Some Diving Computers models just cant beat the old school way of doing things considering most are a great alternative to standard Dive Tables. To know which one would be most favorable for you it is important then to know the basic fundamentals of a Diving Computer and have a back up just in case the need arises. As a general information overview this article will focus on the most common kinds of dive computers.

Main Purpose

Tracking your diving profile is the main work of a diving computer. The computers main purpose is to gather information, and with that information estimate any decompression stops that maybe necessary, logs all the information for later reference and calculates the remaining No-Decompression Time. The Diving Computer records how long it has been since youve surfaced, how long your dive was and how deep you were in.

The Top Model

There are many models of Diving Computers, so it is particularly important to know where each one is coming from. There is the classical analog depth gauge model that has two separate gauge indicators, namely the tank pressure and depth indicator. This model requires the diver to manually compute the information on a dive table to see how long one can stay down on a dive.

The Standard Model

Next is the basic model of Dive Computers, which are classified as the most popular standard. It has the same analog tank pressure gauge like the classical model, but this one has been replaced with a digital depth gauge indicator. The LCD screen reads out your downtime limit, as well as how deep you are in (depth indicator). It also computes any nitrogen loading and No-decompression times for you.

These models for nitrox diving calculates the extra amount of oxygen that is in the tank youre breathing from. A computer module (for some models) is able to calculate the nitrox tables and comes with a pressure gauge.

Designs and Layouts

In different layouts and designs many models are highly relevant with an extra module attachment spot for compasses. Requiring a back up external standard pressure gauge, there are wristwatch-style dive computers that calculate and display all your diving needs as well as being able to function like a normal watch by telling you the time. Convenient for easier reading than the wristwatch design there are also wrist mounted dive computers specific for diving which tend to be bigger. There are even models that allow you to download all the data for later study and connection to your home PC.

As parting advice for the beginner, it is important to know that choosing a conservative and yet reliable model is always the standard procedure when it comes to diving. As experience is accumulated over time, a diver begins to see which details are the most important to have on display. Safety should always come first, and this means that one should always have a Diving Computer that is convenient as well as being suited to your diving comfort and needs.