Divers Log Books - How to Choose and Use - Scuba Tech Tips: S05E01
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 19 ก.ย. 2024
- Dive log books are an important record of memories, buddies, technical details and proof of dive experience. Alec explains why most divers need a log book, types of books and how to store them.
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Happy 5th season, Mr. Peirce!
I'm one of those divers who has lost a number of dive log books. Through different life experiences (moves, divorces, whatever) the dive logs end up somewhere in the aether :).
That's why I recommend using some technology to log dives. For example, PADI provides ScubaEarth. There are a whole host of apps for your phone (for example, Dive Log) and for your desktop (for example, Mac Dive). I now use the tech solutions exclusively. The Dive Log app integrates with data from a number of computers, so you can see your exact profile for the dive. It has GPS integration so you know exactly where that dive took place. On ScubaEarth, you can add photos and video of your dive to your log entry as well. Also, just like your "filing cabinet", these apps can track not only your certification cards, but also your gear.
Oh, and it's a relatively cheap solution as well. ScubaEarth doesn't cost anything. The Dive Log app costs about $13 USD. The desktop app costs about $25 USD.
Anyway, just thought I'd put some tech in your tech tips :)
Hi JCA ELITE SCUBA. That's in fact what I'm doing with the apps I've mentioned. While I don't remember all of my dives (I got certified in 2000), I do know I spent a whole lot of time underwater off the coast of Maine and NH, as well as a few tropical dives in Jamaica, Barbados, etc.
The point of my comment was to provide a facet of dive logging that Mr. Peirce didn't include in his video. With the advent of technological solutions, and the prevalence of "smart" devices, using technology to log your dives is exceedingly easy. With dive computers becoming ever smarter and providing more, easily accessed data, a diver can create quite an accurate depiction of his or her dive. Add to that the ability to capture both photo and video (GoPro is a great tool). Combine them all in your dive log. It's a fantastic way to look back on your diving history :).
I’ve actually been going through my old log books from 20 years ago. Wow that brought up some good memories.
Fun huh?
Old dive sites, old dive buddies, old underwater finds - I love it.
Alec
I began to print my own tech loose leaf log pages on heavy paper and keep about 50 recent dives in a zipped binder. Like most divers, I dive with a computer - most of the time 2 VR3s with exact same software. I make a point to log all pertinent dive info, time at each depth, gas consumption, gear configuration, and the fun (or not so fun) stuff after the dives of the day - I'm kind of a logbook nerd. My older dives get archived in binder that stays at home in case I lose my current binder for some reason. I will consult the archive at home if I'm changing gear or returning to site that haven't been to in a while - that should fall under the dive prep phase anyway.
In my current binder, I carry my slates, a copy of all math equations necessary to figure ppo2, ead, tank volume, etc, current sac & rmv chart at 10'depth intervals, a solar scientific calculator, scratch pad, and 3 pens. I usually don't carry my c-card on the boat or in the water since the shop has a copy of it and has verified my credentials - it stays in the vehicle unless the shop keeps it.
These my personal habits... Great video!
I will be downloading my dives from my new computer into Macdive where I can add all of the dive information and even link photos and videos! I will then have all of that information at my fingertips forever unlike my dozen or so log books that have gone missing over the years, when I actually bothered to log my dives! I definitely regret not keeping track of most of my dives, it would be nice to have an exact number of dives that I have done in the last 30 plus years, I know it is in the thousands because I spent 4 years working full time on dive boats, I was probably doing 4-500 dives a year, and then another 3 years part time where I did about 80-100 dives a year!
Alec, thank you for the video. Your Tech Tips always resonate with me. I became certified 30+ years ago. The first couple of years, I was diligent about logging my dives. Then I stopped. It wasn't until about 10 years ago when I started logging them again. I do regret that gap in my logs, mainly due to the memories of the dives which logs bring back.
I know what you mean. I have some big gaps too and it's sad when I recall a dive but can't recall my buddy's name or what was special about that dive.
