Why use a dive computer?
Using a dive computer for any and all dives adds a huge margin of safety as well as offers a better diving experience for any diver. A dive computer is simply a small computer (about the size of a watch) that, measures the water pressure and time to calculate your dive limits.
They range in price from a few hundred dollars to many thousands. And their functions range widely, but all dive computers have the same basic functions. They will display your depth, no-decompression limit, and time underwater.
Other functions you can find in advanced models, can be:
- Uploading dive data to PC/mobile
- Wireless connection to the cylinder, to measure gas pressure
- Other gas mixes (Nitrox, Trimix)
- GPS location
- Rebreather compatibility
- Even games…
LONGER DIVE TIMES
As the dive computer comes with you on every dive, it is able to accurately measure your depth and time. Using these with its built-in algorithm it calculates the actual No decompression limit at that moment. This means your NDL will constantly change, depending on your depth and time underwater. This gives you much longer bottom times, compared to a dive table.
MORE ACCURATE NDL
Your dive computer is able to accurately measure your depth underwater (to less than 1m). And measure the exact time you have spent there. It is able to use its algorithm to give you a very accurate NDL when compared to using a dive table.
IDIOT PROOF
Dive tables can be tricky to use, and easy to make a serious mistake that could increase your risk of decompression sickness. A dive computer eliminates all the jumping from tables 1, 2, and 3 and finding your pressure groups. Most dive computers are designed to automatically turn on when they go underwater, making their use very simple.
AUTOMATIC
Most of the functions of a dive computer have been designed to be as automated as possible. To make them as simple to use underwater, you are already task-loaded, you don’t need more to worry about. They will automatically record your dive start and end time, your average and the maximum depth, water temperature, plus more (depending on the features of your dive computer).
All RAID training centers & instructors will be able to offer advice on using or purchasing a dive computer. If you can’t find a dive center in your area that can help you with your dive computer queries, let us know.