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The Scuba Doctor has a great range of quality dive computer solutions for technical and rebreather divers.
Decompression Algorithms: ZHL-16C, VPM-B, DCAP, DCIEM, VVAL-18M... Does It Really Matter?
At the risk of annoying those who do have a preference for a specific decompression algorithm, the simple answer for most divers is NO the algorithm is not critical. There is no expert consensus that any one of the current crop of decompression algorithms is better than another. All of these algorithms used in dive computers and desktop table generation software, when set to their default conservancy values, will get you out of the water with an acceptable margin of safety. What we can say for sure is they are all imperfect representations of actual decompression in humans.
Numerous variants of ZHL-16C are very widely implemented in both sport and technical dive computers. For technical diving, versions of ZHL-16C that include user configurable Gradient Factor modifications are very popular because the GF values can be 'tuned' to provide different types of profiles for specific types of diving. VPM-B dive profiles typically have deeper initial stops, along with reduced time at shallow depths resulting in a 'smoother' profile although recent research calls into question the benefits of 'deep stops' especially for lengthy VPM-B profiles. DCAP was developed for use by early extended range divers (today we call them 'technical divers'.) VVAL-18M is the basis for the modern US Navy Tables. DCIEM has been extensively tested by the Canadian military to ensure its applicability to cold water working divers. RGBM (basis for NAUI tables with its roots in VPM) and DSAT (basis for PADI tables) are most often seen in no stop required sport diving applications. Recently, the RGBM model has been called in to question by a legal action, but it's not clear if the issue is with the algorithm itself or a specific dive computers' implementation, as most experts consider the RGBM model to be very conservative especially on repetitive dives.
The practices of decompression are not exact, in many ways as much about skill as science. Much of what we do in decompression diving is based on empirical observation and experience, rather than having a basis in theoretical science. Dr. R W (Bill) Hamilton, the late co-developer of DCAP and whose research in decompression is widely acknowledged as having a key role in opening up recreational extreme exposure diving in the early 90s, was fond of the saying 'what works, works'. The most important safety factor is not the decompression algorithm you select, rather your skill as a diver and that you closely follow the recommendations of that algorithm and safe diving practices in general. Also, best practice when diving as a team is that all divers should use the same algorithm in order to remain together as a team during ascent phase of the dive plan.
Shearwater Research Teric Watch Computer - BRONZE (Limited Ed.)
$1,835.00Sale: $1,523.05
Save: (17%)
The Adrenaline Junkie Gift Ideas
For divers who plan to dive frequently over many years, it's worth having higher quality dive equipment that will last. If you know an intermediate diver that has a real passion for all things scuba, you're probably thinking about buying them a new piece of diving equipment this holiday season. But if you're not sure what to go for, don't panic, we've put together a list of great gift ideas that intermediate scuba divers are sure to love.
Suunto D5 Watch Dive Computer
RRP: $850, Our Price: $800, You Save $50 (6%).
The Suunto D5 is probably the best value colour screen, watch style dive computer on the market. It's a simple to use Air and Nitrox computer that features an incredibly crisp and easy to see colour screen. On top of that, it syncs with Suunto's tank POD to provide air integration.
Suunto EON Core Wrist Dive Computer with Tank POD
RRP: $1,100, Our Price: $990, You Save $110 (10%).
This is a dive computer for serious divers. The Suunto Eon Core comes equipped with a transmitter so that the diver can check their air on their wrist, as well as a USB cable for easy recharge. With many features including gauge, air, nitrox, trimix, and CCR modes, a clear colour display, and large digits, this computer has it all.
Nautilus LifeLine Marine Rescue GPS
Our Price: $335
The Nautilus Lifeline is an excellent present for divers who enjoy liveaboards and further flung destinations. It's not always an obvious piece of kit so many divers don't own one but the Nautilus is an inexpensive way of ensuring piece of mind in the unlikely event that your loved one get left behind by the dive boat. Waterproof to 130m, all they need to do is keep it about their person and then flip the lid and press the switch to instantly activate a GPS distress beacon that will bring help directly to them.
You can't get far scuba diving without a BCD, and it's important to have one that's comfortable and fits well. The Cressi Commander Evolution BCD is extremely comfortable. It combines the advantages of a rear inflation, dorsal air chamber, with the versatility of a traditional vest and provides two spacious zipper pockets in addition to an incorporated weight system. This BCD allows you to dive in a simple way, with no complications.