Too often now when I look back at my old logbooks from the 60's and 70's, I realize many of my dive companions are gone. But it's still nice to reminisce about diving with them. Alec
If you need a simple and fast way to write on waterproof or semi-water proof paper, get a pen from Rite in the Rain-used their pens and books for years in the service. They don't work the same way traditional pens work but they're designed to write specifically on that type of paper (the paper is sealed and the 'ink' is designed to stay on after water exposure).
Good tip!
Thanks Yurly.
Alec
I'm a great believer in maintaining log books and I've been logging all my dives since November 1991, which some people think is useless but as you already mentioned it's your personal history of diving.
I know many people who don't log dives and rely on their computers, but most computers can only store a finite number of dives.
Personally I now print out my own custom pages and have several binders covering the last 30 years. I normally carry with me when I travel my "working log book" which is basically a plastic binder holding the last six months of dive experience should anyone want to check when I did my last dive.
I nice PLUS is having Dive Op stamps from all over the planet in the pages ..... you can't do that in your computer :-)
When i kept paper logs, several decades worth, the dive stamp way my favourite souvenir. It showed other divers I actually was there, along with personal dive notes, fish, buddies, weather, did Kevin do something silly, etc.
I love all your videos. Big Thumbs up Alec.
I've only logged my first 5 dives on paper after my OW Certification. The first piece of SCUBA gear I purchase was a Dive Computer. In my e-logs I put every detail and info that you mentioned. Probably more then I could put on a paper log. I also use three different e-logs that sync to each other. I can add pictures or videos of my dives in each log. Lastly, I make sure backup my all e-logs and I print all my dive at the end of each year and file them away.
Actually, the PADI Scubaearth log is pretty good, basic and does pretty much all of what you talked about.
The only thing I don't have is buddy signatures.
If you can do all that, then a paper log book isn't necessary. I'm assuming you have the computer with you and can access it any time at the dive shop.
Don't be too concerned about the buddy signature. Many divers think the signature is necessary to make the log "legal". The dive log is not a legal document. It is simply a record of your diving experience. It is assumed that you do not produce a dive log that is inaccurate. The buddy signature is nice but not essential. If you want a signature, you can get anyone to sign the log - the boat captain, divemaster, store clerk, any diver on board or anyone who knows that you made the dive.
Pictures are a nice touch. I wish I had pictures for some of my dives in the 60's and 70's. Many of my old dive buddies are long gone. I remember the dive and them but I'd like to have a picture.
Take care.
Alec
Hi Alec, I enjoyed this Log Book episode. Writting down my dive experience will be both fun and proof of past dives whos asks request to check log book. Nothing worse than not being prepared.
I still look at my old log books from 40 years ago occasionally. It's great to reminisce about the divers and divers I was with at that time. In many cases, both the dives AND the divers are gone.
Alec
Only taking up diving recently but looking at my parent's log books are the best and the most interesting things.
I still have my Log Books from the 1970's and occasionally look at them. It brings back a lot of great memories of people, places and events.
Take care Tim.
Alec
I have two ways of logging my dives i use a really simple printed papers that i found online just to show them to resorts and such . And for my personal logging i use an app on my phone with a gps location dive buddies pictures you can transfer from your dive computer .
Computer-based log are handy but they miss out on 2 points - they are hard to use if showing your diving experience to a dive store and they don't provide all the neat details that a well-written dive log does. Stuff like your buddy's name, how good a diver he was, what you saw, how good (or bad) the weather was, accurate description of the visibility and so on.
Someday in the future, as I have discovered, you will look back maybe 5, 10 or 20+ years and laugh about your dive log comments. Tough to do that with a computer-based log.
I really enjoy reading my log books from the 1970's. I wonder where my old buddies.
Thanks for watching.
Alec
I thought you retired from running the Dive shop back around Christmas. I have my log all the back to 1993. Wow way back. Lol. Keep up the great work. Thanks Alec. Montana Mike.
