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Archive-name: scuba/computer-reviews-1
Last-modified: $Date: 1994/06/29 19:54:11 $
Version: $Revision: 1.8 $
Features/Reviews of SCUBA Computers
This is a list of Features and some FAQ-like questions and
answers for computer instruments designed and sold to assist
recreational scuba divers. Please send all corrections,
enhancements, and suggestions to Kevin Grover
<grover@is*.un*.ed*>
This file will be posted to rec.answers, and news.answers in
the future. The most current version can always be found at
ftp.isri.unlv.edu in the files
/pub/scuba/faq/computer-reviews-{1,2}
Any suggestions on better ways to maintain/organize this FAQ
are appreciated. If you can think if an idea of a useful
section, let me know. If you can write the section, send it
to me.
If you archive these files on your ftp site or world wide web
site, let me know and I'll add a section about where to get
this file.
Thanks to the many people that sent in information. You are
too many to note, but your help is appreciated. Author
information is included in the Books and Summaries sections.
CONTENTS
1) Introduction
2) Why a Diving Computer FAQ/List?
3) Computers are NOT infallible
4) Backup Computers, do I need one?
5) User replaceable batteries != service free
6) Wrist or Console/Hose Mount
7) High Pressure Disconnect
8) Saving Power: How do I turn the darn thing off?
9) Gauge Guards
10) Computer models and what they mean.
11) Summary of Computer Features (table)
12) Explanation of Features
13) Computers (cheap) by Mail Warning
14) Company Addresses
14.1) Dacor
14.2) Dive Equipment Manufacturer's Association (DEMA)
14.3) Cochran Consulting
14.4) Mares
14.5) Oceanic
14.6) ORCA, A division of EIT
14.7) Sherwood Scuba
14.8) Suunto
14.9) US Divers
15) Books on Dive Computers
16) Future Directions of this FAQ
17) Blank Review/Summary Form
18) Reviews by Computer
18.1) Beuchat Aladin-Pro
18.2) Beuchat Aladin Sport (or US Divers Monitor I)
18.3) Cochran Nemesis
18.4) Dacor Omni
18.5) Dacor Omni Pro
18.6) Dive-Rite Bridge
18.7) Ocean Edge Computek II
18.8) Oceanic DataMax Pro
18.9) Oceanic DataMax Sport
18.10) ORCA Phoenix
18.11) ORCA SkinnyDipper Mark II
18.12) ScubaPro DC-11
18.13) ScubaPro NC-11
18.14) Sherwood Encore
18.15) Sherwood Sentry
18.16) Sherwood Source
18.17) Suunto Companion
18.18) Suunto Sea Quest Solution
18.19) Mares Divemate Audio-Visual
18.20) Mares Genisis
18.21) US Divers Monitor I
18.22) US Divers Monitor II
18.23) US Divers Scan 4
18.24) Uwatec Aladin Air X
----
========
Subject: 1) Introduction
This FAQ is currently maintained by Kevin Grover
<grover@is*.un*.ed*> as a plain text file. A perl script is
used to build and insert the table of contents (it also
updates the numbers on section titles at the same time) as
well as include and format individual mail replies. I have
plans to convert the FAQ to a texinfo so that LaTeX can be
used to output a nice printed report.
All comments and replies welcome.
DISCLAIMER: To the best of my knowledge, all information in
this summary is correct. However, BEFORE using the information
as your basis for comparison, please make an effort to
verify the items that are influencing you purchasing
decision.
========
Subject: 2) Why a Diving Computer FAQ/List?
Recreational SCUBA (Self Contained Underwater Breathing
Apparatus) diving has grown in popularity and sophistication
over the years. Early divers had few guidelines or instruments
to assist them in being a safe diver. Modern divers have a
suite of equipment to choose from. One of the more
revolutionary instruments is a dive computer. A dive computer
is an electronic instrument that replaces and expands on the
functionality of depth gauges and bottom timers (and more
frequently now, pressure gauges). Instead of being limited to
a square profile by dive tables, the computer continuously
calculates the theoretical nitrogen absorption based on
current depth and time.
Some instructors may advocate not relying on dive computers.
They insist that you should know how to use and work the
tables. "What happens if your computer breaks?", they say.
