It’s time to purchase a dive computer, but this can be a difficult decision when buying equipment for the first time. And to top it off, there are so many choices on the market. So, how do you know which type of dive computer is right for you?
The experts at Dolphin Scuba in Perth are here to help you decide.
What is a Dive Computer and why do you need it?
A dive computer is an extremely important piece of equipment for any diver. Why? For your safety!
During a dive, because of increasing pressure the deeper you descend into the water, nitrogen can quickly be dissolved into your body tissues. If too much nitrogen has dissolved into the body, you can experience decompression sickness. In the majority of cases, decompression sickness is mild and doesn’t cause significant harm. However, in some cases, it can lead to numbness, paralysis, and even circulatory shock.
Keeping dissolved nitrogen levels within acceptable limits will limit your chances of experiencing decompression sickness. Dive computers assist with this by tracking your dive depth and time and can also include added features such as safety stop countdown, ascent rate alarm and much more.
There are two types of Dive Computers: Wrist and Console. The one you choose? This will depend on personal preference and the types of dives you do.
We’ve included a few benefits for each type to help you decide.
Benefits of Wrist Dive Computers
Wrist Dive Computers are small, cute, compact and suitable for everyday wear.
Here are just some of the benefits:
- Convenient for travel
- Suitable for everyday wear
- Can also be used as a timer, alarm and light
- You don’t need to own any other diving gear – Even if you have a full kit, there may be times when you will use rental equipment, when you are sneaking in a few dives on a business trip for example
- Versatile
- Can be used for other water activities, such as swimming, free diving and snorkelling
- Other operating modes
- Free dive modes
The Shearwater Teric computer watch is available in the Dolphin Scuba Store.
The Console Dive Computer
Console Computers are larger, but attached to your dive gear.
Here are just some of the benefits:
- You can stick all of your gauges onto the same unit. This allows you to check your depth, dive time, remaining dive time, heading (if you have a compass), remaining gas in your tank, and possibly more — all at a single glance
- Turns itself off, so less batteries required
- Require less replacement
- A better option for a cray fisherman or a hunter-gatherer as the console is clipped up, safe and tucked away
- You’re less likely to drop your console mid-dive.
- Less risk of forgetting your dive computer at home or on the boat
- Readings are larger, so can be easier on the eyes
The Oceanic VEO 2.0 Swiv NavCon Console Computer is available in the Dolphin Scuba Store.
There is no difference in safety when it comes to wrist or console dive computers and they all run on comparable algorithms, so it’s up to you to choose which one would better suit your lifestyle and diving needs.
At Dolphin Scuba in Perth, we have a great range of all computers, including demo computers for you to try for yourself, prior to purchase. Check out our full dive computer range here or come and see us in store to find out more.
Contact us today on 08 93532488 or email us dolphin@dolphinscuba.com.au