freedc
Contributor
I am in the early stages of dive computer shopping where I try to assess my needs and just figure out what features I'll want/need. I'm new to diving, but figure I want to splurge on something if it will suit me well.
What features have you gotten and felt you didn't need?
What features did you pass up but wish you had gotten?
wrist vs. console
air integration (wrist)
integrated compass (wrist)
ascent alarm
other alarms
graphical display
data download to PC w/software
memory
gauge mode
number display size
number of buttons
good looks for everyday watch
algorithm
tissue groups
battery type and user-replaceable or not
nitrox
other fancy gas settings
warranty
what other features? I'm sure I've left off many.
I know where I'm leaning, which is to splurge for watch type with air integration because I love the idea of one less thing (gauge) hanging off me and one less thing to look at. Is it crazy to try to go console-free?
Don't want to wear it as a watch. I will get mugged and regret it.
Do want large numbers in case my eyesight goes downhill (it's ok now at 40, but soon...).
Do want data download.
Do want to be able to replace battery without going to a pro.
Do want nitrox capability.
Do not care about fancy technical gas switching as I don't see myself going there.
Will not stress about the algorithm or number of tissue groups.
These are all preliminary thoughts based on reading here. Before I shell out many hundreds of bucks, would love more advice from wonderful scubaboard people. THanks in advance.
By the way, if you want to recommend a brand and model, go ahead too!
What features have you gotten and felt you didn't need?
What features did you pass up but wish you had gotten?
wrist vs. console
air integration (wrist)
integrated compass (wrist)
ascent alarm
other alarms
graphical display
data download to PC w/software
memory
gauge mode
number display size
number of buttons
good looks for everyday watch
algorithm
tissue groups
battery type and user-replaceable or not
nitrox
other fancy gas settings
warranty
what other features? I'm sure I've left off many.
I know where I'm leaning, which is to splurge for watch type with air integration because I love the idea of one less thing (gauge) hanging off me and one less thing to look at. Is it crazy to try to go console-free?
Don't want to wear it as a watch. I will get mugged and regret it.
Do want large numbers in case my eyesight goes downhill (it's ok now at 40, but soon...).
Do want data download.
Do want to be able to replace battery without going to a pro.
Do want nitrox capability.
Do not care about fancy technical gas switching as I don't see myself going there.
Will not stress about the algorithm or number of tissue groups.
These are all preliminary thoughts based on reading here. Before I shell out many hundreds of bucks, would love more advice from wonderful scubaboard people. THanks in advance.
By the way, if you want to recommend a brand and model, go ahead too!