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Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL
How do I get started?
Check out our getting started section
here.
Is this really free?
The basic handheld software is free, and you may also
use our website to store your data. The professional software has more features
and technical support, all for an annual fee of $99. You may also choose to join
our professional program as a group or association.
Do I need an internet connection?
Yes, but only on your PC (desktop or laptop computer).
Is your software compatible with any GIS mapping packages?
No. We may choose to develop a solution
for this in the future, but nothing is currently under development.
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HARDWARE
What kind of handheld do I need?
You need a handheld running PocketPC 2003, Windows Mobile 5, or Windows Mobile
6 Classic and a 320x240 resolution screen. If you have a 640x480 screen, contact
us for a beta version of the handheld software.
What if my handheld won’t connect to my PC?
Please call your handheld manufacturer for support.
Does your software work on smart phones?
We’ve tested our software on the Cingular 8125, but it
should work on any smart phone running PocketPC 2003, Windows Mobile 5, or Windows Mobile 6 Professional.
Can I use GPS?
Our software can use GPS to record your location as you
take notes. We have tested it with a few of the more popular models, but can’t guarantee
it will work for all GPS hardware.
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TAKING DATA
What kind of information can I record?
Our basic software allows you to record
5 kinds of data in the field:
- Crop Inputs – crop protection and fertilizer
- Field Operations – planting, harvesting & custom
- Machinery Cleanout – harvesters and transports
- Storage – record where your crop goes and how it is transported
- Field Scouting – Use one of our templates or make your own (associations and professional users only). We still allow basic users to customize up to 8 items they wish to record.
Professional and Association users have the ability to record just about anything
they wish using custom templates that you set up through our website. We recommend
using the pre-made templates when possible, as this will make the data averages
more meaningful.
Can I add things to your pre-made templates?
Using our handheld
setup tool,
you can add at least four custom data fields to each of the standard templates.
Can I use this for field scouting?
Yes, in fact our software was designed to be customizable
enough that you could use this for any type of field scouting.
I’m trying to record specific things for a contract. What if your pre-made
templates don’t work for me?
You can either join as a professional user
or submit your suggestions for a new template. Professional users and associations
can create custom templates with up to 20 data fields and GPS location.
Can I record data without a handheld?
Not at the moment. We are developing a touch-tone phone
solution as well as other options.
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REPORTS
Can I create and view reports on my handheld?
Yes, reports are generated on your handheld
in HTML format. You can view them in your handheld browser.
How can I email reports from the field?
If you have email software on your handheld, simply attach
the report as an HTML document. Reports are located on your handheld in 'My
Documents -> CropDef Reports'.
What do I need to print reports from the field?
You need a mobile printer and the appropriate print drivers.
Handheld printing software and hardware are available from many companies; search
for "PocketPC, HTML, mobile printing".
How do I print reports from my PC?
You will need to submit your handheld data to our website.
You can do this by synchronizing your handheld with your PC, then logging in to
our website and clicking the
link
that allows you to upload your data. Once the upload has finished, you will be able
to
view your data or
print reports
using the website.
How do I view my data online?
Log in to our website and your
personal page
will contain a link that allows you to
view your data.
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STORING DATA
Why should I submit my handheld data to your servers?
When you continue to participate by submitting your data,
you gain access to state averages (basic user) as well as national and local averages
(professional user). Our website can also help you store and view your data. We
protect your privacy and anonymity as explained in our
privacy policy.
As more people
participate in this program, we feel it will become a valuable resource to your
professional community.
How do I submit my handheld data?
Synchronize your handheld to your internet-connected PC,
then log in to our website. Your personal page will have a link that allows you
to upload your data.
What happens to the data I submit?
It is processed by our servers and stored
in a database. You may access your data online through our website. No other users
are allowed to see the specific data you submit - they only see county, state and
national averages when sufficient data becomes available. We are very serious
about protecting your privacy as explained in our
privacy policy.
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Error Messages
Error: "This application requires a newer version of the Microsoft .Net framework
than the version installed on this device."
Solution: CropDefender requires
the Microsoft .Net 2.0 framework to be installed on your handheld.
Go
here to download the upgrade. Run this program on your desktop computer
with your PocketPC connected. It will
update both your PocketPC and your desktop software.
Error: After
clicking on the CropDefender.cab file on your PocketPC, this message appears:
“Installation of CropDefender.cab
was unsuccessful”
Solution: perrform a
soft reset on the PocketPC and click on CropDefender1.cab to install it.
Error: I
loaded CropDefender onto my PocketPC but nothing happens when I click the icon to
run it.
Solution: upgrade to
the latest version of .net compact framework (see first item in this section).
Error: I'm
get a GPS error when I run Field Scouting or a Custom Form
Solution: Check the version of your operating system; GPS operation requires
Windows Mobile 5 operating system (version 5.xx) or newer.
Error: When
I remove CropDefender from my PocketPC, it doesn’t remove the icon.
Solution: On your PocketPC,
use File Explorer to browse to My Device > Windows > Start Menu > Programs. Tap and hold on the CropDefender to
delete it.
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