What key function does a dive computer provide to divers during their dive?

A dive computer serves a crucial role in tracking essential dive parameters, particularly dive time and depth. This information is vital for divers to manage their exposure to pressure underwater, thereby helping to avoid decompression sickness. The dive computer continuously monitors the diver’s depth and duration of the dive, providing real-time data and alerts. This allows divers to make informed decisions about when to ascend, how long to stay at depth, and whether to perform safety stops, enhancing safety during the dive.

While other options might seem appealing, they do not reflect the primary function of a dive computer. Underwater photography and video recording are skilled tasks that require separate equipment and do not provide any of the necessary safety monitoring capabilities that a dive computer does. Live weather updates are pertinent before or after diving but are not a function that would assist a diver during an actual dive. Thus, the key function of a dive computer centers around managing dive time and depth, which is critical for diver safety and adherence to diving protocols.