Dive Computers

Why You Need a Dive Computer ...

Just a few years ago diving with a scuba dive computer was considered a luxury. Now diving without one is considered reckless. A scuba dive computer works by constantly analyzing your depth and dive time to provide up to the second decompression data. We've selected popular dive computer brands like Oceanic Scuba Computers, Aeris Scuba Computers and Mares Scuba Computers to provide you with a wide selection for all budgets.

Dive computers are one of the most important scuba equipment needed to go diving. They have improved diving by making the sport safer, easier and more enjoyable. Dive computers constantly monitor your depth and bottom times.

Some Standard Features on a Dive Computer

There are many standard features on dive computers such as bottom time; maximum depth reached; surface interval time; airplane fly time; audible alarms; decompression information; and a battery low power indicator. Each manufacturer has added more advanced features on each of their dive computers.

The three basic type of dive computers are watch style, module and air integrated. Watch style dive computers are wrist dive computers. They perform all the functions you need and expect from both a watch and a dive computer. Module dive computers are among the most economical on the market. These consoles usually are hose mount dive computers. Air integrated dive computers come wireless or connect to your regulator via a high pressure hose. While an air integrated scuba computer is very convenient and easy to use it is always recommended to have a backup analog pressure gauge in cause of battery failure.

Each basic type of dive computer comes with the standard features that were listed above. More advanced features include automatic activation, batteries, memory, PC downloadable, nitrox compatibility, decompression capability, illumination and varying profiles. Automatic activation features are ideal for those divers who are prone to forgetting to turn on their dive computer. It will automatically turn on once you hit the water. Most dive computer batteries have to be replaced by a trained technician. There are some diving computers that have user replaceable batteries. Another convenient feature about dive computers is the PC downloadable feature which allow divers to transfer their dive profile straight to a dive computer.

If you are unsure if you plan to dive nitrox at some point it is best to get a dive computer that is nitrox compatible. The good thing is that the nitrox feature is becoming a standard feature on today's dive computers. Other dive computers are recommended for tech divers because they feature decompression capability. While all dive computers on the market will guide you through an emergency decompression situation, some are not intended to be used for planned decompression dives. This is where this feature would come in handy. Illumination is a great feature to look for. It assists divers in reading dive computers in difficult lighting situations.

Still not sure on what Scuba Computer to get?

There are many options and features to choose from. If you need additional assistance please e-mail our trained staff by filling out our contact form. or call us toll free at 1-800-DIVE-USA for more information visit our Divers Direct contact page.