With my ongoing issues with TDS/Ranger/Survey Pro, I'm thinking of picking up a used Nomad to use for now and keep as a back up DC (With Carlson 3.0). I actually used one of the first PDA-style devices made for TDS, a Compaq Ipad with Survey Pro, and hated not having a full keyboard. I really just want this as something to use in a pinch, and to try out Carlson. The Nomad at least has a numeric keyboard. Looks like people are asking about $1000 on ebay. For those of you that made a transition from Ranger to Nomad, how much of a PITA is it?
I use rangers at work and own a Nomad for my business. The only thing I use the keyboard for is features. I avoid alpha numeric point names on the nomad. but that's just me- it's not really a problem.
I actually thought the Nomad was going to bother me when I switched but I ended up really liking the compact size. I have since purchased a new robot and it came with a Ranger so now I miss my Nomad!:-/
I used a tds ranger daily for years before I went solo. When I went solo I purchased a used nomad from ebay and installed Carlson SurvCe v2.5. The first week I was constantly trying to push buttons that didn't exist. I wouldn't want to use it for any job that you're going to have to be changing descriptions every shot. It might work ok if you use a numbered coding system for field to finish. It is lighter and less bulky than the ranger though so it does make it nice when carrying it up and down the hills all day.
Corey
We probably sell 15 different types of data collectors. The nomad data collector is by far my favorite, it is the most rugged, the price point is right and I've seen a lot fewer glitches with it then other data collectors. While you are giving up a full keypad it is a great data collector for a backup, like you talked about Or a primary, lightweight data collector.
Wow I love the nomad, if you are planning on staying with Carlson software they also have a data collector that is very similar to the nomad. You may be able to save a little money and get a data collector that Carlson can support both on the software and hardware side.
Nomad Follow up question
Thanks everyone for the info.
Most of the ads I see are not clear, but it appears that most Nomads are not equipped with a 9-pin serial port. Most appear to have two USB ports at the base. Is this correct? I did some searching and found a 9-pin serial boot sold separately. Is this a self-install situation, or do I have to send the Nomad out for this change?
Nomad Follow up question
MINE HAS A 9 PIN IN THE BOTTOM.
Nomad Follow up question
You can purchase both a USB or a 9-pin boot. They are easy enough to interchange. Cost if the boots are around $75 bucks each.
Nomad Follow up question
Thanks, again, for the all the great info.
Nomad Follow up question
I've used every popular data collector out there and I've got to say that my Nomad is priceless to me. It's very easy to use, very, very rarely crashes or glitches, it has great battery life, and it's just all around a good piece of equipment.
