Okay, now for a pro datmask response. I have one. I love it. My wife gave it to me because I could no longer see the little numbers on my wrist computer and couldn't see the numbers on the SPG. I knew where the needle was pointing and what that meant, but couldn't see the numbers. Yes I know that a prescription mask would have probably solved the problem, but my wife and I have nooooo problem buying dive gear.
I haven't found the weight to be any detrement, don't even notice it. I havn't had any problem with the display blocking any of the field, or that the field is too narrow. I spearfish and havn't had any problems spotting any fish.
I read manuals, so I didn't have any problem with computer interface. The downloading of data has been a bit annoying, the connection of the download cable can be tricky, I've had to hold it in place until the download is complete. But that hasn't been too much of a problem, I tend to wait until I get a few dives in between downloads.
In fact the best part is that it's "hands off". I don't have to reach down and look at my SPG, nor pull my hand up to see the computer. It's all there just a little down to the right, a simple roll of the eyes and there is the data. Both hands are free. Makes ascents almost too easy.
I've rarely do beach dives so the surf is not a problem. In quite a few years of diving, I've never lost a mask, so I'm not really worried about losing this one.
Oceanic had the technician at the LDS change out the corrosion prone batterycover bolts. I normally do all my own maintenance but decided that at the cost of the mask I wasn't going to take a chance on negating the warrentee. He managed to pinch the orings on both mine and my wifes. One mask was repaired and the other replaced at no cost to me.
I know alot of people have stated that this mask is a solution looking for a problem. I don't agree, it is just someone finally using some logic and putting a display where you can see it.
I love my Datamask. Both my wife and I have one. The only problems, the download/interface cable, and of course the cost. Oh boy, the cost.
Oh yeah, I've also finally broke down and had prescription lenses put in. I can see everything. Sucks getting old.