Dive computer has done much to increase diver safety, while at the same time extending individual dive times. One task the dive computer can not eliminate is the need for the diver to monitor their remaining air. Divers can get a dive computer with air integration. The dive still has to monitor their air supply, however, the remaining air pressure is shown on the dive computer. There is no need to look at a separate gauge.
You have two methods of air integration, hosed and wireless. The hose method requires that the dive computer be connected to the high-pressure hose coming from your first stage regulator. This is the same method that the standard pressure gauge uses. The other method is called wireless. A transmitter is connected to the high-pressure port of the first stage. It reads the remaining pressure and transmits it to the dive computer. This method allows you to wear the dive computer on your wrist and still have air information. Another great benefit of an Air Integrated Dive Computer is after the dive being able to see your air consumption throughout the dive.
Please note, when looking at an Air Integrated Dive Computer to purchase, verify if the transmitter is included.
OUR TOP PICK
Shearwater Research Teric Air Integrated Dive Computer
- What Make This Air Integrated Dive Computer Stand Out
- Watch sized portable dive computer
- Nitrox Trimix decompression dive computer in wrist-watch form factor
- BĂĽhlmann ZHL-16c algorithm with configurable Gradient Factors
- Supports up to 2 optional wireless tank pressure transmitters
- Switchable audible and vibration alerts
- Supports Open-Circuit, Fixed PO2, Gauge, and Freediving Modes
Gas mix: Nitrox and Trimix
EDITORS CHOICE
Mares Smart Air Dive Computer & LED Tank Module Transmitter
- What Make This Air Integrated Dive Computer Stand Out
- 4 dive modes: Air/Nitrox/GAUGE/FREEdive;
- algorithm: RGBM Mares-Wienke;
- 2 buttons;
- standalone digital wristwatch;
- 3 gas mixes: Air/Nitrox/Multi-gas;
- FO2 - 21-99%;
- PO2 - 1.2-1.6 bar;
- Personal Conservative Factor - P0/P1/P2;
- altitude adjustment: A0-A3/0-3700 m;
- Safe & Deep stops;
- max operating depth - 150 meters
Gas mix: Air/Nitrox/Multi-gas (up to 3)
BEST VALUE
Suunto Vyper Wrist Air Integrated Dive Computer
- What Make This Air Integrated Dive Computer Stand Out
- Free dive mode – to manage depth
- Features air, Nitrox, and gauge dive modes
- Easy navigation with 3 buttons with backlit display
- Perfect for beginners
- Competitively priced
Gas mix: Air/Nitrox
Aqua Lung Hoseless Air Integrated Dive Computer
- What Make This Air Integrated Dive Computer Stand Out
- Watch sized portable dive computer
- Hoseless gas integration algorithm - provides calculations in real-time for accurate gas management.
- Digital compass – feature north reference, return bearing lock, and declination adjustment.
- Free Dive mode – to manage your free diving with depth, bottom, and surface times.
- Multiple gas capability – can manage up to 3 Nitrox mixes and 3 transmitters
Gas mix: Nitrox (up to 3)
Suunto Eon Steel Air Integrated Dive Computer
- What Make This Air Integrated Dive Computer Stand Out
- Simple and easy interaction with menus and buttons, high-resolution display for easy reading in any dive conditions
- Strong mechanical construction - brushed stainless steel bezel and durable and resistant Xensation glass
- Guaranteed diving depth of up to 150 m/490 ft
- 4 operation gas capabilities - Gauge/Air/Nitrox/Trimix/CCR (fixed point)
- Multiple tank pressure monitoring with the Tank POD
Gas mix:Air/Nitrox/Trimix/CCR
Travis is a digital nomad currently living and working as a divemaster in the south of Thailand.
- While transmitters are new and exciting pieces of equipment, having a standard SPG on your equipment will help ensure you know exactly how much air you have in your tank at all times.Â
- Buying air-integrated dive computers with different types of alarms ( depth, bottom time, NDL, etc.…) will help you avoid any confusion when diving in dark or murky conditions.Â
- Dive computers with integrated compasses allow you to maintain maximum functionality underwater without cluttering your setup.
Scuba Diving Expert
How To Choose An Air Integrated Dive Computer – Buying Guide
Diving Level
When looking for an air integrated dive computer you need to consider what you need. The requirements of a recreational diver and a tech diver differ when it comes to gas management. A recreational diver will only need a dive computer that has air and Nitrox modes and unless they are using a pony bottle, they only need one transmitter. A technical diver needs a dive computer able to calculate the mix they are using and multiple tanks.
Set-Up
Air integrated dive computers come either hose or wireless. A hose integration will use a console similar to a gauge’s console A wireless connection will often connect to a dive computer worn on the wrist.
Budget
If your budget does not support an Air integrated dive computer, consider buying one that has the transmitter sold separately. Most models are competitive with dive computers that are not air integrated. You can get the transmitter at a later date and not have to replace the dive computer. Â
Gas Mix
Most dive computers support air and Nitrox while some support Trimix gas mix – which incorporates a certain percentage of helium.
Readability
A good air-integrated dive computer will display good reading even in underwater and extreme conditions.
Lighting
Lighting is also an important factor especially when diving as the environment underwater may be somewhat dark. It is good to have a dive computer with proper high resolution, bright, and backlight.
Navigation
An air-integrated dive computer is normally fitted with a functional compass. An integrated compass eliminates the old dive compasses we are used to, to make your experience even more comfortable. Keep in mind, however, that dive computers with integrated compasses are slightly more expensive than those that don’t.
FAQs
Q: What Is The Difference Between A Regular Dive Computer and Air Integrated Dive Computer?
The difference is that an air-integrated dive computer connects to your tank and can gauge pressure. Additionally, it provides data that you can save and later analysis to better understand your air consumption underwater.
Q: When And Where Should I Use An Air Integrated Dive Computer?
Air integrated dive computers are ideal for both recreational and technical diving and are very helpful to cut down the manual work of pressure gauging. Plus, they do the logbook recording for you!
Q: How To Connect A Dive Computer To The Tank?
There are two ways. Hose-mounted dive computers are console-mounted and connected to the tank through the hose while wrist mount ones are connected wirelessly to the tank with the help of a transmitter.
Globosurf Overview
Air Integrated Dive Computers make keeping track of your remaining air easier. They also make it possible to review your air usage throughout a dive. and to provide surface air equivalent consumption information available. The above-listed 5 Best Air Integrated Dive Computers in 2021 are worth a browse and an investment. Try it and you’ll see!
