Laptops in the field?

[akarydes]

I am considering purchasing a laptop for field use. Any suggestions/recommendations? I intend to run AutoCAD C3D on this laptop, so high resolution graphics would be important. I would consider a tablet if that is a better solution.

[Dave Sigman]

SMUD uses a Panasonic CF-52. It's a ruggedized laptop designed for field use. It's not the military version but it's pretty tough. I didn't have to pay for it so I don't know how much it costs.

Dave

[Tom Herrin]

We are in the process of purchasing several Panasonic Toughpad FZ-G1 units. This is a ruggedized 10" full HD tablet, that is Windows 8 Pro 64 bit, with an i5 processor, 8GB RAM, GPS, bluetooth and camera built in. We were looking for durability and compact size while still being a full Windows platform to run applications on. Have not received the units yet, so I cannot post further feedback on practical use in the field. Intended application is for field crews to have access to research, maps and plans electronically, some lightweight CAD use, and GIS applications.

Problem with any typical computer is the dust in most of our work environments - this will kill the PC pretty quick if it's not sealed/ruggedized in some fashion.

[land butcher]

A company I worked for years ago had laptops and peripherals in our vehicles and they seemed to survive fine. They were in vans instead of the backs of pickups so dust was less of a issue.
Bouncing around, as in a 18 wheeler, shortens life span a lot.

[NickL]

I use an HP EliteBook and store it in a soft laptop bag without problems. Make sure you go with a larger-size screen since your're running C3D, sometimes in sunlight.

[Jim Frame]

Talk to me about 3D Laser Scanning and how to make money with it.

Your tag line reminds me of my favorite bumper sticker: "Ask me about my vow of silence."