We have had great success using an IPad in the field (both an IPad 2 and
a mini). We use it to enter data for plant morphological measurements
in prairie and forested areas, using a customized version of the Numbers
app. The nice thing is that with 3G and 4G access, we can periodically
upload data to the cloud to make sure that nothing is lost while in the
field (and use the device ourselves with Google Earth to make sure we
are not lost). You can also purchase waterproof plastic carriers - but
be careful using an Otterbox case...our devices kept overheating in the
sun and would shut off, so we had to remove the case. We have had the
best of luck just using the IPads with a basic shell case that is
conveniently a bright color for fieldwork.
Theresa Culley
On 8/18/2014 6:32 PM, Malcolm McCallum wrote:
Even if you use a PDA or other electronic device in the field, it is
probably still a good idea to keep good records in a field book too.
As easy as it is to destroy a field book, electronics can be easier!
:)
I have used Tremble XM and XT in the field which is essentially a PDA.
They worked ok. Then, Garmin had a GPS/PDA for a while but I dont
think they make it any more. It was actually easier to use than the
Tremble, although not as technically good. I have not used PDAs
otherwise. However, you might do better using a smart phone than a
PDA these days. The newest HP Pavillion has a 6 hr battery with an A8
processor. It seems like a good laptop to me. With Windows 8.1 you
can install 8.1 pro and then run programs in 8.1 that require oldeer
operating systems. I can't remember if you install th other operating
system inside 8.1 or if its just a setting. However, I am 90% certain
you must have 8.1 pro to do it.
On Mon, Aug 18, 2014 at 1:41 PM, Rosemary Hartman <[email protected]> wrote:
Hello all,
Does anyone have recommendations (or counter-recommendations) on field
computers or pdas for collecting ecological data? I have some experience
entering data on one of the Juniper Systems models (
http://www.junipersys.com/), and they are the ones I have seen most often,
but I don't have experience setting up any of these systems, and I"m not
sure which model I would want. I'm looking for something to enter wetlands
and fisheries data in the field, so it must be robust to dropping in the
water and getting slimed by carp.
Thanks!
--
Rosemary Hartman
[email protected]
301-538-0136
--
Theresa M. Culley, PhD
Associate Professor
Editor-in-Chief, Applications in Plant Sciences
Department of Biological Sciences
University of Cincinnati
614 Rieveschl Hall
Cincinnati, OH 45221-0006
Tel: 513-556-9705; Fax: 513-556-5299
Email: [email protected]
http://homepages.uc.edu/~culleyt/CulleyLab.html
