Gear – Scuba Splash

Most dive computers come with the option to connect wirelessly to the air tank in order to relay pressure measurements. This information helps divers learn more about their air consumption habits and provides vital information while diving. A transmitter connects to the air tank and communicates to the dive computer. Transmitters or air integration systems wirelessly connect dive computers to the air tank. This allows for oxygen pressure to be read by dive computers and essentially turning them into a backup air gauge. Accessing this information means computers can also determine how much more time is left on a dive based on exertion, depth, and air consumption. Computers store this data so divers can later analyze their air consumption and general progress. Dive computers come in two main styles. There are the watch ones that basically just look like a large digital timepiece. Then there are mounted computers that attach to your BCD. Both styles can be connected to a transmitter however, the mounted versions have the option to connect through a hose attachment. Most divers prefer to connect using a transmitter since it's one less hose to worry about. Connecting this way also helps safe guard your computer from equipment failure. What is a transmitter A wireless transmitter is a way to connect dive computers directly to the oxygen tank. They are sometimes referred to as being air integrated. This enables computers to read the exact oxygen details through tank oxygen pressure. Powered with this information, computers can display remaining dive time, consumption rates, and altogether replace the standard pressure gauge. How Does It Work? The transmitter connects directly into stage one of your regulator. This is right at the top of the air tank where the hoses connect and the on/off-air vale is. In the photo below the transmitter is on the bottom right-hand side, the squared-off piece. The transmitter continuously monitors how much pressure is in the oxygen tank. This information is wirelessly sent to your dive computer through electromagnetic wave frequency (kHz). The data is stored, analyzed, and adjusted as the dive fluctuates. If it is the first time connecting the transmitter to the computer you will need to sync the two together. Each unit is different so be sure to read the owners manual and follow the instructions. What Are The Benefits of a Transmitter? Yes, your oxygen tank is already equipt with a pressure gauge so don't worry. Think of a transmitter as a backup gauge that helps relay more detailed information to your dive computer. Most, not all, computers are able to analyze the air pressure in the tank and offer more details to you as a diver. It will be able to relay how much time you have left to dive. This is calculated using your rate of consumption, depth of dive, and current level of energy exertion. As the dive fluctuates so does the remaining dive time. Another benefit of using a transmitter is that your computer has more data to relay back to you. This means you will have more insight into your personal dive habits, patterns, and progress. The slower and more consistent air consumption is the more skilled of a dive you are becoming. This type of detailed information can never be precisely recorded unless you are using a transmitter. Should You Buy A Transmitter? Using a transmitter is a valuable way to gain insight into how you dive and how you consume air. It helps track progress along with offering useful data while diving. I personally love using a transmitter with my computer and love sharing my experiences. If you own or are thinking about buying a dive computer then you want to first make sure it is compatible with a transmitter. Not all computers are, so double-check this beforehand. Remember, the only thing you actually NEED for diving is a sense of adventure, a willingness to adapt, and a positive mindset.