Which computer should I buy?

[suncoast]

I've been diving since '94 and just recently got PADI Advanced OW and Nitrox certified. I plan on furthering my certifications.

My wife is going to buy me a dive computer for Christmas and I've narrowed it down to the following selection:

Aeris 500 AI
Aeris 750-GT
Oceanic Datamax Pro Plus with compass

Does anyone have experience with the above computers and what is your opinion and recommendation?

Thanks!
Steve

 

[joewr]

Suncoast(nice name!),

I have a somewhat ancient Matrix, the grandfather of your Oceanic, so I cannot help you specifically with your selection. However, what I suggest is that you go down to your local dive shop (LDS) and compare them side by side. I also suggest that you find out how they differ: sometimes one is more comfortable with a certain read out protocol than another; you just have to try it. Also, if you can get a hold of copies of the manuals, you can study them at leisure at home.

Whatever you get, you will probably get used to it and think it is the most convenient...just because you get comfortable with nearly anything in the process of repetitious use. I think, though, that all three are quality products and I cannot remember seeing any "recalls" on them.

Finally, there are a lot of folks on this Board who use Suunto computers and, so, you are likely to have them ask whether you have considered them? And I think that would be a good idea.

Joewr

 

[syruss32]

If you are interested in reading more info on them, here is a link to their manuals in PDF format so you could compare the models. Aeris Dive Computer Manuals

You will also find some good info on Rodales I would imagine.

Hope this helps you out.

Also ask your wife to mingle with other wives and let them know how loving and kind she is and maybe my wife will eventually get jealous and let me get top of the line stuff.

 

[Fishkiller]

This may sound like a shameless plea but I REALLY enjoy my 500AI. My LDS has a good deal on the works (the quick connect with compass).

The display is quite easy to read in low vis conditions I can download with the software quite easy.

I dove with a buddy he used the 750GT and a battery went bad on his transmitter, so I would recomend getting extra batteries with that unit

 

[sharpenu]

I currently have the datamax pro plus and I find it to be one of the easiest to use and read comps I have ever had experience with. (It is my fourth computer) I have had no problems with it in the 4 months (and 18 dives) that I have had it. Good luck!!

 

[Scottri]

Any of the Aeris computers are good. I have an Atmos Plus and love it. Easy to read and use, easy to replace batteries.


Scott

 

[sharpenu]

I also have the Aeris 500AI and think it is (other than the shape of the display) identical to the DMPP

 

[Dee]

Originally posted by sharpenu
I also have the Aeris 500AI and think it is (other than the shape of the display) identical to the DMPP

Pelagic is the company that makes both the Oceanic DMPP and the Aeris 500AI so yes, both computers are virtually the same except for the layout. Although I have heard that Suunto is now making Oceanics computers.

I have the DMPP which is my 4th Oceanic computer. I use a Data 100Plus for back-up. The only one I've every had trouble with was the Data Trans Plus...the hoseless model. It was replaced 3 times by Oceanic and still had link problems. Several friends have also had problems with the hoseless models...both Oceanic and Aeris...and I no longer trust them. My opinion may differ from others!

I have been extremely pleased with Oceanic computers and the DMPP is the easiest to use yet. To change your Nitrox setting is only 4 button pushes. Use changeable batteries is a must to me.

Both Oceanic and Aeris are a bit more liberal than Suunto and Scubapro.