In my experience (Android tablet using an excel spreadsheet) these are the major issues that should be considered:
1) glare / screen contrast - the glare screen accessories don't really work that well in an outdoor setting, especially in full to partial sun. 2) touchscreen compatibility with stylus - some tablets don't allow you to use a stylus. If you have any sort of insect repellent or sunscreen on your fingertips your screen will suffer (not sure if the glare screens will protect from chemicals). Also, touchscreens don't work well while wearing gloves- though there are special gloves on the market for this reason. 3) on screen keyboard - when you bring up the keyboard it will cover the majority of your spreadsheet which may or may not be an issue depending on the size of your spreadsheet's row height. 4) ruggedness - it's probably worth the money to buy ruggedized tablets because the are designed to protect against field elements (humidity, dust, rain, etc) These are just some of the things I would consider when choosing among tablets if you decide to replace tried-and-true paper datasheets. Best, Hillary Hillary White Terrestrial Ecologist Davis, CA On Wed, May 16, 2012 at 8:42 AM, David Inouye <[email protected]> wrote: > I'd like a way to replace data entry on paper in the field with an > electronic alternative. Ultimately the data end up in a spreadsheet, but > sometimes using formulae (e.g., 3*5 + 4*2 + 6, for numbers of > inflorescences with different numbers of flowers). Has anyone used > something like the Blackberry PlayBook, an Android tablet, Nook, iPad, etc. > with spreadsheet software? Recommendations for or against particular > solutions? > > I have also considered a ruggedized PC and a ruggedized tablet (Motion > F5V), but they are a LOT more expensive than other tablet options would be. > > David Inouye >
