There are many kinds of gauges. These include Analog, Digital and Pneumofathometer models. For safe diving, it is crucial to select a gauge that meets your requirements. Also, calibrating your gauge is crucial for decompression safety, especially at high altitudes.
Analog gauges
Analog gauges used for gauge diving are useful in helping divers determine the depth of water. To indicate the depth, they use a needle that pivots around a graduated gauge. These gauges can be worn around the wrist or integrated into a dive computer. While the analog gauges are more reliable than digital ones, they may not be as accurate. An advantage of an analog gauge over digital is the fact that you never run out.
The face of the gauge is designed to be easy to read. It comes with numerical increments of depth that range from 10' - 40' and 20'- 150'. The gauge has a pressure indicator. It can display pressure from 0 - 5000 psi. The red screen is reserved air while the green screen is main air.
Digital models
Divers desire to be able dive deeper and for longer periods of time, but a digital gauge doesn't allow them to do that. The difference in pressure between the gauge and the ambient water can be affected by temperature changes. A mechanical gauge is more reliable than an electronic device. Not only will it keep track of your dive times and depth but also calculate Nitrogen retention, which can help prevent decompression sickness.
There are two types of digital gauge dive computers. The hose method is a simple method, using a hose to connect the dive computer to the high-pressure port on the first stage. Wireless mode, however, connects the first stage with an electronic transmitter. This type of diving computer is also available in wrist-mounted and console models.
Pneumofathometers
Pneumofathometers, which are used to gauge the depth to which air is being supplied to a diver, are devices that measure air pressure at the surface. These devices measure air pressure at the surface and then indicate the depth in feet or metres. These devices were once mounted on a hand crank air pump, which supplied breathing air to the standard dive suit. The air supply was a free-flow system with no backpressure.
If you are interested in gauge diving, you should get a gauge with a range from 130 to 160 percent of your diving system's maximum operating pressure. For systems that operate at 3,000psi or higher, a gauge with this range will suffice.
Submersible pressure gauges
A submersiblepressure gauge (SPG), allows divers to keep track and monitor their air pressure. It also displays the current depth and the direction the diver is moving. The SPG connects to the regulator using a high pressure line. This arrangement makes it easy for the diver to locate the gauge easily and prevents it from becoming 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 produces an oil-filled analog depth gauge with a Bourdon tube design that measures to a depth of 200 feet. It also comes with a C1 compass, which attaches to the console boot for more versatility. This gauge is ideal to beginners, as it is simple and straightforward 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 compasse with a bezel that includes indicator marks and compass headings.
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 to follow the compass' course even in complete darkness.