Wrist action, best hardware

[tentacle13]

I am seeking to purchase a dive computer. But I have little clue on which brand, model and what types benefits each have (backlighting,battery life etc. If there are any firm believers in the hardware they own. What is your thought?=-)

 

[TexasMike]

There are lots of choices of computers. And many of them are either already designed for going on your wrist, or a boot is available for your wrist.

As far as brands/models, almost any non-hose mounted air integrated computer (like the Suunto Cobra) will go on your wrist. Prices are also all over the map depending on brand/model/features.

One feature you definitely want to have is the ability to use the system in nitrox mode. Generally almost every diver will take advantage of nitrox, so you need a computer that can handle those types of dives.

You might also desire a downloadable computer where you can download the dives onto a PC for dive log or to see the graphs of your dives.

 

[ckharlan66]

There are alot of threads that discuss the different brands. Do a search and you will find out alot of different opinions. The hardest part is figuring out what you want.

Chad

 

[padiscubapro]

Until a mixed gas unit became available, I exclusively used the nitek 3. This computer has been around and has proven itself. It is capable of being programmed for up to 3 nitrox mixtures or can be used in guage mode (depth/time/logging no on/off gassing calculations).

The Nitek is a single gas version of the same, or the Nitek C, same as nitek but in wristwatch format..
see
http://www.diverite.com/products/nitek/nitek0.htm
http://www.diverite.com/products/nitek/nitekc.htm
http://www.diverite.com/products/nitek/nitek3.htm

 

[Campana]

I have an Atmos Pro that I like. It's not as conservative as the Suuntos and works just fine.

Check out Rodales' Scubadiver Gear Guides. It's online, if you don't have the Address let me know

Dave

 

[Diverl]

tentacle13

Where and what type of diving you are doing will have an impact on the computer that you purchase. A good article on what some of key things to look for in a dive computer can be found at:

http://www.scubadiving.com/gear/newcomputers/understanding.shtml

I recommend that anyone who buys a computer should buy Nitrox Capable. The cost increase is insignificant and the benifits of Nitrox are a big plus. Even if you are not Nitrox certifiend now, you may be in the future.

I think that you will find the Suunto line of dive computers very popular with the members of this board.

Hope this Helps!

 

[Arduous]

I agree with TaxasMike.
You should choose a computer that is Nitrox ready, that is back lit, that has user replaceable batteries and one that can down load your dives to a computer. You may or may not use all of these functions right away, but when your ready they’ll be there for you. Air integration is also nice. Basically as in all your equipment, you should buy the best you can afford. Buy it right the first time and be happy with your purchase. Other wise you may find yourself in a short time wishing you had purchased something else.

I like my Oceanic Data Max pro Plus air intergraded computer. It has served me well. I also have a Oceanic XTC-100 wrist mounted computer that I like very much.

Dive Safe …………………Arduous

 

[Rick Murchison]

I think the best value out there is the Oceanic Data Plus. Gives you all the essentials and a decent algorithm. Simple. Downloadable. Nitrox. Backlit.
Rick

 

[Ari]

I would look for the following possibilities on your new unit:

1. Nitrox capable.
2. Backlight.
3. PC downloadable.
4. Wrist mountable.
5. User changable battaries.
6. Auto activation (when entering the water).

This was what I looked for. You can of course go for gas integrated, but it will not be cheap and you might experience some issues if it is a transmiter reciever kind of application. I decided not to go for gas integration, but this is a personal preferance.

Any way, there are a lot of very good units on the market, including some from Suunto and Aeris, for very good prices. Try to take a look at the leisurepro web site for some nice deals.

I got the Suunto Vyper for about 275$ a few weeks ago and it looks very nice.

you can also take a look at Rodale's at www.scubadiving.com for some good info.

Ari

 

[Norm]

Wrist action, best hardware

If we're on the same page here, I recommend against wearing a computer on your wrist. I used to but it was extremely easy to get a "rapid ascent" warning when wearing them on your wrist because of simple arm motion, adjustment of gear, light movement, or if you are of the old book of "look up, reach up, come up".
Options? User-replaceable batteries are a must, among several other features.
Norm