Considering the purchase of an Oceanic VEO 180

[harb99]

I do not have any other equipment other than the basics (mask/fins), but would like to have my own computer for an upcoming dive trip. I have been looking at this one:

http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detai...DUCT_ID=VEO180

Any kind of input (pros/cons) would be appreciated. I am on a budget and could use this as a potential backup down the road when I purchase a full reg set.

Thanks in advance.

Harb

[mwhities]

Never used it but, from reading the description, I think it would be a great purchase. Nitrox from 21% to 40%. Not sure if you are EAN certified but, the computer will help you out for a longer dive using it. (If you are't Nitrox certified and you plan not to, I'd suggest getting an air only computer... then, if you think later on that you will get nitrox certified (I recommend doing so), get this computer.)

Michael

[harb99]

I am considering getting Nitrox certified and was going to before the trip, but finances and time are tight right now. Thats one of the features I liked about it - it seems like a lot of bang for the buck.

I looked into just buying one of the Citizen Aqualand watches to use as a dive computer (air only) for around $300 or so, but this computer gives you everything the watch had plus the advantage of Nitrox.

[mwhities]

... and there is your answer.

If you don't get certified for EAN now, at least when you do, you don't have to spend ANOTHER 300+ for a computer that support Nitrox.

Michael

[Wolfie2012]

You can't go wrong with the Veo 180 for a first computer. It should last you quite awhile while you increase your training.
<DIV>The only thing that some people have issues with is that the algorithm that Oceanic &amp; Aeris computers use is a liberal one. This means that you'll get more bottom time within the no-deco limit. This also means that it doesn't give you the added safety net that some computers that are more conservative give. Personally I prefer the more liberal computers and own both Aeris and Oceanic computers. I don't feel they're inherently any more or less safe. You as a diver are really the only one who can determine what safety limits you wantto impose on yourself.</DIV>

[paulwall]

I have been diving with an Aeris Atmos 2, which I bought used, in a console.
I then picked up the Veo 180, after I sold my backup computer (Suunto Mosquito). I very much like the display of the Veo 180, big easy-to-read numbers. I haven't read the manual yet (as it is very similar to the Aeris I am familiar with), but it seems very intuitive (But, I suggest you read the manual, if this is your first computer). You can't beat the price from ST, anyway.

I prefer the liberal Algorithm, as opposed to the SUUNTO. After all, you don't have to ride the computer's times. You can build in your own conservatism. Try to be more liberal than the other guy's conservative model, you'll end up violated! (pun intended).

[harb99]

Thanks everyone for the replies - looks like I was headed in the right direction with the Veo 180. Will probably pull the trigger on it in a few days.

The only thing it doesnt seem to have that would be nice is a way to d/l the dives to a computer, but for the money, I can look past that.

Harb

[paulwall]

Fear not,

ST doesn't list everything they carry on their website

http://www.amazon.com/Oceanic-Cable-.../dp/B0000X95FS

I'm sure they could get this for you, though

One other place:

This one, too.

http://www.leisurepro.com/prod/OCNPCUSB.html

[harb99]

Thats cool - its not even listed as being able to download the dives from it. Added bonus I guess - I will ask about the cable when I order the computer.

Thanks for the headsup Paul

Harb

[Wolfie2012]

You can get some detailed specs on the oceanic website that will list all the features and capabilities
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV>http://www.oceanicworldwide.com/p_computers_veo180.html</DIV>