Nomad Can Run Four Hours on Two AA Batteries Without Compromising Performance

Corvallis, OR., Nov. 6, 2007 —TDS announced today a AA Battery Module for the Nomad™ rugged data collector. The new module allows users to run the Nomad an average of four hours using two AA alkaline batteries without affecting its rugged performance capabilities.

“Many of our Nomad users can’t recharge their handheld’s battery in the field, so they really need the ability to run on AA batteries,” said Dale Kyle, rugged handhelds product manager for Tripod Data Systems. “The Nomad’s ability to operate in challenging environments is what makes it so popular, and the AA Battery Module extends its potential uses into even more mobile computing applications.”

When running on AA alkaline batteries, the Nomad’s power meter adapts to accurately gauge battery life, and it records when the batteries were installed to better track battery use. With the AA Battery Module attached, the Nomad retains its MIL-STD-810F rating for drops, vibration and temperature extremes. And unlike other rugged handhelds that reset if dropped while running on AA batteries, the Nomad uses a special capacitor to prevent the unit from resetting after a drop or other shock. The new AA Battery Module is available now and is priced at US$90 MSRP.

Launched in July, the Nomad is TDS’s most capable data collector. It offers class-leading performance with an 806 MHz Marvell PXA320 XScale processor, 128 MB RAM and a hot-swappable rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack. The Nomad features TDS Survey Pro data collection software. Built-in Bluetooth is standard, with built-in 802.11g wireless communication optional. The Nomad’s touchscreen VGA display is sharp and clear in sunlight, and it presents maps and other graphics-intensive files in better detail than a typical QVGA display. The Nomad also comes with Windows Mobile® 6.0, the latest version of Microsoft’s operating system for mobile devices.

As with other TDS data collectors, the Nomad meets the MIL-STD-810F standard for drops, vibration and temperature extremes. It also comes with an IP67 rating, which means it’s completely sealed against dust and can survive immersion in up to a meter of water for 30 minutes. It weighs just 21 ounces and is shaped to fit comfortably in the user’s hand.

About Tripod Data Systems
Tripod Data Systems (TDS) develops hardware and software for mobile computing applications in extreme outdoor and industrial environments. TDS produces data collectors and software for land surveying and construction applications, and GIS systems for field data collection and automation. TDS is the distributor for Nikon and Spectra Precision survey products (U.S. and Puerto Rico) as well as Pacific Crest radios and accessories (U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada). TDS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Trimble. TDS is headquartered in Corvallis, Ore., and was founded in 1987. For more information about TDS, visit www.tdsway.com, send e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 541-753-9322.