Is a dive computer, such as a dive rite duo or tusa iq700, that is locked in gauge mode, BEFORE the dive accactable for use as a bottom timer, I understand the cost difference, but they have user replaceable batteries.
Dive computer as bottom timer
- Thread starter Firediver32
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DIR-Atlanta
Contributor
Absolutely - in fact, "gauge mode" is how most DIR divers actually use their dive computers.Firediver32:
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My Vytec hasn't left gauge mode in two years.
As you've already read, you can use the computer in guage mode.
I'd like to point out that you'll be spending about $200 more for the computer than you would for an UWATEC/OMS bottom timer for the ability to have replaceable batteries. The batteries in the bottom timer I mentioned last for a very long time.
I'd rather have something that I didn't have to replace batteries in from time to time.
Christian
I'd like to point out that you'll be spending about $200 more for the computer than you would for an UWATEC/OMS bottom timer for the ability to have replaceable batteries. The batteries in the bottom timer I mentioned last for a very long time.
I'd rather have something that I didn't have to replace batteries in from time to time.
Christian
DIR-Atlanta
Contributor
That's an excellent point - the Scubapro/Uwatec website claims that the batteries in their bottom timer will last for over 1000 dives. One other thing to consider - a computer with replaceable batteries will require a battery cover and O-ring of some type, which is more prone to leakage than a sealed unit such as the Uwatec.headhunter:
I use the Uwatec myself and have been pretty happy with it.
If you want to download profiles and other fancy stuff check out computers as gauge though.
After my Aladin tec died last month I'm considering a uwatec timer as a backup though...
After my Aladin tec died last month I'm considering a uwatec timer as a backup though...
Rainer
Contributor
Got my used Vyper for the price of an OMS BT. Adds the ability to download dive info, which is something I very much like.
You can always toss a Sensus Ultra in a pocket as your "black box" for collecting your dive data. The battery is supposed to last for 10 years and you can download the data to your computer. It's still less expensive to buy these two units than a computer.rjack321:
I own an OMS bottom timer and really like it. I don't yet own a Sensus Ultra, but plan on getting one to record my dive profiles. I know someone who has one and they are definitely sturdy and very small.
Christian
Rainer
Contributor
headhunter:
Sensus plus OMS BT is still about what I paid for my lightly used Vyper.
OP
The key item i didn't mention, is i already had a IQ700 I've been using for a while now. And I need to upgrade some other stuff, like new regs, so the tusa will suffice for a while, but I plan to add a bottom timer, when my other gear gets caught up.
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