I am looking for user feedback/information on use of the Palm Pilot for tree survey data collection and storage. I have read the earlier thread (Russ & Scott). Can you give any further advice on the merits of particular models in terms of ease of use and screen clarity/glare?

Mike

Reply to post by Mike Ellison, on June 08, 2000 at 13:59:50:

I've been using the PalmIII (& IIIx) for over 2 years. I found a simple database application that works well for me, and I can synchronize it with FileMaker databases on my Mac. There are several applications that work with Windows, too.

Setting up is easy, and I can do it in the field in about 5 minutes, or modify the database if I need to. The unit is small and light. I use a case with a belt clip on it, and turn it inside out to create a 'hand holster' for it. I also use a plastic BIC pencil with lead retracted to write with- doens't scratch, easier to hold than the little stylus, and if I loose it, I get another one out of the box, at about $0.16 each.

The screen on the Palm IIIx and the other new units is quite sharp, with adjustable contrast. You can read it in daylight well, and it has a backlight (works best if it is very dark, not so good at 'dusk'). Glare is a problem on the glass screen. I use a 'screen saver', a plastic stick-on overlay that protects the screen from dirt and scratches, and cuts the glare. Only minimal effect on sharpness. Available from Concept Kitchen (conceptkitchen.com, I think)

Check the Palm Gear site (palmgear.com) for accessories and software. THey have a great site with just about anything you can want for a Palm or Visor.

Reply to post by Mike Ellison, on June 08, 2000 at 13:59:50:

I've been using a Palm III for about 2 years. Use Pendragon Forms which downloads to Access files on Microsoft Office Software. I am very happy with the results too. I use it to show students the basics of setting up a program, collecting the data, and manipulating it. They inventory everything from M & M's to cars in the parking lot.