Dive computers

[Ray Walker]

Hi out there/
Does anybody no how the Buddy Nexus stacks up against the VR3 dive computer, when used with an Inspiration Rebreather using air as dilutant. Thanks Ray

[J Abbott]

Hi out there/
Does anybody no how the Buddy Nexus stacks up against the VR3 dive computer, when used with an Inspiration Rebreather using air as dilutant. Thanks Ray

I dived with both for quite a while, mainly because I considered the CNS tracking of the Nexus better than that of the VR3 and it provided a useful stand-by.

Nexus is a good basic CCR computer. The no-deco algorithm is a touch aggressive by today?s standards but you can add conservatism. In deco it tends to be more conservative than the VR3 but does not give deep stops. The CNS tracking is conservative. Once set up, not an easy job, the Nexus will do its set-point switches automatically. It costs much less than the VR3. I think it is an excellent entry level CCR computer but it has its limitations.

VR3 is the dog?s b****. It requires some effort to understand and use its vast range of facilities; you have to drive it. Set point switches have to be done manually and they are not simple ? 2 long presses on one button and one short on the other. There is a good case for not bothering with the switches to reduce task loading. I don?t like the CNS tracking algorithm. You get deep stops with the VR3 but Pyle not GF driven. Still, I like the deco algorithm and you can add conservatism if you wish. Overall, a typically British bit of kit: expensive and complex yet brilliant. If the VR3 cost the same as a Nexus there would be no reason for the Nexus to exist.

Cheers John

[Matt]

Overall, a typically British bit of kit: expensive and complex yet brilliant. If the VR3 cost the same as a Nexus there would be no reason for the Nexus to exist.

The VR2 has pretty much the same functions as the VR3, except it does not support Trimix. The VR2 is a bit cheaper than the VR3.