There are various types of gauges available on the market. There are several types of gauges, including analog, digital and pneumofathometer models. Choosing a gauge that fits your needs is essential for ensuring a safe dive. Keeping your gauge calibrated is also vital for decompression safety, especially at altitudes.
Analog gauges
Analog gauges are used to help divers gauge the depth of the sea. To indicate the depth, they use a needle that pivots around a graduated gauge. These gauges are worn on the wrist or can be integrated into the dive computer. They are less accurate than digital gauges but more reliable than analog. One advantage of using an analog gauge is that you will never run out of batteries.
The gauge's face is easy to read. It offers numerical increments in depth of 10'-40', 20'-40', and 20'-150'. It also has a pressure gauge. It displays pressure from 0 to 5000 psi. The red screen represents reserve air, while green indicates main air.
Digital models
Divers want to dive long and deep. A digital gauge will not help them achieve this. Temperature changes can affect the pressure difference between the gauge's water and the ambient. A mechanical gauge is more reliable than an electronic device. Not only will it keep track of your dive times and depth but also calculate Nitrogen retention, which can help prevent decompression sickness.
There are two basic types for digital gauge dive computers. The hose method uses a hose to link the computer to the first stage's high-pressure port. Wireless mode, however, connects the first stage with an electronic transmitter. This type of diving computer is also available in wrist-mounted and console models.
Pneumofathometers
Pneumofathometers, which are used to gauge the depth to which air is being supplied to a diver, are devices that measure air pressure at the surface. These devices measure air pressure at the surface and then indicate the depth in feet or metres. These devices were used to be mounted on an air pump that provided breathing air for standard diving suits. The air supply was free flowing, with no back pressure.
For gauge diving, divers should buy a gauge that is between 130-160 percent of the maximum operating temperature of their diving system. 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 divers to track their air pressure. It displays the current depth as well as the direction that the diver is moving. The regulator is connected to the SPG 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 measures the remaining air pressure per square inch. It is used to monitor your air supply while diving.
Scubapro makes an oil-filled analog depth gauge that measures up to 200 feet. It has a Bourdon tube design and is oil-filled. It comes with a C1 Compass, which attaches directly to the console boot. This gauge is great for beginners as it is simple to use.
Compass
It is important to be able to read the compass easily when gauge diving. It should be large enough for you to read underwater and with the correct markings. Look for a compasse with a bezel that includes indicator marks and compass headings.
Side view windows are important for gauge diving. They allow the diver to see where the compass points. This allows the diver see the direction that the compass is pointed even in complete darkness.