What is the main purpose of using a dive computer?

The main purpose of using a dive computer is to track depth and time during a dive. Dive computers are essential tools that provide real-time information about a diver's depth and time spent at that depth, helping to manage the dive profile. This monitoring is crucial for ensuring safety, as it helps divers avoid exceeding no-decompression limits, which can lead to decompression sickness if not adhered to. Additionally, the dive computer often calculates ascent rates and provides alarms to alert divers to any unsafe scenarios, contributing to overall dive safety.

While underwater navigation can be an important aspect of diving and some dive computers may include navigation features, the primary function of a dive computer remains focused on managing depth and time data. Water temperature monitoring may be a feature in some devices, but it is not the primary purpose of a dive computer. Lastly, managing equipment maintenance schedules is a separate aspect of dive planning and equipment management, not directly related to the functionality of dive computers in technical operations underwater.