Computer instead of Dive Table?

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To add my 2 cents to this thread:

1. You need to learn how to use a table, for certain at least with PADI if you intend on taking additional courses or scuba review.

2. Computers aren't that expensive - you don't need a D9, I'll bet you can get a less snazy computer for about $300.

3. Follow the DM without a computer, sure you can do it, I'm sure lots of freshly minted OW divers do. However it's not risk free, and the downside health risk is not trivial nor the economic downside (I'm sure more than $300). Also if the DM dives his computer and you dive deeper or longer than they at a depth, his data is not valid for you. You might be in another pressure group than he very easily, and on a 3-4 dive a day trip that could make a big difference.

4. All computers I've used will bleep at you if you ascend too quickly - no table will do that ;)

So the answer is use both :)
 
We have had this debate over and over again in Norway.
My point of view is:
Divetables are nice. It's great to know how to use them. It is absolutely nescessary if you doesn't dive with a computer.
BUT......everyone I know dives with one (some with two) computer. It gives you somewhat more time underwater. They are simple. Today, we must admit, they are accurate and safe.
I have shifted my point of view from "diving without knowledge to divetables are unthinkable" to a more modern attitude, that you actually doesn't need to know about divetables to dive. The combination of a recreational diver with basic diving skills and a good computer seems to be safe. It is important that you know the divecomputer and IT'S LIMITATIONS. (I am an experienced diver, and where do you think my divetables are when I am out diving?)
If you have only one computer, relay on that, and it malfunctions on a divetrip, you can, in worst scenario, ruin your divetrip by not beeing able to dive anymore. Tables and knowledge of them, would save your *** in a such situation. Because...you do not dive on someone elses computer! Having the luxury of two computers ia a total different matter...
Conclusion: Yes, you can safely dive on the computer, as long as you have the basic dive training, and know your computer and it's limitations. Having a high degree of theoretical knowledge as to diving, is a sign of you taking your hobby serious, and it may lead the way into more advanced forms of diving. Divers are often well educated as to their hobby, and like to meet other divers in the same situation.

regards...

Erik
 
svthom:
My point of view is:
Divetables are nice. It's great to know how to use them. It is absolutely nescessary if you doesn't dive with a computer.
BUT......everyone I know dives with one (some with two) computer. It gives you somewhat more time underwater. They are simple. Today, we must admit, they are accurate and safe.
I have shifted my point of view from "diving without knowledge to divetables are unthinkable" to a more modern attitude, that you actually doesn't need to know about divetables to dive. The combination of a recreational diver with basic diving skills and a good computer seems to be safe. It is important that you know the divecomputer and IT'S LIMITATIONS. (I am an experienced diver, and where do you think my divetables are when I am out diving?)
If you have only one computer, relay on that, and it malfunctions on a divetrip, you can, in worst scenario, ruin your divetrip by not beeing able to dive anymore. Tables and knowledge of them, would save your *** in a such situation. Because...you do not dive on someone elses computer. Having the luxury of two computers ia a total diferent matter...
Conclusion: Yes, you can safely dive on the computer, as long as you have the basic dive training, and know your computer and it's limitations. Having a high degree of theoretical knowledge as to diving, is a sign of you taking your hobby serious, and it may lead the way into more advanced forms of diving. Divers are often well educated as to their hobby, and like to meet other divers in the same situations.

regards...

Erik
Man am I confused about your post Erik. On the one hand, you say dive tables are pase. On the other, you never dive without them???

If people don't know the tables, there's no reason to carry them. Learning them on the fly won't work.
 
MoonWrasse:
To add my 2 cents to this thread:
So the answer is use both :)
I totally agree. I purchased my own reg set with analog gauges and a separate computer. My reasoning is that computers fail. The more technical the piece of equipment the more can go wrong. So I want to be able to use both to back each other up and not rely only on a computer or only on analog. there are so many advantages to both, and to spend the extra few (okay, maybe not so few but it's worth it to me) bucks for piece of mind and my safety is important to me.
 
When I dive....the divetables are safely back home in a drawer...

Erik ;)


sweatfrog:
Man am I confused about your post Erik. On the one hand, you say dive tables are pase. On the other, you never dive without them???

If people don't know the tables, there's no reason to carry them. Learning them on the fly won't work.
 
svthom:
When I dive....the divetables are safely back home in a drawer...

Erik ;)
Thanks for the clarification.
 

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