Cressi AC25M Master Cromo Regulator Set with Octopus
RRP: $1,267, Our Price: $1,149, You Save $118 (9%).
The regulator is the most important piece of diving equipment. This regulator set from Cressi is one you can trust. It's performance, ergonomic reliability, and ease of maintenance make this regulator a product for true diving enthusiasts. Its amazing EN250/2014 Certification cold-water performance makes it ideal for Australia's southern temperate waters, while technical divers will love the Rotating Turret with five LP ports for easy hose routing, plus the ease of breathing and superb reliability.
Apollo Bio-Fin Pro Fins with Spring Straps (Black) Free Offer
RRP: $395, Our Price: $335, You Save $60 (15%).
These Black coloured Apollo Bio-Fin Pro Fins with Spring Straps come complete with your colour choice of a FREE Apollo mask and snorkel. So you get to have the award-winning Apollo Bio-Fins that are the preferred choice of divers from students, to the most advanced technical and military divers, in a great value for money special package offer. These are the Rolls-Royce of diving fins.
Mares EOS 20RZ Dive Torch - 2300LM
RRP: $499, Our Price: $449, You Save $50 (10%).
This is a super powerful, rechargeable, adjustable focus, 2,300 lumens output handheld dive light. Made from light corrosion resistant aluminium combined with the compact size makes this a perfect primary underwater light for advanced scuba diving. Zoom function and adjustable power make this a truly multi-functional dive torch.
Tusa FK-11 Blunt Tip Diving Mini-Knife
RRP: $58, Our Price: $52, You Save $6 (10%).
Experienced divers carry a small, blunt/chisel tip dive knife. Why a blunt tip? To avoid stick injuries that often happen with a pointed tip spearfishing knife. This knife is extremely versatile with a host of desirable mounting options.
Apollo Edge Drysuit - Custom Made
RRP: $2,899, Our Price: $2,559, You Save $340 (12%).
There's nothing worse than being too cold on a dive. This dry suit keeps divers warm for hours. It can be used with or without an undersuit, and gives maximum range of motion. Adrenaline junkies like to dive all year round and stay longer in the water. They'll absolutely love a custome made top-quality neoprene drysuit to stay toasty.
Waterproof H1 Hi-Vis Hood with Air Venting System - 5/10mm
RRP: $195, Our Price: $185, You Save $10 (5%).
Hoods are a fantastic piece of diving equipment that help a great deal in keeping divers warm. This extra warm hood is extremely comfortable and flexible. Featuring a visible orange surface, with reflective patches for added visibility, this hood also helps to keep divers safe and easy to spot in choppy conditions.
Apollo ATB Pro Dive Boots - Unisex
RRP: $129, Our Price: $116, You Save $13 (10%).
These boots will warm your feet for hours. Equipped with a heavy-duty rubber sole, toe caps, and protected heel, these boots are great for divers who need to walk over rocky terrain to get to their dive site. They are used by military tactical groups, technical divers, search and rescue divers, shore divers, rock fishers, kayakers, canyonists, trampers and horticulture use. The Apollo ATB Pro lace up boots are as comfortable as they are durable.
WaterProof G1 5-Finger Semidry Dive Gloves - 5mm
RRP: $164, Our Price: $147, You Save $17 (10%).
Having cold, numb fingers on a dive is no fun. These 5mm gloves are designed with a 3D shape for a more comfortable fit. They feature a zipper with a pull tab which makes them easier to put on and take off. They're available in different sizes, and provide a non-slip grip.
Scuba First Aid Kit
RRP: $72, Our Price: $36, You Save $36 (50%).
The Scuba First Aid Kit from The Scuba Doctor is the ultimate piece of dive equipment every diver should own! Designed to cope with the typical accidents that can happen while scuba diving or snorkelling. Easily stored, these First Aid Kits are perfect to keep divers and snorkellers safe and well from everything a busy, active life can throw at them.
Still Not Sure? Get Them Gift Certificates
The Scuba Doctor Gift Certificates — $5 to $1000
If you still can't decide on a gift for the diver in your life, then why not give them a Gift Certificate from The Scuba Doctor. You may think they already have all of the dive gear they could possibly need, but they WILL be hankering for something. This way they get to choose what's most important to them.
![Halcyon Infinity 30lb System [SS Small Backplate]](/diveshop/images/halcyon/Halcyon-Evolve-Wing.jpg "Halcyon Infinity 30lb System [SS Small Backplate]")
