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Underwater Compasses
Many divers take diving compasses for granted, considering them just an accessory to an overall dive gauge console system. Trying to navigate with a poorly designed or improperly functioning compass can be one of diving's more frustrating events.
Compasses vary in greatly in where they are worn/attached and this is down to personal diver preference. From wrist mounted compasses with straps or bungees to a gauge mounted compass, we have every variation
We only stock the very best underwater and diving compasses to ensure that you are on track at all times. We use and recommend the Suunto range of wrist mount dive compasses, but have plenty of options from other brands like Cressi as well.
Technical Tip
Compass Balance Zones
Compasses are designed for use within a certain area of the globe because the earth's magnetic field not only varies horizontally, but also vertically, causing the needle to dip downward when the case is held level. The compass needle card is balanced with a small weight to counteract the downward dip so the needle card does not drag or stick on the top or bottom of the capsule. If you take any compass to a significantly different part of the globe than where it was balanced, check the compass carefully before relying upon it. The compasses we sell are balanced for the southern hemisphere.
Digital Compasses
Note that digital compasses, like the ones becoming popular in dive computers, do not have balance zones. Digital compasses are universal because they have a user 'calibration' feature, which is performed in the region where the diver plans to use the compass. A change in region simply requires a recalibration before use in the new location
Dive Instructors
The Scuba Doctor believes in the highest standards of scuba diving education and certification. The Melbourne and Mornington Peninsula based scuba instructors we refer you to are trained using techniques and styles developed and used by the world's best training agencies, so that they can offer you the best training possible. Then it is enhanced by their real world recreational and technical diving experiences.
Please Contact Us for more information.