We actually sold the store Oct. 1 but stayed on to helped the new owner get started until Jan 1. It's over now other than the odd, very odd, visit to help. Feels funny not owning a dive store after 47 years! Funny but OK.
I have lots of other things to do. Going diving, hunting, building my Norton motorcycles, riding bikes and horses plus the work of a ranch - fences, haying, barns, etc. Work, but fun work. Take care. Mike
Happy New Year Alec, keep up these great videos, thanks to Kevin too.
FIRST!!! Love your videos Mr. Peirce!!
Thanks Alec. Great piece about Log Books.
Another great video, thank you!
I recently started using a digital dive log - In my case it's the Dive Log on iOS, with support for direct transfer, ability to add text and pictures, AND the ability for abuddies to sign my logs.
If it's the optimal solution? I don't know. I would really like you to dig down in the area and spread some light into it.
Have a nice weekend!
//Johan
I've just finished my first one Alec!! It's like the one in your video and has training records too. I'm gonna get me one of those binders and hopefully I'll find a decent log book to go forward with also
Make lots of notes in the margin. You'll enjoy reading them in a dozen or more years in the future.
I get a kick out of reading my old logs from the 60s and 70s.
Alec
Happy 2017 to all of you ladies and gentlemen Safe and happy diving!
Fisher Space Pens work really well for that paper. You don't need to spend a bunch of money on a space pen, just get the refill on Amazon, Staples, etc. and find a pen they work in (I love the Zebra F-701).
Good points. Thanks for sharing.
HI Alec, awesme vid as always. HAve a question, have you done any videos on diving tables and a little bit of background on the essense of diving, depth vs time so on, if not can you make a video please
Fantastic and charming speaker! Welcome to dive in Sweden sometimes.
I'd love to. I get to Western Europe occasionally.
Thanks for watching.
Alec
The dive app you can download everything as long as you got a computer that has bluetooth capability
Great video as always Alec!
I'll throw this question out to the community here (and of course Alec can chime in as well :D ) What about computerized logbooks? Are people using those and paper logs as well?
I'm using one I can sync with my computer and iPad, there is a place for signatures and info about the dive so it seems like all the info is there. But, the main drawback I am finding is that I can't get (or don't know how) to get buddies signatures before the divebook is updated. (Dive computer ->program ->app ->Signature)
What are people using? or is there a way to reconcile this that I don't know? Or are people using dual books (paper and electronic)?
Chillinkansai, I'm using both. The reason for this is over the years I have found that while there are some great computerized logbooks, they have a few drawbacks, IE they do not support various computer (manufacturers). I have changed computer and have had to change computerized logbook, Second they are not easily transportable, yes you can have it on a laptop, but not always ideal on a boat, etc. I have seen some for your mobile phone - might be an option. Net Net I'm using both a log book and a computerized logbook.
At one time Diviac.com had what i thought was an ideal solution. Cloud based logbook. It supported many dive computers. It was online, thus I could access via any computer, and via smart phone, and was pretty comprehensive in it's features. Unfortunately it was not stable enough to continue to use.
As I mentioned in my Vid, the special stuff that you can write down, whether in a paper log or a computerized version, is the best stuff - buddy's name, location, things you found or saw, what screwed up or what was really great about the dive. No dive computer will record that good stuff.
Whatever works is what to use but don't forget the fun part of scuba. Alec
The computerized logbooks (not dive computer internal logbooks) have come a long way. I use one on my phone that will take everything my paper logbook does, plus aromatically take the GPS coordinates of the dive site, and I can import my dive profile from my dive computer. It even has a spot for my buddy to sign and a notes section. Plus it will backup to the cloud and my laptop when I hit wifi in case I lose my phone. I still keep a paper one, but that is a habit formed from 17 years in aviation.
Hmm, funny coincidence, I'm just having a discussion in an online forum about "paper log books, yes or no"... I'm struggling to convince people that a verifiable record on paper is still a good idea compared to just keeping electronic logs.
