2012 Gear Buyers Guide Computers: SCUBAPRO Meridian

SCUBAPRO Meridian

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THE BASICS

» Full timekeeping capabilities plus technical gauge mode

» Integrated heart-rate monitor for workload calculation

» Altimeter and thermometer functions

» Special apnea mode with low-heart-rate alarm

» 99-dive logbook with 100-hour profile storage

REVIEW

This rugged watch-style dive computer delivers all the advanced features of the Aladin two-gas series, and then some. It mates an advanced algorithm with profile-dependent intermediate stops and micro bubble suppression to a heart-rate-monitoring function, adding biofeedback to the dive-planning equation, plus the option of a heart-rate belt for topside use.

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60:Second ScubaLab: Cressi Beta Semi-Dry and Sigma Snorkels

The Beta semi-dry snorkel from Cressi has a large-bore tube that allows lots of airflow while you’re enjoying the scenery just below the surface. The profiled splash guard deflects water away from the top of the tube when swimming in choppy seas; water that does manage to find its way in is easily expelled through the lower purge valve. A flexible tube section lets the silicone mouthpiece hang out of the way when scuba diving. Cressi’s Sigma snorkel is a smaller version of the Beta, making it easy to pack for dive travel.

60:Second ScubaLab - SCUBAPRO CABIN BAG CARRY-ON

SCUBAPRO’s Cabin Bag is made of smooth-finish Tarpaulin, a durable PVC material. The bag offers a large main compartment, plus a mesh pouch on the inside of the lid and a large zippered sleeve on the outside of the lid. There are padded lift handles on top and on one side, and the telescoping tow handle locks into position for both pushing and pulling.

60:Second ScubaLab - CRESSI SPRING 3.5 WETSUIT

Cressi’s Spring 3.5 one-piece wetsuit is designed to be worn in waters ranging from the tropical to the marginally warm. Made from Ultraspan neoprene, the suit comes with pre-shaped legs and provides lots of freedom of movement. Its glued and blind-stitched seams minimize water seepage. Wrist and ankle seals are made with a new Aqua-stop smooth-skin cuff. The adjustable neck seal is also smooth-skin neoprene. It is available in six mens sizes and five Spring Lady sizes.

Editor's Pick Spotlight, Accessories: Spyderco Enuff

The sheepfoot-style serrated blade is made of flat-ground VG-10 stainless steel, and has a blunt tip to reduce the chances of accidental puncture. The handle is textured with injection-molded FRN scales, so it’s easy to hold onto.

60:Second ScubaLab - Cressi PC Interface for the Leonardo Dive Computer

Cressi’s PC Interface Kit for its Leonardo dive computer is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems that can be downloaded at www.cressi.com. Once the appropriate software package is installed on your personal computer, simply connect the module to your PC using the included USB cord. Then place your Leonardo face-down in the cradle and you’re ready to start transferring and printing out dive profile data.

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Thermalution Yellow Grade Heated Undersuit

Tried everything but still do not feel warm enough underwater? Try Thermalution’s Yellow Grade WIRELESS heated undersuit, it turns your ordinary wetsuit or dry suit into a power heated suit in a minute.

Wild Ride: Underwater Scooters

Flying through the blue at speeds far faster than you can kick with virtually no effort, a scooter dive might be the most fun you can have underwater. Here are two cool machines that can help you achieve scuba speed thrills — see the July 2012 issue of Sport Diver for four more.