When Oceanic first showed me the device I had never used a backup computer before, so I happily snapped the computer onto my BCD and left it there. I didn’t think I would ever use it or rely on it until I accidently set my dive watch on free diver mode before going on an actual SCUBA dive. My main dive watch proceeded to lock me out for 48 hours, meaning I couldn’t use the computer on dives anymore. So there was my B.U.D. hanging on my BCD ready to step into first place.
This happened to me while I was on a liveaboard and diving at least five times a day. So it was important that I had a computer that was diving with me and had recorded all the profiles from my previous dives.
Oceanic describes its BUD as follows:
“The B.U.D. is a long-overdue idea and a great way to ensure that you never have to miss a dive. Clip it off or stow it in a pocket and forget about it. B.U.D. is a universal backup dive computer that uses Dual Algorithm technology allowing you to adjust your dive computer’s settings to closely match just about any other dive computer on the market, making it the perfect backup device. You should never have to use it, but if you do need it, your B.U.D. will be there to save your next dive. This new Dive Computer is a must for every diver to carry because no matter what computers you are using, you will be able to set your B.U.D. to closely match any computer’s profile using the Oceanic Patented DUAL ALGORITHM.”
What is Dual Algorithm?
“ Choose the one dive computer that’s liberal, conservative or middle-of-the-road.
Dual Algorithm™ technology lets you choose the decompression algorithm that best suits your diving needs without compromising safety.”
The device comes in four different colors: red, blue, yellow and orange. It retails in the US for $199.95 and is a great addition to any diver’s gear locker.
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you wished you had a back up computer? Let us know in the comments section!