Tauchcomputer

A Tauchcomputer, or dive computer, is an electronic device worn on the wrist or mounted on a console that monitors depth and time and computes decompression status during a dive. It is designed to replace traditional dive tables by providing real-time calculations of inert gas loading, ascent profiles, and no-decompression limits. Commonly, it records a depth–time profile, calculates current decompression status, and displays remaining bottom time, ascent rate guidance, and required safety margins. Many models support air, nitrox, or mixed-gas planning, and offer gauge and plan modes as well as data logging.

Hardware typically includes a depth sensor, a pressure sensor, a microprocessor, memory, a display, and a user interface. Some units are air-integrated, receiving tank pressure data via a transmitter. Interfaces may connect to computers or smartphones to log dives and update firmware. Software Algorithms vary, but popular families include Bühlmann-based models, RGBM variants, and VPM approaches, often with adjustable conservatism or gradient factors to tailor cushion factors for the diver’s experience and algorithms.

The first commercial dive computers appeared in the late 20th century, and modern devices use digital sensors and microprocessors with increasingly sophisticated user interfaces and data logging capabilities. While dive computers enhance safety by providing real-time guidance, they rely on accurate input, proper maintenance, and diver adherence to training; they do not replace basic dive planning or ascend-rate discipline.

Standards and regulation: many dive computers comply with EN13319 and other regional standards.