Backup Computer with different algorithm?

[NW Dive Dawg]

Actually the original post was just asking about the pros and cons of using a backup computer with a different algorithm than the primary......and then someone later suggested using gauge mode on the backup....

Then the thread segued from there like they normally do.

I was basically responding to the comment of making a safe ascent and safety stop with NO data..... and still think that would be difficult on a dive with little to no visibility.

In the tropics or any great vis location, then I agree that surfacing safely from an NDL dive with no available data should not be much of a problem.

 

[Belzelbub]

Actually the original post was just asking about the pros and cons of using a backup computer with a different algorithm than the primary......and then someone later suggested using gauge mode on the backup....

Setting an actual dive computer to gauge mode to serve as a backup makes zero sense. If it’s a computer, use it as such.

You can either manually select gauge mode, which makes no sense, or it can be selected for you. I believe only Apple and Suunto have computers that will go gauge mode in-water. So apart from those, the rest will only lock to gauge mode on the surface.

So, you are starting a repetitive dive after some sort of violation according to the backup. I guess if you are hell bent on doing that dive, having a computer in gauge mode is probably better than nothing. But, that may be the least of your problems.

 

[inquis]

I think we're all agreed that you should end the dive if your primary computer fails. Knowing your depth and time on a backup comp is valuable data assist for a safe controlled ascent along with a safety stop

We're talking about NDL dives here. If I have a backup computer, why would I end the dive if the primary fails? That puts me in the same boat as nearly all rec divers.

 

[jborg]

It helps you to get out the water safely.

This not being in the solo/advanced section, I think the assumption would be that there is a buddy. In that case you just surface as a team/pair like you would anyway.

 

[MB NZ]

This not being in the solo/advanced section, I think the assumption would be that there is a buddy. In that case you just surface as a team/pair like you would anyway.

That is an assumption, but yes, that would be a solution.

 

[boulderjohn]

We're talking about NDL dives here. If I have a backup computer, why would I end the dive if the primary fails? That puts me in the same boat as nearly all rec divers.

Exactly. I have to admit I am getting more and more baffled by some of the arguments being made here.

 

[Valeriy_Kulaha]

I have been using a Sherwood Amphos Air dive computer for 5 years. No problems, no issues, air integrated, works great for me. I bought an old ScubaPro Aladdin Square with the idea of using it as a back-up. It runs on a different algorithm. What are the pros & cons of this approach? Any sage advice out there? TIA

I believe that the most ideal option: computer + analogue depth gauge + watch:
- the safest
- the most comfortable
- the most budget

 

[d^2b]

I believe that the most ideal option: computer + analogue depth gauge + watch:
- the safest
- the most comfortable
- the most budget

Doesn't help much for typical multilevel profiles of e.g. 60 minutes total dive time with max depth of 25 m.

 

[Valeriy_Kulaha]

In fact, everything is simple and all divers did it until the diving human intellect was invented - the greatest depth and total dive time. The most conservative and safest method.
The greedy person pays twice and a saved minute of diving in the event of a computer error can cost his health.

 

[Belzelbub]

I believe that the most ideal option: computer + analogue depth gauge + watch:
- the safest
- the most comfortable
- the most budget

Safest is arguable.
Most comfortable? I don't get that at all. My backup computer is quite comfortable. I wear it everyday. Doesn't get much more comfortable than that.
I'll give you the budget one. Perhaps. It will depend on the particular gauge and watch. Some versions will definitely not be the most budget friendly.

In fact, everything is simple and all divers did it until the diving human intellect was invented - the greatest depth and total dive time. The most conservative and safest method.
The greedy person pays twice and a saved minute of diving in the event of a computer error can cost his health.

Aah. So that must mean that the incidents of DCS among computer divers is significantly higher than those that just use tables, right? If that were the case, we would certainly hear organizations like DAN cautioning against using computers. I'll wait.

Diving with the guidance of a computer is not a guarantee against DCS. The same can be said for using tables.