Thinking outside the box

[Pal334]

I would dearly like to be the one to take credit for this, but alas, our Uncle Sam beat me to it. The attached links to articles (not product endorsements)show what the US Army is doing with the iPod Touch. http://www.newsweek.com/id/194623/output/print

Simple, of the shelf solution to many information needs of a common soldier at a relatively low cost. Here is an example of some inexpensive software that is available http://m.macupdate.com/info.php/id/30229/bulletflight

I know the battery life on these things is not indefinite. However in the initial flush of an emergency situation, information is extremely important, and this type of device should serve you well for at least the first few days. Just fill the device with whatever you feel will be helpful. This will relieve some of that "brain strain" as a situation evolves .

Apparently "Apple's online App Store offers more than 25,000 (and counting) applications for the iPhone and iPod Touch, which shares the iPhone's touchscreen." SO I am sure there is something for everyone here.

I have inherited various and sundry devices from the kids and grandkids over the past year or so, so I am going to do a review and see which devices can service as my Bug out storage device.

Just provided FYI, and food for thought

[MatthewnOK]

It seems to me right when you need an electronic device they phail pitifully. Then if there's a moderate shock to it, like say dropping it on a rock it will break. Books may be a little bulkier, but if you get em' on waterproof paper you wouldn't have to worry near as much, but YMMV

[Alpine_Sapper]

I would dearly like to be the one to take credit for this, but alas, our Uncle Sam beat me to it. The attached links to articles (not product endorsements)show what the US Army is doing with the iPod Touch. http://www.newsweek.com/id/194623/output/print

Simple, of the shelf solution to many information needs of a common soldier at a relatively low cost. Here is an example of some inexpensive software that is available http://m.macupdate.com/info.php/id/30229/bulletflight

I know the battery life on these things is not indefinite. However in the initial flush of an emergency situation, information is extremely important, and this type of device should serve you well for at least the first few days. Just fill the device with whatever you feel will be helpful. This will relieve some of that "brain strain" as a situation evolves .

Apparently "Apple's online App Store offers more than 25,000 (and counting) applications for the iPhone and iPod Touch, which shares the iPhone's touchscreen." SO I am sure there is something for everyone here.

I have inherited various and sundry devices from the kids and grandkids over the past year or so, so I am going to do a review and see which devices can service as my Bug out storage device.

Just provided FYI, and food for thought

There are plenty of solar powered chargers on the market to keep your ipod charged in the bush. As well, I think I posted a shot timer app for the iPhone, but I'm not sure. If not I can dig up the link if anyone wants it.

[Rick]

Good post, Pal. We have so much information today. Personal data, How to's (like things posted here), maps, check lists, inventories, etc. that it's hard to keep track of it all. That certainly is one way to do it. Thanks!!

[Pal334]

It seems to me right when you need an electronic device they phail pitifully. Then if there's a moderate shock to it, like say dropping it on a rock it will break. Books may be a little bulkier, but if you get em' on waterproof paper you wouldn't have to worry near as much, but YMMV

If it survives with an Infantry soldier, (obviously protected in a case) is good enough for me. Remember, I am suggesting use for the duration of battery life to help with information over load at the beginning of an emergency. Not for every one, just an alternative.

[Pal334]

My interest in this as a tool has been really aroused. I did a quick search of the applicatons available and in less than 5 minutes came up with these:

MapsBuddy .99

MotionX GPS 2.99

Compass Go 1.99 also a free version

Flashlight .99 make your iPod into a flashlight

iHandy Level Free free

Police Scanner 2.99

MedRef .99

iTranslate free 42 languages

I am sure there are tons more. I am definitely going to add this iPod idea to my "tool box"

[Rick]

There's a slug of 'em on eBay.

[Alpine_Sapper]

There's a slug of 'em on eBay.

Check the local pawn shops as well. I lost a shuffle that way a few years ago... *sniff*