just wondered if any of you are using a notebook computer that you use on the dusty and dirty job site. If so, just curious what kind and how well it is holding up. I’m wanting the ability to bring my with we to work on schedule, estimates, or whatever else I might need to be able to access during the day.
Also would be interested in what people are using for software for both scheduling and estimating. In school we used timberline for estimating and premivera for scheduling, it’s just that they are more than what I need for the type of stuff I am doing. They’re also a lot of $$$$$$.
Thanks
Replies
Rather than use a laptop, I use a "pocket PC" which runs windows applications, and is housed in a ruggedized case with belt clip.
Renaissance Restorations llc
Victorian Home Restoration Services
http://www.renaissancerestorations.com
I'd consider a toughbook T29 or a mil-spec laptop. Heavy for sure, but pretty durable, it would seem.
One interesting take on the issue is the Toughbook-MDWD screen, which is basically a write-on tablet that you can take up to 300' away from the CPU to do you work... i.e. leave the CPU bolted in the truck, take the MDWD inside, if it breaks it's "only" a display that's kaputt.
Use excel for you scheduling with a little training you can use that program for damn near anything that might pop up. Right now I have 7 open excel files with 2 monitors so I can work more efficiently.
That sounds interesting Blueshound. Can you elaborate a little on how excel works for scheduling?
blue
I had a post months ago about software for scheduling and you replyed that excel works well for scheduling. Could you give me some more information about how you have it set up?
thanks
Primavera is definitely tops. 10 yrs from now you may wish you had it.
If you decide to get a laptop a major consideration is if the screen is bright enough to be seen outside. In the stores they have them dispalyed under optimal lighting conditions so they look great. Get them out in the field and it's a different story. I have a laptop and it's very difficult to see it in my truck. In a house it's ok just so that there are not too many windows in the room.
Take a look at the attached photo. This tablet PC runs embedded XP or CE.net, is ruggedized, has a nifty vehicle mount from which the tablet easily pops out, a desktop dock and optional detached keyboard. It retails for around $2000. Its exrtemely lightweight and sports a long battery run time.
The market for this is primarily warehouses and manufacturing floors where the environments are dirty and the abuse factor high, but this device easily extends into the construction, utility and public safety trades..
I've got to say that I have an interest in this product as the maker is a client.
i can get you more info if you are interested.