This month, POB's focus on data collection solutions extends beyond the printed page. We've taken it one step further on our website, and we're excited to announce the 2006 Data Collector Hardware and Software Surveys are available in an online searchable, comparable format. Included in the online offering are three separate surveys, one each for optical surveying data collection software, GPS data collection/mapping software and data collection hardware.

This survey will allow you to gain a better understanding of a company’s data collector software and/or hardware features and abilities before purchasing. With just a click of a mouse, you can access information on a variety of data collection products and compare their features side by side. Whether you’re interested in learning more about data collectors that support interfaces such as RTK GPS receivers, total stations or laser scanners, POB has the information you need to make your purchasing decisions.

Our software surveys not only offer information on each product’s capabilities, file import/export operations and customizing abilities, but they also offer information on the cost, availability of multi-license discounts and technical support policies. Our hardware survey describes each product's data storage capabilities and much more--including its user interface, durability, connectivity features, battery and accessory options.

The new online survey format is designed to better serve you, our valued readers, as well as the product manufacturers and distributors. We hope you use our new format to research data collection options before making a purchasing decision, just as you have done with our printed surveys. With our new, easy-to-use online format, you will be able to view the specs of a particular product or compare several products at a glance, along with the accompanying notes and product shots provided by the manufacturers.

Manufacturers will regularly update their entries in POB’s surveys to keep you updated on new and enhanced products. Click here today to access the new searchable and comparable 2006 Data Collector Hardware and Software Surveys.