Posted by Wayne on July 18, 2001 at 13:56:01:
In Reply to: Any recommendations on dive computers? posted by moonpieboy on July 18, 2001 at 11:57:33:
OK Here goes. You should establish a relationship with a reputable dive shop. You need to see what they offer in the way of computers and other gear. After you get one, you need to really understand how to use it. The shop shoudl help with that, too.
You will need to ask yourself a few questions when you are selecting what is important in a computer. For example, do you plan on diving air, eventually diving nitrox, or diving nitrox as if it were air? This will have a big impact on your decision. Do you want to play on the home computer after the dive? If so you might want a dive computer that allows you to download your complete profile to a PC.
But no matter how many sexy gadgets they have, they really only do one thing. And if you do not want the extra bells and whistles, do not pay for them. Then you can get a cheapo Prodigy module or Suunto Favor or etc. and have the basics covered.
But again your first step should be to get a shop you trust and where you are made to feel welcome and comfortable. The owner should be around and should LOVE diving. Have them help you to pick gear. Select the computer as part of the console you want to have. You might find that you like the Sunto compass and that will make you desire the Favor in their console. A good dealer can assist you in this process.
It sounds like you have selected your place of instruction. Are you talking to them about this choice? Visit a couple of shops and discuss this with them. How they deal with you as you are shopping for gear will help you know where to eventually start buying your gear.
What I suggest is that you bring your selection back here and ask if anyone has any warnings of their bad experience with the brand and model you are considering.
Wayne