Recommend me a beginner dive computer

[peterbj7]

Oceanic computers used to be unsuitable for deco diving. Have they changed that?

I have a Suunto (a Stinger) and half the time it is in deco when I surface, because the other computer I use cleared long ago. It's a nice piece of jewellery, but I wouldn't buy one again. The later Suuntos are even more conservative. I know several people who've scoured the pages of eBay to find one of the older Uwatec Aladins, which seem to strike a far more useful balance. Note - the current Uwatecs are dreadfully made as well as being far more conservative, and I wouldn't touch one with a bargepole.

 

[twisni7010]

I have Gekko and I really like it. It's great computer for beginners (like me), easy to use.

 

[diver 85]

I have a couple of the veo 180's. Yes, they are no longer manufactured. They are sold as new at a very good price ($200 or so) due to this and do seem to be a reliable computer. I am not aware of an new features available in other computers in the this low cost class.

+ low cost
+ nitrox to 50%
+ automatic altitude compensation
+ user replaceable battery, uses standard button cell
+ the graphs make it very clear when you start running close to NDL / ascent violations
+ the ascent alarm has a bright red LED in addition to the audible alarm you may not hear

- data download cable for a PC is very expensive and some complaints about how well it works
- back light for night dives only stays on for 10 sec, sometimes a PITA
- single button makes modifying settings a bit slow

ditto on the 180.....

 

[Bamabowtie]

So after much reading I am still stuck between the Oceanic 180 and the Suunto Gekko/Zoop.

Does anyone know if the 180 has a Gauge mode?

 

[GrumpyOldGuy]

The 180 does have a gauge mode.

Oceanic has the manuals online if you want really detailed info.

 

[rongoodman]

I'd go for the Oceanic. Since it standard "puck" size and only has one button on the front, you should be able to get a bungee mount to fit it from Deep Sea Supply.