Well to that, I must reply: "what happens if I lose my
tables?" This is more likely, for me, than my computer
breaking. It is always a personal choice to use new
equipment. If new ideas and equipment were never accepted we
might still be riding around in horse drawn carriages.
========
Subject: 3) Computers are NOT infallible
Although dive computers add significantly to the time we can
safely spend underwater, they are not fool proof. They model
the nitrogen absorption based on experimental data obtained
over years of research. Nitrogen affects every person
differently based in currently physical and mental conditions.
Computers enhance safety but they can not replace common
sense. It might be wise to err on the side of caution: do not
push your computers limits.
========
Subject: 4) Backup Computers, do I need one?
Dive computers are wonderful tools, however it's nearly
impossible to reliably backup computer dives using standard
tables. The reason for this is that the computers track dives
by periodically (ever few seconds, or more often in many
cases) determining the depth and using it, and time at the
depth and your previous profile to model the nitrogen
absorption in your tissues. These models are the extreme form
of a multi-level dive. If you wanted to model your dive to
this precision you would spend your entire dive writing down
the depth every second or so, so that you could use this
information on shore to calculate the absorption for the
theoretical tissues.
There are multilevel tables, but it is not always possible (or
practical) to accurately model dives recorded on a dive
computer. Philosophies differ on the best approach for
`backing up' a dive computers. If your computer fails you
could: 1) attempt to use a multi-level table system to
continue diving, 2) use another computer that you have carried
with you on all dives, 3) stop diving (for 24 hours), then
continue using tables. There are of course other options: 1)
continue diving on tables, 2) dive using a buddies computer
(i.e. diving with someone else who has a computer). However
options such as these are fool-hearty to the point of danger
and are not considered as valid options by most. If you are
planning a trip on a live aboard, or to a distant place,
having a backup computer could mean the difference between
being able to continue diving on that trip, and not being able
to dive (nearly as much as you may want to). Options for
backup computers are: 1) buy another one (if you have the $$),
2) borrow one from a friend (how would appreciate the same
favor if they should need it), 3) see about renting one before
going on the trip, or at the destination.
If you spend several thousands of dollars for a long dive
vacations, and extra $100 or so to rent a backup computer
might well be considered "good insurance." Taking such a
vacation one or two times a year could justify (and pay for)
buying a second computer as backup.
========
Subject: 5) User replaceable batteries != service free
User replaceable batteries are nice because you can carry a
spare set with you and replace them on the dive site. This is
especially nice when you happen to be in the middle of some
small country that does not have a Radio Shack in every town
and has never heard of the type X5J-MR333-1005 1.005 V lithium
cell.
Furthermore, being able to replace the batteries yourself
means you do not have to wait multiple weeks to get your
computer back from the dealer when you send it in for battery
replacement.
However, just because you can replace the batteries yourself,
does not mean that you should never send the unit to the
dealer. When a computer is sent to the dealer for battery
replacement (or just a checkup), many things beside the
battery are looked at: seals, o-rings, lubrication, often the
crystal cover is replaced if it's scratched, seals are often
replaced "just to be safe", the unit if often tested in a
pressure chamber to confirm that it is still up to specifications, etc.
Therefore, I'll probably buy a computer that has user
replaceable batteries next time, but I want to be sure to
remember to send it in for service at least once every few
years (if more not often, depending upon how much it gets
used).
========
Subject: 6) Wrist or Console/Hose Mount
Before spending a significant chunk of money on a small
electronic device you will be dragging around with you on your
explorations of the underwater world, you must ask yourself:
where do I want this device located, Wrist or Console?
A wrist mount is easier to read (more convenient for most
people). It can also be taking with you into the galley so
you can look at it while eating and waiting for the next dive.
They are easier to loan out. They are also easier to lose and
bang against rock, etc, underwater.
Console mounted computers (could also by clamped to a low
pressure hose), are in the same place as the rest of your
traditional gauges. If you are used to looking at depth and
air gauges, it will be natural to look at the console. Newer
consoles are designed so as to be easily clipped to a BCD to
prevent them from dragging on the ocean. At the same time,
having them attached to the console makes them much harder to
lose.
If you do opt for a wrist mounted console (for convenience and
other features), you might consider a lanyard to further
connect the device to your arm --- straps can break. However,
do not attach it to your BCD: in an emergency, you might have
to ditch the BCD (and tank, etc.) and you don't want to have
your wrist mounted computer connected your BCD via a lanyard.
