Rugged Tablets
Rugged Notebooks
Rugged Handhelds
GPS Receivers
Software
Sales Questions
Technical Questions
800.570.2040 Toll-Free
530.513.2296 Local
866.484.7379 FAX
Product Web Pages
Education Web Pages

Rugged computers for field scientists


What kills computers in the field? Dust, heat, and drops. Our computers are all rated to the highest military specs for rugged conditions.
RECOMMENDED PACKAGES

High-resolution ecological mapping with the power to multitask
Nomad with SX Blue II Sub-Meter GPS

Most of the researchers we work with are engaged in ecological or environmental studies and need high-resolution GPS for data collecting. Unfortunately, the study locations make it impractical to drag in a total station and setting up a survey. For quality in the ~60 cm range--or when working under tree cover--the SX Blue II has the competition beat. More critical to today's budget weary purchasers, the SX Blue II is modular so you can connect it to a variety of different computers, thus greatly extending the shelf life. Your computer died or you forgot to charge the batteries? Grab a different computer and you are good to go.

While we still feel the Recon is an excellent field PDA, the Nomad's more detailed screen is a significant improvement in the field. More important, the USB-in connection allows for the attachment of a host of geophysical, chemical, and other monitoring devices that have been designed for laptop computers. (You can still get a serial boot if needed.) Bottom line: this is the choice for the most power and most flexible high-resolution field computing.

OPTION: Upgrade to a camera model if you want to integrate images on the fly.

Package 1: Nomad with SX Blue II:
EDUCATIONAL $3260.40
Package 1 (OPTION): Nomad with camera and SX Blue II:
EDUCATIONAL $3570.40

The top choice for a rugged laptop / tablet conversion for map making and GIS
ToughBook 19 Digitizer with USB cabled GPS

Over the years, we find that we do not need a laptop or tablet in field as many tasks can be accomplished with a handheld PDA. However, there are times when you need a larger screen for making maps or you are running software written for PC operating systems. This is the option for you.

Why the USB GPS and not the integrated ToughBook GPS? While the latter makes it easier, we have found the quality is quite inferior to a USB cabled receiver from GlobalSat. If you are mapping at 1:24,000 and smaller scales, the offset is noticeable. Also, the cost of the integrated GPS is much higher than the aftermarket receiver. We have used this sort of set-up since 2002 and never had a problem with the extra cable tied up to the handle. But, as the new ToughBooks have integrated Bluetooth, you could use a Bluetooth receiver. The digitizing screen is preferred over the touchscreen as it allows for more control in creating GIS vector images and taking notes in the field.

OPTION: Choose a Bluetooth if you want to go cable-free.
Package 2: ToughBook 19 with GPS:
EDUCATIONAL $3524.60
Package 2 (OPTION): ToughBook 19 with Bluetooth GPS:
EDUCATIONAL $3557.60

Powerful data collection with room for expansion
Recon 400 with Bluetooth and WiFi and Bluetooth GPS.

Not sure which direction you will go in the next few years? Integrated Bluetooth and WiFi allow for a variety of current and future communication options. By using a Bluetooth GPS, the computer operator does not need to be directly where the measurement is taking place. If you have ever measured light colored outcrops in the summer in Nevada, you know the benefits of dropping down the GPS and sitting in the shade of a juniper to take your notes! This is our top choice for most mapping needs.

OPTION: CF GPS Receiver with Extended Cap (shown to right) if you want an all-in-one solution.

Package 3: Recon 400 with BT, WiFi and GPS:
EDUCATIONAL $1155.20
Package 3 (OPTION): Recon 400 with BT, WiFi and CF GPS:
EDUCATIONAL $1225.20

Cost-conscience mapping and data collection
Recon 200 Basic with CF GPS and Extended Cap.

Many researchers have very tight budgets, but feel the rigors of their work necessitate a ruggedized computer. This is our choice for an excellent rugged PDA with an attached GPS for ease of use. While not as fancy as other options, this computer will accomplish nearly all of the tasks needed.

200 MHz processors seem archaic by today’s standards, but we have not noticed a dramatic slowing of programs. Just keep those background air photos small! Most of the folks who use this package engage in remote field work, so we suggest adding a second battery boot powered by two AA batteries.

OPTION: AA PowerBoot

Package 4: Recon 200 with CF GPS:
EDUCATIONAL $905.70
Package 4 (OPTION): Recon 200 with CF GPS and AA Boot:
EDUCATIONAL $980.70