Scuba - Communication Gear for Divers
Thanks to advances in electronics and military applications there are now several devices available for divers to communicate under the surface. These can range from very modest to enormously expensive, but every diver can judge for him or herself whether the cost is worth it.
Before buying any equipment, every diver should memorize and practice hand signals with his or her diving partners. Equipment can malfunction, underwater obstructions can reduce their effectiveness and the old-fashioned methods remain cheap and reliable. But if you can afford it, adding the benefits offered by today’s technology can increase the safety of your dive by optimizing your communication.
You could buy a simple, yet effective dive slate. These are underwater ‘chalkboards’ that can be hung around the neck or tied to a belt. They come with a pen capable of writing under the water. You won’t want to write a novel, but a few choice words at the right time can be an immense help.
There are underwater phones with microphones and receivers that allow communication between dive buddies. They’re a bit pricey, but there are models that integrate into your face mask or with just the regulator.
Their range is fully adequate for any distance you need (50 to 500 meters). You should never be farther away than that from your buddy anyway. Battery life is 8 to 10 hours, so they’ll last through multiple dives.
FFMs (Full Face Masks) offer a number of different radio-style communication options. Range varies, but it’s more than adequate to any normal diving situation. They make great options for situations where an experienced diver is attempting to guide a novice.
The instructor can offer helpful advice in real-time and the novice gains an extra degree of comfort from being able to hear as well as see. They’re especially helpful for those minimum visibility situations.
There are even underwater video cameras and computers that can supplement your options.
If you’re looking to do some underwater photography or research, these can be indispensable. Some of the video gear is little more than a waterproof wrapper for your camcorder. Others are a fully integrated unit.
Wireless, underwater laptops can be used to record sights, process video from the camera or signal your dive partner. That’s the ultimate in high-tech diving!
Also See: Scuba Flippers
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