New Data Collector

TexanSurveyor, post: 352257, member: 10957 wrote: My boss and I are looking into getting a new collector but we're having a hard time deciding what to get. Hopefully some of you guys can point us in the right direction.

-Looking for a something like a small tablet. Maybe 6"-4" screen (keyboard not required, just directional buttons)

-It would have to run Magnet Field

-Compatible with robotics and GPS

-Run windows

-Light-weight is a must

-Rugged

-Wifi, Long range bluetooth, usb

Currently looking at the Archer2. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

I know that one of the guys on this site is a big proponent of the Panasonic Toughpad FZ-M1 and we have one as well.
it has a 7" screen and they are very fast and work with large point groups much better than the Topcon Fc-2600 we use.
It also is connected to Verizon and runs full windows so emailing files to a site and back to the office is very easy.
Plus you can open and view PDF's and image files just as you would on any computer.

I would say it is no heavier than the FC-2600 but capable of so much more. The only down side is finding cases to use to mount to the pole.
Lee Green manufactured a 3d printed case for us which works. I thought Topcon was going to start selling these also so you would think they would create a case for it as well.

Lastly, the one we have has been dropped twice unfortunately and only has scratches in the protective screen cover - other than that it works well.

I've got a used Carlson Supervisior for sale

https://surveyorconnect.com/threads/carlson-tablet-data-collector-and-tds-ranger.322719/

I would shy away from the Supervisor/Archer. We are currently on our third hard drive on our Carlson Supervisor. If I had to buy now it would be Panasonic Tough Pad. There is a drawback to the tablet for everyday field use, the size. It is too big for use in the woods or tight spaces on a rover. That said it is still the best tool for GIS work.

Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk

With my years of experience in the field with different data collectors (Nautiz X7, Nautiz X3, Algiz 7, Leica CS15, and others), I would consider direct sunlight screen readability, size, and IP rating the three decision factors. Yes, I would think that you'll be better off with the Archer 2.

I have a Nautiz X7 as an auxiliary unit and it works well.
Battery life very good, screen okay in hot sun, but not as good as my Allegro.

Only downside is with Field Genius the number keys can get out of sync with the program at times.
I don't use it enough so haven't pursued that issue.

The camera is very ordinary in my view.