If you’re looking to start handheld data collection, one of the key decision points is which device to use. People who have not purchased mobile devices before are often surprised because of the cost, which can be $2000/ea or more.

Rugged handheld devices include built-in barcode scanners and are built to withstand the demands of field data collection – they can be used in snow, rain, mud, dropped on concrete, get banged around, etc.  Device selection is important because once you purchase a device, it is not upgradeable. For instance, if you don’t a cellular radio at the time of purchase, you cannot add it later. You have to purchase a new device.