Dive Computer + Air Integration – Yay or Nay?
The fewer hoses, the better, right? More streamlined, less chance of anything dangling. Well, yes, but some would argue that there is still very much a case for having a good old-fashioned SPG as well.
And what about console-mounted air integrated computers? Are they a good alternative? In this article, we will take a look at the two common types of air integration, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as the reasons why many divers still prefer to use SPGs.
Air Integration – The Premise
Air integration makes it easier for the diver to see all their essential data in one place. For example, one display shows all the necessary dive information such as depth, no-deco time, and the remaining air supply at a glance.
Two air integration systems are commonly used: the air-integrated console dive computer and hoseless air integration, which uses a transmitter attached to the first stage.
Air Integrated Console Dive Computer
This dive computer takes the place of the SPG at the end of your high-pressure hose. It’s a neat solution where one large screen does it all: You get depth, dive time, no-deco information, and your remaining air supply all in one place.
Some people might find these air-integrated dive computers a bit old-fashioned now. Perhaps so, but there are reasons why they are still popular.
Pros of Air Integrated Console Dive Computers
Their large, easy-to-read displays are certainly a point in their favour. And as the dive computer doesn’t need to be wrist-watch sized to go on the end of your HP hose, you tend to get more functionality for the price: a digital compass, air consumption rate, and remaining air time calculation are standard features.
Cons of Air Integrated Console Dive Computers
Unfortunately, there are also some considerations. One is that when your hands are occupied with something else - such as coral reef monitoring, lionfish hunting, or guiding a lift bag – it’s awkward to lift and check your console. You’ll feel like you need three hands!
The console dive computer is also not a good option when teaching. During try dives or early on in the Open Water course, you may have both your hands full - literally! You may also find it difficult to check that you are still within depth limits.
A low or empty battery can also be an issue if it’s not noticed until you’re getting ready for your dive. As the computer comes mounted in a sturdy boot, it can be quite a job getting access to the battery compartment. Even worse, if the battery is rechargeable or not user-replaceable. You can then only hope that a decent spare reg is available.
Air Integrated Console Dive Computers Summary
All your essential dive information in one place
Large easy to read display
More functionality for the price
Can be hard to read while doing other things such as reef monitoring, lionfish hunting, or guiding try dive participants
Battery changes can be fiddly, or the battery might not be user-replaceable which could delay or spoil a dive
Air Integration Using a Transmitter
Hoseless air integration is an elegant solution that allows you to view all your dive information on one handy wrist-mounted display. There is one dangling hose less to worry about, and you can always catch a glimpse of your wrist even when your hands are occupied with other things. It’s no wonder this is such a popular option!
Pros of Air Integration Using a Transmitter
Transmitters for air integration are something that you can add on later, so you can buy your dive computer first and then invest in a transmitter later. It may work out slightly more expensive, with transmitters often costing about a third as much as the computer, but it’s a handy option all the same.
Cons of Air Integration Using a Transmitter
You will need to remember to charge or replace an extra battery regularly. Also, as the displays pack a lot of information onto a wrist-size screen, numbers can often be relatively small and hard to read for long-sighted divers, something I’ve personally experienced.
Early on, scuba divers reported some issues with dive computers getting confused between transmitters on busy dive boats, although it seems that software upgrades have improved this. But it is always worth carefully checking customer reviews before investing in any new piece of equipment.
Dive Computer + Transmitter Air Integration Summary
All your essential dive information in one place
A wrist-mounted display is easy to view even when your hands are full
One less hose, so there is no need to worry about dangling or having to replacement
Advanced models can calculate air consumption in l/min and estimate your remaining air time
Need another battery to charge or replace
Small digits on the display can be hard to read
Transmitters can occasionally get confused on busy dive boats
If the transmitter fails or the battery runs out, you will need that spare reg again
Can be an expensive option
The Case for Keeping an Old-Fashioned SPG
Don’t get me wrong; I’m not saying air integrated dive computers with transmitters aren’t great because they are! But I believe there is an excellent case for keeping an SPG around. I have mine on a thin Miflex hose on my regulator, safely secured. I don’t mind the extra hose, and at least I know that I have my backup right there.
SPGs rarely fail. The mechanism is reliable and straightforward and doesn’t require me to remember to charge a battery. It’s also useful for teaching. Since my students tend to mirror what I do, I make a point of checking my SPG frequently.
For everyday diving, if you really don’t want that extra hose but would rather not rely on the dive boat’s spare reg, you could consider keeping an SPG on a hose as part of the spares kit in your dive bag. It’s a quick and easy swap for a failed transmitter and can make the difference between a cancelled dive and a great experience.
When you’re getting started, getting an SPG and a separate dive computer is an excellent low-cost option. That way, you’ve got most of your essential dive information displayed on your wrist while having a reliable way of keeping track of your air supply. And you can always add a transmitter later.
The most common cause of SPG failure is flooding, when a diver forgets to secure their dust cap and water is forced into the mechanism. But if you take proper care, your SPG will last for hundreds or even thousands of dives.
 | A guest post by
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Alex, very informative article! Great practical and knowledgeable advice from one of the best instructors in the Windward Islands!