1. What kind of Pocket PC does Amphibian run on?

As of January 2005, we are selling two models of HP iPAQs - the 1710 and the 2110.  The 1710 is a basic model that gets the job done at the most affordable price.  The 2110 offers built-in Bluetooth and a Compact Flash slot.  Bluetooth is important for communicating with other Bluetooth devices.  The Compact Flash slot allows expansion - add a GPS card or more memory.  The Amphibian is backwards compatible with the ViewSonic® Pocket PC V35 and V36; the HP iPAQ 2210 and 2215.  At the request of customers, we have also integrated the Compaq iPAQ 3800 Series.

2. What about other Pocket PC devices?

Eureka is testing suitability with other brands from other manufacturers. Cable connections must be solid and dependable, and the screens must be viewable in bright sunlight. As more systems are tested, we will support additional models.

3. What about the Palm platform?

Eureka’s software only runs on Pocket PC platforms.

4. Which multiprobe instruments can it connect to?

Amphibian can be used in the field with Hydrolab® Series 4 and 4a Instruments and YSI® 600 series, 6820, 6920, and 6600.

5. Is the case waterproof?

The case meets military specifications MIL-STD-810F which means it is sealed for water protection and can be submerged up to one meter deep for one hour. The case is specially designed for use in wet conditions and even floats.

6. How long will the batteries last in the field?

Continuous usage (connected to and powering your instrument) is approximately 20 hours.

7. What kind of batteries does Amphibian use?

Amphibian supplies a 9.6 volt rechargeable battery pack. The batteries power both the Pocket PC and the instrument.

8. May I get a GPS unit integrated?

We recommend the HP iPaq 2110 with integrated Bluetooth and a Leadtek CF card GPS.  You may also wish to purchase GPS mapping software.  Maptech at www.maptech.com sells USGS topo maps.  You can mark a waypoint on your Amphibian when you collect your water quality data and navigate back to that waypoint.

9. How many files may I log?

Pocket PCs come with about 32 megabytes of memory, which can store 12 years of data collected at 15 minute intervals.  You can have as many files as you want.  If you need more storage than that, you can now purchase a one gigabyte SD card, which stores approximately 400 years worth of data logged at 15 minute intervals.  Or if you download data from logging sondes every month, the 1 GB card can download data from 4,800 sondes.

10. What is Bluetooth?

Bluetooth is a cutting edge technology that enables short-range wireless connections between desktop and notebook computers, Pocket PCs, mobile phones, GPS units, printers, digital cameras, and more.  Bluetooth wireless technology uses a globally available frequency band (2.4GHz) for worldwide compatibility. In a nutshell, Bluetooth technology unplugs your digital peripherals and makes cable clutter a thing of the past.

Use Bluetooth on your Amphibian to communicate with Bluetooth GPS devices, or add a Bluetooth receiver to your desktop PC to transfer files wirelessly.  If you need to add a lot of notes in the field, you can purchase a Bluetooth keyboard for your iPAQ.