New Computer? New BC?

[2scott]

Hi ScubaBoard Folks,

I'm heading to Solomon Islands this July and am considering some new equipment in order to mitigate frustrations I've had on prior excursions. Specifically, I'm considering a new computer and a new BC.

Computer: I've had an Aeris Atmos Elite for many years, and while I like it overall, I cringe to think of how many dives I've spent with my arm up behind my ear so that the computer and the transmitter will actually "talk" to each other. I really don't want to do this anymore, especially since I like to have my hands on a camera. So, several questions: Has anyone else had this problem with this computer? Is there a simple fix? Is it worth trying to get Aeris to fix it even though it's been about 10 years? And if I replace it, what would you suggest for an air-integrated, hoseless (ideally) computer that DOES NOT lose connection with its transmitter?

BC: I've had a Dive Rite TransPac for a number of years. Similar to the computer thing, I like it overall, but several consistent frustrations make me think I'd have a better experience in something else. Not sure I like the back inflation, particularly on the surface. Additionally, I've never been able to use the weight-integration system on this particular BC because periodically a body shift has led to the weight ripping open the velcro enclosure -- bye bye weight! Questions: Anyone have a BC they love, with a totally secure weight-intergration system? Might I be better off with a front-inflating or side-inflating BC?

Thanks!
-Scott

 

[Jim Lapenta]

I would personally no go with air integrated. Clip off an SPG to the left hip and eliminate the problem altogether and you can still use the computer.

As to the BC- Why weight integrated? Depending on how much you are using you could get some of it off or out of the pockets by going to a steel plate and wing. If you are being pushed forward by the transpac it is likely that the reason is you are overweighted to begin with requiring more air in the wing than is actually needed. You only need your chin out of the water. Anything else is just not necessary. get the chin out, lay back like on a beach lounge and relax. A BPW will also pack small, is modular, and does not need anything other than a weight belt. I use a standard belt with 4 XS Scuba weight pouches on it. I can put up to 20 lbs on the belt (never needed to though) but usually dive with 8 if that. In two lb increments. If necessary I can easily open 2 of them and drop 4 lbs. That is more than enough to insure positive buoyancy and still maintain control if I were to be forced into doing it at depth.

I was fan of integrated weights for a couple years. Then when I started DM I had to wear a belt anyway. After trying it and learning about proper weight distribution and switching to a plate and wing and now also a Zeagle Express Tech, it became more apparent to get away from having all my weight in one system. Doing this will also allow one to better position the weights for optimum trim.

The largest air spaces in the body are the lungs. Getting weight over them is the best place for it. I don't care much about at the surface if my face is out of the water. Where I do care about is under it.

 

[Tortuga68]

Not sure I like the back inflation, particularly on the surface

Why not? They don't faceplant you, that's a myth

 

[GrumpyOldGuy]

I know a lot of divers will chime in with BP/W, its a good system if you like KISS (it is my preferred rig).

However, if you really want a more traditional weight integrated BCD system that will not drop the lead by accident, look at the Zeagle Stiletto with the rip cord weights. It is rock solid.

The back inflates are only going to do a face plant if A) you over-inflate and B) do not distribute you weight correctly. The hole face down thing is way over-exaggerated, a sufficiently talented fool and screw up any system.