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What happens when you take multiple computers and dive tables on the same dive?

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About 5 years ago, I went for a dive with some friends; all of them Instructors on a 40m recreational dive.

The dive ended with all of us separated, some still doing safety stops and some divers already on the surface, whilst one was doing a mandatory decompression stop. Of course, decompression stops are not within the scope of a recreational dive, however, due to the fact that other divers had to make deeper stops, and divers were trying to stay together, this particular dive ended in one big mess.

Aside of the chaos and confusion that occurred underwater, this is obviously not the safest and most fun way to dive. What had happened? Why had it happened?

The divers had been pushing the dive, trying to stay away from deco by following their computers, not realising that the five of us were using different computers, with different settings and algorithms. On that day, I decided to make an example of this and make it a topic that I would highlight on my courses.

A lot of my time on courses, recreational or technical, is spent on talking and discussing decompression. In the many years that I have been teaching, I discovered that people that were already technically trained had to compromise amongst themselves in order to plan a dive together. The softwares or computers did not agree on what they were about to plan. Between us, with myself as the Instructor, we had to find a compromise.

Some students would show up with plastic dive tables, others with the latest software, and others would still have their old recreational computer with them. Many students, even now, are completely certain that their program or computer is the only and the right way.

During these discussions I normally bring out an old dive US Navy table that I used to carry with me as a backup plan in the early days. Suddenly they realise that things weren’t always like they thought they had been and this was my moment, as an educator, to start a healthy discussion on the ever-changing decompression theory.

I like to compare a 19 year old US Navy diver with a 60 year old Tech diver that smokes. Obviously the diver that is in better shape will be able to off gas more efficiently, not even talking about cold and warm water and demanding environments.

A few years ago, I decided to take several computers on a dive and as I suspected, the differences were astonishing.

Last month, I decided to do the same thing but a bit more seriously, using dive tables, a few of the most common technical computers, and a few recreational computers.My intention was to take them on a 45m, 15 minute dive.

The objective of this experiment, as an educator, is to create awareness of the fact that decompression theory is something that is not written in stone. Computers and tables might produce very different numbers, which given together with the physical differences in between each individual (weight, gender and age), and environment we are diving in, makes it virtually impossible to create a perfect decompression plan.

Before the experiment, I made sure there was no surface interval time on the computers by removing batteries. Then I put all of them on a PVC pipe and took them for a dive.

The dive was a 45m, 15 minute bottom time on air, dive with the exact same depth and time for all computers since all these devices were mounted on a PVC pipe.

I expect you will want to know which computer did what but I think it is irrelevant since no one really can tell what the best result is or was. The objective was of the dive was only to create awareness of the fact that all these computers we can buy create different profiles; therefore we need to have a good foundation in order to choose for a certain profile and here, brands are irrelevant.

The experiment was NOT a scientific experiment so I do not want to get into exact numbers, brands or theoretical discussions. The objective was simply to show the audience that different computers give different numbers, very different numbers, and that tables give us different numbers again.

The table I used was a table based on the US Navy tables and still in use by instructors in Northern Europe. Believe it or not, with this table we can plan an air dive to 91m and do a safety stop.

Not one of the computers I used comes close to the profile produced by this table. This table can take us from 91m to 6m whilst any of the computers would have made us stop at least 5-10 times as deep.

I decided not to make any personal conclusions writing this article, however, I think I can safely say that this table is extremely aggressive and should not be used by Sport or Technical divers.

Summary of my findings on the 45m, 15 minute air dive: 

