What console?

[Big_Nige]

I asked this question on another forum: what console should I get, and a 2/1 or 3 in line? The consensus was that I would be better off with wrist-mounted instruments, especially as I don't like the bulk of a console.

However, today I did my OW dives, and I think I would be happier with an analogue depth gauge to compliment my computer - I think it would be easier to read. I also found that the wrist-mounted compass was too close for me to see it properly!

Any suggestions?

Nige

[David Walker]

I used to have a triple console (2/1, not 3 in a row), and have to say I never once looked at the analogue depth gauge on it. It might be fine for a backup, but its impractical to use during a dive - far easier to twist your wrist than it is to reach down and grab your console to check your depth. As you'll no-doubt end up with a computer anyway, there's not a lot of benefit having the console depth gauge as a backup, certainly not at the level you'll be diving at least.

A compass is not always easy to use on a console - because of the hose its hard to get it at the right angle to have the direction-of-travel line in the direction you're swimming. The result is that many trainees using them end up swimming 10-20 degrees off the bearing they think they're following! However, a lot of people have the same problem with it on their wrist.

Personally I have mine attached to a clip and carry it attached to a d-ring, out of the way. When I want it, I unclip it and can use it perfectly. And I also have a bungee loop on my arm (attached to my computer strap) which i can temporarily clip the compass onto so I don't risk dropping it.

So in general i'd have to say that i'd go with the advice you got elsewhere, and only have your pressure gauge on the end of the hose. Apart from being big, bulky and difficult to use, things on a console typically don't last as long as those which are mounted elsewhere. It can get crushed by cylinders far too easily, dragged through the sand if it isn't clipped off well, and just generally not as well looked after as something that's on your wrist. Its also no cheaper to get them all together in a single unit than it is to get them separately, and that way if one breaks or you want to upgrade, you can keep the rest.

David

[Big_Nige]

Personally I have [my compass] attached to a clip and carry it attached to a d-ring, out of the way. When I want it, I unclip it and can use it perfectly. And I also have a bungee loop on my arm (attached to my computer strap) which i can temporarily clip the compass onto so I don't risk dropping it.

Now that is a good idea. I've got a Suunto - SK7, I wonder if I can get a standalone mount?

Nige

[David Walker]

Now that is a good idea. I've got a Suunto - SK7, I wonder if I can get a standalone mount?

All mine is is the normal wrist mount, with the strap replaced by a thin loop of webbing which I thread through a boltsnap and glue and sew into a loop. A bit of line would do just as well though. The only one thing to be careful with is that the boltsnap can interfere with the magnetic field - but i've found as long as the boltsnap isn't resting along the back of the compass then it doesn't cause a problem.

I'll do a photo of mine in a minute to show you what I mean.

Edit: see http://www.bsacforum.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?p=42523#post42523

David

[Janos]

Now that is a good idea. I've got a Suunto - SK7, I wonder if I can get a standalone mount?

You can. And Nackers (www.divingniknaks.com) does some nice ones.

Janos

[Big_Nige]

All mine is is the normal wrist mount, with the strap replaced by a thin loop of webbing ... http://www.bsacforum.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?p=42523#post42523


<MrBurns>

Excellent!

</MrBurns>

Nige

[PeteM]

I think I would be happier with an analogue depth gauge to compliment my computer - I think it would be easier to read.

When I have heard people say this before it is generally because of poor sitting of the computer and generally caused by them wearing it like a watch.

Move it round so it is angled towards you more then it becomes easy to read

[Big_Nige]

When I have heard people say this before it is generally because of poor sitting of the computer and generally caused by them wearing it like a watch.

Move it round so it is angled towards you more then it becomes easy to read

In my case it's because my arms are not long enough!

Nige

[Woz]

In my case it's because my arms are not long enough!

NigeCan you touch your nose? If you can you can read a computer on your arm. Wear it so that the computer is not on the top of your arm (like a watch) but round nearer the inside of your arm.

Console mounted computers are sooooooo 1980's...