Trek: EiA3
Distance: 606km (approx)
Route: Broomehill to Kalgoorlie
Expedition Team: Dave, RJ, and Mark.
Mode: Walking (hauling supplies by cart)
Duration: 20 field days
Aims: Educational real time video conferencing

Here is an itemised list of the equipment we are using for EiA3.
Most of the equipment was decided on after much research and comparison - rationale is given where applicable.

Tech Equipment

A lot of PC manufacturers are currently targeting the micro-notebook market, with offerings such as the HP Mini-Note and Asus eeePC.
With improvements in technology, these <10" notebooks pack as much punch as a desktop PC!

HP 2133 Mini Note PC
After originally planning to use a rugged outdoor laptop, we eventually decided on something small, light and more affordable.
The HP notebook will be given the VIP treatment during the walk - kept in 2 layers of waterproof bags and with half a dozen packets of silica gel thrown in the absorb any unwanted moisture.

"Ideal for instructional use or general purpose business applications, the HP 2133 Mini-Note PC might be small in size (2.63 lb /1.19 kg and only 1.05 in/33 mm thin) but it’s big on usability, durability, and sleekness. Packed with an impressive combination of features, the HP 2133 offers you a full-function PC with the utmost mobility.

The HP 2133 comes equipped with the productivity tools you need to conduct business efficiently on the go: 8.9-inch diagonal, scratch-resistant, WXGA display; 92% full-size, user-friendly QWERTY keyboard; ExpressCard/54 slot, integrated Secure Digital Reader, touchpad with scroll zone." View the full product brochure

BGAN (Broadband Global Area Network) Portable Unit
One of our major concerns during the expedition was the amount of bandwidth that the teleconferencing would use. The problems with using a standard satellite phone connection would be similar to using dial-up internet at home instead of broadband.
Thankfully we were recommended the BGAN unit, capable of broadband speeds, light and compact it was perfect for the expedition.

Addressing the evolving demands of our increasingly fast-paced, on-the-go, global world, Stratos introduces Broadband Global Area Network (BGAN) – a new mobile satellite service providing simultaneous high-speed data (up to 492 kbps) and voice connectivity that goes wherever life and business take you throughout the world.
View the full product brochure

Sunmodule SW50 Mono/R Solar Panel
This was the solar module recommended for our use.
The SW 50mono/R by SolarWorld offers an innovative module concept – with designs created specifically for off-grid applications.
High efficiency crystalline silicon cell technology; enhanced by new high quality antireflection coatings leads to an expectional performance. Easy installation is assured through the field-accessible junction box and 4 mounting holes and 2 grounding holes per product. This top-quality product represents the ideal solution for every application.
View the full product brochure

Plasmatronics 12V Battery Regulator
A simple two stage regulator for charging sealed or gel lead acid batteries from photovoltaic panels. It uses a rugged power mosfet and switches on the negative side.
View the full product brochure

PowerSonic PS-12280 12V 28AH Rechargeable Sealed Lead Acid Battery
- Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) technology for superior performance
- Valve regulated, spill proof construction allows safe operation in any position
- Power/volume ratio yielding unrivaled energy density
- Rugged impact resistant ABS case and cover (UL94-HB)
- Approved for transport by air. D.O.T., I.A.T.A., F.A.A. and C.A.B. certified
- U.L. recognized under file number MH 20845
View the full product brochure

Outdoor Equipment

Camping and Walking Equipment
Special thanks to Paddy Pallin for helping us with our outdoor equipment. The list is almost too long to mention it all, but some of the more important gear included; Walking Poles, Compact One Man Tent, Sleeping Mats, Dry Sack waterproof bags, Head Lamps, Dried Food, Sleeping Bag (0C Rated), Thermals and quality outdoor clothing (light, breathable and durable).

Boots
Of course, our footwear is Steel Blue boots - we wouldn't trust our feet in anything else!

Register your interest for the EiA3 Project