VT3 backup

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nightdive

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Messages
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Location
Whangarei, New Zealand
# of dives
25 - 49
i am a new diver that was given an oceanic VT3 as a gift. As cool as it is to have a wireless ai computer i still want to back it up with a spg and depth gauge. So my question is what is the smallest console around? i dont think ill be looking at it much so it would be nice to tuck it somewhere out of the way.

thanks
 
Does your first stage have 2 HP ports?
 
You can buy a small SPG and clip it off just about anywhere, they come pretty small (check out DiveRite, etc.). The Mares Compact 2 is the smallest one I've seen/dealt with.
 
The smallest would probably be another AI computer unit, something like the oceanic/aeris computer mask or another VT3 computer left in a pocket for backup. However, I assume you are looking for something cheap yet reliable? Basic analog glass and brass SPG with 2" face can be had for about $60, give or take. Many people like to tie a stainless steel boltsnap to them and clip them off to a d-ring located at the left hip area. There it's out of the way unless needed. Analog depth gauge cost about the same and you could leave it in your pocket, or somehow tie one to your SPG. Of course you'd need a backup timing device too so a dive watch with depth gauge might be another way to go. I have seen SPG's with 1.5" faces, but they tend to use plastic instead of glass, which some prefer for deco bottles because they are lighter, but for a backup SPG to your primary I'd go with brass and glass.
 
Just to add, if you go with the SPG clipped off to the left hip d-ring then look for a 24" or 26" HP hose to go with it - some of them come with 32" or so long hose which is way more than anyone needs and will stick out, bend and add unnecessary pressure on the HP hose. 24-26" works for most normal size people. Manufacturers just like to include hoses that are too long because it's easier for them to offer something that's too long for everyone than something that could be too short for some really huge person diving a mega-convoluted rig.
 
*Floater*:
Just to add, if you go with the SPG clipped off to the left hip d-ring then look for a 24" or 26" HP hose to go with it - some of them come with 32" or so long hose which is way more than anyone needs and will stick out, bend and add unnecessary pressure on the HP hose. 24-26" works for most normal size people. Manufacturers just like to include hoses that are too long because it's easier for them to offer something that's too long for everyone than something that could be too short for some really huge person diving a mega-convoluted rig.

I stay with the regular length hose & clip it off on my right-lower BC D ring.......
 
I have an Oceanic CDX 5 which does have 2 Hp ports and im looking for something hardwired in so i think ill go with the Mares.

thanks for the info, and see you under water im trying to go for some crays this weekend.
 

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