Gauges Only

[Geddes]

Is diving with gauges only considered not a good idea? I learned that way and understand its a bit more conservative tha computers, but for a conservative rec diver are gauges ok?

 

[Mortlock]

Absolutely no problem! (I assume you mean with tables as well)

Many here believe that it's better to learn to use your tables and gauges for awhile before moving on to a computer.

 

[scubadiverjunkie]

Nothing wrong on diving just gauges and tables...it will definitely give you a safer and more conservative dive profile.

 

[neil]

...it will definitely give you a safer and more conservative dive profile.

It will do neither unless you intend to use them that way. Tables and computers can both be used conservatively or pushed to the limits.
Neil

 

[scubadiverjunkie]

dude whatever - that's what I meant - if you plan your dive profile according to the tables and dive your plan, it will be more conservative compared to diving a computer. But I am sure you can break that down and point out a fault ol' jedi master

Whatever

 

[crpntr133]

I am also newly certified and I think you should know how to use the table and gauges. I know we all learned in class how to do it but we tend to forget.
I look at it this way. I learn to dive with guages and then move on to a computer. I am on a dive trip and the computer goes wacky. I switch out the comp for my gauges and I can continue, with the right precautions taken. The whole trip isn't a flop because the comp went out and I don't remember how to use a table and gauge.
I know somebody is going to come along and say " I don't want to carry a console in my save a dive kit." My reply is, quit your wiiinnnning... shut up and dive!! Also Cressi makes a small console.

Just my 2 bubbles worth.

 

[miketsp]

Nothing wrong with just using tables provided "you dive the plan"!!!

IMO the biggest single advantage of a computer or a dive watch is the automatic bottom timer which starts timing as soon as you dive.

On deeper dives every minute is important. So make sure you know how long you've been down.
Don't forget to reset the mechanical max pointer on your depth gauge before every dive so you know what was your max depth on this dive.

If you are diving with a buddy that has a computer and his computer demands a shorter dive or a longer deco stop than your calculation predicted - believe it. You can analyse why later.

 

[miketsp]

I am on a dive trip and the computer goes wacky. I switch out the comp for my gauges and I can continue, with the right precautions taken. The whole trip isn't a flop because the comp went out and I don't remember how to use a table and gauge.

Just so you know, some dive locations around the world have a rule that you elect each morning if you are diving with tables or computer. If you use tables you plan and leave a copy with the DM. If you use a computer and you have a failure or lockout then no diving for 24hours. Then you revert to tables if your computer is still out of order.

 

[NEWreckDiver]

Is diving with gauges only considered not a good idea? I learned that way and understand its a bit more conservative tha computers, but for a conservative rec diver are gauges ok?

That is what is nice about this sport, You have a lot of choices. You can use a computer, dive tables or both. Some folks will dive their computer and carry tables in case the computer fails.

Dive Safe And Often

 

[Scottri]

I used gauges only for years before I got my computer. You will be fine and as everyone stated, you will be good at using the tables. I think too many divers these days go straight to the computer and never get good at using the tables. Your dives may be shorter on trips where they seperate table divers from computer divers but hell, you can rent a computer (as long as you are give good instructions on how to use it) for longer bottom times if it becomes an issue.

Have fun and enjoy! A computer is not manditory.