Bitz Scuba Diving Equipment Guide

Is the pressure gauge in "bar" not "psi"? (Bar is the UK standard, psi may be appropriate if you are based overseas.)

Is the low-pressure zone marked to highlight that I'm starting to use my air reserve? (The first 50 bar is typically marked in red.)

Is it made out of brass with a glass mineral face? Plastic faces can warp at greater depths and can give a false reading. (Normally in excess of 60 metres.)

Is the hose the right length or too long or too short?

Is it a digital gauge or an air integrated computer? Mechanical gauges have a proven history and do not need parts replaced, keep it simple.

Is it bulky? Avoid contents gauges which also incorporate depth gauges, computers and compasses; separate wrist mounted alternatives are a better option.

Rubber boots appear to offer guages an extra degree of protection from knocks and scrapes but they allow a build up of salt or grit on the inside of the case and particularly around the hose swivel connection, this build up cannot be readily seen and normal washing won't eliminate it unless you remove the boot every time.

Recommendations

Most mechanical gauges would probably suffice, one gauge readily available from your local dive shop is the small plastic Oceanic "Slimline SPG" gauge on a 24-26" hose (excluding any depth guage or compass). A brass and glass gauge would be the best option and would also be suitable for deeper or more advanced diving, UWATEC's Master Diver Pressure Gauge (shown above) has been largely discontinued and is not readily available in the UK but can be obtained from Deepstop.de an online German vendor (unfortunately it comes with the wrong length hose), the site is available in German and English. Most brass gauges seem to have plastic faces in spite of assertions to the contrary, so ensure that you know exactly what you are buying.

The Oceanic is perfectly adequate for dives which fall within the normal recreational diving range. If your diving becomes more adventurous, then it should still be possible to use the plastic gauge on a Pony/Decompression Cylinder, so it won't necessarily go to waste if you should subsequently upgrade to a brass and glass gauge.

Good/Essential Features.

Mixed Good/Bad features depending on the circumstances.

Points requiring your consideration depending on your personal circumstances.

Warnings - Points to be very careful of.

Bitz Health Warning. This feature may seriously damage your health.

Tips, Ideas and general information for your attention.

Hit Counter Complements of http://www.digits.com.

Diving can be a hazardous sport and the information contained within this site is not intended to replace formal training.
Furthermore no responsibility will be accepted for any accidents, injuries or financial disadvantage, howsoever caused.

	Is the pressure gauge in "bar" not "psi"? (Bar is the UK standard, psi may be appropriate if you are based overseas.)
	Can I easily read what it says and is it luminous?
	Is the low-pressure zone marked to highlight that I'm starting to use my air reserve? (The first 50 bar is typically marked in red.)
	Is it made out of brass with a glass mineral face? Plastic faces can warp at greater depths and can give a false reading. (Normally in excess of 60 metres.)
	Is the hose the right length or too long or too short?
	Is it a digital gauge or an air integrated computer? Mechanical gauges have a proven history and do not need parts replaced, keep it simple.
	Is it bulky? Avoid contents gauges which also incorporate depth gauges, computers and compasses; separate wrist mounted alternatives are a better option.
	Rubber boots appear to offer guages an extra degree of protection from knocks and scrapes but they allow a build up of salt or grit on the inside of the case and particularly around the hose swivel connection, this build up cannot be readily seen and normal washing won't eliminate it unless you remove the boot every time.

Key:
	Good/Essential Features.
	Mixed Good/Bad features depending on the circumstances.
	Bad Features.
	Points requiring your consideration depending on your personal circumstances.
	Warnings - Points to be very careful of.
	Bitz Health Warning. This feature may seriously damage your health.
	Tips, Ideas and general information for your attention.
	General bullets.
	Hit Counter Complements of http://www.digits.com.

Diving can be a hazardous sport and the information contained within this site is not intended to replace formal training. Furthermore no responsibility will be accepted for any accidents, injuries or financial disadvantage, howsoever caused.