Backup Computer with different algorithm?

[NW Dive Dawg]

Actually the original post was just asking about the pros and cons of using a backup computer with a different algorithm than the primary......and then someone later suggested using gauge mode on the backup....

Then the thread segued from there like they normally do.

I was basically responding to the comment of making a safe ascent and safety stop with NO data..... and still think that would be difficult on a dive with little to no visibility.

In the tropics or any great vis location, then I agree that surfacing safely from an NDL dive with no available data should not be much of a problem.

 

[Belzelbub]

Actually the original post was just asking about the pros and cons of using a backup computer with a different algorithm than the primary......and then someone later suggested using gauge mode on the backup....

Setting an actual dive computer to gauge mode to serve as a backup makes zero sense. If it’s a computer, use it as such.

You can either manually select gauge mode, which makes no sense, or it can be selected for you. I believe only Apple and Suunto have computers that will go gauge mode in-water. So apart from those, the rest will only lock to gauge mode on the surface.

So, you are starting a repetitive dive after some sort of violation according to the backup. I guess if you are hell bent on doing that dive, having a computer in gauge mode is probably better than nothing. But, that may be the least of your problems.

 

[inquis]

I think we're all agreed that you should end the dive if your primary computer fails. Knowing your depth and time on a backup comp is valuable data assist for a safe controlled ascent along with a safety stop

We're talking about NDL dives here. If I have a backup computer, why would I end the dive if the primary fails? That puts me in the same boat as nearly all rec divers.

 

[jborg]

It helps you to get out the water safely.

This not being in the solo/advanced section, I think the assumption would be that there is a buddy. In that case you just surface as a team/pair like you would anyway.

 

[MB NZ]

This not being in the solo/advanced section, I think the assumption would be that there is a buddy. In that case you just surface as a team/pair like you would anyway.

That is an assumption, but yes, that would be a solution.

 

[boulderjohn]

We're talking about NDL dives here. If I have a backup computer, why would I end the dive if the primary fails? That puts me in the same boat as nearly all rec divers.

Exactly. I have to admit I am getting more and more baffled by some of the arguments being made here.