Small and affordable Windows tablet featuring USB port.
Small and affordable Windows tablet featuring USB port.
Hi,
I'm searching for a compact tablet with a full USB port that supports Windows or macOS. It should work as a handheld display for an Apogee SQ-520 Par Sensor. The required software must run on Windows or macOS, and I want something small and affordable—preferably used secondhand from sites like Amazon or eBay. I have limited experience with Windows tablets or portable devices, and I understand Apogee's requirements about needing a USB adapter. The smaller the device, the better it is.
Well, you won't find a macOS tablet since Apple would gladly offer you an iPad for that need. Still, I'll include the Microsoft Surface Go 3. There are numerous other 10" Windows tablets available on Amazon, but I believe the Go 3 stands out as the best option if you're seeking something reasonably priced for basic data collection. If durability is important, there are also many cases available.
Thanks for the feedback.
It seems both options have a full-sized USB port, but the price is quite steep. It might be more economical to purchase a version of the Apogee sensor that includes a handheld screen, which would add around $250 compared to the USB sensor and a Windows tablet.
I’ll check for used items matching your suggestions and let you know what I find.
Appreciate the input.
Could you clarify what you mean by "actual budget for this"? I'm here to help with whatever you need.
For the tablet? Or the entire system?
The USB sensor would set me around $550, specifically the Apogee SQ-520.
However, it needs a computer running macOS or Windows. I own a laptop, but it’s not ideal to hold the sensor while positioning it under the light with another hand. I also have an older, heavier laptop that could be placed on a stool or chair, but I’d prefer to hold the screen instead.
The sensor that comes with a small meter or display would be about $800, the Apogee MQ-500.
Prices are in Canadian dollars.
For the tablet, an Asus transformer or comparable model is available for $250 to $300.
I recently purchased an SQ-420X from BRS and successfully connected it using my wife's apple laptop, which only has USB-C ports. I managed to use her multi-USB dongle without any problems, which suggests that Apogee's claims about incompatibility with adapters might be wrong. I also downloaded their Android app, but haven't had a chance to test it yet—it seems more suited for Bluetooth devices at first. Additionally, I created an account just to address your question while searching for more information about the Apogee software.
Hi.
Thank you for taking the time to create an account and respond to my post. I appreciate it.
It’s reassuring to know you achieved success with the usb-c to full size USB adapter dongle. I’m guessing there might be a unique aspect involved—something distinct from a typical setup that wouldn’t normally pair with full size USB accessories, such as a phone?—especially concerning the USB-C port on a laptop like a MacBook. Given that this device must support numerous peripherals and accessories that require full size USB connectors, I suspect it needs a USB-C port configured to handle the necessary internal connections when an adapter is connected.
I hope this makes sense, and I’m not certain if my understanding is correct.
The Android app won’t function. I attempted it just to test, though. It’s designed for Bluetooth and works with an expensive Apogee Bluetooth dongle. I own a Galaxy phone that supports USB OTG, which permits full size USB devices like keyboards or microscopes when using an OTG adapter. I tried that, assuming it wouldn’t work since there’s no Apogee Connect app for Android—only Bluetooth support for the Apogee BT dongle.
I believe it shouldn’t be too complicated for Apogee to develop an Android version of the Apogee Connect software, but perhaps they’re reluctant to do so. Being able to simply connect this USB sensor to my Android phone would be incredibly convenient.
I really wish I didn’t have to carry a laptop around and set it up in different places. I was certain there would be a relatively affordable, Windows-based handheld device that could serve this purpose. Even if it’s possible to install Windows, I wouldn’t want it to be complicated or invasive.
So you’re offering this:
https://www.apogeeinstruments.com/sq-420...sb-output/
?
I think you’re using it for an aquarium, perhaps? It would only be needed nearby, with a laptop close by.
Thanks again.