Operating System and Device Support

EDGE is designed for use both in the office on desktop or laptop computers, and in the field on tablet PCs, notebooks, or other field-ready devices. This document details third party devices that can be used in conjunction with EDGE.

Operating Systems

EDGE currently runs on Windows 10 and Windows 11 versions. EarthSoft recommends at least a 10-inch screen, for a better viewing experience. It is recommended that the device meet the following criteria:

•Minimum 2GB RAM

•Windows 10 or higher Operating System (OS)

•Microsoft .NET Framework 4.7.2 or higher

When selecting an OS, it is important to consider other software that may run on the field computer, in addition to EDGE. Make sure current datalogger software, logging apps and Microsoft Excel can also run on the field PC that is chosen for EDGE.

EDGE may also be operated from a removable drive, such as a USB flash drive or memory card. In such cases, ensure the device has at least 2GB of storage.

For more information regarding hardware and software requirements in EQuIS, please review the EQuIS 7 Hardware and System Requirements article.

Other Software Requirements

•Microsoft Visual Studio C++ Redistributable 2017

Devices

Tablets

Currently there are different categories of tablets on the market. Each of them has different features, specifications, and advantages to meet the user needs. Several rugged and consumer tablets are detailed below.

If EDGE is going to be used in an outdoor environment, EarthSoft recommends the device meet at least these four criteria:

•Daylight Readable Display (very important)

•IP54 Compliance for Dust and Water Protection

•Compliant with the MIL-STD-810 standard

•Long Battery Life

Rugged Devices

Rugged devices are ideal for field work as by design they have larger batteries for extended battery life, better visibility, are durable in harsh environments (i.e., rain, dust, or extreme temperatures) and yet offer high speed and performance. These productivity tools are generally higher priced than typical consumer tablets.

Consumer Tablets

If EDGE is running in the office or car, then a non-rugged device (e.g., Microsoft Surface) may be used.

GPS Sensors

GPS sensors can be used with EDGE to capture location specific information, including latitude/longitude coordinates and elevations.

Software Tip: If Windows is not detecting a Bluetooth GPS sensor, GPS Complete may assist in pairing the devices.

Barcode Scanners

Barcode scanners can be used to easily populate information into EDGE (e.g., scanning a sensor to capture sensor specific details).

Laser Rangefinders

Laser rangefinders can be used with EDGE to easily capture distances between visible landmarks.

EDGE Software Tip - Microsoft .NET Requirements: When EDGE starts, it will check for the required Microsoft .NET Framework. If it is not found, a warning prompt will appear and a download link to install the Framework will be provided. EDGE 6.5 and higher requires .NET Framework 4.7.2 or higher.

How to Determine if the Correct .NET Framework Version is Installed:

1.Click Start on the Windows desktop.

2.Select Control Panel.

3.Double-click Add or Remove Programs.

4.Search the list of applications for the appropriate version of the Microsoft .NET Framework. If listed, the version is already installed and does not need to be installed again.