Making the break in to Tech Diving...

[ianr33]

Remember that you are going to need 2 bottom timers.

 

[Kstnbike]

Thanks for all of the great information. I know scubaboard is really big on the whole BP/W system, but what is your take on using a Blackdiamond for doubles. I know that the backplate on it can be converted to use doubles and it has adequate lift (or so I'm told) for basic tech diving. Down the road I will definitely invest in a whole new kit but, for now I'm living on the college student scuba budget.

Thanks,
Kstnbike

 

[loosebits]

It's possible I suppose but I've never seen anyone use a system like that for doubles. There is no way I would use something like that with steel tanks as I doubt the fit would be tight enough but you might be able to get by with it for double 80's. I wouldn't take it into an overhead environment and I don't see how you can clip a deco bottle or stage off to it so it probably can't be used for decompression diving. Now, if all you want to do is dive double 80's in OW within the NDL I am sure it will be okay but then there is no real reason to be diving doubles at all.

I'm sure you could sell the thing and pick up a used BP/W and break even on the deal.

 

[wedivebc]

Thanks for all of the great information. I know scubaboard is really big on the whole BP/W system, but what is your take on using a Blackdiamond for doubles. I know that the backplate on it can be converted to use doubles and it has adequate lift (or so I'm told) for basic tech diving. Down the road I will definitely invest in a whole new kit but, for now I'm living on the college student scuba budget.

Thanks,
Kstnbike

The Canadian Navy is using black diamond, with doubles for the ships divers and clearance divers. Not sure how it is working out but I know it can be done.

 

[nereas]

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.

I completely agree with MSilvia. I use V-Planner and I love it.

But even on the software (V-Planner) I would talk to the instructor first.

Some instructors have a preference even on the software that you use.

So it will all depend on the tech instructor.

 

[MSilvia]

I know scubaboard is really big on the whole BP/W system, but what is your take on using a Blackdiamond for doubles. I know that the backplate on it can be converted to use doubles and it has adequate lift (or so I'm told) for basic tech diving. Down the road I will definitely invest in a whole new kit but, for now I'm living on the college student scuba budget.

My take on it is that it looks like something you might be able to use, but not like something you're likely to be happy with. It might be able to support a stage bottle and doubles, but it'll be pretty cluttered and it still may not allow you to position things properly. I'll second the idea that you should really consider selling the Black Diamond and going for the backplate and wing, but if the money is really an obstacle, you ought to give some serious thought to whether it's the best time to persue the training you're interested in. Unlike AOW, for example, technical training requires a serious financial commitment, and is very difficult to do safely (if at all) on a shoestring budget.

But even on the software (V-Planner) I would talk to the instructor first.
Some instructors have a preference even on the software that you use.
So it will all depend on the tech instructor.

Good point. I'd get recommendations from your instructor before buying.

 

[texdiveguy]

I use 2 Dive Rite Duos for multi gas switches when diving mix....just flip those pups into GAGE mode and use as a bottom timers. Going from rec to TEC is an expensive venture,,,,so take your time and don't cut corners!

 

[lowridersvt]

Most instructors wont teach the course if you use your computer as a computer i would just get either 2 bottom timers oms and uwatec make nice ones or one lower priced computer(nitrox wrist mounted ) when your diving rec with your freinds

 

[Hoosier]

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.

Don't say about D9 in that way.... I might need to sell my D9 soon.

 

[Colliam7]

Good comments from several posters. Tec will not be inexpensive, but that shouldn't dissuade you. In my experience, it was well worth it. If you know where / who you will train (with), ask their advice on the computer question, and the software question, before spending money on either. I was diving a Vytec before tec and added a Nitek He as a backup - but that was in anticipation of doing trimix in the future. You do not HAVE to have a computer just a bottom timer AND a back-up timer. Personally, I think a computer is a nice back-up to my deco tables, so I encourage you to at least think about one in the future. I don't think it makes you sloppy, but that's just one opinion Loosebits makes a good point about mixes as well. He only dives one deco mix, I dive two, but only two. So, for me, having a Vytec (3 mixture capability) is nice. Again, check with the organization / LDS / Instructor before making purchase decisions, if possible. If you do the PADI course, you will train with two deco mixes. That doesn't mean you have to use two after you're certified.

VERY much echo the suggestion to get comfortable with your gear set-up - the drysuit, the doubles, the specific BP AND the wing - before doing the training, if at all possible. The course (irrespective of the agency) is task-loaded, and futzing around with an unfamiliar gear configuration while trying to deal with new procedures can be incredibly frustrating, at least it was for me. Have fun.