A Test System can be purchased from Impact-Echo Instruments with or without a computer. The IMPACT-E software program requires an IBM-compatible computer with a Windows 95 or later operating system, a serial port (available on virtually all computers) and English(U.S.) as an available option for both the "Regional Setting" and the "Keyboard Language" (these settings are found in the Control Panel of Windows oprerating systems). If you plan to use your own computer with a different character layout (French, German, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, Norwegian, etc.), we can provide a U.S-style keyboard at no extra cost. The minimum recommended computer capabilities are an IBM-compatible computer with the following features:
Virtually all currently available IBM-compatible notebook computers meet or exceed the
requirements for use with our impact-echo test system. Suitable notebook computers are
available from many companies, including Acer, Compaq, Gateway, Dell, HP, IBM, Micron,
Panasonic, Toshiba, Winbook, and others. Some of these computers are
"ruggedized", to include shock resistant mountings for the hard drive and other
critical components, waterproof keyboards, metal alloy cases, and other features. The
Panasonic "Toughbook" is an example of a ruggedized computer (see next section
below). Prices for notebook computers that meet or exceed the minimum requirements for use
with an impact-echo test system start at about US$1000. Prices for "ruggedized"
computers start at about US$2000. For current information, see the following web sites.
http://www.compaq.com
http://www.gateway.com
http://www.dell.com
http://www.hp.com
http://www.pc.ibm.com/thinkpad
http://www.micronpc.com
http://www.toshiba.com
http://www.winbook.com
http://www.panasonic.com/computer/notebook
Ruggedized and Mobile Computers:
"Ruggedized" computers, including wireless models that provide
true mobility are avialble from Panasonic, with full magnesium alloy cases, moisture- and
dust-resistant design, shock-mounted hard drive, and wireless capability for remote
operation. Of special interest is the Panasonic Toughbook 07 with Wireless Mobile Data
Display (WDMD) shown below. The computer (at left in the photo below) and the data
acquisition system are carried in a holster (total weight about 4 lb or 2 kg), leaving the
hands free to hold the transducer and impactor for impact-echo testing. The user interacts
with the system through the Touchscreen on the MDWD, which includes a pop-up keyboard. The
MDWD can be held by a second operator (at distances up to about 300 ft) or it can be
placed in a convenient spot near a single operator. For detailed information on this
Panasonic computer, see the following web site:
http://www.panasonic.com/computer/notebook/html/01a07.htm
For a downloadable brochure with complete details of the Toughbook 07, Click Here.
Prices for the Panasonic Toughbook 07 start at about US$4400 (October 2003).
The impact-echo test system can be used with any IBM-compatible desktop computer with a Windows 95 or later operating system, with English(U.S.) as an available option for both "Regional Setting" and "Keyboard Language". A desktop computer is suitable for impact-echo testing in a laboratory, where it can remain in a fixed position.
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All prices and specifications subject to change without notice.
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