  • The table produced a 3 minute stop at 3.5m whilst the most conservative computers gave around 10 times that amount of decompression time starting stops 3 times deeper.
  • I used two different computers from different brands using the same Buhlmann algorithm and settings using the same Gradient Factors (30/70) and the results were not consistent; not only the total run time was different, also the first stops were at different depths.
    • The first stop from brand A was at 9m and brand B wanted to make me stop at 12m.
    • Brand A gave me 15 minutes time to surface whilst brand B gave me 23 minutes when we arrived at 18m.
  • I also used the same brand computers using different settings: the default setting and another common setting (30/70 and 25/85). The difference on this relatively shallow dive, at 18m was astonishing. At 18m settings 30/70 gave me 23 minutes and 28/85 gave me 11 minutes, implying that a diver needs a very good reason to choose a different setting than the default settings or vice versa.
  • The computers that were using RGBM were recreational computers. These gave me shallower stops than the technical computers with less decompression time. An interesting event was a 15m stop from one of them, afterwards directly pushing us to 4.5m.
  • Comparing all computers: The first stop of one of the computers was at 15m, whilst the less conservative computer took us to 3.5m in order to finish the deco.
  • The most conservative TTS (total time to surface) between all computers was more than double the time of the most aggressive computer and the table really didn’t give us any decompression time.

I don’t want to make any conclusions. I will leave you to draw your own. The objective was to demonstrate that tables and computers give different numbers, numbers that are completely different!

Mike is the founder of www.thelonghose.com and a Technical Instructor Trainer for various agencies and the current Training Director of I.S.E, Innerspace Explorers.

Photos: Alexia Dunand

Mike took his first breath underwater more then 25 years ago after discovering diving during a two year period in the Army. Teaching is the thing he likes most about scuba diving, learning new things and transmitting them to his students. He still loves recreational diving, just being in the water for the sake of being underwater, but over the years Technical Diving has 'infected him with its virus'. Not only depth and overheads attracted him, but the quest for optimal configurations, swimming techniques and getting really safe and comfortable became much more interesting! Mike is a fulltime Technical Instructor Trainer for RAID and ISE and the current Training Director for ISE for more than a decade. You can find out more about Mike at www.thelonghose.com.

Blogs

Jeff Goodman Launches Underwater Moviemaker Course with NovoScuba

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underwater videography course

Transform Your Dive Experiences into Cinematic Masterpieces

NovoScuba has partnered with acclaimed underwater filmmaker Jeff Goodman to introduce the Underwater Moviemaker Course—a revolutionary program designed to equip divers with the skills to capture the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world.

Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, an avid diver, or a photography enthusiast, this course offers the tools and expertise needed to create stunning underwater videos. From vibrant coral reefs to curious marine life, you’ll learn how to film, edit, and produce captivating underwater stories, all with expert guidance from a seasoned professional.

Jeff Goodman: A Legacy in Underwater Filmmaking

Jeff Goodman brings over 40 years of experience in underwater film production for television to this course. Reflecting on his career, Jeff said:

“Although technology has dramatically changed, the basics of underwater filming remain constant. This course covers crucial skills for producing great videos. Whether you’re creating professional broadcast films or high-quality hobby videos, the fundamental principles are the same.

A camera operator must master their equipment to capture those magical underwater moments effortlessly. But beyond technical know-how, underwater filmmaking is about having fun and enhancing your diving experiences. So, take your time, learn at your own pace, and enjoy this creative journey.”

About NovoScuba

Founded in 2023, NovoScuba is reshaping dive education with a comprehensive, digitally native platform. Offering cutting-edge training programs for divers at all levels, NovoScuba sets a new benchmark in the diving industry by combining innovation with accessibility.

With ISO-certified courses, a student subscription model, and multilingual support, NovoScuba ensures that dive education is inclusive and engaging. More than just a training provider, NovoScuba fosters a global community of divers committed to exploration, collaboration, and sustainability.

Join the NovoScuba Underwater Moviemaker Course Today!

Dive into the world of underwater filmmaking and start creating cinematic stories that inspire. Learn more about the course and enroll today at www.novoscuba.com/novoscuba-underwater-moviemaker-course.

EXCLUSIVE: Jeff Goodman interviews Mark Spiers, CEO of New Scuba Diving Training Agency NovoScuba

NovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!

The diving world thrives on passion and adventure, but for many dive store owners, the financial and operational challenges can be as deep as the ocean.

