Diving Equipment and Gear - Dive Computers
Decompression meters, more popularly called Dive Computers, are devices used by scuba divers to gauge the duration and intensity of a dive. From the data determined by such devices, divers are able to compute a safe ascent rate, thereby avoiding decompression ailments.
Resolving the same problems as decompression tables, Dive Computers can also do a continuous computation of the partial pressure of inert gases in the diver’s body based on his definite time profile and depth in water. By providing the dual purpose of measuring the depth and time, Dive Computers eliminate the need for a separate depth gauge and watch. More so, these devices are helpful in determining and informing the diver of excessive ascent rates and missed decompression stops. Several Dive Computers also provide accurate water temperature, diver’s oxygen toxicity information, and precise breathing gas pressure of the Diving Cylinder.
Using a Dive Computer helps the diver put on the capacity to stay underwater safely even for a longer period of time since it has the ability to re-calculate changing underwater data. A leisure diver who intends to stay within “no-decompression” limits, for instance, can easily ascend a few feet at a time to remain within the safe limits while continuing the dive, rather than sticking to a pre-planned bottom time and ascending abruptly after.
Caution when using Dive Computers must be observed at all times. It should be remembered that the misuse of Dive Computers also exposes the divers to several dangers, tolerating them to perform complex Diving routines and expeditions with little planning, being the most dangerous. As such, divers are led to surpass their fitness condition and skill by relying primarily on the computer and thereby neglecting the importance of preparation and utmost planning. Hence, it is not wise to depend only on Dive Computers. Personal discretion still matters. It is also important to be familiar with the control buttons of Dive Computers, not only when engaging in complex routines but also in shallow and simple dives.
It is recommended, as a safety precaution, that a dive plan - within the decompression tables’ limits - be made before engaging on a dive and then pursuing it religiously throughout the expedition. By doing such, the margin of safety improves and at the same time, affords a backup decompression schedule based on the dive tables in the instance that the computer breaks down underwater.
Furthermore, it is important to remember that in establishing Dive Computer algorithms, the body’s gas absorption and release under pressure play a great role. As such, the danger of Decompression Sickness still depends on the fitness condition and health of the diver.
Dive Computers come in various types, features, and decompression algorithms, ranging from traditional to hostile decompression schedules. Get familiar with the different specifications of several models of Dive Computers and choose the type that meets your Diving needs.
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