So you want to buy a new computer?

[Dive Cochran]

I used to believe in cochran dive computers. However, a recent event has shown me they are so desperate for you to buy one from them they will use any excuse to not repair it. The model I own is one still in production but is an older computer and last year I asked what the cost of a repair was ( I cracked the lens )....I got 2 different answers and finally a Tony emailed me and said that they would look at it. Due to an injury at work I could not send it in until recently when I got a short terse answer they would not repair it but I needed to buy a new one. Keep in mind I bought mine when 3K + depending on color and attachment was the price for the EMC-20H with 3 FO2 / 2 PO2 + He . They are very proud that they dropped the price to 600, however as someone who paid full price for one, I not only feel duped, but I think there is a different reason for the change. Because everyone would not overpay 2400 buck for this computer, they shopped for a better priced one. I saved all of the emails so when people ask, I can show them.
I am now shopping for 2 new dive computers. I always dive with 2 so I have a back up. The above listed information is well timed for me and I am sure its appreciated by all. As for cochran, I will not support them anymore. This hurts because I like buying American, but overpaying the first time, then getting sarcastic emails later, and now a refusal has shown me the light.
Dive on!!!
BTW, anyone that is currently using a larger sized, tech computer that will do multiple gasses, I would love to hear on this thread what you like and what you don't like as well as any support issues you may have had. I think many divers, both old salty dogs and the newly indoctrinated would find this important information to assist them in any future purchases. At this day and time I do not think ANYONE needs to only dive tables, but use a dive computer and use the tables for back up and planning. My personal opinion as someone who has dove most of my life.
Thanks!

Since you haven't replied I call "Bulls@#t" !!
I've reread all emails and Tony in Customer Service did nothing wrong!

John
Sale Manager Worldwide
Richardson, TX
www.CochranMilitary.com
www.DiveCochran.com

 

[Diver#33]

Well I guess I am going to be another one of those new divers asking the same question but I am really just looking for some insight if you will. Pros and Cons when considering the Scubapro G2 the Oceanic VTX and the Shearwater Perdix AI. Which one is the preferred and why? Thanks to all who provide me with some feedback!

 

[stuartv]

Well I guess I am going to be another one of those new divers asking the same question but I am really just looking for some insight if you will. Pros and Cons when considering the Scubapro G2 the Oceanic VTX and the Shearwater Perdix AI. Which one is the preferred and why? Thanks to all who provide me with some feedback!

My take on G2 vs Perdix AI is here:

Shearwater Perdix AI question

From what I have read here about the VTX, many people say that the screen can be very hard to see/read when you're in bright ambient lighting conditions. Even in the water, if you're not too deep and the water is clear and it's a bright sunny day topside. Also, many people have posted that they go through batteries pretty quickly.

 

[Diver#33]

My take on G2 vs Perdix AI is here:

Shearwater Perdix AI question

From what I have read here about the VTX, many people say that the screen can be very hard to see/read when you're in bright ambient lighting conditions. Even in the water, if you're not too deep and the water is clear and it's a bright sunny day topside. Also, many people have posted that they go through batteries pretty quickly.

Okay that is very helpful to know. I dove with some folks who had the scubapro so I figure the G2 or the shearwater perdix ai...

 

[tridacna]

Okay that is very helpful to know. I dove with some folks who had the scubapro so I figure the G2 or the shearwater perdix ai...

If you get a G2, make sure that the compass works properly. There appears to be a problem with the compass. Still waiting for SP to replace two faulty G2s.

 

[elbig]

What is the symptom of the bad compass? I have anew G2 and want to be sure my compass is OK.So far I am very pleased with it.

 

[tridacna]

What is the symptom of the bad compass? I have anew G2 and want to be sure my compass is OK.So far I am very pleased with it.

Easy. It does not point in the right direction. Both compasses were way off. SP acknowledged that this was a known issue.

 

[Sephiroth]

Hi Guys,

Quick advice her...What would you do in my position...
I havethe oceanic OCI that I bought years ago (very happy with it tho battery life could be better).
I stayed 2 months in Bali a few months ago before moving there definitely for work(instructor).
Problem is I had to change the battery and there is absolutely not a single store where I could do it. No oceanic dealers on Bali and no shop willing to change the battery and do a pressure test (I asked everywhere).
Luckily I had a suunto zoop for backup which I used instead of my oci.
So now i'm considering selling it and buying an other one that could be fixed if anything happen.
I am looking at the D6 zulu blue (instrucor model) that I can find with a good deal.
What do you think?

 

[stuartv]

Problem is I had to change the battery and there is absolutely not a single store where I could do it. No oceanic dealers on Bali and no shop willing to change the battery and do a pressure test (I asked everywhere).

What is the problem?

I have changed the battery on my Oceanic Atom 3 times (I think). Always done it myself. Batteries are much cheaper when purchased from a local store than buying an Oceanic "kit". It takes about 3 minutes to change the battery and I am SURE I take more care in doing it than if I had it changed at a shop.

Do you think a shop that changes the battery for you is going to fix or replace your computer for free if they change the battery and it floods the next time you go out? I don't think so. Not unless it's still under the manufacturer's warranty. And then, it would be the manufacturer replacing it as a warranty claim. If it's not still under warranty, then I don't see any reason to pay someone else to change the battery.

I am assuming that the OCi can be changed using, either, a tool that came with it (as my Atom is) or with commonly available tools. If not, I would still just take it to a decent watch shop and have them do it. They should have the tools and the know-how to change a battery on a dive watch.

 

[scubadada]

Hi Guys,

Quick advice her...What would you do in my position...
I havethe oceanic OCI that I bought years ago (very happy with it tho battery life could be better).
I stayed 2 months in Bali a few months ago before moving there definitely for work(instructor).
Problem is I had to change the battery and there is absolutely not a single store where I could do it. No oceanic dealers on Bali and no shop willing to change the battery and do a pressure test (I asked everywhere).
Luckily I had a suunto zoop for backup which I used instead of my oci.
So now i'm considering selling it and buying an other one that could be fixed if anything happen.
I am looking at the D6 zulu blue (instrucor model) that I can find with a good deal.
What do you think?

What is the problem?

I have changed the battery on my Oceanic Atom 3 times (I think). Always done it myself. Batteries are much cheaper when purchased from a local store than buying an Oceanic "kit". It takes about 3 minutes to change the battery and I am SURE I take more care in doing it than if I had it changed at a shop.

Do you think a shop that changes the battery for you is going to fix or replace your computer for free if they change the battery and it floods the next time you go out? I don't think so. Not unless it's still under the manufacturer's warranty. And then, it would be the manufacturer replacing it as a warranty claim. If it's not still under warranty, then I don't see any reason to pay someone else to change the battery.

I am assuming that the OCi can be changed using, either, a tool that came with it (as my Atom is) or with commonly available tools. If not, I would still just take it to a decent watch shop and have them do it. They should have the tools and the know-how to change a battery on a dive watch.

At Oceanic, all is not created equal. For my old VT3 and Geo2, and Stuart's Atom 3, the battery back is held in place with a simple rotary, twist off lock, The OC1, OCi, and OCL all went back to a 4 screw back reminiscent of the old ProPlus series of console computers. Like Stuart, I have changed my VT3 and Geo2 batteries many times without incident. At least for the current line OCi and OCL, Oceanic states improper battery change voids the 2 year warranty. They recommend battery change and pressure testing by authorized dealer/manufacturer. This takes away some of the advantages of user battery changes. I had several old ProPluses, ProPlus 2's, the 4 screw battery hatch was a POS. Would this keep me from changing the battery, no. Has the design change caused me to drift from Oceanic computers, yes.