NovoScuba, an emerging force in the diving world, is on a mission to transform this landscape for the better. With a revolutionary approach to dive store and training agency partnerships, NovoScuba is setting new standards for how dive stores can thrive while keeping their focus on delivering exceptional diving experiences.

underwater videography course

A New Paradigm: NovoScuba’s Bold Mission

NovoScuba’s mission is straightforward yet profound: to disrupt the traditional dynamics between dive store owners and training agencies. Traditionally, dive stores have been subjected to substantial fees charged by training agencies, for membership, materials and certifications. These costs have often placed a heavy financial burden on store owners, cutting into their profits and limiting their ability to offer competitive prices to customers.

NovoScuba flips the script by offering a model where dive stores earn money, instead of paying high fees. Dive stores receive commissions for every student they register, and their certification costs are covered. This new model not only boosts profitability but also ensures clients get top-quality training at unbeatable prices.

Financial Upsides: Earn From Student Registration

NovoScuba’s approach is simple yet revolutionary. Dive stores partnering with NovoScuba can earn commissions for every student they enroll.

Here’s how it works: For every student enrolled through NovoScuba, dive stores receive a commission. Each student enrolled will receive their e-learning materials and certification credit included in their subscription. This arrangement is a significant departure from the traditional model, where dive stores often struggle to manage high overhead costs related to training fees and certification expenses.

underwater videography course

NovoScuba’s approach ensures that dive stores can focus on what they do best—providing top-notch diving experiences—without being bogged down by excessive financial burdens, and the need to carry large stocks of materials.

Quality Training at a Great Price

NovoScuba stands out by offering high-quality, ISO certified, training that doesn’t break the bank, in fact our students will pay less than with most competing agencies. Clients benefit from top-notch education and safety standards at competitive prices. Dive store owners can confidently promote NovoScuba’s programs, knowing they’re offering fantastic training at affordable rates. This balance of quality and affordability helps dive stores build a strong reputation and attract more customers.

Your Brand is Your Business: NovoScuba’s Commitment to Showcasing Your Identity

At NovoScuba, we understand that your brand is your most valuable asset, and we’re committed to putting it front and centre. Unlike agencies that charge high fees to promote their own brand, we believe in investing in yours. With NovoScuba, you won’t be paying to advertise someone else’s logo alone, — our focus is on showcasing your unique identity. Certifications prominently feature your brand, as well as the training agency, reinforcing your store’s image and brand every step of the way. We’re here to support and elevate your brand, ensuring that your investment directly benefits your business.

Affordable Membership: An Investment in Your Success

NovoScuba’s membership model is designed with dive store owners in mind. Membership fees are kept low and include annual Pro member fees for your team. Payment can be made monthly or annually in your local currency, avoiding the hassle of exchange rate fluctuations. NovoScuba promises no exchange rate changes without a six-month notice, ensuring financial stability and simplifying budgeting. With a membership lasting 12 months from date of joining, you’ll enjoy a full year of NovoScuba’s benefits and support.

underwater videography course

Streamlined Operations: Simplifying Your Workload

Handling administrative tasks can be a challenge, but NovoScuba makes it easier. We’ve streamlined certification procedures and reduced paperwork to help dive stores operate more efficiently. Certification processing is quick and straightforward, allowing more focus on teaching and customer service. Our system minimises bureaucracy by storing necessary forms in student profiles, reducing paperwork and administrative delays.

Crossover Made Easy

For dive stores looking to transition to NovoScuba’s model, the crossover process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. NovoScuba provides support to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible, helping dive store owners integrate into the new system with minimal disruption. Experienced dive Pros don’t need to undergo extensive retraining. Our crossover is designed to familiarise Pros with NovoScuba’s user-friendly platform, standards and course structures, and not to waste time and expense re-training in water.

With just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to offer top-notch training through NovoScuba.

