TDS Ranger

Getting Started Guide

TM

TRIPOD DATA SYSTEMS

A T R I M B L E C O M PA N Y
w w w. t d s w a y. c o m
Limited Warranty & Liability Limitations
This product and accessories are limited warranted against defects in
materials and workmanship for twelve (12) months from the original
date of purchase. If notice is received of such defects during the limited
warranty period, the proven defective product(s) will either be repaired
or replaced, at the manufacturer’s option. Replacement products may be
either new or like new.
The manufacturer does not warrant that the operation of the products will
be uninterrupted or error free. If the product is not, within a reasonable
time, repaired or replaced to a condition as limited warranted, the
customer will be entitled to a refund of the purchase price upon prompt
return of the product.
Limited warranty does not apply to defects resulting from (a) improper
or inadequate maintenance or calibration, (b) software, interfacing, parts,
or supplies not supplied by manufacturer, (c) unauthorized modification,
or misuse, (d) operation outside of the published environmental
specifications for the product, or (e) physical damage due to external
causes, including accident, abuse, misuse or problems with electrical
power. Removal of the backcase voids the limited warranty. There
are important seals that will break and the Ranger will no longer be
waterproof.
To the extent allowed by local law, the above limited warranties are
exclusive and no other warranty or condition, whether written or oral,
is expressed or implied, specifically disclaiming any implied warranties
or conditions of merchantability, satisfactory quality, and fitness for a
particular purpose.
To the extent allowed by local law, the remedies in this limited
warranty statement are the customer’s sole and exclusive remedies.
Except as indicated above, in no event will the manufacturer or its
suppliers be liable for loss of data or for direct, special, incidental,
consequential (including lost profit or data), or other damage,
whether based in contract, tort, or otherwise.
 Your Ranger
Accessory
Mounting Screws

On/Off Key

Enter

Alt

Control

Escape - cancels the

current task

Shift - activates
functions shown
above key.

Spacebar

Microphone

Shortcut keys
Activate Display Light CE 3.0 [Shift] + [On]
CE .NET Tap touch screen
Display Contrast (Monochrome only) [Alt] + [.] or [Alt] + [,]
Right Mouse Click [Alt] + stylus tap
Soft Reset [Shift] + [Ctrl] + [On/Off]
Hard Reset Hold down [On/Off] key for 10 seconds.
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Getting Started
Using your Ranger for the first time
1. Assemble the AC adapter as shown.
2. Connect the adapter to the AC jack on your Ranger.
3. Turn on the Ranger and allow the unit to
continue to charge while you calibrate the
touch screen, set up the date and time, and
start using your unit. A Ranger typically
requires 3 hours to fully charge the battery.

Calibration of Touch Screen

In order for the Ranger to function properly, make sure to calibrate
your touchscreen. Go to Start / Settings / Control Panel. Double-tap
on the Stylus icon.

Use the Double-Tap tab to customize the stylus settings.

Tap on the Calibration

tab. (Keyboard shortcut:
[Ctrl]+[Alt]+[+]). Use a stylus
to recalibrate the touchscreen.
Follow instructions on the
screen. As you tap the crosses,
be sure to touch the screen
firmly with your stylus.

Changing Display Light Settings

Go to your Control Panel and double-tap the Display icon. In the
Display Properties window, tap on the Backlight tab. Change the
settings to fit your Ranger usage.

To optimize battery usage in Windows® CE .NET, disable “Auto on

with keys and touch.”

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Your Operating System
Your Ranger uses an OS called Windows CE, a version of Windows
adapted for your Ranger. Your unit may be running one of two
versions of Windows CE: CE 3.0 or CE .NET. In certain sections of
this guide, you will find two sets of instructions/icons, the first for
CE .NET, the second for CE 3.0. Otherwise, you may assume the
instructions to be valid for both OS versions.

Memory
Your Ranger has two kinds of memory: the RAM and the Compact
Flash (CF) card. RAM is volatile; if deprived of power, the contents
of RAM are erased. This process is similar to what happens on your
desktop computer when you restart it. The Ranger OS includes a
RAM backup utility which automatically backs up RAM contents to
the CF card during a reset or battery replacement.

The CF card is non-volatile, and protects valuable data and software

programs against loss. Note the file structure of your Ranger: all
files stored on your CF card are located in the Disk folder. We
recommend that all data and software programs be stored in this
folder.

RAM and Memory allocations

To look at the allocation of memory on your Ranger, go to the
Control Panel, double-tap on the System icon..

