Computer Diver (SDI)

If you already dive, but want to feel truly fluent with your dive computer, this course is built for you. You’ll learn how your computer tracks depth, time, ascent rate, and no-decompression limits—then apply that knowledge during two open-water training dives with real planning, real decision-making, and calm coaching. Private (1 student) or Private Group (2 students) instruction means we can tailor the settings, screens, and dive profiles to the exact computer you’ll use on every future dive.

Next step: Schedule a Free Phone Chat

• How computers differ from tables, and why “computer diving” still requires sound planning
• Key screens, alarms, and common terms (NDL, ascent rate, safety stop prompts, surface interval data)
• How decompression models work at a high level and why different computers can display different guidance
• How to set up your computer correctly (units, conservatism, altitude/freshwater settings as applicable)
• How to use planning mode for multi-level, repetitive dives
• How to track depth/time/air and stay within your planned limits during a dive
• How to recognize and respond to warnings, missed stops, fast ascents, and computer lockouts
• What to do for a computer problem or failure (safe, conservative responses)
• Optional: how to download and review dive data if your computer supports it

• Better decisions underwater: you’ll interpret what your computer is telling you (not just “follow the beeps”)
• More controlled ascents and safer habits, including consistent safety stops
• Cleaner multi-level profiles and better awareness of your no-decompression limits
• More confidence if something changes—current, visibility, task loading, or a device warning
• Reduced risk from common mistakes like sharing a computer, incorrect settings, or ignoring ascent-rate guidance

1. Plan your setup (15–30 minutes): We confirm your current certification, your computer model, and your typical diving environment so we can tailor training to how you actually dive.
2. Knowledge development (1–3 hours total, self-paced + coaching): You complete SDI learning materials, then we review key concepts together—especially planning mode, ascent guidance, and “what to do if…” scenarios.
3. Pre-dive workshop (45–90 minutes): We walk through your computer’s menus and displays, confirm settings, and build two realistic dive plans (including surface interval and no-decompression planning).
4. Open-water training dives (2 dives, typically half-day): You execute your planned profiles while actively monitoring depth, time, ascent rate, and gas. Each dive includes full brief/debrief, plus a deliberate safety stop at the end.
5. Post-dive review (20–45 minutes): We log the dives, review what your computer recorded, and (if supported) download the data to reinforce what you learned.

Timing varies based on your schedule, location, conditions, and how familiar you already are with your computer.

Required personal scuba gear:

• Mask, snorkel, fins
• BCD, regulator, computer
• Exposure protection appropriate to conditions (wetsuit or skins as needed)
• Your own dive computer (one diver per computer—no sharing)

If you don’t have properly fitting gear yet, we’ll help you select options that fit well and function reliably for your diving plans.

Included:

• Private (1 student) or Private Group (2 students) instruction
• SDI course materials / eLearning (as applicable) and knowledge review with your instructor
• Two open-water training dives with complete briefings and debriefings
• Certification processing upon successful completion

Not included (varies):

• Personal scuba gear (you supply your own or rent; rental availability varies by location)
• Location/entry fees, park fees, dock fees, or facility fees
• Charter boat fees (if relevant)
• Travel, hotel, meals, and gratuities
• Optional purchases (photos/video, upgrades, additional dives beyond standards if needed)

We’ll confirm any third-party costs during your consult so you can make a clear decision before you commit.

• Minimum age: 18 (ScubaDives.com policy)
• Prerequisite certification: SDI Open Water Scuba Diver (or equivalent)
• Water skills: Comfortably maintain buoyancy, ascend/descend with control, and manage your air supply with a buddy
• Medical: You’ll complete a medical questionnaire before training. If any answers indicate a concern, a physician’s written clearance may be required before you can participate.

• Do I need my own dive computer?
  Yes. This course is designed around your computer, and one diver should not share a computer with another diver.
• What if I’m already using a computer but feel unsure?
  This is common. We focus on interpreting what you see on-screen, choosing appropriate settings, and building consistent, safe habits.
• How many dives are included?
  Two open-water training dives are required, with full briefings and debriefings.
• Is there a pool session?
  Typically no. Training is structured around academic work and open-water application, tailored to your experience and conditions.
• Can we combine this with another specialty?
  In many cases, yes—especially if you want to stack learning efficiently. We’ll recommend the best pairing based on your goals and schedule.
• What if conditions cancel the dives?
  We reschedule for the next suitable window. We don’t rush conditions—good visibility and manageable seas/current make learning safer and more productive.
• What if I need more time to feel confident?
  No problem. Private instruction is built for this. If additional training dives are needed beyond the course minimums, we’ll discuss options and any added costs up front.
• Will you teach me the exact buttons/menus on my model?
  Yes. We’ll walk through your specific model and show you how to verify settings and interpret the data you rely on during a dive.

A quick phone chat helps us confirm your current certification, your computer model, and where you want to dive next. Then we’ll map out a calm, efficient plan that builds real competence—not just familiarity.

Schedule a Free Phone Chat