There are many kinds of gauges. These include Analog, Digital and Pneumofathometer models. A gauge that is right for you is key to a safe dive. Keeping your gauge calibrated is also vital for decompression safety, especially at altitudes.
Analog gauges
Analog gauges for gauge diving can help divers understand the depth in the water. A graduated scale is used to indicate depth. These gauges may be worn on the wrist, or integrated into the dive computers. The analog ones may be more reliable than digital gauges, but they are not completely accurate. An advantage of an analog gauge over digital is the fact that you never run out.
The gauge's front is simple to read. It comes with numerical increments of depth that range from 10' - 40' and 20'- 150'. The gauge also includes a pressure gauge. It can display pressure from 0 - 5000 psi. The red screen is reserved air while the green screen is main air.
Digital models
Divers want to dive long and deep. A digital gauge will not help them achieve this. Temperature fluctuations can alter the pressure difference between your gauge and the surrounding water. A mechanical gauge is far safer than an electrical gadget. A mechanical gauge is safer than an electronic gadget. It can track your dive time and depth as well as calculate your Nitrogen retention. This will help to prevent decompression illnesses.
There are two basic types digital gauge diving computers. The hose technique is the simplest. It uses a hose for connecting the dive computer to a high-pressure port on stage 1. Wireless mode uses an electronic transmitter to communicate with the computer. You can also find this type of diving computer in console or wrist-mounted models.
Pneumofathometers
Pneumofathometers can be used to measure the depth of air that is supplied to divers. These devices measure air pressure at the surface and then indicate the depth in feet or metres. In the past, these devices were mounted on the hand-cranked air pump that supplied breathing air to the standard diving suit. The air supply was free flowing, with no back pressure.
A gauge should have a range between 130 and 160 percent of the maximum operating pressure for gauge diving. For systems that operate at 3,000psi or higher, a gauge with this range will suffice.
Submersible pressure gauges
A submersible pressure gauge (SPG) is a device that allows scuba divers to keep track of their air pressure. It displays the current depth as well as the direction that the diver is moving. The SPG is usually attached to the regulator via a high-pressure hose. This arrangement allows the diver to minimize confusion about where the gauge is located and keeps it from getting lost. A SPG shows the remaining air pressure in pounds per square inch and is useful for monitoring your air supply while diving.
Scubapro produces an oil-filled analog depth gauge with a Bourdon tube design that measures to a depth of 200 feet. It comes with a C1 Compass, which attaches directly to the console boot. This gauge is perfect for beginners since it is simple to operate.
Compass
The best compass for gauge diving is the one that is easy to read. It should have adequate markings to suit your needs and be large enough to be readable underwater. You will want a compass that has a bezel with indicator marks at every five degrees and compass headings in increments of 30 degrees.
Side view windows should be included in a compass used for gauge diving. This allows the diver to see which direction the compass is pointed. This allows the diver see the direction that the compass is pointed even in complete darkness.