The General tab allows you to

see the allocation of memory
between “Memory” (RAM) and
“Disk” (CF card). The Memory
tab allows you to look at RAM
memory segmentation between
programs and storage:

You may move the memory slider bar towards the left to allocate
additional memory to programs. We recommend that you leave
at least 500 KB of storage memory free for use by the operating
system.

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Resetting your Ranger
When you desire to reset your Ranger you have one of two options,
a soft reset or a hard reset.

Soft reset [Shift]+[Ctrl]+[On/Off]

A soft reset leaves the RAM intact, but stops all running programs.
It is the preferred method for dealing with lockups and will clear all
but the most severe system freezes.
Hard reset Hold down the On/Off button for 10 seconds.
Similar to restarting your desktop computer, a hard reset erases the
RAM. The Ranger backs up the data in RAM onto the system folder
on the flash disk (found under Disk\System).

Setting Date/Time
Double-tap the time in your system tray:

Set the date, time and time zone in the Date/Time Properties
window. Tap “Apply” to save the changes, and tap “OK” to exit.

Connecting to your PC
I/O Ports
Serial COM1 Multi-function Port
Pin 1 Pin 5 Pin 1 Pin 9
IR

AC
Pin 6 Pin 9 Pin 10 Pin 19 Pin 26 Pin 18
1: DCD 1: DTR com2 10: Mic Mute 19: LAN traffic
2: RX 2: CTS com2 11: RTS com2 20: +5V
3: TX 3: DSR com2 12: TX com2 21: RX com2
4: DTR 4: DCD com2 13: Mic GND 22: Audio out
5: GND 5: RI com2 14: Mic 23: GND
6: DSR 6: GND 15: GND 24: Charge +
7: RTS 7: Reserved 16: ERX- 25: ERX+
8: CTS 8: Reserved 17: ETX- 26: ETX+
9: RI 9: USB+ 18: USB-

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Connecting via the Serial Port
Use the 9-pin null modem cable, included with your Ranger, to
connect the COM1 port of your Ranger to the serial port of your
PC.

Connecting via USB or RJ-45 (Ethernet)

A multiport adaptor is available from Tripod Data Systems (P/N:
RGRDOWNLOADBDL). This adaptor permits you to connect
the multifunction port of your Ranger to either the USB port, the
Ethernet card on your PC and a charging port.

Connecting via Infrared port

Connect to your desktop via an IrDA compatible device (connector/
dongle), readily available in retail. Most laptop computers have
an IR port that you may use to connect to your Ranger or to use to
connect Ranger to Ranger.

Data/File Transfer
The preloaded software on your Ranger may support data transfer
between the Ranger and other platforms. If no data transfer software
is supplied with the software you are using, then you can use
Microsoft® ActiveSync®. The PC-side version is available at http:
//www.microsoft.com. For further instruction on connecting your
Ranger to your PC using ActiveSync, refer to the TDS Support
website. (http://www.tdsway.com/support). For instruction on
connecting via other applications, refer to your software user
guides.

Software Programs for the Ranger

The only programs that will run on your Ranger are those
compatible with Windows CE 2.12, 3.0, CE .NET or HPC2000. You
cannot run programs designed for Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP
or other Windows Mobile platforms, like the Pocket PC.

Installing Additional Software on your Ranger

Use ActiveSync to connect the Ranger by USB to the desktop
computer where the program that you want to install resides.

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 On your PC, double-click the Setup.exe or Install.exe to launch
the installation wizard. When prompted by ActiveSync to “Use the
default application install path?”, answer “No”. Then select “Disk”
from the dropdown list of available installation paths.

If prompted by the installation wizard, perform a soft reset (See

Memory section of this guide).

NOTE: Some Windows programs do not incorporate an automated

installation routine. In this case, copy the executable file directly
onto the disk folder on the Ranger.

Caring for your Ranger

Changing the Battery
Note: To obtain a replacement battery, contact your dealer.
1. Before changing the battery, close all applications and save data.
Changing batteries has no effect on programs
and data on the flash disk. (See Memory)
2. Remove the handstrap from the battery door as
shown.

3. Using a screwdriver, completely loosen the four

screws on the battery door and remove the battery
door.
4. Using the strap attached to the battery pack,
remove the battery from
the battery compartment.

5. Disconnect the battery from the white

plug by pulling firmly on both halves
of the connector. Do not pull on the
wires!
6. Connect the replacement battery to the white plug.
7. Insert the battery into the compartment with the wires tucked
in the compartment to keep them from getting pinched in the
battery door.
8. Replace the battery door and tighten the four screws.
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Cleaning the Case
Clean with a soft cloth dampened with either water or diluted mild
detergent. If the keyboard has dirt or grime on it, use compressed air
or a vacuum cleaner, or gently rinse with clean water. Do not put
the Ranger in the dishwasher.