It is also possible to install device so that the entire high
pressure hose can be easily removed and re-attached. See the
section "High Pressure Disconnect" for more information.
========
Subject: 7) High Pressure Disconnect
Oceanic makes a high pressure disconnect that can be used to
easily remove the entire high pressure hose, and re-attach it.
However, I have seen negative reviews of this on the net. I
have never tried the device, so can not comment on it from experience
========
Subject: 8) Saving Power: How do I turn the darn thing off?
Date: Fri, 10 Jun 1994 14:39:13 EDT
From: Brian <prince@ka*.en*.de*.co*>
Did you not get a manual with the computer?? If so, read it!
It not, stop using it until you do get a manual and have
thoroughly digested it ( No, don't eat it! ).
Seriously though, you don't need to turn it off if it is like
many others that have an auto-shutoff after the time-to-fly
mode (or what ever your last mode is) elapses. Just don't
keep reactivating it by pressing the button (or what ever
yours has).
I wondered the same thing when I first used my computer. But
when I thought about it for a while, and reread the manual, I
realized that the display (usually liquid crystal) does not
use that much power from the battery. At this point in time
(time to fly mode in my case), the dive computer is little
more than a watch. LCD watches will last 3 years on a single
battery (your mileage may vary). Wrist watches have much
smaller batteries than does the average dive computer.
========
Subject: 9) Gauge Guards
All diving gear is expensive. In an effort to keep your gear
in the best condition possible, you might want to consider
buying a gauge guard. The cost, usually, under $10. The are
attached over dive computers (or depth gauges and SPGs) to
prevent the lens from being scratched and banged.
There are two types that I know about: wire frame and plastic
shield. The plastic shield is a this clear plastic shield in
the shape of your gauge. It is attached directly to the face
of of gauge with small adhesive patches (supposedly designed
to not obstruct any of the information on the screen). You
can easily read through this screens while under water.
However, I have noticed that on dry land, they tend to fog up,
making it impossible to read the display. A quick dip in some
water fixes this problem. The wire frame guards are a little
more expensive and are help in place by pressure from the boot
holding the gauge to be protected. The offer a little more
protection against large objects and will not be marred, and
thus have to be replaced, like the plastic shields. I do not
know how secure either of these devices are, but I have not
heard of any falling off.
More comments and testimonials on the devices would be useful
========
Subject: 10) Computer models and what they mean.
[This section is under development, the below is a first (and
rough) draft. The information may or may not be correct or
useful. Any and all help appreciated.]
Dive Computer work by using a computer program and `models'
(simulates) the behavior of your bodies tissues while under
pressure. As you descend, the partial pressure of the nitrogen
in the compressed air changes. Different tissues in the body
absorb nitrogen at different rates, depending on the
pressures.
These rates have been determined experimentally through many
years of testing. The models simulate the tissue absorption
and offgasing of nitrogen taken depths and times into account.
This section will list current algorithms and explain their
features as soon as I find this information out. When I get
the time I will buy a book on the subject. If you would like
to contribute to this section (including a complete rewrite
for the introduction if you like), please do so.
