Technology Changes Since Last Dive

[MJS1946]

OK. So my last dive was over 40 years ago. A lot has changed plus NAUI has no record of my certification. I have signed up for the PADI open water class starting next month. I have purchased the mask/fin/snorkel package from the dive center store.

On to my question, when learning last time, we used tables and a watch for computing safety stops, decompression, etc. It seems that dive computers have replaced all that, although my learning package came with a little calculated type thing. I either need buy a new diving watch or a dive computer. Which is the better way to go? I will probably dive 6-10 times a year.

Thanks

 

[tbone1004]

i'd probably go computer, but that is just me. You can hit two birds with one stone if you want a watch style and aren't afraid of spending a bit of money. Tables are great as backups but for most recreational diving are not nearly as accurate as a computer

 

[cool_hardware52]

OK. So my last dive was over 40 years ago. A lot has changed plus NAUI has no record of my certification. I have signed up for the PADI open water class starting next month. I have purchased the mask/fin/snorkel package from the dive center store.

On to my question, when learning last time, we used tables and a watch for computing safety stops, decompression, etc. It seems that dive computers have replaced all that, although my learning package came with a little calculated type thing. I either need buy a new diving watch or a dive computer. Which is the better way to go? I will probably dive 6-10 times a year.

Thanks

Welcome back.

The good news is the very same laws of physic still apply. I have always used a bottom timer and tables, or Ratio Deco. ( If you don't know what Ratio Deco is, just be happy. )

I do agree with Tbone regarding a computer for recreational diving.

Enjoy.

Tobin

 

[Kevrumbo]

If you've got -or gonna have- presbyopic changes in your eyesight (i.e. "old eyes" needing reading glasses), get a computer with a large easy to see display. . .

Perdix - Shearwater Research

 

[redacted]

You can get a waterproof watch for $15. You can add a computer any time and should before you fork 2k for a trip.

 

[extremetito]

Do you plan diving with a local dealer or dive resort?
Most operators can rent you a computer.
I was in your shoes (fins?) around a year ago and rented a few times before purchasing a used Suunto Vyper.

 

[ShrimpDaddy]

Technology is great. I have an air integrated computer Receiver /w transmitter type. However, with that said I have seen technology fail at the most inopportune time. Example, on both my boats I have a GPS / Sonar system plus a good solid mounted compass, Why? because I have had the GPS fail or loose power and since I know it can loose power I always look at the compass to match the bearings and heading so I still can make it back to where I started.
If you rely on just the computer it will fail and if you don't have a watch and depth Gage then you might regret it. Even if you make it back to the surface safely if you don't know how to "Drown the RAT" your rest of the day will find you still on the boat while others are enjoying their second dive.

Don't get me wrong I love my dive computer.

ShrimpDaddy

 

[cool_hardware52]

Do you plan diving with a local dealer or dive resort?
Most operators can rent you a computer.
I was in your shoes (fins?) around a year ago and rented a few times before purchasing a used Suunto Vyper.

I'd be very careful about buying and used Suunto product. Every Suunto computer I've ever had has eventually gone diving all by themselves.

Tobin

 

[MJS1946]

Thanks for the replies advice and ideas. Yes, I have the "old" eyes issue. Most f my diving will be at dive resorts, so will be renting most equipment. I will always do the old method as a back up, but guess a computer (at least one I can see) would be a good investment.

 

[TMHeimer]

6-10 dives a year-- six in one, half dozen in the other. Watch--mine is 5 years old for $25. Computer (basic) was about $150CAD. Tables--came with the course. If you have the computer you will be familiar with it's workings and also will save on renting.--Assuming you go somewhere that requires a computer as many places (boats) do, or shallow shore dive where watch and tables are fine. Either way, not talking megabucks difference.