Analog Gauges vs Computer

[dlawrence]

I'm not 100% sure this is the right place for this question, but I recently got certified and we never used a computer in the class. Obviously there are tons of benefits to using one and all the people I've talked to that dive regularly swear by them.

However, I'm wondering if there's any benefit to me, as I'm just starting out, to stick to analog gauges and dive tables for the first couple of dives.

From my perspective, the pros for starting with analog gauges only are cost and maybe learning the dive table a little better. The theory is clear to me and I have no problem with the actual tables, but I couldn't tell you what no deco limit is for a 30 foot dive without looking at the table. I imagine, after half a dozen 30 foot dives with tables I'll have it memorized (which maybe just doesn't matter that much anyway).

The pros for just getting a computer now; longer dive times (since I don't have to calculate the whole dive as though I stayed at the max depth the whole time), more accurate data on my dives and ease of use. Although, I think the longer dives, at least for now, isn't as big a benefit until I master the whole breathing thing, because the deco limit won't be my limiting factor. But, at the same time, if I'm going to get one anyway, why not start using it now?

Thoughts? What else am I missing?

[NitroWill]

As long as you know exactly how to use your tables for single and multiple dives - there's no reason you couldn't go to a computer.

A computer will allow you to take advantage of the multi-level calculations as well as track your dive so you can see your profile.

Just keep regularly using your tables so you stay familiar with them and keep them with you in case you ever have to plan dives by table in case of a computer failure. A lot of charters will even require computers - so it definitely could hurt you not to go with one - but it is not a necessity - I did hundreds of dives without a computer - you just have to plan your dive and dive your plan.

[texdiveguy]

Diving analog gauges and tables are fine for the new diver.....as a matter of fact many of us that are into technical diving go full circle and end up using bottom timers and custom tables in our complex tech diving....though many will back these up with advanced tec dive computers.

I do think that the basic air/nitrox dive computer is a great asset and aid to the sport diver and would recommend as soon as your budget allows to look at getting one.

But you don't have to have a computer at first to enjoy safe and fun recreational diving.

[rox@ucf11]

If you do decide to get a computer I would reccomend getting a nitrox capable computer, you may want to also take the nitrox specialty course soon I found it helped me alot with some of the theories behind diving.

[pyre24]

Originally Posted by rox@ucf11

If you do decide to get a computer I would reccomend getting a nitrox capable computer, you may want to also take the nitrox specialty course soon I found it helped me alot with some of the theories behind diving.

I would always get one that is nitrox compatable. I plan on doing nitrox soon.

[fireflock]

I think you're right on track. Most new divers are not getting any benefit from their computer. Their air consumption is what limits the dive, not anything having to do with NDL limits.

Computers change faster than any other category of dive gear. If you buy now, you might find yourself wishing that you had waited. If you wait, you can take advantage of what's on the market when you're ready.

Rich

[wxboy911]

I am a new diver-this is my 2nd year, and I use the tables to plan the dive. I just got a Mares M2 wrist computer that I will use with the analogue gauges. I like having a backup in case something goes wrong.

Mares M2 Nitrox / Air Dive Computer, Computers: Nitrox, Mares, Mares M2 Nitrox / Air Dive Computer

[hoobascooba]

you sure most new divers aren't benefitting from their comps because of air consumption? what about simply not knowing how to use it?! You wouldn't set new divers up for failure on purpose would ya?

Originally Posted by fireflock

I think you're right on track. Most new divers are not getting any benefit from their computer. Their air consumption is what limits the dive, not anything having to do with NDL limits.

Computers change faster than any other category of dive gear. If you buy now, you might find yourself wishing that you had waited. If you wait, you can take advantage of what's on the market when you're ready.

[newways]

The aeris XR2 is a nice computer, served me well for awhile now and it just went on sale at scuba toys

[fireflock]

Originally Posted by hoobascooba

you sure most new divers aren't benefitting from their comps because of air consumption? what about simply not knowing how to use it?! You wouldn't set new divers up for failure on purpose would ya?

I'm not following you.