Handheld Computer Equipment

Hardware (photo)

Compaq iPAQ handheld computers, model 3850, running Microsoft PocketPC 2002 (photo) (website)

Handheld computer for the collection of data and infield viewing of dictionary and help files

Compaq Compact Flash expansion pack (photo) (website)

Sleeve which slides over the iPAQ handheld computer and allows it to interact with Compact Flash devices, such as our GPS (below)

Compaq ruggedized carrying case (photo) (website)

Rugged plastic case which allows the handheld computer to be used without exposing it to dust or moisture.

Crux Compact Flash WAAS-enabled GPS card and external antenna (photo) (website)

GPS card and antenna for securing a GPS fix within our GIS software (see below). WAAS-enabled for real-time differential GPS locations in the United States.

Kingston Memory 64 Mb Secure Digital memory card (photo) (website)

Memory card which fits into a slot built in to the 3800 models of iPAQ computers. Provides secure data backup in the event of complete power failure in the field.

InnergyPower Thinline Cell external power pack (photo) (website)

Slim rechargeable battery pack which provides up to 10 hours of continuous use of the iPAQ, greatly extending the life of the built in battery

Software

ESRI ArcPad v. 6.0 Beta 5 for PocketPC 2002 and Windows CE (screenshot) (website)

GIS software for PocketPC 2002 devices. Built in functions for displaying ESRI ArcView ShapeFiles, GPS positioning, and display of raster data in JPEG or MrSID formats, as well as the collection of point, line, and polygon data. Additional functionality was added by MIT to allow the collection of specific lithologic, geologic, and structural information. Work on these scripts is ongoing.

Microsoft Internet Explorer for PocketPC2002 (screenshot) (website)

Used in the field to display, among other things, a geologic dictionary, with photos, where applicable, geologic time scales, stratigraphic columns, and other reference information that students may desire.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology Center for Digital Geology.

Web site last update April 28, 2002.

For more information, contact Nathan Niemi (niemi@mit.edu)