Dive Computers for Demanding Divers

Teric Dive Computers from By The Shore SCUBA

When diving for extensive periods of time in unfamiliar areas, divers should take a dive computer with them. Diving sources recommend always having a computer on hand to prevent decompression sickness and other dangerous conditions. Thanks to the diving technology today divers can get the most out of health and safety wherever the dive. For seasoned divers, knowing how to get the most out of a dive computer will help maximize their experience as well as their safety. Aside from saving your life, a dive computer can do the following:

  • Accurately measure your dive. Instead of estimating the dives on a dive table, your dive computer can act as a GPS. It’s equipped to measure exactly how much oxygen you need and recalculates your depth along with your past depth. Different depths require different amounts of oxygen. Think of a phone battery. The battery percentage is based on past use and current use and not an average percentage.
  • You can plan your perfect dive. Before you start your dive, you can compare different depths and O2 percentages to find out the best mix for your optimal dive. In other words, it calculates how low can you go, and how much oxygen do you need?
  • Monitor your ascent. Based on your age, weight, and heart rate you may need to ascend to the surface at a certain rate. Breaking the surface too slow or too fast could be dangerous for you.

Along with the capabilities of a dive computer, there are logistical reasons you should have a dive computer.

  • They are required on many different dive excursions. With a rise in liabilities, many different dive companies are requiring that divers bring their own dive computers. Make sure to check itineraries for equipment requirements.
  • You can log your dives! Who needs super great memory or notebooks when you have your dive computer? Now thanks to systems that can easily store and upload information to PCs, you don’t have to keep a pen and paper on board.

To enjoy the benefits and safety of your dive computer you need to know what to look for. Dive computer prices have gone down in the last few years because of the rise in technology, however; keep in mind that not every bargain really saves you time or money.

  • Are you going for a console or a wristwatch? A wristwatch is easier and lighter which is great for dives that are in turbulent or tight areas. You may need your dive data nearby and conveniently placed. If you prefer to see all your information at once you will need a console that you can attach to a BCD or regulator. Shearwater offers both models and is sold on the By the Shore Scuba Instruction.
  • How are the batteries? Is your dive computer used or older? If so, the batteries may require a technician. A newer model is more likely to have batteries that you can charge and change yourself.
  • Consider the measurements. Does your algorithm measure the nitrox, trimix, or air accurately? Accurate measurements mean less guessing and a safer dive.
  • Memory and downloading abilities are an important part of considering your dive computer. If you are taking an extensive dive a lower number of memory bytes is not worth having interruptions to your dive.
  • Wi-Fi is now included with many new models of dive computers. If your computer connects to Wi-Fi, you can store information from the dives into online clouds and save time on your dives. Just ensure that you test the Wi-Fi before entering the water.
  • By the Shore Scuba Instruction offers Shearwater computers with all the benefits listed above. Also, next time you are considering dive classes remember By the Shore Scuba Company. They can help meet you where you are and select the best computer for your personal dive needs. Call us at 919-247-0356 or [email protected]

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