Are Dive Computers Necessary?

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Back in the day, tables were the standard. These days, most recreational divers dive with a dive computer and for good reason.

Your computer calculates depth, bottom time, speed of ascent, and NDL in real time. Tables give you a static plan. When you go shallower partway through, it updates. Tables are set before you get in.

Wrist-mount additional resources computers are the most common go for these days. They're compact, easy to read, and you can wear them as a watch as well. Hose-mounted computers are available but not as many divers choose them anymore.

Entry-level computers go for around $250-400 and handle everything most divers needs. Features include depth tracking, bottom time, no-deco limits, a logbook, and often a basic apnea mode. The $500-800 range includes wireless air monitoring, better screens, and additional nitrox compatibility.

What people don't think about is conservatism settings. Certain models are more cautious than others. A cautious setting gives you less bottom time. Liberal algorithms allow longer bottom time but at a thinner safety margin. Neither is wrong. It's personal preference and experience level.

Check with someone at a dive shop who uses multiple models before buying. Staff will give you a straight answer on which ones hold up versus what's marketing. The better Cairns dive stores put out buying guides and comparisons on their sites as well

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