Computer Q's

[lovesmexico615]

I'm looking to buy a dive computer, but am a bit overwhelmed. The Suunto Gekko was recommended to me, and I've heard mixed reviews. I've heard that the Suunto's are overly conservative, AND that they are not conservative at all, I'd like something that isn't overly conservative, because I can always adjust to be more conservative myself on times and such if I feel I need to. What would be a good computer for someone who will be doing cold and warm water diving, would like a wrist mount, and am still new to the sport?

Thanks!
Amanda

[medic001918]

I have a Suunto computer so far and haven't found it limiting. That being said, I haven't had the chance to do multiple dives over multiple days with it yet. Oceanic makes a decent product, their pro plus 2 is a great console. Aeris has some decent computers as well that won't break the bank. There are countless options out there for you to explore. If you don't do multiple dives over multiple days frequently, I'd be surprised if you find a computer being conservative limiting.

Really, it depends on what kind of diving you plan to do as to what would be the best option to use.

Shane

[Zenagirl]

On all 3 of our liveaboard trips (and a couple of 3-tank charters)we've seen divers who have to severely modify or even sit out dives due to their Suunto computers. We prefer less conservative (but within the tables) so that we can control how conservative we choose to dive. That's why we chose Oceanic/Aeris products.

[ianr33]

I have used an Aeris computer for years and would recommend them.
Surface with the bar graph nudging the red and you will be diving very aggressively (NOT recommended) Always keep it in the green and it will be conservative (but sensibly so IMHO)

Dive it up to the NDL's then do a good long safety stop until it goes into the green (might be as much as 10-15 minutes) you will get long dives and still be unlikely to get bent. (never any absolute gaurantee about that!! )

Just make sure you have enough gas for you and your buddy for a lengthy safety stop in the event of a gear failure.

[BobbyWombat]

Scuba Diving magazine has done a bunch of DC tests to see if they are conservative vs. less conservative.

The Suunto computers consistently come out on the conservative side. Oceanic makes some great computers that have all of the features you would find in a Suunto, for less money. You can dial in more conservatism, if you prefer. I dive with a VEO250 and love it. There is another thread about the VEO 250 in the computers forum that you might enjoy reading.

I'd browse ST and check out the Oceanic/Aeris computers. (Oceanic and Aeris have the same guts, just a different display.....kinda like Chevy vs. GMC....if I understand correctly).

-BW

[reservecops]

Oceanic Veo 180 is a reasonably priced, simple yet full-featured computer that is nitrox compat, audible alarm, and can be paired with the download cable (stores 150 dives) to make life easy.

[Aussie]

Originally Posted by Zenagirl

On all 3 of our liveaboard trips (and a couple of 3-tank charters)we've seen divers who have to severely modify or even sit out dives due to their Suunto computers. We prefer less conservative (but within the tables) so that we can control how conservative we choose to dive. That's why we chose Oceanic/Aeris products.

Thats interesting.

On the Liveaboards which I have been on I have had no issues with the conservatism of my Suunto's. Bear in mind that on the liveaboards I always dive on nitrox and I am normally the first in and last out.

I will have to see how things go in Vanuatu next month when I be doing alot of deep dives (down to 215fsw) and compare other divers computers.

Aussie

[Aussie]

Also would it be a good idea to recommend an aggressive (less conservative) computer to a new diver?

Aussie

[robjoubert]

Originally Posted by Aussie

Also would it be a good idea to recommend an aggressive (less conservative) computer to a new diver?

Aussie

Aussie, good comment BUT when I purchase a computer I will get one that I can use for a long time. I cannot afford to get a conservative computer and then another less conservative computer when I get more experienced.

I just want to get the best DC I can afford!!!

[RoadRacer1978]

True. Buying a less conservative computer does not mean you have to dive it to its limits. I like the ability to choose for myself and not have a conservative computer make the choice for me. I am usually very conservative, but if and when I decide to venture out a little more I don't want my computer saying no if it is within reasonable limits.