Choosing a Dive Computer

[liuk3]

I am a new diver looking to purchase scuba equipment. Anticipate recreational diving in southern california. I do not currently own a computer. Just wanted to hear different people's input and the reasons why they purchased their particular computer.

[Sarah]

In that case, for recreational, get one that has a large display and a nice graphical interface.

I think the hoseless computers are really nifty and Oceanic/Aeris makes some ncie hoseless, the but the guys here will have some other good advice too.

[seasnake]

I don't know why, but I'm not really fussy for the air integrated ones, hoseless or otherwise. I like having an analogue spg. For the display on the computer, I'd look for one with a nice large display that shows at least current depth, max depth and no deco time remaining constantly through the dive. I think a backlight is a really important feature too. And it wouldn't hurt to have one that can handle Nitrox mixes too, even if you aren't Nitrox certified yet, because you probably will be eventually. Then you have to decide whether you want to mount it in a console or on your wrist (I like it on my wrist. It makes ascents very easy when you can look at the computer with a raise of the arm while controlling your low pressure inflator with the other hand. I would also look for one that has user replaceable batteries, that is very handy.

What did I miss guys?

[Sarah]

Or you could always spend $1500 for that new Oceanic mask with the built in heads up display shown in the forum here!

Below is the Galileo Sol that Zero was talking about.

Galileo1.gif

[SeaDog]

Is there any real difference between the Cobra 2 and the Wisdom 2 and all the other computers of that style, I heard that all of them are made by the same company over sea, so the operation and "Most" functions are the same....any truth to that? or am I way out in left field.

[seasnake]

I have noticed that a lot of computers from different manufacturers "look" the same ... like same casing and often times similar display. I was noticing that again just this past weekend between a suunto and an oceanic. At first glance they appeared to be the same computer: same colour, same basic case design, etc.
*shrug*

[World Wide Diver]

Hmmm!

It's like this: I assume that if you want to buy a computer (first one) then you are probably fairly new to diving.

Therefore buying a trimix/tech compatible computer is a waste of cash (unless you want to waste your money/flash it off to impress non-divers).

Buying Suunto is a good investment. Suunto make computers with very safe algorithms and clear, easy to read displays.

I agree that the Suunto Vyper is a great dive computer (I have used one for 5 years without any problems - and just 2 batteries on 1500 dives).

Suunto manufactures what are also widely regarded as the most conservative dive computers:- they keep you safe as long as you follow them.

However, all computers will keep you safe as long as you understand them and follow them.

WWD

[Melberic]

heh go for a VR3, there £680 for the base model and fully upgradeable to trimix semi closed and closed rebreather

and there sexy