This is quite a big dive computer and so the big screen should mean easy to view information. This turns out to be very much the case with an extremely user friendly display. It is only the more advanced features that send you searching for the manual but that is only to be expected.
There is a big digit mode for people like me who are suffering the beginnings of long sightedness! This is probably an overlooked feature for many manufacturers.
This is a sports diving computer which will also allow for up to three mixes of nitrox to be used during a single dive. Therefore it is a great step up from a basic diving computer for those who want to extend their diving range a little but are not contemplating closed circuit diving and also know that if they have a go at trimix mixed gas diving at some point they will only need a depth timer for the first dozen or two dives.
The performance of this computer is top rate, and certainly merits a 9 out of 1o. It is rather pricey at around £450 for the entry level model but a good buy all the same – 6 out of 10 for value because you have to upgrade for 3 diving gas algorithm.
Time will tell if this dive computer is to provide a few years complaint free diving, but if it is anything like my old Alladin Nitrox dive computer which gave 6 years of sterling service I am sure this will meet the challenge. Dive computers of most makes will serve the purpose, but the Uwatec Galileo is set to be one of the few diving computers that excels.
Technical details:
- Buhlmann ZH-8L algorithm
- Adjustment for increased safety
- Deeps stops
- 3 minute safety stop (adjustable)
- Nitrox 21-100%
- Max PO2 – 1.6 bar
- Altimeter
- Electronic Scuba Diving Compass
- PC Link
- Upgrade – heart monitor
- Upgrade – three NO2 mix algorithm
In conclusion a great computer with an on board electronic compass, but very pricey since the entry level model does not include the 3 gas algorithm.