There are many gauges on offer. There are various types of gauges on the market, including digital, analog and pneumofathometer versions. A gauge that is right for you is key to a safe dive. Your gauge must be calibrated at all times, especially when diving at high altitudes.
Analog gauges
Analog gauges used for gauge diving are useful in helping divers determine the depth of water. The gauges work by rotating a graduated scale around the needle to indicate depth. These gauges can be worn on a wrist or integrated into the dive computer. They are less accurate than digital gauges but more reliable than analog. An advantage of an analog gauge over digital is the fact that you never run out.
The gauge's front is simple to read. The gauge has numerical increments that range from 10' to 40’ and 20' up to 150'. The gauge also features a pressure gauge. It displays pressure between 0 and 5000 psi. The red screen is reserved air while the green screen is main air.
Digital models
Divers often want to dive deep and stay for long periods of time. However, a digital gauge is not able to help them. The difference in pressure between the gauge and the ambient water can be affected by temperature changes. Fortunately, a mechanical gauge is much safer than an electronic gadget. A mechanical gauge is safer than an electronic gadget. It can track your dive time and depth as well as calculate your Nitrogen retention. This will help to prevent decompression illnesses.
There are two basic types for digital gauge dive computers. The hose approach is simple and uses a pipe to connect the diver's computer to the high pressure port at the top of the first stage. Wireless mode uses an electronic transmitter to communicate with the computer. You can also find this type of diving computer in console or wrist-mounted models.
Pneumofathometers
Pneumofathometers can be used to measure the depth of air that is supplied to divers. These devices measure the surface pressure of air and indicate the depth either in feet or meters. In the past, these devices were mounted on the hand-cranked air pump that supplied breathing air to the standard diving suit. The air supply was free-flow, with no back-pressure.
Divers who want to use gauge diving should purchase a gauge with a range of 130 to 160 percent of the maximum operating pressure of their diving system. This range would be sufficient for systems operating at more than 3,000 PSI.
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 SPG is usually attached to the regulator via a high-pressure hose. This arrangement helps the diver avoid confusion and keeps the gauge from getting lost. A SPG shows the remaining air pressure in pounds per square inch and is useful for monitoring 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. You can attach the C1 compasses to your console boot for additional versatility. This gauge is best suited for beginners because it is simple and easy to use.
Compass
The best compass for gauge diving is the one that is easy to read. It should be large enough to be easily read underwater and have the appropriate markings for your requirements. Look for a compass with a bezel with compass headings grouped in 30-degree increments and indicator marks every five degrees.
A side view window is an important feature of a compass that allows gauge diving. It lets the diver see the direction in which the compass point. This allows the diver even in complete darkness to follow the course of the compass.