Good to hear your views, but would like to hear your thoughts on proper electronic logs, that is. not just kept in a dive computer, but in a software package or an online site such as divelogs.de, which can keep all the information about the same information about a dive as a paper log except the signatures and stamp.
The on-line logs are really handy and now can be accessed anytime, anywhere so paper really isn't necessary at all.
But, paper logs are fun to sit and read. I still look at my old log books from the 60's and 70's and laugh at some of the things we did. Plus reminisce about my old dives and even older dive buddies.
Take care.
Alec
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunterYes, the number 1 issue is to have and keep a logbook. I've got a paper logbook. The paper logs are great. It is fun to read the dives. The logs bring back the memories in a very real and concrete way. We forget all the wonderful details. Yeah, it is a bit of a nuisance to write down the details of a dive. But even in the moment of writing, writing the log makes us remember and fill in the details. So the details get noted and writing down for our future memories. Also, yeah, the log is a great record of progress and regress. I have taken years off from diving--and it's very helpful to see where I was and where I am in my skills. I am not sure about the digital logbook. I started one recently, but I am undecided on it's benefit. Like you say, Alec, there's no place to stow my cards in a digital dive book. The drawback of a paper logbook--it can get lost on one of those dive trips.
I am not a diver as yet, but looking at doing so. As I see you talking about the divelogs.de, as I am looking at it also. So to ask you. How do you fell about that program. Is it work having.
well here in Israel you have to show a dive log to prove you dived in the past 6 months. if you don't have a dive log they will not let you dive. and if you do but its been over 6 months then you have to do a refresh course. unless you are a master diver and above (2*+nitrox+rescue+depth+2 more certifications)
Sounds reasonable to keep everyone safe and skills sharp.
Guess I won't be diving in Israel, been diving for 40+ years, haven't maintained a log book for 30 years... Frankly the whole concept of having to show your log book is utterly ridiculous, there are no legalities attached to a log book, I could print log book pages from templates of off the net and write myself 50 dives in a matter of minutes, doesn't make myself a better diver. They just want to swindle "refresher" course...
Most responsible dive outfit have divemasters who can quickly assess the experience level of divers just by looking at how they handle their équipements and themselves, after that they'll stick closer, and keep an eye on, inexperienced divers throughout the dive; And that's a better and safer way to go about it.
3504 dives, still log every one. Great to review camera settings etc.
It's always good to have a record of dives for technical reference, gear setup, what you saw, or all the above. Looking back at my early dive logs is a fun time, those clay tablets where hard to chisel in!! Thanks for watching Bill.
What do you think about logging dives in our apps. I’m a 20year old rookie adv OWD. I can easily log my dives from my app on my phone, do you still recommend logging in a physical logbook?
Using digital logs is easy as most new dive computers link to an app or desktop logging program. The one issue i have is: what happens if it's gone/deleted/lost? If you can export your logs to paper copies (1 per page or 2 per page), it gives you a backup. Many divers I know have both and use both. Paper logs give you a place to add personal information and are easy to prove to a LDS / dive operator your diving history. Enjoy both.
A
Do you guys know of any scuba diving speakers or MP3 players? I love scuba diving and think it would be awesome if I could scuba dive while listening to my favorite tunes. If you guys have and suggestions that would be awesome.
NB PADI DM is minimum 40 dives but at least 60 on completion. Personally think it should be more.
I've been shopping for a drysuit for a couple of weeks, I would like something with replaceable neck and wrist seals,could you do an episode on different types of drysuits. Thanks
Ryan
Look at Waterproof dry suits. Well made, easy to change necks and wrists and oh so warm. One model has built-in thermals! Alec
Alec Peirce Scuba compass
Yes great way to remember
Us old guys need memory tricks like that.
