Skills & Training
Computer Diving course: getting the most from your dive computer
SSI's Computer Diving course teaches you how a dive computer works and how to use its functions before, during and after a dive: setting it up, reading no-decompression time and ascent warnings, and planning repeat dives. It is open from age 10 and SSI suggests 3–6 hours, so with us it takes half a day to a day.
By 71 Guardians · Published 08 Nov 2026
What do you learn on a Computer Diving course?
SSI says the course explores the functions and capabilities of different dive computers and explains how to use them before, during and after your dive. That includes:
- setting up the computer: units, alarms and gas settings, including nitrox
- reading the display: depth, dive time, no-decompression time and ascent rate
- what the warnings mean, and what to do when one appears
- planning repeat dives and checking surface intervals
- reading your dive log afterwards
Who is the course for?
New divers who rented a computer and didn't really understand it, divers who just bought their first one, and anyone who wants to plan their own dives with confidence. SSI's minimum age is 10. If you are still choosing a computer, read dive computers for beginners first.
Why does understanding your computer matter?
The computer uses your depth and time history to estimate inert-gas loading and display no-decompression time and ascent-rate information. It does not measure nitrogen in your body or guarantee that decompression illness will not occur. It only helps if you read it and follow it. Knowing your computer is part of staying within no-decompression limits and safe ascent rates, and two buddies with different computers need to know how to plan together.
How does the course run with us?
SSI suggests 3–6 hours, so with us it takes half a day to a day. You can bring your own computer, or rent one on our dive days. Today's price is on the SSI Computer Diving course page.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the SSI Computer Diving course?
SSI suggests 3–6 hours, so half a day to a day.
What is the minimum age?
10.
Do I need my own dive computer?
No. You can bring yours, or rent one on our dive days.
Does the course include dives?
SSI's page lists academic sessions; the skills are then used on your normal dives. Ask us if you want to combine it with dive days.
Questions before you dive with us?
Message our team on WhatsApp — we're divers in Hurghada and happy to help.
Chat with us on WhatsAppSources
- Computer Diving — SSI (Scuba Schools International)
- A Critical Look at No-Decompression Limits — Divers Alert Network