========
Subject: 11) Summary of Computer Features (table)
Legend
Y=Yes, N=No, A=Automatic, M=Manual
Numbers following following letters Y, N, A, or M are modifiers as
described below:
Max Dep = Max Depth (in feet unless noted)
Air Prs = Air Pressure Integrated: 1=wireless
Tmp Gge = Temperature Gauge
Dec = Decompression: 1=limited deco info
Alt Cmp = Altitude Compensation: 1=to 10k ft, 2=to 14k ft
Act = Activation: 1=on submersion, 2=by applied air pressure
Usr Bat = User Replaceable Battery: 1=Yes on newer models
MSPR = Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price, US$
Have Summaries for these:
Max Air Tmp Alt Usr Act Fly MSRP
Maker Model Dep Prs Gge Dec Cmp Bat US$
Beuchat Aladin Sport 330 N N Y A1 N A1 Y -
Beuchat Aladin Pro
Cochran Nemesis-Pro 190 Y1 Y Y Y Y -- Y 750
Dacor Omni
Dacor Omni Pro 250 Y Y Y Y Y M Y -
Mares Divemate - - - - - - -- - -
Mares Genius - Y1 - Y - - -- - -
Ocean Edge CompuTek II 220 Y Y Y Y Y A1 Y -
Oceanic DataMax Pro - Y - Y - - -- - -
Oceanic DataMax Sport 249 N N Y A2 Y1 M N 300
Orca Phoenix 299 Y Y Y A1 Y A2 Y -
Orca SkinnyDipper M2 199 N N N N Y A1 Y -
ScubaPro NC-11 - N N Y1 M N - - -
ScubaPro DC-11 300 N Y Y M N A1 Y -
Sherwood Source 249 N N Y A2 Y1 M N 300
Suunto Companion 295 N Y ? M N A1 - 320
Suunto Solution 325 N Y Y M N A Y 660
US-Divers Monitor I 325 N N Y A N A1 Y -
US-Divers Monitor II 325 N N Y A N A1 Y -
US-Divers Scan 4 249 Y N Y Y Y M Y -
Uwatec Aladin Air X - Y Y Y - - -- - 1000 (in DE)
have Almost no information for these:
Max Air Tmp Alt Usr Act Fly MSRP
Maker Model Depth Prs Gge Dec Cmp Bat US$
Dacor MicroBrain Sport - N N - - N A1 Y -
Dacor MicroBrain Pro - N N Y Y N A1 Y -
Dacor Omni - N - - - - -- - -
Dive-Rite Bridge - - - - - - -- - -
Mares M 2000 - - - - - - -- - -
Mares Mentor - - - - - - -- - -
Ocean Edge CompuTek - - - - - - -- - -
Ocean Edge MC36 - - - - - - -- - -
Oceanic DataMaster - - - - - - -- - -
Oceanic DataTrans - Y1 - - - - -- - -
Orca Delphi - - - - - - -- - -
Orca Edge - - - - - - -- - -
Orca SkinnyDipper - - - - - - -- - -
Orca Marathon - - - - - - -- - -
Parkway Legend - - - - - - -- - -
ScubaPro DC-12 - - - - - - -- - -
Sherwood Encore (**) - - - - - - -- - -
Sherwood Sentry - Y1 - - - - -- - -
Sherwood Sigmatech - - - - - - -- - -
Suunto SME-ML - - - - - - -- - -
Suunto EON - Y1 - - - - -- - 750
Tabata Liberator - - - - - - -- - -
Tusa Imprex IQ-300 - - - - - - -- - -
US-Divers DataScan 3 - - - Y N N A1 Y -
US-Divers DataScan 4 - - - - - - -- - -
Informational columns to add
# Log: number of logged dives remembers (or N for no log)
PC Interface Y/N, If an interface is available for getting this
information to a personal computer of some kind (if
anyone has information on building these interfaces
for current systems, let me know, that would be a nice
addition the faq)
** The Encore records the time/date in and out on each dive as well as
average depth and temperature. If enough other computers do this, I
will add categories for time/date or other features to the list. If
you have suggestions, let me know.
========
Subject: 12) Explanation of Features
Maximum Depth
This is the maximum depth to which the computer can be taken
and have it will be water proof and some of the functions
still work. This is NOT the recommend maximum depth to which
you should take the computer on your dives! Most computers
will log maximum depth. Some also record average depth.
Newer, more elaborate computers, keep a log of depths at a few
second (or minute) intervals. Some also tell your average
depth (which is nice for computing Air Consumption rates).
Many of the air integrated computers will automatically
calculate and tell you your air consumption rate.
Air Pressure
Units that have integrated air pressure will show you a digital
readout of the amount if air remaining in your tank. These
computers are often a little more expensive (and have more
features). Most will also tell you you air consumption rate,
and use that to calculate how long you can remain at the
current depth given your current air consumption rate. Some
will also often tell you that number, or remaining no-deco
time at depth, which-ever is less.
Temperature Gauge
Newer computers are starting to incorporate a digital
thermometer into the list of neat gadgets. This feature can
range from a simple temperature readout on the display during
the dive, to a system that logs temperature (surface and
bottom) and also logs average temperature. Having this
information may not be terribly important during a dive, but
it is a nice addition to a dive log --- that you, when you
return to spots, you can easily get an idea of probably local
conditions before setting out on a trip.
