My dive computer died deep down and now I'm split on safety gear

On a recent weld inspection dive, my computer's screen went blank at 30 meters, forcing me to use my watch and tables for ascent. Half my team says this proves we need mandatory backup units on every job, but the other half argues it's extra weight and cash for rare problems. I had to surface early and re-plan the whole deco schedule, which wasted time. What's your view on requiring two computers?

3 comments

3 Comments

ryanc713d ago

Losing your computer at depth is a nightmare scenario. I always run two computers on deep dives after a similar scare. @phoenix_burns is right about backup gear being insurance. Last year, my primary computer fogged up at 25 meters, but the backup let me finish the deco stop without panic. Another time, a buddy's gauge failed, and his spare computer saved us from a rushed ascent. How do you handle gear checks before dives?

phoenix_burns3d ago

Backup gear is like insurance, you hate paying until you need it. My buddy's bike light died on a night ride, and he had to use his phone flashlight the whole way home. Makes you think, right?

val_shah3d ago

Ugh, my cheap backup light died too last week. Fumbling with my phone on a dark country road was a total joke.