Diving Computer

[lazyfuzypanda]

I'm planning for my first diving trip soon since I want to log in a few dives before the summer officially starts. Can anybody tell me if a diving computer is necessary because don't I have to buy it anyways in the future if I plan to dive more? Any suggestions for what brand or type I should look for?

Thanks!

Panda

 

[MNScuba]

It's not required equipment, but is nice to have. Without a computer you will need at the minimum a depth gauge, watch and dive tables (planner).

Others will have better advice than me, but it's a start.

 

[miked]

Panda,
First, welcome to the boards, from NJ,
Regarding the computer question, I'd say "get one", but have tables-and the knowledge thereof- with you as well (along with the depth gauge,timer as suggested by Murdock).
One big advantage of the computer is that you will usually get longer "no deco" bottom times, as the computer monitors N2 absorbtion based on your actual depth, whereas the "table" time limits are based on the premise that you were at your maximum depth for the full dive.
If by "dive trip", you are going to a resort,and planning to dive with a local (there) dive operation, then the computer maye be even more important,in terms of enjoying the dives. Most dive operators will let you "dive the computer"(for time) while others will insist that you follow the table limits. Using my computer, I have been able to get "another dives worth" of time vs. the tables during a 4 dive day.

Regarding the choice of computers- there are many good ones out there, but you need to decide on what capabilities you want in the computer. For example: Nitrox capable (I think this is good)/or not; air integrated/or not; Downloadable to a pc/or not; mounting options : wrist, console, hose, BC.... # of dives saved...etc...and others that probably other replies can mention.
Also, your budget, and future goals in diving should be taken into account. Computers are not exactly low ticket items, and you might want to get "more than you need" now, rather than have to buy a new computer later.(I'm thinking specifically in terms of the nitrox capability)
Regarding the specific computer to purchase-I'm sure you'll get a wide range of replies, so here's mine.
The computers I use are : the Oceanic Data Plus, and as a backup the the Orca Skinny Dipper Mark 2. While I would recommend either as an excellent computer, these are not the latest models -the Mark 2 is more like a computer antique ( I believe Orca is out of business), and the Data Plus,while still available, has been "updated/ replaced" with newer models- but they do what I need them to do. If I had to purchase a computer now, I might go with the Oceanic Data Max Pro Plus-Nitrox capable/ air integrated/ downloadable.
I hope this has been helpful, and if you have any more questions, ask away.
Let us know what you decide to do.
MikeD

 

[lazyfuzypanda]

Thanks for all the advise here! I'm considering buying a wrist watch one, like the stinger, but is it really good? is it visible in the deep ocean?


panda

 

[Uncle Pug]

Originally posted by lazyfuzypanda
Thanks for all the advise here! I'm considering buying a wrist watch one, like the stinger, but is it really good? is it visible in the deep ocean?
panda

I eschew computers as brain rotters but I can recommend the Stinger since you can use it as a nice watch topsides....

I dive a Stinger in gauge mode and it is easy enough to see... even in the deep ocean....

The Stinger does have a very nice downloader available so you can keep track of your dives on your PC....

We bought several from Simply Scuba for just a little over $300 USD each...

 

[Rick Murchison]

If I may use Grand Cayman Island...
Here there is government regulation of diving, right down to who can dive to what depth and for how long. Computer users are allowed more time [as much as double] in the water. No questions, no arguments - law. (don't ye just love bureaucrats)
When you figure the cost of bottom time for a week's vacation there, you get more "tables" diving time than the computer costs by just having one along, whether you use it or not! (remember we're talking bureaucrats here, not real world planning)
Rick

 

[cougar]

Dear Panda

If I read you right...you says this is your "first diving trip". I see so much equipment for sale because people who never dived before went out and bought everything they might possible need BEFORE they figured out what diving is all about.

If this is REALLY your FIRST diving trip and not just the first one of the season...just get a mask that fits, fins and a snorkle and decide AFTER you have been certified what equipment you need. I apologize if I read this wrong...but if you are a newbie to diving...you don't want to spend a fortune and then discover that you are one of those weird twisted people who aren't happpy with tons of water over their head. If you really are just getting certified...you'll have plenty to do without trying to figure out a new computer too...I say wait.:bonk:

 

[builderbloke]

hi lazyfuzypanda not sure if your local dive shops are the same as mine but i was able to hire a computer for a very small price
you should look in to it its a lot cheaper than buying one and haveing to sell it on if your not a going to take up the sport
since my days of hireing i've bought a mares surveyor wich is very easy to use
just a thought for you

anyway if its your first dive kick back and enjoy it let the dive leader worrie about your bottom time and profile yould be cocentraiting more on him/her and your boiancy than any computer
have fun

 

[Ari]

You should at least start diving without one, in order to gat a hang of the diving procedures. Diving with a computer is very comfortable might make you a little lazy.

You can always get a computer later.

As for what computer to buy, I use the Suunto Vyper and like it a lot.

Ari