Comprehensive Business Support and Training Included in Your Membership

NovoScuba goes beyond financial benefits by offering experienced support and training. This value added service includes:

  • Business Training: Optimise your operations with guidance on marketing, customer service, and best practices.
  • Marketing and Promotion: Access resources to attract new customers and boost your store’s visibility. Enjoy cross promotions with NovoScuba to gain increased exposure.
  • Ongoing Support: NovoScuba’s commitment to its partners extends beyond initial training and setup. The company offers ongoing support to address any issues or questions that arise. This continuous support ensures that dive store owners have a reliable resource to turn to whenever they need assistance.

underwater videography course

Embracing Digital Natives: Instant Evolution and Continuous Improvement

NovoScuba’s digital-native approach is a game-changer. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we ensure our services evolve and improve swiftly. Dive stores benefit from instant updates, the latest features, enhancements, and effective solutions, keeping them ahead of the curve. This continuous improvement helps dive stores stay competitive and deliver exceptional services. Whether it’s a new course update, additional marketing resources, or improved e-learning functions, NovoScuba’s digital infrastructure ensures that dive stores are always equipped with the most current and effective solutions. This continuous evolution not only helps dive stores stay ahead in a competitive market but also ensures they consistently provide top-quality services to their clients.

Why Is NovoScuba Doing This? – Fair Profit Sharing for Greater Access and Growth

At NovoScuba, we’ve taken a bold step by paying commissions to stores rather than following the traditional model of training agencies charging high fees. Our mission is to make diving accessible to everyone and to foster a growing community of new divers and continued education. By redistributing profits more equitably between stores and training agencies, we aim to create a more supportive and collaborative environment within the industry. We believe this approach not only helps individual stores thrive but also stimulates overall growth and innovation in diving. Our commitment to fair profit sharing reflects our dedication to the long-term health and expansion of the diving community.

underwater videography course

Everyone is getting a piece of the pie.

Getting Started: Join the NovoScuba Revolution

Ready to revolutionise your dive store experience? NovoScuba is here to support your journey toward reduced costs, increased profitability, and enhanced operational efficiency. Get in touch with our team to learn how NovoScuba can transform your business.

For more information, email info@novoscuba.com or visit www.novoscuba.academy.

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Blogs

NovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!

Published

on

novoscuba

novoscubaThe diving world thrives on passion and adventure, but for many dive store owners, the financial and operational challenges can be as deep as the ocean.

NovoScuba, an emerging force in the diving world, is on a mission to transform this landscape for the better. With a revolutionary approach to dive store and training agency partnerships, NovoScuba is setting new standards for how dive stores can thrive while keeping their focus on delivering exceptional diving experiences.

novoscuba

A New Paradigm: NovoScuba’s Bold Mission

NovoScuba’s mission is straightforward yet profound: to disrupt the traditional dynamics between dive store owners and training agencies. Traditionally, dive stores have been subjected to substantial fees charged by training agencies, for membership, materials and certifications. These costs have often placed a heavy financial burden on store owners, cutting into their profits and limiting their ability to offer competitive prices to customers.

NovoScuba flips the script by offering a model where dive stores earn money, instead of paying high fees. Dive stores receive commissions for every student they register, and their certification costs are covered. This new model not only boosts profitability but also ensures clients get top-quality training at unbeatable prices.

Financial Upsides: Earn From Student Registration

NovoScuba’s approach is simple yet revolutionary. Dive stores partnering with NovoScuba can earn commissions for every student they enroll.

Here’s how it works: For every student enrolled through NovoScuba, dive stores receive a commission. Each student enrolled will receive their e-learning materials and certification credit included in their subscription. This arrangement is a significant departure from the traditional model, where dive stores often struggle to manage high overhead costs related to training fees and certification expenses.

novoscuba

NovoScuba’s approach ensures that dive stores can focus on what they do best—providing top-notch diving experiences—without being bogged down by excessive financial burdens, and the need to carry large stocks of materials.

Quality Training at a Great Price

NovoScuba stands out by offering high-quality, ISO certified, training that doesn’t break the bank, in fact our students will pay less than with most competing agencies. Clients benefit from top-notch education and safety standards at competitive prices. Dive store owners can confidently promote NovoScuba’s programs, knowing they’re offering fantastic training at affordable rates. This balance of quality and affordability helps dive stores build a strong reputation and attract more customers.

