While consumer GPS units have long been “rugged” some specialized field devices have lagged behind. But recently Trimble introduced its next generation of GNSS devices for GIS field applications, including the Trimble Juno 3B and 3D handhelds. These specially computers offer positioning, imaging and communications in a single package.
These units offer GPS, a 5MP autofocus camera and Windows Mobile Software. What is more impressive is this also offer Juno 3G wireless technology, which allows users to transfer data and stay connected via the device’s integrated mobile phone. These are designed for those in the gas, electric and water utilities, but we could see that such a device could have uses for consumers who need a rugged device that has the power and connectivity of a smartphone and can stand up to the elements.
Mobile phone makers – are you listening?
[Via FieldTechnologies: New Rugged Trimble Juno Series Puts GIS Field Work In Your Pocket]
Rugged cameras are the thing this season and Pentax Ricoh Imaging has unveiled its new line-up, which includes the Pentax Optio WG-2 and Optio WG-2 GPS digital compact cameras. Both models are waterproof to 40 feet, and of course are dust-proof, shock resistant to a drop of five feet and are freeze-proof to 14° F.
What camera company isn’t releasing a rugged digital camera? This week Canon announced its upcoming PowerShot D20, which is much more than just an update of the D10 – in fact in a way it is more because it is less. While the D10 was a large and bulky point and shoot, the D20 is a sleeker model, but still features a robust and sporty design.
Today’s smartphones pack built-in GPS capabilities that have all but demolished the need for a standalone GPS unit. But what if there was an app for outdoors enthusiasts that turned your smartphone into the digital equivalent of Bear Grylls? That’s essentially what you can expect from ViewRanger, a powerful outdoor GPS app that’s been available internationally, but is just now launching in the U.S.
We missed Zeal Optics at the Outdoor Retailers Show but fortunately they caught our eye anyway with the iON Goggles, which the company is showing at this week’s SIA Snow Show. The Boulder-based companies is offering a look at the iON, which features an embed high-definition camera to capture video and photos.
Suunto has long been on the cutting edge with unique watches, and at this week’s Outdoor Retailer Show the company offered the Ambit. While not exactly cheap – at $600 it isn’t quite in the Rolex space for expensive timepieces – and frankly we’d like to see a Rolex that could do as much as this one. It features built-in GPS, and an accelerometer so you can know where you’re going and how high you’ve climbed.
Last week CES, this week SHOT Show and impressively LOKSAK is at both. We were introduced to them a year ago when we first saw their innovative plastic bags that are made to protect a wallet, mobile phone or other small item from the elements. The bags are a little more durable than your off-the-shelf sandwich bags, and fit nicely in a pocket for cycling, running or skiing.
While this week’s Consumer Electronics Show promises to offer some new products (and if you’ve been checking out the site you’ve seen CES has been loaded with stuff), those looking to go exploring will find it with Magellan’s latest eXplorist 110 Handheld GPS Device, the newest sibling to the 710 (above). The eXplorist 110, which is being officially unveiled at next week’s SHOT Show will reportedly be ready to use, right out of the box. 
Getting there is said to be half the fun, but whoever said that probably never got lost – or didn’t go very far. For the rest of us the RoadMate RV9145 from Magellan, which was introduced at this week’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, will make sure we find our way.
This week at the Consumer Electronics Show Magellan announced it was switching things up, and is entering the fitness market with the launch of its first two products, the Switch and Switch Up. These new series promises to be powerful, adaptable, and customizable for those looking for GPS watches that can meet the needs of runners, cyclists, and multisport athletes. And with a Magellan fitness website and third-party integration, users can easily analyze and share their activities.
This week at the Consumer Electronics Show Garmin has wanting to get outside and take in 18 holes instead of walking the show floor. The company is showing off its new Approach G6 GPS unit, designed for those heading out to the golf course. The device is slim and sleek, and perfect for hitting the links.
While the troops are coming home, or mostly have come home from Iraq, a large presence of U.S. soldiers still remains in the field around the world. The time in Iraq and Afghanistan no doubt made it clear to military planners as to what technology worked and more importantly what likely needed improvement.