Huefner Management Systems - Data Collection Hardware

HMS utilises third party hardware tools to assist users to accurately and quickly capture data to be used for the purpose of asset management.

Here's what we think.

	Asset Management Data Pickup and Defect/Inspection Logging
	Capture of Location via GPS

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Asset Management Data Pick up and Defect/Inspection Logging

HP Compaq Tablet PC TC1100

"Pocket PC", "Tablet", "ruggedised", "GPS", "stylus" and "PDA" are words commonly associated with electronic capture of information in the field. However, with many different choices available what hardware offers the most flexibility and best value for money?

Notebooks and laptops are often unwieldy for field use due to their clamshell screen/keyboard configuration, weight and requirement for a mouse to operate most programs. Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) are lightweight and small but are often limited by the availability of screen space and programs to run on them. Is there something in between? A Tablet PC might be the answer but what advantages does it have over a laptop or PDA?

	Large letter sized (26+ cm) screen that can be viewed in either landscape or portrait modes allowing significant flexibility in configuration of workspace
	Data entry via keyboard, mouse, stylus pen (handwriting recognition) or microphone (voice commands)
	Swivel-based keyboard that detaches to save weight, freeing you from entering data via keyboard or mouse
	Lightweight and thin -- useable in configurations ranging from handheld to mounted in a vehicle
	Connection to Global Positioning System (GPS) units via USB or Bluetooth
	Connection to network via embedded Local Area Network (LAN) or Bluetooth Private Area Network (PAN)
	Docking with a standard PC

A Tablet PC can run any software that runs under Windows XP. This means that all HMS systems will run on Tablets, providing you with the same tools for the field and the office. This minimises staff training requirements and maximises your flexibility in approach. Tablet PCs can be used for:

	Field collection or verification of Asset Management System data (eg RoadPAK, ParkPAK)
	Defect recording in the Defect Logging System (DLS) for automatic conversion to Work Orders in the Work Management System (WMS)
	Collection of GPS coordinates and scores for risk management surveys

A Tablet might not fit into your pocket but it offers significant flexibility in that it can be used for all sorts of purposes, every day, not just for specialist tasks.

Australian based Antares Corporation supplies ruggedised notebooks and Tablet PC's that have passed U.S. Military Standards and will withstand the most demanding physical conditions.

We would also be pleased to discuss your particular hardware and software requirements with you. Call us on +61 8 8342 4288 or e-mail us at service@huefner.com.au.

Capture of Location via GPS

The Defect Logging System (DLS) integrates directly with a NMEA-0183 compliant GPS to capture the precise location of defects.

All GPS units should be capable of implementing the NMEA-0183 protocol which enables latitude and longitude information to be captured automatically when records are added to DLS or by clicking a "Capture GPS Coordinates" button. DLS and a GPS unit can be used on a laptop, notebook or Tablet PC, depending on your requirements.

In addition, the Asset Management Systems (eg RoadPAK and ParkPAK) are able to capture a current location using NMEA-0183 or download waypoint information stored in the GPS via the Garmin protocol.

We would also be pleased to discuss your particular hardware and software requirements with you. Call us on +61 8 8342 4288 or e-mail us at service@huefner.com.au.

"What are your assets doing tomorrow?"