when do you replace your uwatec bottom timer?

[squee!]

On the scubapro website it says that it lasts approximately 1000 hours. Well, when do you decide that it is time to get a new one? 800 hours in? Wait until it finally stops working? Any suggestions? Does anyone carry a spare analog bottom timer and analog depth gauge with them just in case? Or if it stops working do you just rely on your partner? thanks.

[in_cavediver]

I use a VR3 backed up with a BT. My buddy dives the exact same config.

Given that, if Murphy really comes to visit, we'd have to lose 4 depth/time measurement devices to be screwed. I plan to dive my BT until it dies.

As for an individual, a watch/depth gauge, old computer or 2nd bottom time would all work as backups. Remember, the goal is to have a 2nd means to get max depth and bottom time information so if you use the watch method, you have to remember to start/stop it etc.

[Gombessa]

I think most people carry a computer as a backup.

Someone had a story about how his Scubapro BT/DG was wrong and his buddy's computer was on the dot regarding depth. They went with the BT, but then shot a bag with knots tied for depth and freaked out.

[jessh]

If you decide to get rid of it after 800 hours then feel free to send it my way :-) Personally I would say wait until it dies. Your buddy has one backup for you and if you are concerned you can carry another.

~Jess

[MSilvia]

I'll replace it when it dies. I bring backups when I need backups, but if it fails on a NDL dive, I'll likely end the dive when it dies... unless I know I can't exceed my NDL with the gas I have left.