Good computer and software

Archived from groups: comp.sys.palmtops (More info?)

I am in need of some advice. Part of my job is collecting data
outdoors. I want to get into the modern day and begin taking data
directly onto a computer. I would like to get a hand held palm top
like device for this purpose but don't know where to start. Here is
what I need to do:
1. Get a lightweight mini computer to collect data
2. Get a database program compatible with microsoft access that I
could program to use drop down type menus for entering data into a
data table that could be imported into Access. I have about 40 or so
descriptors that I would like to include in the drop down menu or
combo box.
3. I would like the program to be able to show me about 10 records at
a time.
4. I would also like the option of writing in special notes for a
given record if necessary.

What I need advice on is the best type of
mini-computer/handheld/palmtop for this purpose as well as on the
software that I would use. Any guidance would be appreciated.

Brian

Archived from groups: comp.sys.palmtops (More info?)

Hi Brian,

There are a lot of really good hardware choices for this application.
Devices from palmOne, like the Zire 31 and Tungsten E, are relatively
small, have color screens, removable media cards (very important for
backing up data), and are available for about $149-$199.

However, these are just the tip of the iceberg. If you have more
specialized data collection needs, you can get a handheld that has
wireless capabilities, a camera, a bar code reader, GPS receiver or a
smartphone.

There is a huge selection of third-party software for Palm OS devices
(try searching PalmGear.com or Handango.com for demo downloads).
Among the database programs available, you will find our software,
Pendragon Forms. Pendragon Forms lets you create a data collection
form for your handheld using a WYWIWYG desktop designer, generates
Access data tables for your form and includes a synchronization
conduit. The software has twenty three field types including pop-up
lists, multi-selection fields and lookup lists for very large
selection lists, as well as free form text fields, signature capture,
numeric data entry, etc.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any additional questions
about a handheld or Pendragon Forms software.

Suzanne Boose
Pendragon Software
www.pendragonsoftware.com
sboose@pendragonsoftware.com



b45just@yahoo.com (Theophrastus) wrote in message news:<856625a2.0410032156.6ea4694b@posting.google.com>...
> I am in need of some advice. Part of my job is collecting data
> outdoors. I want to get into the modern day and begin taking data
> directly onto a computer. I would like to get a hand held palm top
> like device for this purpose but don't know where to start. Here is
> what I need to do:
> 1. Get a lightweight mini computer to collect data
> 2. Get a database program compatible with microsoft access that I
> could program to use drop down type menus for entering data into a
> data table that could be imported into Access. I have about 40 or so
> descriptors that I would like to include in the drop down menu or
> combo box.
> 3. I would like the program to be able to show me about 10 records at
> a time.
> 4. I would also like the option of writing in special notes for a
> given record if necessary.
>
> What I need advice on is the best type of
> mini-computer/handheld/palmtop for this purpose as well as on the
> software that I would use. Any guidance would be appreciated.
>
> Brian