Wrist Computer: To go AI or not

[Tiptopperoo]

Hi all, this is my second post on the board! Woohoo.

Looking to get a whole set of gear before I head over to Thailand to do my instructor course. This thread is dealing with the computer! I want a wrist one that can be worn as a watch (ie not too big)

I really like the look of the Mares Nemo Excel for $524.95

I will be doing all recreational diving for the next few years, does this computer NOT do anything I MAY need it to?
The only thing I can think of is that it is not AI, but then is that really an issue?

So the alternative would be an Oceanic Atom 2.0 for $649.95 + $310 (transmitter) = $959.95

Its $435.00 more just for the AI? Is it worth it? Surely its more reliable to have a console SPG and compass than worry about the AI?

Also can the atom be worn as a wrist watch like the nemo can, comfortably that is, or is it too big?
Does anyone know if you can set the backlight to always on for night dives on either of these?
Does anyone know if the battery is user replaceable in either of these.

Thanks in advance
Dave

[navyhmc]

Welcome to Scuba Toys!!!

I am looking at getting my first computer as well. I have setteld on an Oceanic Geo. partly because it's on sale right now and for less then $400 it will do everythign I can see me needing in the foreseeable future:
Nitrox capable w/O2 CNS as well an Nitrogen loading, down loadable w/temp feature.

I borrowed a buddys console Veo 350 and it was okay, but I like a wrist mount better. My buddy wears a Atom 2.0 and it doesn't look that big on his wrist.

[mitsuguy]

I run a wrist computer and a single SPG for tank pressure... in terms of reliability, its about as good as it gets for a computer type setup, and the wrist mount is extremely handy, especially for watching ascent speed and such...

AI is significantly more expensive, and I may eventually go that route, but I am quite happy with my current setup...

[PsychDiver]

Buy as much computer as you can afford. AI is the way to go if you can afford it. The convenience and extra features of AI is worth it. And if you buy a little beyond your current needs you will have some growing room without having to buy another computer.

[Krafcheck]

I have a VT3 with transmitter. I went on a cruise to Cozumel the week before Thanksgiving and dived with rental gear that had a console. Man that was annoying. I never realized how much more convient it was to have everyting on your wrist. It may be because I wasnt used to it but I know now I will always buy a wrist computer with transmitter. I imagine by the time I need a new one that masks with the computer display will be widespread and I will get one of those.

[Zenagirl]

I like having all my information in one place....hence why I prefer an AI computer.

[abcitydiver]

the atom 2 is very comfy as a regular watch. Personally, I would spring for the AI. (as obviously I did)

[mndiver]

Has anyone bought a Geo and regreted not buying the Atom? Any experience (good or bad) on the reliability of the wireless link?

[Cambria]

Originally Posted by Krafcheck

I have a VT3 with transmitter. I went on a cruise to Cozumel the week before Thanksgiving and dived with rental gear that had a console. Man that was annoying. I never realized how much more convient it was to have everyting on your wrist. It may be because I wasnt used to it but I know now I will always buy a wrist computer with transmitter. I imagine by the time I need a new one that masks with the computer display will be widespread and I will get one of those.

How do you like the size of the VT3 on your wrist? Everyone talks about the Atom 2, but unless you want to wear the computer around like a watch, I would think the VT3 would be preferable since it is easier to read.

[PsychDiver]

I have a VT3 and chose it because of the size. I wanted something that offered larger print underwater. I lose to many watches to want one that costs $600+. Linking is not a problem. I have lost the link before and I think it is from holding the comp in close to my body on my stomach while swimming which places by body inbetween my transmitter and the comp. As I move it up to look at it I can see is says link lost. But, while a second or two it relinks and I have the data. I am sure it links faster than it would take me to locate a SPG on a hose and look at it.