Do I need a computer?

[divnamite]

I'm a newbie going down to the Keys for a quick three days dive trip. The dive op doesn't rent out computer. I'm wondering, do I need a computer? I have no problem doing the dive table, but since the dives will be repeating dives?

 

[spectrum]

Being a newbie I'm assuming you plan to keep to modest depths and you probably wont have the stramina for a 5 dive day. If it's 3 day trip you won't be diving on day 3 in prep for air tavel. Follow your tables and dive within your comfort zone.

You do understand how to go past the first table and do a repetitive dive, right?

And have a great time.

Pete

 

[ththooft]

You won't need a computer, although they are nice to have. The dive tables work for repetitive dives too. Do you remember how to make the chart with surface intervals and pressure groups after each dive? It should be in your OW book if you still have that.
A dive table assumes you are at your max depth for the whole dive, whereas a computer gives you credit for each depth, not just your deepest. This allows you more time during each dive.

If you're only going to dive a few times you'll be fine. If you're going to continue to dive quite often, you may want to consider a computer at some point. You can get some pretty nice computers for a reasonable price.

Good luck and have fun!

 

[Diveral]

You should learn to dive with your tables before you start using a computer. Pete gave some very good advice, know how to calculate repetitive dives and know your no decompression limits for your dive profile. Watch your ascent rates and don't forget your safety stops.

AL

 

[Nut Bubblefish]

For a 3 days dive trip, you do not need a computer.
Use your table, which works for repetitive dive as mentioned. Also, keep an eye on your depth meter and your watch when underwater as well, and make sure you actually stick to your plan....
Personnaly, I also used to mention to the dive guide that I had no computer, and made a point to always stay above or at the same level as him.
That was before I had a computer. And this was one of the nicest gifts that was made to me. So if you plan to continue diving, get one!

 

[divnamite]

I'm very comfortable at using the dive tables, I have SSI certification btw. I will NOT attempt to dive beyond my comfort zone (45'). I'm pretty comfortable in the water, at least during the training dives anyway.
I'm doing a three-day dive package, but I'm actually flying down on Thursday, dive Friday-Sunday in the AM, with a possible night dive between them, and fly home Monday, I'm giving myself 24 hours before boarding my flight home.
My question is, without a dive computer, how can I tell my max depth and my bottom time?

 

[Dean810]

I'm very comfortable at using the dive tables, I have SSI certification btw. I will NOT attempt to dive beyond my comfort zone (45'). I'm pretty comfortable in the water, at least during the training dives anyway.
I'm doing a three-day dive package, but I'm actually flying down on Thursday, dive Friday-Sunday in the AM, with a possible night dive between them, and fly home Monday, I'm giving myself 24 hours before boarding my flight home.
My question is, without a dive computer, how can I tell my max depth and my bottom time?

I also don't yet have a computer for my dives, although it is on my list. First I buy my drysuit and replace my reg with one I can get parts for!

Your depth gage, if it is like mine, should have a needle that will follow your gage needle around and stop at you max depth. The gage needle acutally pushes it along..very low tech. If it is like mine, you will need a coin to reset it for your next dive. You should get a dive watch with a rotating bezel that you can set at the beginning of your dive. At recreational level dives, you should be able to make do with a cheap watch you can find at a local big name retailer. One rated at 100m should do fine, Or even 50m, although nicer ones are rated at 200m and have a screw down crown for more protection. At the depths you are planning on, it shouldn't be a problem.

You can find GREAT diving at 45', but even if you stray a little deeper, you should be fine. Enjoy your dive and watch your air consumption. That will most likely be your biggesting limiting factor

 

[String]

Need no. Useful yes. Do i like the idea of inexperienced divers having them? No.

There is nothing stopping you planning you dives using your tables, watch and depth gauge (3 things you should ALWAYS have with you regardless of whether you own a computer - nobody should be doing dives without a proper depth gauge and timing device). I like new divers to practice tables until they know them very well and used to using them to plan and conduct dives. They should also be able to do things like judge a safe ascent rate without a computer telling them.
The danger is if a new diver goes out and uses a computer if/when the computer craps out on a dive they may not be able to bail out or even judge a safe ascent using manual methods which is why i stated the above.

Do 30-50 dives then get a computer. They arent MANDATORY for any dive what so ever in any destination.

Edit:- as for watch depth rating, you need a 100m preferably 200m rated one. There is a certain way they use to calculate pressure resistance (static vs dynamic pressure mainly) meaning a 50m rated watch might be OK for snorkelling but nothing else and so on.

 

[staticcornflake]

Just pick up An Oceanic versa pro or Aeries Atmos 2 Comp from Scubatoys for less that $300. Take it everywhere, even in the pool it tells you excatly what you need to know, including time-tof-ly

 

[DiveMaven]

My question is, without a dive computer, how can I tell my max depth and my bottom time?

When you got certified, did you have gauges or a computer? A standard set of gauges (which will come with rental gear) will tell you your air pressure and your depth. Your bottom time is calculated using your watch, which if it has a moving bezel will be much easier to use.

If you got certified using a computer, have you considered going to your LDS and renting a computer for the trip?