Choose equipment by testing the NAHPU workflow you will actually use. NAHPU is designed to work on mobile and desktop devices. Start with the Installation guide for platform-specific installation instructions. Below is a list of the devices we have used in field expeditions, along with the number of days and specimens recorded. Use this as a reference to compare your own field season's expected workload.
Devices used in field expeditions
Section titled “Devices used in field expeditions”| Field location | Site type | Days | Specimens | Type | Model | Operating system | Accessories |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Java, Indonesia | Tropical mountain | 33 | 196 | Tablet | Lenovo Tab P11 Pro | Android | Logitech K380 keyboard, ProCase for Lenovo Tab P11 Pro 11.2", 2 x 25k mAH power bank |
| Sumatra, Indonesia | Tropical mountain | 115 | 644 | Tablet | iPad Mini 6 | iPadOS | Logitech K380 keyboard, Zugu Case for iPad Mini 6, 2 x 25k mAH power bank |
| Sumatra, Indonesia | Tropical mountain | 115 | >100 | Tablet | iPad Mini 6 | iPadOS | Otterbox iPad Mini 6 case |
Other devices using NAHPU in the field:
- iPhone 13 mini used in Mexico field expeditions
Check the recording device
Section titled “Check the recording device”Use a phone, tablet, or computer with a supported NAHPU installation. Rehearse data entry at its screen size, including long forms, camera or file attachments, and location capture if required. Confirm that your keyboard, scanner, printer, and external storage work through the device's actual connectors and permissions.
Measure storage and power needs
Section titled “Measure storage and power needs”Create a representative practice dataset with the expected media sizes. Measure the project export and database backup, and allow room for working files and multiple retained versions. A fixed-capacity drive cannot be assumed sufficient for every field season.
Measure battery use during a realistic session, including screen brightness, photography, location capture, and export. Test charging with the cables, adapters, and power source you will carry. Do not estimate runtime from another team's device or assume that a connector alone determines charging speed.
Verify the backup route
Section titled “Verify the backup route”Export a project, copy it to the intended storage, and import it on a separate test installation. Open the records and files there. Keep a verified copy beyond the recording device; a second folder on the same device does not protect against losing it.
Prepare for the field
Section titled “Prepare for the field”Install required taxa, presets, fonts, and reference files before departure. Test the complete workflow without internet, including access to any required maps. Select protection appropriate to weather, handling, and transport. See App Setup for rehearsal and Device Choice and Care for the operating routine.