There are many gauges on offer. These include Analog, Digital and Pneumofathometer models. It is important to choose a gauge that suits your needs in order to ensure a safe dive. It is important to calibrate your gauge at all altitudes for safety decompression.
Analog gauges
Divers can use analog gauges to gauge dive. They are able to measure the depth of the water. To indicate the depth, they use a needle that pivots around a graduated gauge. These gauges can be worn on a wrist or integrated into the dive computer. Although they are more reliable than the digital gauges, analog gauges can still be used. The advantage to using an analog gauge is that it will never run out batteries.
The face of the gauge is designed to be easy to read. It offers numerical increments in depth of 10'-40', 20'-40', and 20'-150'. A pressure gauge is also available on the gauge. It displays pressure ranging from 0 up to 5000psi. A red screen indicates reserve air, while the green screen shows main air.
Digital models
Many divers desire to dive deep and stay there, but a digital gauge can't be used. 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. A gauge not only keeps track of dive time and depth but it also calculates Nitrogen retention and helps prevent decompression illness.
There are two basic types digital gauge diving computers. The hose connection is a basic method that uses a hose. This hose connects the dive computer with the high-pressure port of the first stage. The wireless mode, on the other hand, uses an electronic transmitter attached to the first stage to communicate with the dive computer. This type of diving computer is also available in wrist-mounted and console models.
Pneumofathometers
Pneumofathometers measure the depth of the air supply to a diver. These devices measure the air pressure at the surface, and indicate the depth in metres or feet. These devices were previously mounted on the hand-cranked compressor that supplied air to 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. This range should be adequate for systems that operate at 3,000psi.
Submersible pressure gauges
A submersible Pressure Gauge (SPG), is a device that allows divers to track their air pressure. It can also display the current depth and direction of the diver's movement. An SPG is typically attached to the regulator by a high-pressure line. This arrangement allows the diver to minimize confusion about where the gauge is located and keeps it from getting lost. The SPG is a gauge that shows you the remaining air pressure in psi. It's useful for monitoring your air supply during 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. For greater versatility, it also includes a C1-compass that attaches to its console boot. This gauge is best suited for beginners because it is simple and easy to use.
Compass
Easy to read compass is the best for gauge diving. It should be large enough for you to read underwater and with the correct markings. Look for a compass with a bezel with compass headings grouped in 30-degree increments and indicator marks every five 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 to follow the compass' course even in complete darkness.