Dive computors address the same problem as decompression tables, but are able to perform a continuous calculation of the partial pressure of inert gases in the body based on the actual depth and time profile of the diver.

Multi-level dives can be planned with traditional dive tables, but the additional calculations become complex and the plan may be cumbersome to follow. Dive Computors allow for a certain amount of spontaneity during the dive.

Dive computers provide a variety of visual dive information to the diver and most display the following information on an LCD screen:

Current depth- Maximum depth reached on this dive- No stop time-  the time remaining at the current depth without the need for decompression stops on ascent- Dive time, often measured from the end of the last longer surface interval.

Many dive computers also display additional information:

• Required decompression stop depth and time
• Water temperature
• Ascent rate
• Dive profile
• Gas pressure.
• "Time to Fly" display showing when the diver can safely board an airplane.
• A log of key information about previous dives.
• Maximum non-decompression bottom times for subsequent dives based on the partial pressure of the gases in the tissue.

Audible information- Many dive computers also have warning buzzers.