrox; has audible alarms, especially if you ascend to quickly; a backlight; easy to read; you can change the battery yourself (unless you really hate DIY and prefer to spend money on getting the batt changed); automatically activates on entering the water; does the safety stop countdown for you; bulletproof, bangproof, knockproof.

You don't need a D6 or anything like it. I agree with most of the posts. Get something simple and down market and use it until you are ready to get "the super computer" a hundred dives down the road. Another thing is if you buy "the super computer" today, it will be technologically "behind" in three to four years time.

A case in point is that someone was thinking of buying an Oceanic Atom 2.0 or a Suunto D9 today, they'd miss the chance to buy the Oceanic OC1 coming out at the beginning of next year.

 

[SkipperJohn]

I would highly recommend an AI computer and both my wife and I dive the Sherwood Wisdom. It's a console model. The numbers are large and the computer is very user friendly. Everthing you need is right on one screen. No need to flip back and fourth. It's also Nitrox compatible if you ever decide to go that route. I had a Suunto Cobra and loved that also but after getting my wife the Wisdom, I ended up wanting to use hers and she said "get your own". So I did.

That's one heck of a reference!

Question, do you guys think it's worth it to save around $150 for a used one or just go for the new one?