5 Reasons Why You Need a Dive Computer  

Thinking of buying your first dive computer? It’s a big step, and out of all the scuba gear you’re going to buy, the dive computer is perhaps the most important one.

But why do you need a dive computer? While it’s important to understand the theory behind dive tables, at the end of the day, you need a dive computer that gives you real-time information about how much time you have left underwater so that you don’t go into deco. Dive computers automatically monitor your time, depth, and ascent rate to ensure you have a safe dive and reduce the risk of developing decompression sickness. For these reasons, dive computers should be high on your list of essential diving equipment you need.

In this blog, we’ll go into more detail about the benefits of having your own dive computer. 

The Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Own a Dive Computer

1. Keeps You Safe

Every diver knows that safety is the top priority in scuba diving.

But how can you dive safely?  Planning your dive ahead of time and making the necessary calculations is a good way to start, but in order to eliminate the possibility of human error, having a dive computer isn’t just helpful but an absolute necessity.  Even the most experienced divers could make miscalculations, some of which could have fatal consequences. Using a dive computer gives you real-time information that you can safely rely on, including depth, time, air integration, safety stop settings, and much more.

2. Makes It Easier To Keep A Dive Log

A dive computer doesn’t just keep you safe, but it also allows you to log and record details of your dive.

By keeping a detailed dive log, you have proof of your diving experience, which allows you to:

1. Progress in your diving education. Some diving certifications require a minimum number of logged dives. Whether you want to gain more qualifications or not, there’s no harm in keeping a record of your dives.
2. Automatically record details of your diving profile (like depth, time, water temperature, etc.), saving you the trouble of having to memorize them all. Instead of manually noting these details down after the dive, the dive computer will keep a digital record of your dive. Some dive computer models even allow you to monitor your air consumption.
3. Look back on your dives as a sort of dive journal where you can write what you saw but also your thoughts. 

3. Gives You Higher Accuracy

From the amount of time you’ve spent underwater to the minimum surface interval, a dive computer is designed to keep track of your data so that you can stay within the no-decompression limits.

In fact, not only does it offer divers the ultimate peace of mind, but it also does so with an accuracy that cannot be rivaled by human calculations. With the right information conveniently at your fingertips (or, in this case, wrist), you’ll be able to enjoy your dive without worries and lengthy planning. Simply slip it on, set it up, dive, and explore.

4. Monitors Your Ascent Rate Speed

The ascent rate monitor is perhaps one of the most important features of any dive computer. As you know, scuba diving comes with its own set of risks, including the dangers of the pressure changes that you experience as you descend or ascend from a dive. Ascending from a dive too quickly could be highly dangerous, but a dive computer’s inbuilt ascent rate monitor is one of the reasons why you need a dive computer. By having this ascent rate monitor, you don’t have to rely on old-fashioned techniques, which give you an approximate calculation at best. Instead, you’ll be able to end your dive safely knowing that your ascent is being accurately and safely measured.  

5. You Can Set Alarms

Whether you do shallow, reef, drift, wreck, or muck diving, scuba diving is a sport that requires a lot of concentration. And as you’re busy admiring the marine life, drift diving, or taking photos, it can happen that you lose track of time. As a safety precaution to help you stay focused underwater, dive computers have the option of setting audible or visual alarms that remind you to check your supply of air, diving depth, diving time, and NDLs.

With a dive computer, you may include scheduling alarms as part of your pre-dive planning. These alarms themselves will help to keep you safe by guaranteeing that you stick to your carefully laid out plan. No matter how stunning a dive site is.

How Do You Choose Your First Dive Computer?

Once you realize why you need a dive computer, the next big hurdle is finding the right one for you.

Some things you need to consider:

1. Your dive level: if you’re new to diving, the general rule is to buy an entry-level dive computer. Something easy to use and with all the basic features. If you’re a more experienced diver, then look at the extra features you might need. Can you use it for technical diving? Is it an air-integrated dive computer? Does it have a compass?
2. Budget: The price of dive computers can vary a lot. So evaluate the pros and cons of each model and pick one that is within your budget.
3. Can you use it? Regardless of the dive computer’s price tag and extra features, ultimately, you have to be able to read it and use it. Ask yourself: Do you prefer large characters on a big display? Do you want to use the dive computer only when you dive or also for day-to-day use?

So, do you need a dive computer? Yes. They make your dives easier, more enjoyable, and safer, so don’t delay buying one. Our specialised dive shop is stocked with different dive computers for all budgets, levels, and preferences.

Need advice? Got questions? Feel free to contact us.