AI Computers and Backup Analog

[nv]

I think you're correct. It's been said in other threads that Suunto's version of RGBM is proprietary, so we the public really can't be sure whether it's the same as another company's version of RGBM, and it most likely is not.

I don't think matching the backup with the primary is that critical. I'd rather dive with a backup computer that's not matched with my primary computer than not dive with a backup and all and be forced to resort to tables. I am lazy

Would you go ahead and buy the same computer as primary? The D4i is another nice computer, but don't want to start diving that algorithm until I am able to test or or dive with a buddy that has a suunto.

 

[dmoore19]

When diving with a buddy that has a different computer, always go by the most conservative computer. Some Oceanic computers run dual algorthims. Pelagic Z+ and Pelagic DSAT. The Z+ being more conservative which would probably match the Suunto better.

 

[nv]

When diving with a buddy that has a different computer, always go by the most conservative computer. Some Oceanic computers run dual algorthims. Pelagic Z+ and Pelagic DSAT. The Z+ being more conservative which would probably match the Suunto better.

I agree with you, but I'm referring to a back up computer. I would like to dive with somebody who is diving an algorithm, assuming I'm interested,in the event it is different from mine to know if I like how it calculates. It will help make a decision.

 

[dmoore19]

I am of the opinion that if you use a backup computer, it should be the same algorithm, some would say it doesn't matter. There was a spreadsheet that showed computers rated from liberal to conservative in one of the threads from a while back. I will see if I can find it.

I agree with you, but I'm referring to a back up computer. I would like to dive with somebody who is diving an algorithm, assuming I'm interested,in the event it is different from mine to know if I like how it calculates. It will help make a decision.

 

[nv]

I am of the opinion that if you use a backup computer, it should be the same algorithm, some would say it doesn't matter. There was a spreadsheet that showed computers rated from liberal to conservative in one of the threads from a while back. I will see if I can find it.

Thanks! In that case I will probably get the pick wrist since I have the puck air. At this point don't see myself getting into anything further than advanced and nitrox.

Figure that will be sufficient.

 

[mark01]

I have an AI computer as primary and a wrist computer of the same brand and algorithm on my wrist and I have an SPG. I use the wrist computer a lot on ascents and check both computers from time to time during the dive as a crosscheck. Also carry a line cutter and a knife. Most folks I dive with don't carry that kind of backup, but I follow the "two is one and one is none" suggestion. Also carry a foldable snorkel an SMB and reel. I dive the same kit every dive - quarry or ocean. I' m certain some folks have looked at that kit and thought it overkill, but it's my kit and I like it.

 

[beaverdivers]

It is a fair point but i did state that I thought the suggestion of 24hrs a bit much for NDL diving, so based on your scenarios even your first dive of 120+ ft for 51min is not a no deco dive, I don't even see how it is a recreational dive, i certainly can't stay at 120 for almost an hour on a single 80, at this point you should be diving 2 computers anyway (if you are intending to mean total run times then it wasn't clear and that's a different scenario entirely).

I believe most training agencies consider 130' to be the line between Rec & Tek that is why I chose 121'. This rec. dive to 121' for 51 mins. is a No Dec dive because it is multi-level. The diver was not at 121' fo 51 mins. Yes, they are total run times to make it perfectly clear. These profiles are normal for many of our rec. divers and point out the benefit of diving w/ a computer.

My point is: When, not if your dive computer fails, plan on probably having to abort your dive, then staying dry for awhile. Personally, I will still diving because I will have a back-up computer. But, I promise I will share the pics of the whale shark you missed!

I see the OP already has grasped this idea.

 

[OkByMe]

The question was.. Should you use an analog combo in addition to the Mares puck? I'm assuming the combo has a pressure gauge, depth gauge and a compass. A depth gauge, pressure gauge and TIMER is mandatory whether you use a computer or not. A compass can come in handy. So the answer is yes. If you have 2 high pressure ports, you are good to go - may have a routing issue though and a swivel should solve it. If 1 port, you can buy a splitter. Northeast scuba supply is a good place to start.

What the computer does for you is periodically track your dive profile and calculate you nitrogen loading. So unless you are diving a "square" profile, it allows you greater bottom time if you have the air. You should always be tracking your time at depth, that is all the computer does and you should be doing it regardless of computer use. If the computer fails, you will have to revert to the tables, but not necessarily abort the the dive - But repetitive dives may be in jeopardy if you have to guess. The only advantage to an air integrated computer is calculating your remaing air time based on consumption at depth. Although it is handy, it is NOT necessary.

 

[nv]

The question was.. Should you use an analog combo in addition to the Mares puck? I'm assuming the combo has a pressure gauge, depth gauge and a compass. A depth gauge, pressure gauge and TIMER is mandatory whether you use a computer or not. A compass can come in handy. So the answer is yes. If you have 2 high pressure ports, you are good to go - may have a routing issue though and a swivel should solve it. If 1 port, you can buy a splitter. Northeast scuba supply is a good place to start.

What the computer does for you is periodically track your dive profile and calculate you nitrogen loading. So unless you are diving a "square" profile, it allows you greater bottom time if you have the air. You should always be tracking your time at depth, that is all the computer does and you should be doing it regardless of computer use. If the computer fails, you will have to revert to the tables, but not necessarily abort the the dive - But repetitive dives may be in jeopardy if you have to guess. The only advantage to an air integrated computer is calculating your remaing air time based on consumption at depth. Although it is handy, it is NOT necessary.

Perfect answer! And I will add that I always dive with a watch to time separately. At this point I am either going to use that combo and route it to left side rear d-ring, but I will encounter mounting issue. The left HP port is occupied by my AI computer.

Any recc for routing? I know you mentioned a splitter

 

[OkByMe]

Piranha Dive Mfg. or Northeast scuba supply - start there.