Computers: Watch vs Console?

[RonFrank]

I like most of my displays on my wrist. A computer is something that you use a lot, and having to grab a console all the time is a PITA. I started with a console, and changed that out quickly. Now I have an SPG, and my compass and puter go on the wrist.


This is personal preference, so your millage may differ. However I know a LOT of divers who started out with a console, and then switched. I know very few (actually none) that have gone from wrist mount to a console.

 

[FritzCat66]

A computer is something that you use a lot, and having to grab a console all the time is a PITA. I started with a console, and changed that out quickly. Now I have an SPG, and my compass and puter go on the wrist.

So, somehow checking your SPG is fine, but a console is a PITA? Sounds like one can either argue for a totally wireless air-integrated wristmount, or a console, but this something in between seems the worst of both worlds.

BTW, I did my early dives with a borrowed wristmount and SPG, then switched to console, so there's at least one who went the "other" direction. I did look at wireless units but was unhappy with the frequency of battery change and reports of delays/missed synchronizations, not to mention cost; but I still wanted air-integration, so that leaves a console computer with a Q/R to the HP hose.

Again, personal preference rules, so if having two instruments in different places to do the job of one is your idea of simplicity and non-PITA, have at it. Meanwhile, I'll stick with my all-in-one console.

 

[azspecter]

ok- newbie question here. What's DSS?

Also- when you guys say 'bungie mount'- what is that? I thought all wrist computers were worn like watches- had a strap/buckle to them. Is that not the case?

Diveandclimb- when you say the SPG is 'clipped off to your B', how exactly is that? Just a retractor hooked to the BC?
Thanks!

 

[Rick Inman]

ok- newbie question here. What's DSS?

Also- when you guys say 'bungie mount'- what is that? I thought all wrist computers were worn like watches- had a strap/buckle to them. Is that not the case?

Here is the dss (Deep Sea Supply) wrist mount:

The nice thing about straps is that those of us who use bungees get to recover the strap versions off the sea floor.

 

[azspecter]

ahhh- ok, that makes sense!

 

[fnfalman]

I have both the console and the watch type. I can take it or leave it either way.

The Sherwood Wisdom II is a console type and I clip it tightly to my waist band's D-ring so that it doesn't drag on the ocean floor. I can unclip it and bring it up for a glance then put it back. If I were to want to use the compass, I'd hold the console in front of me. That way I can shoot the azimuth and maintain the heading while swimming (and I can still see all the dive data too, if that's important). If I were to go hunting, then I don't have to worry about craps on my wrists and forearms getting in the way of handling speargun, Hawaiian sling, knife, fish/lobster/scallops, etc. Try to sneak your hand inside a crevice to grab a lobster and you have thingies on your wrists and forearms. See how well that works out for ya.

Main drawbacks are:

1. Another hose on your left side.
2. It's inconvenient to try to manipulate the BC inflator hose with your left hand while reaching across the chest and holding onto the console with your right hand. Do-able, just slightly inconvenient.

I equipped my Aeris Elite T3 with the DSS bungee mount and slap that mother on my right wrist. On my left wrist I have the Scubapro compass also in a DSS bungee mount. Don't have to unclip to check for my data or use the compass. The main drawback is that it'll catch if I were to try to go for lobsters while they're hiding in cracks and crevices. Naturally, the Elite T3 costs a few hundred bucks more than the Wisdom II as well.

So, if I were to know that I'm going to hunt that day (lobsters & spearfishing), I'll take the console. If I were to go out just for fun, I'll take the Elite T3.

And a big plus for the console is the large display. A lot easier to read than the small display of the watch type.

 

[RonFrank]

So, somehow checking your SPG is fine, but a console is a PITA? Sounds like one can either argue for a totally wireless air-integrated wristmount, or a console, but this something in between seems the worst of both worlds.

When I navigate, I am constantly looking at my compass. When I dive, I'm checking my depth and time on a regular basis. However I check my pressure maybe three times a dive, and sometimes not at all after the initial splash if it is a shallow dive. I think newish divers and air hogs may constantly chimp their pressure, but not so much with more experienced divers who are comfortable with their air consumption, and profile.

I do have an air integrated wireless computer, but I don't think that is a must have, more of a nice to have. Yes, I find unclipping and then clipping a console constantly to check depth or time to be a PITA. I suppose one can mount a console with a bit of hose extended so the clipping may not need to happen, but generally not for navigation. This is personal preference, but most divers I know agree, and tend to use wrist mounted gauges.

Why are wrist mounted gauges the *worst* of both worlds?

As to wireless integrated computers, I know that initially there were issues. I have an Aeris Epic, and after diving with it for over two years, I've replaced the watch battery once, and the transmitter battery is still original. As this is user replaceable, it was not big issue. I've replace the battery in my Aeris Atmos II every two years as well, and it is not wireless. It is rare that I loose my wireless connection. I've noticed it has happened on two dive out of over 100, and only happened for a few seconds. This based on the downloaded dive logs as I did not even notice when it happened.

I'm not sure your criticism of these units is justified as YOU did not purchase one, so you have no experience with these units. I know just as many folks that have had issues with computers that were not wireless air integrated including air integrated consoles. To each their own, but don't be too quick to criticize a type of computer you don't dive.

 

[azspecter]

ok- when you guys talk about clipping the SPG to you- does that mean using a retractor for it? If that's the case, don't you just pull it out, look at it, then let go of it and it pulls it back in? Or, is there actually a 'clip' you have to deal with? Any pics so I can see what you're talking about?
Thanks guys!

 

[RonFrank]

I generally use a zip tie, and a brass bolt snap to clip off gear.

They make console holders like so.

Retractors are certainly an option.

They are more expensive, and subject to failure. Maybe someone who owns one they like will post.
For my camera I use something similar to this. Mine has SS attachment points, and is heavy duty.

So these are all options for mounting a console so one has potentially easier access.

For me, if I have to attach things I use bolt snaps, and zip ties which is how I attach my SPG to my waist belt DRing. Bolt snaps offer the advantage of low cost, longevity, lightweight, and easy to add to an item at the last minute if necessary. I carry a few extra bolt snaps, and zip ties around, and I've loaned these to many a diver who is dragging their junk around in the mud or sand!

I also prefer wrist mounted gauges.

 

[clifftondiver]

So far, in my short dive-life, I've used only wrist-mounted computers. I started with the Suunto Vyper. It's not air-integrated, but it IS downloadable. I just upgraded to a Suunto Vytec with a transmitter. I used it this past weekend for the first time....GLORIOUS! Having everything from nitrogen time, to depth, to time remaining based on current gas consumption was SO nice!
The Vytec with a transmitter is kind of pricey. But you can buy the computer now and the transmitter later should you so desire for most intergrated computers. Speaking of the Vyper, I just happen to have one I posted for sale on scubaboard tonight! It's 250 obo and that includes the $100 usb cable!
Any which way you go, go for quality! I've discovered, unfortunately, that you get what you pay for. But there's nothing wrong with gently used gear

happy diving!