Why Every Diver Should Use Air Integration
Once you dive with air integration, you'll never go back. Students ask me questions about air integration all the time, such as "Is air integration worth it?" "Why would I want air integration?" "How can it help me?" "Is it hard to use?" In this blog post, I’ll answer those questions and more as I go over why I think every diver should use air integration. Feel free to watch the video version of this blog post above.
What is Air Integration?
Air integration involves a transmitter attached to your scuba tank that sends real-time data to your dive computer. This means your gas pressure is displayed right on your computer along with other vital dive information. Setting up air integration is as easy as installing the transmitter on your first stage and then pairing that transmitter with your computer. Turn the cylinder on, and just like that, you have your gas pressure on your computer along with all other dive information.
Benefits of Air Integration
1. Convenience and Safety
Air integration enhances safety and convenience in various ways. Imagine as a quick example, that you’re ascending at the end of your dive. With air integration, you can have your dive computer on the inside of your wrist. As you dump air from your inflator hose, you can also read your depth, ascent rate, and gas pressure all in one place. This eliminates the need to switch back and forth between your SPG and dive computer, ensuring you always know your gas status.
2. Improved Readability
Reading gas pressure from an SPG can be challenging for some divers, especially in low light or during night dives. Air integrated dive computers display gas pressure on a bright digital screen, making it easy to read in all conditions. Many air integrated dive computers also provide vibration alerts for critical gas levels, adding another layer of safety.
3. Enhanced Dive Planning
Air integration allows your dive computer to calculate your gas time remaining (GTR). This tells you the exact amount of time you have left at your current depth until you need to start your ascent. GTR helps you make informed decisions about your dive, optimizing bottom time and improving safety.
Tracking Your Progress as a Diver
Air integrated dive computers can track your Surface Air Consumption (SAC) rate, which measures how fast you are using your gas. Monitoring your SAC rate over time can help you see if you’re improving as a diver. A lower SAC rate typically indicates better air consumption, less flailing, and more efficient buoyancy control. For example, when I first started diving, my SAC rate was horribly high, but over time, it has improved significantly, reflecting my growth and efficiency as a diver; or at least that's what I tell myself.
Choosing the Right Air Integrated Dive Computer
Shearwater offers a range of air integrated dive computers at various price points, making it easier to find one that fits your needs and budget. Models like the Shearwater Peregrine TX, Tern TX, and Perdix 2 offer excellent features and performance. Pair any of these with a Shearwater Swift transmitter, and you’ll have a fully integrated experience.
Affiliate Links Disclaimer
Some product links in this post are affiliate links, which means if you buy something, I'll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my channel and allows me to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for your support!
- Shearwater Tern TX & Swift Bundle: Shearwater Tern TX Bundle
- Shearwater Peregrine TX & Swift Bundle: Shearwater Peregrine TX Bundle
- Shearwater Swift (AI Transmitter Only): Shearwater Swift
Conclusion
With all the benefits I’ve covered, it's hard to recommend a dive computer that doesn’t have air integration capabilities. As you expand your training and dive more often, an air integrated dive computer pays for itself in terms of safety, convenience, and overall diving experience. Check out the links in the description to explore your options. Stay safe, have fun, and let’s go diving!
For more details on choosing the right dive computer, watch my video How To Choose A Dive Computer.
Disclaimer: Circle H Scuba and Thomas Hughes believe you cannot teach someone how to dive, nor certify them for diving, through the internet. Ensure you seek proper training through an instructor who is active and certified through a recognized agency, and always dive within the limits of your certification.