Making the break in to Tech Diving...

[Kstnbike]

Hi all,

This summer I plan on making my break into tech diving. I'm planning on taking Adv. Nitrox, Deco Procedures, and possibly basic tri-mix. I was just wondering what kind of computer recommendations you all could give me. I am on the verge of purchasing a my friends D9. Is that going to work well for tech diving or should I stay away from that and wait? I know it has 3 gas switch and full decompression capabilities. Any information would be great.

Thanks,
Kstnbike

 

[ScubaAndDreams]

wait until you take the class...my guess is you won't need a computer and only a bottom timer.

 

[PaulSmithTek]

I would recommend a VR3 or a VR2

 

[wedivebc]

Hi all,

This summer I plan on making my break into tech diving. I'm planning on taking Adv. Nitrox, Deco Procedures, and possibly basic tri-mix. I was just wondering what kind of computer recommendations you all could give me. I am on the verge of purchasing a my friends D9. Is that going to work well for tech diving or should I stay away from that and wait? I know it has 3 gas switch and full decompression capabilities. Any information would be great.

Thanks,
Kstnbike

A computer should be considered an accessory not a mandatory piece of kit. I second Scuba and Dream's advice and wait until you get the training. You will still want a bottom timer anyway so invest in one now and then wait to make a more informed decision if you even need one, which one is best for your needs.

 

[ClevelandDiver]

Ditto on the above advise. I'd also like to add you are going to need that money for a LOT of other gear purchases to complete the class. Here is a rough idea of what kind of purchases you are facing:

Doubles with isolation manifold and bands $500 -$1200 (used v. new)
BP/W with harness $300 - $500
Reel $75
Lift bag $75
2 DIN Regs with 7 foot hose, bungied octo, brass spg. $500 - $1000
40 cf pony bottle $150 (hey, at least you can use your existing reg for this tank, provided it is DIN or can be converted)
Jet fins $100 (Many tech instructors will take issue with your split fins)
Drysuit $500 - $3000 (provides redundant bouyancy and thermal protection for long dives)
Undergarments $100 -$600
Digital bottom timer $100 - $300

Not meant to be a complete list, just to give you an idea of what kind of cash you are likely to spend on the road to tech diving.

 

[Cheekymonkey]

I'm doing the same training this March, and I decided ot hold off on the computer until after the classes.

 

[jtivat]

Hi all,

This summer I plan on making my break into tech diving. I'm planning on taking Adv. Nitrox, Deco Procedures, and possibly basic tri-mix. I was just wondering what kind of computer recommendations you all could give me. I am on the verge of purchasing a my friends D9. Is that going to work well for tech diving or should I stay away from that and wait? I know it has 3 gas switch and full decompression capabilities. Any information would be great.

Thanks,
Kstnbike

I always read that you did not need and computer for tech diving and thought it was bull so I spent $1000 on one. I now wish I could have that grand back it could be spent on much better things. I computer makes you less aware of what you are doing and I have seen some guys that if there computer dies they would not have a clue how to get out of the water with there mind. Also a good planning software and bottom timer will get you out of the water faster.

JT

 

[MSilvia]

This summer I plan on making my break into tech diving. I'm planning on taking Adv. Nitrox, Deco Procedures, and possibly basic tri-mix. I was just wondering what kind of computer recommendations you all could give me.

Having taken those classes, I recommend not using a dive computer. A better plan is to get a Uwatec bottom timer and a copy of V-planner for your PC. You need to have a detailed plan of your dive profile before making the dive, not a dynamic plan generated mid-dive.

I'd definately wait before getting a computer for tech diving. IMHO, you don't need one. It may be useful as a backup, but it shouldn't be a priority... especially when you consider that you're going to need to buy a lot of new gear to replace the inadequate stuff you're currently using.

 

[loosebits]

And if you feel you must have a computer, stay away from the D9.

Also, most profiles where diving nitrox mixtures (< 120'), I never mess with 2 deco mixes; 1 gas is usually enough (thus something like a Nitek Duo is appropriate). The only time I am using more than 1 deco gas is when diving mix and there a D9 is nothing more than a really expensive bottom timer.

 

[MSilvia]

I'll offer up an additional recommendation. Before getting into tech diving, get comfortable using a drysuit with a backplate and double tanks. There's substantial task loading associated with so much new gear, and you really don't want to have to be relearning to dive while trying to manage deco. YMMV. Good luck!