Hardware
There are several different types of hardware that can be used to maintain and use the Arboretum database. This page documents them.
Personal Computers
As noted in the software section, most of the applications used for arboretum record keeping are Internet based and thus can be accessed through almost any computer with a web browser. This includes Windows PC, MacOSX computers, Linux computers and Chromebook computers. With the exception of Google Earth, the software does not have any special requirements. Also almost all the software we are using is free.
While it would be cumbersome to use a laptop in the field to collect data, it could be done, and of course a computer with its bigger screen (compared to a mobile device) is ideal for desktop work.
iOS (Apple) iPhones and iPads
iPhones and iPads also include web browsers, so theoretically anything that could be done on a computer could be done on one of these devices. In reality the smaller screens makes this less practical. Unlike computers though, Google has mobile Apps for all the Google software we use in the arboretum. This makes it easier to use the Google software than if only the web versisons were available. Because smart phones (and tablets with cellular data) have GPS capability, they are especially useful with the Google Map apps (My Maps, Maps and Google Earth).
The Primary advantage of iPhones, iPads and Android devices is that they are perfect for use in the field, both for collecting data and for finding and viewing it. Although the GPS receivers in these devices is not accurate enough to determine precise locations of items like trees and benches, they can get close and then the high resolution satellite views can be used to determine exact locations. For an example of how this can work, see here. Note that all iPhones include GPS, but only iPads with cellular data do.
Android devices
Everything said above about iOS devices also applies to Android devices.
GPS Receivers
Consumer grade GPS receivers are not accurate enough for arboretum use. There are some less expensive professional GPS receivers that work with smartphones, but they still cost well over $2,000 so the Medford Leas Arboretum has not tried them yet.
Height measuring devices for trees
The arboretum has the use of a Nikon Forestry Pro Rangefinder. This handy device measures the horizontal distance to a tree and then either the distance to the top and bottom or the angles to the top and bottom and either way calculates the height of the tree (or any other object). This a link to the Forestry Pro Measurement Guide. We have found that the most efficient and consistent way to measure the height is to measure the horizontal distance and the angles to top and bottom. This way doesn't require visibility of the bottom of the tree (behind bushes, etc.) or a reliable distance measurement from the leaves at the top of the tree. This is the technique called "Three-point measurement (height between tow points).