Alec
Alec Peirce Scuba yes sir
I've been certified since 1989 with PADI and I lost my dive log 10 years ago and I'm getting back into diving now, I retired all my old diving gear and bought all new dive gear and a shearwater peregrine dive computer and a Ocean Reef full face mask, now since I no longer have a dive log from way back what do I need to do, I also lost my certification card along with my dive log, but I got a new one and a E-card incase I happen to lose my card again. I been training myself again in a friends pool and I still after so many years not diving I still have my skills. My question is I want to get full face certified and I don't have a dive log what do I do next so I can do it right, I'm going diving regardless with or with the full face mask certification, off the beach or off one of my friend's boat, but I like to do it the right way. So I need your help in what to do.. Thank you
First, glad to hear you're returning and with modern gear, it will be lots of fun with new dive computers. Second, Full Face Masks are very different from dive masks and the PADI specialty. www.padi.com/courses/full-face-mask-diver is recommended to do it safely. Have fun and dive safe.
"Those tip pens with the ink in them"....do you mean fountain pens?! Haha
Ha yes i so.
Do you ever plan group dives and or would you ever plan a dive with TH-cam fans
We now have 6000+ subscribers!! What a group dive that would be!!!!!!!!!!!!
Unfortunately they are spread over 65 different countries.
Tell you what Steve, you organize it - I'll be there!!!
Take care. Alec
great vid . thx. also some great log books with binders and everithing that you might what on this subject is on dive-logs.com. I have one like this, paper is of exceptional quality , and the greatest thing is that you can create your own page design and have it.
We stock and sell their products. Excellent quality and fun too. One thing to remember is that the log binder is NOT waterproof. If you take it on a boat, get a strong zip-loc bag for it first. Even the log books themselves don't like water. They say the pages are waterproof but the staples rust and fall out! I think the log book should be kept on land. It's for use at home or at the bar after a dive. I've had some great times sitting around a resort bar filling out my log book with comments from the other divers from the boat. It made the "job" of logging dives a lot of fun. Alec
Hi Alec, What s your view on Padi vs SSi or other agencies? tks!
I get this question all the time - always have.
Here's my answer: until divers start finning by moving their fins horizontally, or swimming face up instead of face down, or wearing their tank between their legs, all diver training in every agency is the same. Check the books. Every agency teaches the same skills and pretty much the same way. So theoretically it doesn't matter where you get trained to dive.
BUT .......... If you were going on a 2 week vacation to Europe or South America or Australia, and you only want to take one Credit Card with you, which would you take - VISA, Mastercard, American Express or Discover?
Exactly. You take VISA because you know that it will work anywhere, anytime with no hassles.
PADI is VISA. All the other cards are good but maybe not as good for acceptance worldwide.
Now I know what you're going to say. "I go to Malta all the time and only take my BSAC, ACUC, CMAS, UDIE, etc., card and I never have problems!!" Of course not. Any good dive resort will accept any card that says, "This Guy is a Diver" on it. They want your money AND they know you're only there for the week and then gone forever!
But, professional dive operations are more concerned about your safety and thus their reputation. They prefer to see a PADI card. With that they know exactly what you've done. Heck, if you have a PADI card I know what you did on the 3rd night of your course!! That's called 'Standardization'.
You may have had the best instructor in the world but, if you don't have a PADI card, no one else knows that.
I am certified as Instructor or Instructor-trainer for 7 scuba agencies (plus Platinum Pro 5000 with SSI) and I believe that a dive facility that takes your money, teaches you scuba and then gives you any card OTHER than PADI is cheating you. I've actually heard a dive store owner say to a new diver, "Of course it's international. It says so right in the name". I had to leave the store!!
Please don't jump on me. It's just my opinion and it's just a rational answer - not emotional.
BTW, did you notice the examples of other agencies that I listed above. UDIE, pronounced You Die, is an actual agency, with cards, started for fun. Gotta' make you laugh. Try that in Malta!
Take care.
Alec
ahaha love this tks so much
I think I might place a voice over in Arabic to your videos so that arab divers learn this lot of infooo
Sure. Just be sure to leave the credits at the end in place.