Dive Logging
Almost all of the current dive computers store information
about a few dives that you can later recall. Depending on the
computer, some of that information may only be accessible
using a computer interface (usually, a very expensive
cable/software packages that allows the dive log information
to be downloaded from your dive computer to a personal
computer.) Such systems look interesting (although I have not
yet been able to try one), but could be potentially very cost
prohibitive. The key factor to keep in mind is: if the
computer you are looking at has some wiz-bang log feature you
just can't live without, find out if that information is
available in standard log mode (without needing expensive
interface equipment/software, or having to use the software in
the dive shop where you bought the machine) before buying the
computer.
Decompression
Does this computer do decompression dives? This does NOT mean
the the computer is necessarily a decompression computer.
Many of these computers will do emergency decompression: you
can use them to help you get through emergency decompression
if something happens during the dive to cause you to enter
decompression mode, but they will not allow you to plan a
decompression dive. Depending upon the computer, the level of
decompression support may vary. If this is an important
feature to you, you should look into this carefully before
purchasing a computer. NOTE: decompression diving is beyond
the realm of sport diving. You need special training and
equipment to be able to safely do decompression diving.
Altitude Compensation
Altitude diving adds a few variables to the diving game; as
you get higher into mountains, air pressure decreases.
However, the effect of water pressure remains constant.
Therefore, to be safer, you need to add safety margins to the
dive profile (call a dive to 50ft and dive to 60ft for
example). Computers deal with this in various ways: 1) ignore
it (i.e. assume the person is always diving in sea water at
sea level), 2) allow the person to manual adjust the altitude
(can be in exact measurements, or in a range depending upon
the computer), 3) automatically adjust for altitude (this can
also be in a range, or an absolute measurement). Some of the
computers that have altitude compensation will also change
calculations to those for free water dives after a certain
altitude (such as 4000 feet). Some computers will actually
monitor the altitude and adjust automatically even when they
are off, others self adjust when turned on.
User Replaceable Battery
Your dive computer needs energy to operate. This energy comes
from one or more batteries located inside the unit. Some
computers have user replaceable batteries, some do not.
Often, batteries requiring factory replacement must be
soldered in, and are often more powerful --- i.e. they last
longer. User replaceable batteries offer the convenience of
not having to wait for the unit to have the batteries replaced
at a service center, or mailed to the manufacturer, as well as
the added comfort of being able to bring a spare set of
batteries on a long trip. However, there are some items to be
aware of. See the section "User replaceable batteries !=
service free" for more information.
Activation
Before using your computer, it must be turned on. Activation
of computers falls into two catagories:
A) Manual: You push a button to turn the computer on. If you
forget, you suffer the embarrassment (and possible
danger of missed on-gassing information) of having to
surface and turn the computer on (I don't think that
any of the computers that must be manually activated
can be turned on if they are below a certain depth of
water.) Many of the computers will stay on for some
preset time (about 1 hour usually) before shuting off
if no dive is made.
B) Automatic: the computer turns itself on when some condition
is met: 1) it is exposed to water pressure of a
certain depth (a few feet for example), 2) air
pressure is applied (for air integrated systems).
These computers have the added benefit of removing the
responsibility from the user of having to check the
computer before entering the water. It is a good an
bad thing. It is nice not to have to worry about
turning the computer on, but IMHO, I like to look at
the computer BEFORE entering the water to verify that
it's working (and see if the test mode passed when it
was turned on). Some (all, I would imagine)
automatically activated computers can also be manually
activated.
Which system you prefer is largely a mater of choice. If a
computer is automatically activated, there is the possibility
that that activation will not take place (very unlikely if you
have your system serviced regularly.) On the other hand, a
manually activated system might be accidentally turned off
(all of the computer that I know of have safeguards against
this: they can not be turned off while under water, or while
the theoretical nitrogen cells are still loaded). Some
systems CAN NOT be turned off; once turned on, they stay on
for 1 hour unless you start a dive. Once you have been diving
once, they remain on until completely off-gassed, and then
shut themselves off. This is an important safety gaurd for
the person that owns the computer. However, it can get in the
way of places that have computers for loan/rent (large live
aboard boats for example). If diver A takes a computer for a
few dives in the morning, then quites and diver B would like
to use the computer that evening (to start his/her diving) a
problem arises: the computer still has on-gass information for
diver A. If the machine allows a user to reset it, it might
be done accidentally and pose a hazard for the user.
