How to Use A Dive Computer Safely, SCUBA Diving

Dive computers have revolutionized the sport of SCUBA diving. Here is how to use one more safely.

Instructions

    • 1

      Learn the advantages and disadvantages of your dive computer in order to respect the reading it gives you. Dive computers for SCUBA diving give you the freedom to not have to follow the rigid dive tables and to spend more time at greater depth because body nitrogen loading is calculated more accurately. Dive computers use a mathematical program called an algorithm, which is based on a hypothetical human body's nitrogen absorption and saturation rate. To use a dive computer safely you need to follow certain precautions.

    • 2

      Know that it is just a machine. Since the dive computer theoretical model is for an average human body you may have to dive more conservatively if you have certain health conditions that make it harder for the body to get rid of nitrogen. Begin to come toward the surface sooner, before entering the yellow caution zone and do voluntary safety stops if you have a condition that may affect your nitrogen off gassing. Always consult your doctor before diving if this is the case. Some newer dive computers offer a "normal" and "conservative" algorithm to choose from.

    • 3

      Follow the dive computer's safety stops. Don't fly within 24 hours of diving. Don't share a dive computer between divers. Each person should have their own since although you are together, they may be diving at slightly different depths than you and loading more or less nitrogen.

    • 4

      Do not continue to dive if it fails. If your dive computer quits it is recommended by PADI that you stop diving for 12 to 24 hours since you don't know how much residual nitrogen is in your body. Keep the traditional recreational dive tables on hand to second guess the dive computer for a malfunction. Stop diving and wait 24 hours if you think the computer is wrong. Electronic devices are not 100% perfect all the time so use common sense.