The no-stop limit is what a dive computer gives you. A computer program will consider depth and air to determine the limit. The program also provides data on when to ascend or stop. This information is also called the "no stop remaining" data.
Preferences of divers
While there are many differences between dive computers, most have the same basic functions. These include displaying depth, tracking Nitro loading, ascent rate, and logging the dive. Divers may prefer to use one type of computer over another, as it provides different NDL times. The settings that are recommended for one computer might not be appropriate for another. Before you buy a dive computer, plan your dive and compare the models to find the best one for you.
Functions
A dive computer is designed to help you stay safe when you're underwater. It calculates based on your information. Next, it compares that information to the dive tables in order to calculate how much time you have at sea. While you don't necessarily need to know the formulas, you should be able to identify where your dive computer is on the liberal-conservative spectrum. Liberal-leaning computers are the best for maximizing your bottom time and ensuring safety.
Display
Whether wrist-mounted or mounted on a submersible pressure gauge, a dive computer's display screen provides the necessary data to avoid decompression and ensure a safe dive. Some dive computers also offer extra features, such as compass direction and water temperature, which may be important to divers. Diver computers may even let users download their data to a personal PC, which can prove helpful for accident investigators. These features make a dive computer invaluable, and can even be used to determine the cause of an accident.
Safety limits
Diver computers can use many algorithms to calculate the decompression time. The acceptable DCS levels range from two to five percentage, but they can vary depending upon individual susceptibility or accidents. The US Navy, commercial diving and other organizations often strive to achieve DCS levels of 0.1 percent or 0.025%. For maximum safety, a divecomputer should be able run decompression algorithms correctly. But diving with a computer can be more complicated than it looks.
Cost
Diver accidents can be prevented by choosing the correct computer for you. These devices use algorithms to determine how much time a diver can stay underwater. The algorithms of most dive computers are fairly generic, but each diver will have slightly different body composition or fitness levels. Some computers will recommend more stops than others. Others may recommend more no-flys. Whichever dive computer you choose, it will help you stay underwater longer and reduce the risk of decompression sickness.