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price
This column was meant to be a guide to the relative cost of
the models. However, I have not been very successful in
getting information to complete this item. This item may be
removed unless I find reason not to.
========
Subject: 13) Computers (cheap) by Mail Warning
It's very tempting to order dive computers through mail order
catalogs. However, you need to be ware: you may not get what
you were expecting:
Date: Tue, 01 Feb 1994 11:04:00 CST
From: nkarin@gi*.me*.ut*.tm*.ed* (Norman J. Karin)
I was contacting Oceanic with respect to having the battery
replaced in my DataMax Sport. I purchased my Sport from Ador
Aqua (NYC) by mail order, and it turned out to be bootlegged
-- no serial number or warranty. Furthermore, it had been
opened to remove internal serial numbers as well, compromising
the integrity of the case. Thus, Oceanic was justifiably
reluctant to deal with this computer. They charge a $35
"tampering fee" to service mishandled instruments.
However, they were very sympathetic to my predicament and
offered to accept my "illegitimate" Sport in trade for a brand
new model, with what I consider a very reasonable additional
charge [I did not seek permission to make the cost details of
this transaction public so I am not stating the numbers here].
The shady operation of Ador Aqua (which advertises in
SkinDiver magazine) caused this problem, not Oceanic, and I wanted
fellow divers to know that the latter treated me [IMHO] very
fairly. I would recommend this computer to those of you
considering a purchase.
========
Subject: 14) Company Addresses
This section lists of addresses of the all companies that sell
diving computers. The addresses came from literature, or
possibly other people. All corrections and additions welcome.
Phone and Fax numbers would be a nice addition
========
Subject: 14.1) Dacor
Dacor Corporation
161 Northfield, IL 60093
(708) 446-9555
========
Subject: 14.2) Dive Equipment Manufacturer's Association (DEMA)
DEMA Trade Show
P.O. Box 217
Tustin, CA 92881
+1 (714) 732-5517 for show info
+1 (714) 890-9915 for executive offices
DEMA publishes a directory annually of their show's
participants. And since anyone that has anything at all to do
with scuba participates in DEMA, that directory is a list of
all the equipment manufactures, and then some.
========
Subject: 14.3) Cochran Consulting
Cochran Consulting Inc.
1758 Firman Drive
Richardson, TX 75081
USA
Tel: (800) 865-3483
Fax: (214) 644-6286
========
Subject: 14.4) Mares
Mares USA
4801 North 63rd St.
Boulder CO 80301
Tel: 303-530-2000
========
Subject: 14.5) Oceanic
Oceanic
2002 Davis Street
San Leandrio, CA 94577
USA
Tel: +1 510 562 0500
Fax: +1 510 569 5404
========
Subject: 14.6) ORCA, A division of EIT
ORCA
Division or EIT, Inc.
45625 Willow Pond Plaza
Sterling, VA 20164
Tel: (703) 478-0333
Fax: (703) 478-0815
========
Subject: 14.7) Sherwood Scuba
Sherwood Scuba
Harsco Corporation
120 Church Street, Department C
Lockport, New York 14094-2889
Tel:
Fax:
========
Subject: 14.8) Suunto
Suunto
Juvan teollisuuskatu 8
SF-02920 Espoo
Finland
Tel. +358-0-847 033
Fax +358-0-843 810
Telex 122497 suunto sf
========
Subject: 14.9) US Divers
US Divers
3323 West Warner Avenue
Santa Ana, CA 92704
tel: 714 540-8010
========
Subject: 15) Books on Dive Computers
These books are in the order I received them. If I hear of
many more, I'll have to consider alphabetizing them ;-)
Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1993 20:34:06 EDT
From: Tracey Baker <tab@pa*.co*>
"Dive Computers: A Consumer's Guide to History, Theory, and
Performance" Ken Loyst, with Karl Huggins & Michael Steidley,
Watersport Publishing, Inc., 1991. ISBN 0-922769-09-5 (Good
discussion of all areas mentioned in the title, also chapters
on physiology of DCS, high altitude diving & flying after
diving, and DCS first aid & treatment. Comparisons of
algorithms and models used in many computers as well as
operational specifications and pictures.)
"The Recreational Diver's Guide to Decompression Theory, Dive
Tables, and Dive Computers" John E. Lewis & Karl W. Shreeves,
PADI, 1990. ISBN 1-878663-06-2 (Not as comprehensive as
Loyst's book, very limited descriptions of about ten computers
with pictures, good explanation of decompression theory at a
very basic level, does not even mention computers designed for
decompression diving.)
