computer for new overweight, outta shape diver

[steveann]

Heya, I am piecing together my gear and now need to decide on a dive computer. I am new to diving, but easily see myself going doubles and nitrox in the future. I could even see myself doing a little tri mix with more experience. More than 90% of my dives will be 100 feet or less with an occassional 150-200 if something peaks my interest and have advance notice. As the title says I am out of shape and a little overweight so conservativism may have a place? But with so much out there could you please help with advice about what you dive with and WHY? Thanks!

 

[Diversauras]

You ought to spend the money at the gym to get in shape before you worry about a computer. Consertative computers are not adjusted for weight and conditioning.

 

[Heffey]

Consertative computers are not adjusted for weight and conditioning.

Actually that is not true.

My Suunto Gecko specifically lists overweight and below average fitness as adverse personal factors for DCI and uses the personal adjustment feature to help mitigate some of these issues in regards to DCI.

I agree it is best to get in shape but that is not what the question was about.
Jeffrey

 

[liberato]

...my dives will be 100 feet or less with an occassional 150-200

Get one with sirens and flashing lights that go off when you exceed recreational limits. That should keep you safe for a while.

Seriously, though, I like having a console with air integration and a quick release. Some prefer the computer on their wrist. I got the same kind of computer as the person with whom I was going to dive the most. Since you mention you might be interested in Nitrox in the future make sure it has that capability. What are you looking at now?

 

[steveann]

I am looking rather seriously at the Aeris ATMOS elite. I'm trying to save myself from having to do a serious computer upgrade as my experience increases. Which is why I am starting the search at that level. And it is on my wrist; a constant reminder to me to not be over enthralled with my environment.

 

[Uncle Pug]

Probably better to be paying attention to your environment and not get overly enthralled with a gadget on your wrist IMO. But if you must get a computer... you can make it more conservative by simply making a mental adjustment... don't ride it out to the maximum allowed time.

 

[jonnythan]

Hey Steve.. OT, but I'm just south of you in the Albany area. If you ever want to do a dive, just PM me.. I'm more or less free this weekend

 

[steveann]

Okay, so maybe I wasn't specific enough. I am trying to decide between a gauge console and a computer. I would like to get into some of the more serious diving, (Nitrox, deep, etc.) but that is in the future. I am looking for opinions on computers/consoles, and what pros and cons each has, as this is not a cheap purchase. So, if any of you out there have a favorite computer, or wouldn't go computer for anything, please let me know why, so I can use your knowledge and experience to make the best choice.

Thanks

BTW: My gym pass is paid up for the year, thank you. That still doesn't help me buy scuba gear, though.

 

[jonnythan]

Wrist mount.. Suuntos are notoriously conservative. Vyper is a good choice.

 

[getwet2]

Take a look at these:
http://www.divecochran.com/main.html
http://www.divecochran.com/computers/EMC-20H/index.html
http://www.divecochran.com/computers/EMC-16/index.html

They might be a little pricey for you but they do have exactly what you are asking for.