Dive Computers: Planning, Settings and Shared Decisions
Use a dive computer as a personal exposure model and information tool—not as permission to outsource the dive plan.
Two computers can display different remaining time after the same dive because algorithms, settings, gas and recent history differ. That is expected; a buddy team still needs one coherent plan.
Learn the display and alarms before the first important dive, especially when renting or changing equipment.
Field note
Photograph the key setting screens before the trip. It is easier to spot an accidental change when you know what normal looked like.
Set the correct inputs
Confirm time, units, altitude mode, gas fraction, personal conservatism and transmitter pairing. Analyse Nitrox independently before entering the value.
- oxygen fraction and maximum operating depth
- audible and vibration alarms
- sampling or display mode
- battery state
- backup plan
Plan as a team
Agree maximum depth, time, gas reserve and ascent before the dive. The most conservative relevant limit normally governs the team; no-decompression time does not replace gas planning.
Respond to differences conservatively
Do not average two displays or follow the more permissive one. End or modify the dive using the agreed plan and the more limiting information, then understand the difference on the surface.
Frequently asked questions
Can buddies share one dive computer?
Each diver should track their own exposure with an appropriate computer or plan. A computer follows the wearer, not the team.
Can I change algorithms between dives?
Avoid changing settings to obtain more time. Understand the manufacturer's instructions and seek appropriate training.
What if the computer enters decompression unexpectedly?
Follow the training and manufacturer guidance, communicate with the buddy and complete a controlled ascent within available gas rather than improvising extra exposure.
Last reviewed 2026-09. Rules and seasons change; confirm current requirements with operators and authorities before travelling.
Other guides
- What Wetsuit Do You Need in Australia? A State-by-State, Month-by-Month Guide
- When to Dive Australia: The Best Time to Visit Each Coast
- Scuba Certification Requirements in Australia: What Operators Actually Ask For
- Solo & Independent Shore Diving in Australia: Rules, Norms and How to Do It Safely
- How to Read a Swell Forecast for Shore Diving in Australia
- Diving with Grey Nurse Sharks in Australia: Sites, Seasons and the Rules
- Marine Parks, Permits and Protected Wrecks: What Divers Need to Know
- Dive Safety in Australia: Emergency Numbers, Recompression Chambers and Evacuation Times
- Your First Dives After Open Water in New South Wales: Where to Go, Who to Ring, What to Hire
- Your First Dives After Open Water in Queensland: Where to Go, Who to Ring, What to Hire
- Your First Dives After Open Water in Victoria: Where to Go, Who to Ring, What to Hire
- Your First Dives After Open Water in Western Australia: Where to Go, Who to Ring, What to Hire
- Your First Dives After Open Water in South Australia: Where to Go, Who to Ring, What to Hire
- Your First Dives After Open Water in Tasmania: Where to Go, Who to Ring, What to Hire
- Your First Dives After Open Water in Northern Territory: Where to Go, Who to Ring, What to Hire
- How to Choose a Dive Centre
- Types of Dive Businesses
- Cold-Water Diving in Australia
- How to Plan Your First Australian Dive Trip
- Wreck Diving in Australia
- Shark Diving in Australia
- Liveaboard Diving in Australia
- Night Diving in Australia
- Macro and Muck Diving in Australia
- Australian Dive Itineraries
- Returning to Diving After a Break
- Australian Dive Trip Packing List