Computer decision - buy or don't buy

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When I first started diving I did not think I would ever need a computer, however when I started going deeper than 18m a couple of the boat operators I dive with will not allow dives without a computer, so I bought a Sunnto zoop novo (£150) Also on repetitive dives near the 30m mark I have been able to maximize my dive time very near to the NDL. I chose the zoop over similar priced models from other makers because its screen is easy to see (I tend to use reading glasses out of the water). I would not be in any rush to upgrade, take your time and do plenty of research. Some people like tech for techs sake - off road motorcycles for example, some love connecting them to laptops and adjusting the EFI to change the power curve, others like me prefer a carburetor than can be adjusted with a 50 pence screwdriver.
 
Your in Rhode Island, my honest advice is get one. And get the standard, a shearwater. The amiunt of great diving in your area, will allow you to grow and gain a vast amount of experience.your going to need a computer that will last, and continue to be a tool you can use as you progress. I made mistakes when I bought my suunto zoos, and mares quad. Great computers but they are not very robust. I now have 2 shearwaters
 
buy one
 
If your dives are shallow enough to make mandatory decompression impossible, then you do not really need a dive computer (nor a depth gauge) but an SPG.
Depth is nice to know though, and depth profiles are fun, so maybe you'll want something that logs your depth.
 
If your dives are shallow enough to make mandatory decompression impossible, then you do not really need a dive computer (nor a depth gauge) but an SPG.
Depth is nice to know though, and depth profiles are fun, so maybe you'll want something that logs your depth.
That is true but I personally would always suggest owning a computer (new or used) to any diver. It doesn't need to be expensive or new.

I have a few reasons for it:
1) It is easier to track NDL if the computer is doing it automatically and adjusting it according to depth.
2) Sticking rigidly to a plan is not as critical - you can inadvertently go a few feet or metres either way which could make a difference to the overall plan
3) Being able to review your dive profiles post dive on a computer is a useful exercise - you can pick out bad habits & issues quite easily (you can even see how well controlled your buoyancy is, how quick or slow your ascents are etc).
4) the computer can be used to either give longer dive times (as it adjusts the NDL according to depth so gives credit for multi level diving) or for safety (you can see how long your actual NDL is and decide at a glance how conservative you want to be with regards to NDL).
 
I'll be posting two used ones for sale in the next few days if your interested a suunto cobra and suunto cyper air with transmitter I'm just waiting to get them back from there safety checks.
 

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