Technical Sidemount Scuba Dive Training Guide

Sidemount Training

Stage-only diving is the use of standard deco/stage cylinder configuration, without back-mounted cylinders, on an otherwise standard, or partly modified tec/rec BCD. The lower cylinder is attached to waist D-Rings and the upper cylinder to shoulder D-Rings, both via direct bolt-snap. Some divers (untrained in specific sidemount diving techniques) often incorrectly assume this approach to be sidemount diving. No bungee cord is utilised in the upper attachment, causing the cylinders to hang low beneath the diver and not in line (parallel) with their torso beneath their armpits. Without change of the BCD design, the lack of back-mounted cylinders also causes taco’ing of wing designs and much instability.

Sidemount PCB Harness (or Sidemount Harness): This special Harness is similar to a BCD and is extremely light-weight. This harness includes several D-rings on the shoulder straps as well as a Buttplate with rings or sliders.

Technical Sidemount Scuba Dive Training Books —

TDI Intro to Technical DivingThe TDI Intro to Tech Course is an introductory course that expands on recreational training by improving dive planning methods, in-water skills, and streamlining existing gear configurations in a controlled and fun learning environment. This course is excellent for those beggining their journey into the exacting world...

It is possible to obtain qualifying certifications through other diving training organizations. Please ask your Tec Sidemount PCB Instructor.

Technical Sidemount Scuba Dive Training Shoes

I just want to say, your online training is top notch. I learn something every time I log in. The fact that you go above and beyond to engage with your subscribers only adds to the already incredible value we get from your site. Thank you very much for your time.

Steve, I just wanted to say thank you for the amazing online Sidemount PCB training. My PADI Sidemount PCB training was last year. However, I felt that my XDeep harness setup was not as streamlined as I would like. Although the instructor was excellent, I could see that he didn't live and breathe sidemount. I had already signed up for your free course, which was very helpful. But... read moreSteve, I just wanted to say thank you for the amazing online Sidemount PCB training course. My PADI Sidemount PCB training was last year. However, I felt that my XDeep harness wasn't streamlined the way I wanted. Although the instructor was excellent, I could see that he didn't live sidemount. Your free course system was very helpful, but you left wanting more. I will be attending my Overhead Environment training in Florida this November and wanted to ensure that my setup and skills were up-to-date. I watched your entire online course (WOW). Your recommendations helped me to rebuild my XDeep harness. Your setup helped me re-do my entire bungee system and all my attachment points. I feel that my setup is correct and it feels very comfortable in the water. Again, thank you. Next, I will continue to improve my skills. It is much easier now that my harness has been properly set up. Your training was a great investment. I wish I had done it a year ago. Please take care, and keep the updates coming. Thanks, Jason read less

Technical Sidemount Scuba Dive Training Guide
Technical Sidemount Scuba Dive Training Shoes
Water Diver

Water Diver

If you're at the age of 18 and have logged at minimum 30 dives, you can apply for a Tec SIDEMOUNT PCB Diver course. It is highly recommended to also have a PADI Enriched A Diver certification.

If you're a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver, at least 18 years old and have a minimum of 30 logged dives, you qualify to enroll in a Tec Sidemount PCB Diver course. It's recommended that you also have a PADI Enriched Air Diver certification.

Cylinders

Although we can teach the SDI course if specifically requested, by default we offer the TDI one. It is possible to take this as a standalone program; however, our students generally combine this with our Apprentice Cave Diver course.

Sidemount PCB is a configuration that allows you to scuba dive with cylinders attached along the side of the diver. Instead of being on the back, the cylinders are placed below the shoulders and along your hips. Because smaller sections of cave are possible to penetrate, and tanks can be easily changed, it was initially popular with cave divers. Technical wreck diving divers also saw the benefits of operating in small spaces. Thai instructors are highly qualified to instruct scuba diving classes and scuba dive training.

How much does a rebreather course cost
How much does a rebreather course cost

Sidemount PCB gear configuration offers an alternative to the traditional back mounted scuba cylinder(s) configuration. The NAUI Sidemount PCB Diver course provides you with the skills and knowledge needed to conduct open water dives utilizing this particular gear configuration. Upon successful completion divers will be competent to use sidemount gear configuration in additional training and diving opportunities.

Sidemount PCB Diving courses are an excellent stand-alone course that technical divers can take if they want to improve their skills and proficiency with various gear configurations. This course can also be taught alongside any other open-circuit specialty courses offered by TDI, provided that all requirements and standards are met.

Technical Sidemount Scuba Dive Training 2023

The course will require the same equipment, as you will need it for your technical diving and cave training. This includes:

Also, the SDI Sidemount PCB Diver certification counts towards a single specialty rating to achieve the SDI Advanced Diver Development program.

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Frequently Asked Questions

You must be a PADI Open Water Diver to enroll in the PADI Advanced Rebreather Diver course, but you must also be a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver to become a PADI Advanced Rebreather Diver. Have at least 30 dives under your belt.

2-3 hours

Even with small cylinders, you can usually dive for 2-3 hours (rebreathers typically have two 2/3l cylinders or one 3/5l cylinder).

PADI Adventure Diver is a subset of PADI Advanced Open Water Diver. Have you ever considered trying your hand at digital underwater photography, fish identification, or dry suit diving? During this program, you can participate in a variety of scuba adventures.