Choosing a Dive Computer

[phrenicnerve]

I have this dilemma right now as well!

All the DM's I have gone diving with use a Cobra. Even in Fiji the DM's used a Cobra. It is not mentioned here. Why? Is it because it is air integrated? I hadn't thought of this issue, but understand why it could be a problem. I can't say they don't malfunction. I have been on a dive where the DM's Cobra did malfunction and became useless. Fortunately it was at the end of the dive, and he uses backups. This issue isn't something I have heard many complaints about though. Others have said they have used their Cobra for years without issue.

Also I do not own my own regulator. Do dive shops frown on needing to attach a Cobra to their regulators?

I have decided on Suunto but which one? I was thinking a Cobra w/SK7 compass attachment.

1- Cobra
2 - Vyper
3- Mosquito
4 - Stinger

All of these would work proper for my purposes I think. Is air integration the main difference?

[Diverdaniel]

I have this dilemma right now as well!

All the DM's I have gone diving with use a Cobra. Even in Fiji the DM's used a Cobra. It is not mentioned here. Why? Is it because it is air integrated? I hadn't thought of this issue, but understand why it could be a problem. I can't say they don't malfunction. I have been on a dive where the DM's Cobra did malfunction and became useless. Fortunately it was at the end of the dive, and he uses backups. This issue isn't something I have heard many complaints about though. Others have said they have used their Cobra for years without issue.

Also I do not own my own regulator. Do dive shops frown on needing to attach a Cobra to their regulators?

I have decided on Suunto but which one? I was thinking a Cobra w/SK7 compass attachment.

1- Cobra
2 - Vyper
3- Mosquito
4 - Stinger

All of these would work proper for my purposes I think. Is air integration the main difference?

Phrenicnerve mate,

again, Cobra's are nice, but do you have a spare SPG on your reg?
some diveshops mostly dont like the hassle of connecting your cobra to their regs, depends on the diveshop though. the SK-7 = great compass, have one for years now, integrated? i dunno, it could be nice on the way that it is not on your hand, connected to your console... on the other hand, what happens if your console gets hit by something? waightbelt....car door..... another tank..... seen it happen, + you got to know/get used to reading a hose attached compass, personally i find it uncomfortable. i prefer all my guages hand srapped, but, i think the best way for you to find out is just try diving both ways, then, take the goods and bads from all, and then make your choice depending on what suits YOU the most

i wish you luck man
choosing a computer is a difficult thing, i have stated my views about this earlier on : )
again,
good luck mate

Daniel

[acelockco]

Liuk3

Obviously there are a lot of choices out there. I faced the same thing WAYYYYYYYYY back when I bought my first computer. Funny thing is I am still using it now. To be honest though, I have been searching for a new computer to finally replace it, but only because I am going to get into some gas diving.

Anyway the computer I use is a Oceanic Prodigy. It is the most basic "hockey puck" style computers out there. The old hockey puck computers are able to be mounted in multiple locations so what ever you like is OK, and you can change your mind and keep your computer. They are built like a tank and have user replaceable batteries.

Now they are basic, no air integration and mine does not even do nitrox BUT they can be had for next to nothing and will keep you safe for recreational diving. I think I saw a few going for between $75 and $100 on ebay. For that price it makes great sense, as you can dive with it now, and when you are ready to upgrade you can sell it or use it as a great back-up computer.

NOW, that computer that Zero was talking about sounds insanely amazing, but I am sure it is about $2000, plus additional for each of the hoseless transmitters. It can probablly do everything except clean your dive gear for you as well, BUT I think it would be way overkill for a new diver. Get something easy to use, and enjoy your dive.

[phrenicnerve]

Right on. Thank you for the input. I bought a Cobra w/SK-7 attached. The console actually keeps the SK-7 level while your reading the Cobra which is nice. I hear you on attaching an extra SPG. Suunto consoles do allow you to do this if you want. After studying the manual and the recommended safety steps to take if the Cobra fails, an extra SPG would be the key to maximizing safety stop time before surfacing (deeper dives). And a wrist watch would help complete covering the other bases. I have to admit I really like playing around with electronics so I am having fun with this before I am even taking it down for a dive. Very easy to use actually. I am still waiting for the PC software.

[Diverdaniel]

Happy you are happy
enjoy and dive safely mate.