We all have that one friend who just took up diving. And not only is he invested in the sport, but now he’s looking to buy his first dive computer and needs some help figuring out what to get! What you really want for this person are two things: a good starter option with plenty of features so they can be confident when exploring their new hobby; or an advanced system if your buddy has been doing this for years already. Where should someone start? Well we’ve got it covered no matter where on the spectrum they fall – whether beginner or expert divers alike will find something perfect right here
The Basics
What are dive computers? Do I really need one? Dive computers are devices that allow divers to dive without having to worry about time or position – they can tell them where they are and how fast they are going underwater. The best dive computers today are Bluetooth enabled and have a wide range of features so you can get the best fit for your needs. Not only will this help you be a more confident diver and dive more, it will also allow you to dive safer by saving you from having to manually open the lid of the device each time you dive. Bluetooth dive computers: These devices connect to your device and only send the data they receive to you so you can share your dive status with family members and other friends.
Why is Buying a Dive Computer Important?
There are a lot of benefits to buying a dive computer. If you’re just getting started, you’ll soon start training with instructors, making dives deeper than what you can handle on your own. You’ll also want to track any dives you do on a regular basis and monitor your equipment. You’ll be able to monitor things like RPMs and dive times and when you check them on your dive computer, you’ll be able to see accurate data. If you want to check things like decompression time and air consumption, the dive computer can tell you exactly how much time you have to go through your breathing circuit before you surface. Or if you’re learning how to navigate and get used to the ocean, your dive computer can help with this as well.
What Features Should a Dive Computer Have?
All dive computers, whether they’re specifically designed for diving or not, will come with a number of features. Of course, this varies depending on the model, but the typical model you’ll find will have some of these standard features: Sensor and Battery Life: As you likely know, being able to actually go underwater is essential for diving. Without a dive computer, you’ll have no idea what the condition of your equipment is. They’re typically equipped with a sensor that can sense your depth, temperature, and even water pressure. All of this data is then transferred to the computer for analysis. Other models will include more advanced features like GPS, dive depth, and even connectivity to an iPad or smartphone.
The Different Types of Dive Computers
Dive computers are designed for divers of all skill levels, even with certification, but even in the basic category there are a few different types and several different features and requirements to consider. Let’s start by making the comparison: 1. Head Up Display (HUD) What is it? The HUD is an overlay that you see on your goggles, so you can see the direction you’re pointing. And if you’re exploring a wreck, you can see the marine life that is inside it. This type of dive computer shows just what it says on the tin: the interface you see is the surface image from a distance (i.e. you’re looking down at the underwater world). Who is it for? This is a high tech but low stress device.
Advanced Dive Computers
First things first, you’ll want to choose a system with advanced features. This is probably the last thing you want to skimp on! Your dive computer will keep track of depth, distance covered, time, and more, all in real time. It can also be paired with your smartphone, tablet, or computer. If you’re looking for something a bit more advanced, here are some of our top picks: This latest model from Aqua-Lung uses a small light to show depth in the water, as well as ambient light conditions. It’s compact and lightweight, and, along with a wealth of useful sensors, it can tell you how much light you’re receiving, including how much it’s reflecting off the bottom. This goes without saying, but a good dive computer will require a few extra batteries – and some extra charging power too.
Conclusion
Dive computers are an essential part of any scuba gear arsenal. They are the only way to stay on top of depth and other important diver status. Whether you’re buying your first or just upgrading to a more advanced model, dive computers keep you as informed and safe as possible. Dive computers provide a wealth of information about what you are doing, so now it’s time to dive into our extensive dive computer database.
