Underwater decompression computers: Actual vs. Ideal

Abstract

As of this writing there are eleven underwater decompression computers (UDCs) being sold by nine different companies here in the U.S. There are, in actuality, only seven different types of UDCs and three general types of decompression algorithms being used in these devices. This presentation will examine the background of the decompression algorithms and their implementation in each of the devices. The variations of how the decompression (and other) information is displayed is presented. A discussion on how the models, and UDCs, relate to what is actually happening to the diver is presented. Future methods of UDC implementation are proposed along with additional features that could be implemented to provide scientific divers an ideal safety/research tool.