I have been reading the manuals of both tech dive computers, the Hollis TX1 and the Petrel2.
It appears the Petrel2 is hands down, the best tech dc for scuba divers. For me, it is a required GIVEN if I am going to go deeper than 130 feet, and doing serious DECO diving. Yet, my interpretation is that the Petrel2 serves the high end experienced tech scuba diver. You really have to know the data, the gauge monitoring, and how to set the parameters. For me, it may take two years to reach the BASIC PASSING diver on the Petrel2. Yes, it is that good.
The V-planner is also a required GIVEN. ( I am now connecting the dots. )
Folks, if you are reading this, run around the block, maybe 5 miles or so, in a circle. When you arrive back to this spot, nothing will have changed. You need the Petrel2 and the V-planner. Hands down.
Personally, the Hollis TX1 seems reasonable way to bridge the gap between recreational diver and technical diver, because the Hollis has ALARMS for the beginner tech diver. This bridge is needed, because the transition from a recreational diver into technical diving requires this awareness. Yes, I understand that when I take the course, my objective is to ready my gauges. But, my estimates says that at 130 feet, in a cold or current water environment, my brain will only work at 50%.
So, the first step is BEGINNER tech diver, and practice with the TX1 as an INSTRUCTOR. And, then continue onto the Petrel2 as a "want-a-be" MODERATE to ADVANCED tech diver. Please forgive me, I am so wanting to get down on my hands and knees and say, keep me focused on this:
Who am I, in the shadows of great marine life, such as turtles, sea rays, and tarpons? I am just a visitor with expectations to learn about the life of those wonderful fishes and shipwrecks that make presence on the ocean floor. Let me be humbled at your presence. Let me be aware that I am just a student.
So, get the Petrel2, and may the force be with you!! Since all divers are required to have redundancy, right now, my thought is BOTH the Petrel2 and the Hollis TX1. Oh my, what a big step. Ebay !!!!
The Hollis TX1 has "hold my hands, please" functionality. caves4me, divingleo, eqeao, Oh my, my, my, I need to focus on being humble and aware that I am a student. Now, tomorrow, and for the next few years, my Confidence Level is as not important as keeping my student CAP on. I am starting as a beginner tech diver. That awareness is necessary to grasp.
Thank you caves4me, divingleo, eqeao, dive buddy!!!