What Is an Air Integrated Dive Computer?

An air-integrated dive computer provides valuable information and safety data to a diver underwater. These types of dive computers can be attached to a high-pressure hose or worn like a wristwatch, using wireless technology.

  1. Significance

    • An air-integrated dive computer combines a pressure gauge, timer and dive computer into one console. The computer monitors the pressure in divers' air tanks and calculates the time and depth, so they know how long they can stay underwater.

    Calculations

    • Each manufacturer, such as Suunto and Oceanic, has developed a formula to calculate a diver's air needs based on depth, time and rate of air consumption.

    Types

    • Some air-integrated computers connect to the tank with a hose. Others don't have a hose but use a transmitter to send data within a short range. They are paired with a wrist-mounted device or integrated into a diver's mask.

    Features

    • Air-integrated computers include a watch, timer, depth gauge, air-pressure gauge and dive history reading. Some models include mixed-air calculations for the different types of air that divers carry in their tanks, a backlight for night dives, a safety timer and a digital compass.

    Considerations

    • While air-integrated computers are convenient and more accurate than depth gauges and dive tables, these models are more expensive than a basic set up. Consider your need for one based on how often you dive, the convenience and the added safety of more precise calculations.