Thanks. Alec
My God, all I want is someone to show me how to fill out a Dive Log! There are like a dozen fields to fill out. It doesn't even occur to you that I don't know what any of these mean "Sit" "Pd" "Pd+" "(A) Mdt" etc etc. But you just go on about why it a good idea to fill out a log. I know it's a good idea but how do I do it?
Most dive logs have the same terms for time, depth, safety stop, pressure in/out, etc. The terms you listed are not common to any recreational dive log I have used. If you want to know the common field definitions, give this good article a read: dipndive.com/blogs/stories/diving-lingo-101-glossary-of-terms-phrases-and-slang
A
Nobody really knows 😂. Been looking for a great explanation of bottom time (to date, this dive, vs. cumulative) with no luck.
Is "to date" the "cumulative" from the previous page? Is "this dive" the same number a higher up on the page? If so, why all of the duplication?
Do you have an online store? Thanks.
Nope!
I was in the scuba business for 48 years - 1969 to 2017. It was great but it's over.
There are many good dive shops and lots of on-line scuba sites too.
Let me know if you have any questions about gear you're looking at.
Alec
It's silly how expensive those things are.
For a book of mostly blank paper, they can be. Keeping your dive memories is important no matter what is used. Thanks for watching.
I've never been a fan of logging dives. I pretty much just write down the same information that is in my computer, except I also put the location and dive site. I put my buddy as well. But I never bother having someone sign them. I also don't like the way padi wants you to log dives. They want you to put all the information related to dive tables. That shouldn't be in a log, since the next day that information isn't needed anymore.
Sounds good John provided you have access to your computer logs when asked at a charter boat.
I agree about the dive table info. Absolutely no need anymore as any intelligent, modern diver is using a computer.
B Group or ABT doesn't mean anything to a computer.
PADI Logs are designed for every diver so they keep table info in there for the divers who can't or won't change.
There's no need to be concerned about blank spots on a log page, Just draw a line through them to indicate that you've seen that entry but it doesn't apply.
Take care.
Alec
I have used Brand specific, generic, and versions I made on a word processor dive log pages through my 20+ years. I fill in the information that is important to me. Wetsuit used, weight, temps, air used, salt/fresh, body of water type, buddies, date, location, and a section at the bottom where I fill in the things about the dive that stand out to me. My daughter just started diving and I am encouraging her to fill in the dive table information. While the computer does do that automatically, I want to reinforce the principles behind WHY the computer is showing the numbers it does. Eventually it wont be important anymore.
I also have quite a number of dives not signed. Nobody knows who my buddy is and couldn't verify his signature anyway. The instructional dives ARE signed by the instructor because I feel those are far more important to have "authenticated".
Love the pearls of wisdom Mr. Peirce!
You need a secretary 😂
Do you do video requests?
All requests are welcome. They get added to my request list and I try to make videos based on that feedback. No promises but I will try to deliver.
Thanks for watching.
Alec
awesome, always looking to see tech tips on dry suits such as adding an exhaust valve to a latex hood and the best types of adhesives to use, eg aqua seal, etc.
Anyone use electronic dive logs?
Many divers log on-line. There are some computer programs for doing so.
My biggest issue with many such ideas is that they do not allow for incidental information.
That is, while a dive computer "logs" your dives, it can only record date, time, depth, duration and maybe temperature. It cannot "log" location, weather conditions, visibility, buddy name, marine life, wreck name, diver impressions and a lot more. Those, in my mind, are the essential things that a log book shows. Who cares how long or what depth? I want to know how good the dive was in terms of vis, marine life, enjoyment (or lack of), fun, etc. When I look back at some of my log books from the 70's, I have a constant smile on my face when I read about the funny or odd things that happened, the stuff I saw or found, what we did before and after a dive and even, in my case, my buddie's names. Lots of my buddies are not with us anymore.
If you want to record date, time, depth, use a computer. If you want a record of your scuba diving experiences, get a log book. Trust me when I say that in 20 or more years, you will NOT look at your depth, time records but you WILL love to read your old log books!
Take care.
Alec