What kind of computer?

[djhall]

Right now I am working with my first computer, a used UWATEC Aladin Air air-integrated console. I am really looking forward to downloading the profiles into my desktop computer to track how my actual profile compared to my planned profile and check breathing rates, air consumption, ascent rates, and such.

As for the future, well, I am interested in the ability to switch between three different mixes during the dive with the Suunto Vytec and the micro-bubble suppression of the features of the UWATEC SmartCOM and SmartPRO. Too bad I can't combine the best features of both into one computer. Until I learn to dive Nitrox, though, I'll just make do with my Aladin Air.

 

[kalvyn]

nicodaemos once bubbled...
So I'm getting the feeling that noone is using the RDP anymore after they get certified. Am I right on this?

If so, how soon after you started diving did you purchase a computer?

I actually bought a Suunto Mosquito right after I did my cert dives, but I most definitely still have my NAUI dive table in my dive stuff. I believe that, for me, it is important to still use the tables for a while, just so I can really learn that process and not be dependant soley on my computer.

I bought the Mosquito because I don't own any gear other than my mask, fins and booties at the moment. This way, I have a computer with me when I dive on vacations. When I'm not diving, I finally have a watch with the date on it. I also chose Suunto at the recommendation of my dive instructor, as he is quite happy with his air integrated Cobra.

Jimmie

 

[dc4bs]

djhall once bubbled...
Right now I am working with my first computer, a used UWATEC Aladin Air air-integrated console. I am really looking forward to downloading the profiles into my desktop computer to track how my actual profile compared to my planned profile and check breathing rates, air consumption, ascent rates, and such.

As for the future, well, I am interested in the ability to switch between three different mixes during the dive with the Suunto Vytec and the micro-bubble suppression of the features of the UWATEC SmartCOM and SmartPRO. Too bad I can't combine the best features of both into one computer. Until I learn to dive Nitrox, though, I'll just make do with my Aladin Air.

Hehe... I'm still waiting for someone to come out with an "full-featured" AI trimix wrist mount that can handle multiple transmitters - EG: one for each tank.

Or you could maybe monitor your buddy as well?

Or an instructor model could flip between screens or just show a list of divers and pressures for each studant at a glance?

Just throwing out ideas here. :boom:

Kinda scary to think what the price for something like that might be though.

 

[SMKChef]

GP once bubbled...

I rigged it myself thanks to the pictures posted by Windknot awhile ago. I've posted the links to the pics below.
bungee pic 1
bungee pic 2

GP, this is a great idea. I just got my Vytec and was wondering if there was a better way to keep it on my wrist. I think the pins in the straps will give away one day when I catch the computer on something. I have to look into your idea. :mean:

 

[SMKChef]

dc4bs once bubbled...


Kinda scary to think what the price for something like that might be though.

Like all technology. The first units will be only cheap enough for those who get "instructor rates." Then, after the bugs are worked out, prices will drop.

 

[ibnygator]

and I was quite happy with it until it crapped out on me during a dive recently. With only about 20 dives on it, I jumped in wearing my Vyper and descended to the 15' level of the anchor line to where the emergency O2 was attached. I glanced at my computer and noticed that it said I was 1 foot down. Odd..

I monitored it throughout the dive ( I had a backup analog SPG and timer) and it consistently, incorrectly reported my depth (showing 56' when I was at 85'). I took it off for the remainder of that day's dives and tried it again the next morning. It was working correctly then and has ever since. I have no idea why that happened that one time, and have never seen any other posts with similar stories, but thought that I would relate my experience.

 

[Cando]

This might be a little off topic but....

I was wondering if anyone could confirm that the Suunto Stinger really does only have an 18 month battery life at best, and if so...how hard or expensive is it to replace the battery every 18 months??

Im thinking of getting one but seems like a pain in the *ss to replace the battery all the time

Thanks

 

[jamiei]

My cobra was purchased jan 2001 and the battery still reads almost full (4 bars). I wouldn't worry about it in my opinion. I find it hard to believe that basically the same battery in two different models or brands will have a significant difference in battery life. Can one use that much more power than another? Ask yourself that. Any computer's battery can die in 18 months or shorter if you dive it hard enough or it may last a few years. In purchasing a dive computer, the cost of changing a battery every couple years should be low on your list of priorities since you're already shelling out so much money on the computer.

 

[MaresMan1]

:doctor:

I used to use the Stinger and was quite happy with it. Just had to keep sending it away for battery changes (once a year).

Just got the Mares MC1 because it uses AAA batteries and gives me pretty much the same readings.

:mean:

 

[raybo]

I have a Stinger that's about 15 months old, albeit with only +/-40 dives on it. Still shows a full battery charge. All 4 bars when it does the pre dive check.

I think I read that it's more like 2 yrs, or a couple hundred dives.

MaresMan1 once bubbled....

I used to use the Stinger and was quite happy with it. Just had to keep sending it away for battery changes (once a year).

How many dives in that year?