Your Brand is Your Business: NovoScuba’s Commitment to Showcasing Your Identity

At NovoScuba, we understand that your brand is your most valuable asset, and we’re committed to putting it front and centre. Unlike agencies that charge high fees to promote their own brand, we believe in investing in yours. With NovoScuba, you won’t be paying to advertise someone else’s logo alone, — our focus is on showcasing your unique identity. Certifications prominently feature your brand, as well as the training agency, reinforcing your store’s image and brand every step of the way. We’re here to support and elevate your brand, ensuring that your investment directly benefits your business.

Affordable Membership: An Investment in Your Success

NovoScuba’s membership model is designed with dive store owners in mind. Membership fees are kept low and include annual Pro member fees for your team. Payment can be made monthly or annually in your local currency, avoiding the hassle of exchange rate fluctuations. NovoScuba promises no exchange rate changes without a six-month notice, ensuring financial stability and simplifying budgeting. With a membership lasting 12 months from date of joining, you’ll enjoy a full year of NovoScuba’s benefits and support.

Streamlined Operations: Simplifying Your Workload

Handling administrative tasks can be a challenge, but NovoScuba makes it easier. We’ve streamlined certification procedures and reduced paperwork to help dive stores operate more efficiently. Certification processing is quick and straightforward, allowing more focus on teaching and customer service. Our system minimises bureaucracy by storing necessary forms in student profiles, reducing paperwork and administrative delays.

Crossover Made Easy

For dive stores looking to transition to NovoScuba’s model, the crossover process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. NovoScuba provides support to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible, helping dive store owners integrate into the new system with minimal disruption. Experienced dive Pros don’t need to undergo extensive retraining. Our crossover is designed to familiarise Pros with NovoScuba’s user-friendly platform, standards and course structures, and not to waste time and expense re-training in water.

With just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to offer top-notch training through NovoScuba.

Comprehensive Business Support and Training Included in Your Membership

NovoScuba goes beyond financial benefits by offering experienced support and training. This value added service includes:

  • Business Training: Optimise your operations with guidance on marketing, customer service, and best practices.
  • Marketing and Promotion: Access resources to attract new customers and boost your store’s visibility. Enjoy cross promotions with NovoScuba to gain increased exposure.
  • Ongoing Support: NovoScuba’s commitment to its partners extends beyond initial training and setup. The company offers ongoing support to address any issues or questions that arise. This continuous support ensures that dive store owners have a reliable resource to turn to whenever they need assistance.

novoscuba

Embracing Digital Natives: Instant Evolution and Continuous Improvement

NovoScuba’s digital-native approach is a game-changer. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we ensure our services evolve and improve swiftly. Dive stores benefit from instant updates, the latest features, enhancements, and effective solutions, keeping them ahead of the curve. This continuous improvement helps dive stores stay competitive and deliver exceptional services. Whether it’s a new course update, additional marketing resources, or improved e-learning functions, NovoScuba’s digital infrastructure ensures that dive stores are always equipped with the most current and effective solutions. This continuous evolution not only helps dive stores stay ahead in a competitive market but also ensures they consistently provide top-quality services to their clients.

Why Is NovoScuba Doing This? – Fair Profit Sharing for Greater Access and Growth

At NovoScuba, we’ve taken a bold step by paying commissions to stores rather than following the traditional model of training agencies charging high fees. Our mission is to make diving accessible to everyone and to foster a growing community of new divers and continued education. By redistributing profits more equitably between stores and training agencies, we aim to create a more supportive and collaborative environment within the industry. We believe this approach not only helps individual stores thrive but also stimulates overall growth and innovation in diving. Our commitment to fair profit sharing reflects our dedication to the long-term health and expansion of the diving community.

novoscuba

Everyone is getting a piece of the pie.

Getting Started: Join the NovoScuba Revolution

Ready to revolutionise your dive store experience? NovoScuba is here to support your journey toward reduced costs, increased profitability, and enhanced operational efficiency. Get in touch with our team to learn how NovoScuba can transform your business.

For more information, email info@novoscuba.com or visit www.novoscuba.academy.

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