PC Preferences

Errin OH · Sep 21, 2013

I generally use a computer for quick reference in the shop. For a while I had an old desk top but it sacumed to the poor conditions in there. So I swicthed to a laptop. Again the poor conditions in the shop and barns were hard on it. I recently acquired an older I-pad. Can"t really do much with it other than surf the web at this point, but it seems pretty durable. I am a little concerned about greasy fingers on it.

So I am wondering, has anyone used one in less than ideal conditions? I think I will see what they have as far as protective cases go.

wfw · Sep 21, 2013

I have seen a film type screen protector you can get to protect the screen. not sure, probably wallyworld. worth a try.

also, on a desktop it is easy to open the side and blow the dust out of it which will help it last longer. just be careful of the fans, especially the cpu fan. they break easily(btdt).
frank

Bret4207 · Sep 21, 2013

I'd find a used desk top in good shape, get rid of the garbage programs, mount the PC up high enough to avoid moisture and go from there. There no need for high dollar stuff. I'm using an $80.00 computer right now and it works fine.

hoof print · Sep 21, 2013

The iPad will be perfect for your purposes. Get a good case that snaps on like a "ballistic" brand, or an "otter box" brand and a clear plastic screen protector.

If you already own the iPad, I ceartainly would not go out and buy anything else.

BAnNC · Sep 21, 2013

2nd wfw
Get a screen saver. Won't stop the grease from your fingers getting in the way and smearing the view, but when its that nasty, peal off one layer and you start over.

David G · Sep 21, 2013

I got a life proof case for my iPad, wipes off and is supposed to be water proof.

ss55 · Sep 21, 2013

I'll second the suggestion of using an older desktop computer for a shop computer. The mouse and keyboard take all the grease and dirt instead of a touch screen, and they can be replaced for $2 to $4 each at a thrift or second hand store. $40 to $80 for a used Dell XP-Pro machine. A monitor is the most expensive part. Backup the hard drive and and your data. Every couple of months, open it up and blow the dust out with compressed air. That has worked well for me.

Anonymous-0 · Sep 21, 2013

I just bought a $200 chromebook as long as it has wireless it's the new rage.

not unlike your ipad in the clouds so to speak

and runs aps instaed of programs

rlpintx · Sep 21, 2013

Get some air filters for desktop from site like newegg etc...

Cas · Sep 21, 2013

If I had an IPad, I would do what has already been suggested.
I have been using a Panasonic Toughbook Laptop.
There are military and police used ones refurbished on ebay. Supposed to be shock proof and can take getting wet. I have dropped mine several times and something gets spilled on it quite frequently. Use it for internet, looking up parts, plug into car and truck for error message. Keeps on ticking.

big fred · Sep 21, 2013

I use my Samsung tablet on my boat in Puget Sound (for navigation). It"s in direct sunlight, hot days, high humidity and probably a bit of salt fog. Works fine, and I"ve met guys with sailboats that do the same with an iPad. Not much dust or vibration, true, but heat is the big killer of electronics.

TomH in PA · Sep 22, 2013

You could also get a stylus to use instead of greasy fingers.
Stylus review

PC Preferences

Errin OH

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wfw

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Bret4207

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hoof print

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BAnNC

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David G

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ss55

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Anonymous-0

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rlpintx

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Cas

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big fred

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TomH in PA

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