Gauges Only

[SubMariner]

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?

As several people have already pointed out, you can be just as "conservative" diving with a PC as you can (allegedly) be with tables.

Although I'm a big advocate of learning tables BEFORE going to a PC, there are many advantages to diving with a PC, not the least of which is a more flexible dive profile.

Regular "flat" tables give you a square profile: the clock starts ticking the minute you descend and your time is based on the deepest point of your dive. But what about when you ascend? Flat tables don't give you any credit for that, while a PC does.

The only exception is the PADI Wheel, which allows you to calculate multi-level dives. Basically a "manual" dive computer.

I usually plan my dives with The Wheel (or use it as a backup) but dive with my PC. Gives me the best of both worlds.

 

[neil]

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

Dude, it may be what you meant, but it wasn't what you said. What am I, a mind reader? The statement above is still not correct. There have been many discussions on this board about computers vs. tables with good arguments made by folks better at explaining than I am. Do a search and learn something. Don't get testy, get educated. Dude.

 

[ninjamuzo]

If for no other reason than having something when your computer fails you should always have a backup gauge (or a backup computer) to your primary one.

 

[scubadiverjunkie]

Dude, it may be what you meant, but it wasn't what you said. What am I, a mind reader? The statement above is still not correct. There have been many discussions on this board about computers vs. tables with good arguments made by folks better at explaining than I am. Do a search and learn something. Don't get testy, get educated. Dude.

whatever