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What is a Dive Computer?



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The main piece of information provided by a dive computer is the no-stop limit. The computer program will calculate the no-stop limit by taking into account air depth and air volume. It will also provide data about when to start or stop decompression. This information is also called the "no stop remaining" data.

Different preferences

There are many differences among different dive computers. However, all of them perform the same basic functions like displaying depth and tracking nitrogen loading. Divers might choose to use a different type of computer because they have different NDL times. Divers may choose to use a different type of computer than what is recommended. As such, it's important to plan a dive before buying a dive computer and to compare different models before deciding which one will work best for them.


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Functions

Dive computers are designed to keep you safe underwater. It calculates based on your information. Next, it compares that information to the dive tables in order to calculate how much time you have at sea. It doesn't take a genius math mind to understand the calculations. However, you should have an idea of where your diver computer falls on the liberal-conservative spectrum. If you want to maximize your bottom time while building safety in the process, a liberal-leaning computer will be the right choice.


Display

Whether wrist-mounted or mounted on a submersible pressure gauge, a dive computer's display screen provides the necessary data to avoid decompression and ensure a safe dive. Divers may also find useful extra features in some dive computers, such as the compass direction or water temperature. Dive computers can even be used to save data to a personal computer. This may prove useful for accident investigators. These features can make a divecomputer invaluable, especially for investigating the cause of an accidental accident.

Safety limits

Diver computers use a range algorithms to calculate decompression rates. Although acceptable DCS is between two and five percent, these numbers can vary depending on individual vulnerability and accidents. The US Navy and the commercial diving community often wish to achieve 0.1 percent mild or 0.025 percent serious DCS. To ensure maximum safety, a dive computer should be able correctly run the decompression algorithm. However, diving with a dive computer may not be as simple as it seems.


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Cost

Diver accidents can be prevented by choosing the correct computer for you. These devices use algorithms in order to determine how long a diver will be able stay underwater. While most diving computers have the same algorithm, every diver is unique. Divers will have different fitness levels and body compositions. Therefore, some machines will recommend more stops than others. Some will recommend more stop options than others. You can stay underwater for longer with any dive computer, regardless of what brand.



 



What is a Dive Computer?