"Deeper into Diving" John Lippman, J.L. Publications, 1990.
ISBN 0-9590306-3-8 (Another great book on diving in general,
with a chapter covering dive computers in a fairly generic way
-- a few individual specifications and comparisons, but mostly more
general info.)
"Deep Diving: an Advanced Guide to Physiology, Procedures, and
Systems" Bret Gilliam & Robert von Maier, with John Crea and
Darren Webb, Watersport Publishing, Inc., 1992. ISBN
0-922769-30-3 (One chapter with fairly thorough coverage of
the half-dozen computers suitable for deep/decompression
diving. The rest of the book is a good source of information
for other advanced diving topics.)
"aquaCorps Journal N6: Computing" aquaCorps, June 1993. (This
issue is devoted to various applications of advanced
technology to advanced diving. It's got a couple of articles
on nitrox/mixed gas computers in the works, as well as a bunch
of other neat ideas for techno-nerds. :-)
Date: Wed, 18 May 1994 00:09:22 GMT
From: Chuck Narad <narad@NU*.AS*.SG*.CO*>
"Diving with Computers"
(need more info on this one)
Date: 29 Mar 1994 17:06:01 -0500
From: aschmidt1@ao*.co* (Andy Schmidt)
Prof. Buehlmann's book "Decompression and Decompression
Sickness" by Springer Verlag, Berlin and New York is out of
print but has the algorithms and explains how they were
derived.
Date: Tue, 31 May 1994 19:57:22 PDT
From: "Alex L. Bangs" <bangs@ne*.co*>
_Dive Computers: A Consumer's Guide to History, Theory &
Performance_ by Ken Loyst. Has some stuff on history and a few pages
on a whole bunch of models (of course, some of this is already out of
date)
_Decompression Theory, Dive Tables and Dive Computers_ by
Lewis and Shreeves. This has really good stuff in it about
tissue loading, etc. Good for understanding the theory behind
dive computers.
========
Subject: 16) Future Directions of this FAQ
I have a wish list of enhancements I would like to make to
this FAQ. However, I do not have the time, nor the resources
to test (or even gather information) and every diving computer
that's out there. I will need help for that. If you own a
computer that is not mentioned in this report, please take a
few minutes to fill out the Questionnaire and send it to me.
- Information on more computers
- Differences between newer models (i.e. if a NEW brand X
computer is released, I like to be able to note the
differences between it and the previous version, and
hopefully list how to tell the version apart)
- Get pictures off all of the computers. I would prefer EPS or
CGM format, but bitmapped would be better than nothing. I
would let to eventually convert this FAQ to a texinfo file
where I could have the report printed as ASCII or LaTeX (to
PostScript) so that I could include the EPS files into the
LaTeX version.
I might possibly expand this FAQ later to include other scuba
items such as tanks. A complete chart of size, weight, volume
for scuba tanks would be interesting (if not useful).
I am open to suggestions
========
Subject: 17) Blank Review/Summary Form
Here's a blank form. Feel free to include any info not requested (I
may have forgotten something... :-) Most user manuals will have a
``Specifications'' section at the end. That is a good source for this
information. Also, please list your source (i.e. your user's manual, a
friend's manual, pamphlet, or memory) -- The "Further Comments" section
would be a good place for this.
See the section "Summary of Computer Features (table)" for a list of
the computers that I have almost no information for. Confirmations
and corrections also appreciated.
Please mail to
Kevin Grover, grover@is*.un*.ed*
With "Subject: Summary: Manufacturer Model"
--- cut ---- cut ---
Name/Model:
Manufacturer:
Year of Model:
Max Depth:
Units:
Algorithm:
Air Pressure:
Temp Gauge:
Log Features:
Locations:
Activation:
Safe to fly
indicator:
Decompression:
Error
Conditions:
Altitude
Compensation:
MSRP: (Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price, in US $ if possible)
Approx Price: (In reality --- i.e. about what they go for locally)
Best Price:
User Replaceable
Batteries:
Data:
Ascent Rates
Initial Max Dive times
Depth (ft) Time (min)
Advantages:
-
Disadvantages:
-
Further comments
-
Address of Manufacturer (if known):
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