Care of Touch Screen

Abrasives are the enemy of touch screens. Keep the touch screen
clean using a soft cloth dampened either with clean water or glass
cleaner. Do not apply any cleaner directly to the display. Apply the
cleaner to the cloth and then gently wipe the display. Do not use
any abrasive cleaners.

Applying Screen Protectors

Use the screen protectors included with the Ranger to keep the
touch screen clean and protected. To apply a screen protector, first
clean the display thoroughly. Peel the backing from the screen
protector. Align the edge, then drop the remainder onto the display.
Use a credit card, if necessary, to squeegee the air from underneath
the screen protector.

Temperature Range
Although the Ranger is designed to be rugged, do not leave it in
direct sunlight for extended periods.
Low High
Storage Temperature -30°C (-22°F) 60°C (140°F)
Operating Temperature -25°C (-13°F) 60°C (140°F)

Shock
The Ranger is designed to resist damage for drops up to 122 cm/4
ft. However, you should protect the display from impact, pressure,
or abrasive substances that can scratch it or cause it to crack.

Water
The Ranger is designed to withstand accidental immersion. After
replacing the battery, ensure that the battery door screws are secured
tightly. Removal of backcase screws could cause leakage, thereby
voiding warranty.
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Hardware Specifications
Feature Ranger
Processor Intel StrongARM SA-1110, 133 or 206
MHz
Memory 64 MB low-power SDRAM
Storage 32 - 1024 MB non-volatile flash disk
Screen 1/4 VGA transflective monochrome LCD
or reflective color LCD
Touch Screen Passive - 87% transmissivity
Keyboard 57 key tactile action
9-Pin serial port RS232 COM1
26-Pin MultiPort RS232 COM2, Ethernet 10BaseT, USB
client, power in/out and audio in/out
Infrared IrDA Type1 COM3
Audio Integrated speaker and microphone
Batteries NiMH rechargeable pack, 3800 mAH,
18.5 W-h, 4.8 V
AC Adaptor Line voltage: 100 - 240 V AC 47-63 Hz

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Control Panel
A few interesting features....
Communications: CE 3.0 only. Rename your
Ranger (ex: Pat’s Ranger) and modify the
connection with your desktop computer.

Dialing: Specify the country code, area code and

specific dialing requirements for your location.

Display: Change the background image, the color

scheme, and the backlight settings for your display.

Network and Dial-up Connections: CE.net only.

Set up network and dial-up connections.

Network: CE 3.0 only. Access the properties

of your network adaptors and set the user name,
password and domain for network access.

Owner: Enter your name and company

information. You may choose to display this
information when powering on your Ranger.

Password: Set passwords for the system and

determine when your Ranger will prompt user for a
password.

PC Connections: CE.net only. Modify connection

with your desktop computer.

Power: Track battery levels and adjust power off

features.

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Safe Use of your Ranger
Ranger Repair
Please do not attempt to dismantle your Ranger for repair. There are
no user-serviceable parts inside. For service, please contact your
local dealer or Tripod Data Systems for assistance.

Battery Safety
• To reduce the risk of fire or burns, do not disassemble, mutilate,
or puncture battery pack. There are no user-serviceable parts
inside.
• Handle a damaged or leaking battery with extreme care. If your
skin comes in contact with the electrolyte, wash the exposed area
with soap and water. If it contacts the eye, flush the eye with
water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
• Do not expose the battery pack to high storage temperatures
above 60° C (140° F) for extended periods.
• Do not charge the battery pack if the ambient temperature
exceeds 40° C (104° F) or is below 0°C (32° F).
• Contact your local waste disposal provider regarding the disposal
or recycling of the battery pack.
AC Adaptor Safety
• Use only AC adaptors intended for the Ranger. Using any other
AC adaptor may damage your product and may void your
warranty.
• AC adaptors are designed for indoor use only. Avoid using the
AC adaptor in wet outdoor areas.
• Unplug the AC adaptor from power when not in use.
• Do not short the output connector.

Power Cords
The AC adaptor requires an input power cord. The cord needs to
match the plug and voltage requirements for your local area. If it
does not, or if you are traveling to another country, please contact
your dealer for the appropriate power cord.

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Infrared LED Safety
The infrared port located on the back panel of the Ranger is
classified as a Class 1 LED (light-emitting diode) device according
to International Standard IEC 825-1 (EN60825-1). This device
is not considered harmful, but the following precautions are
recommended:
• If it needs servicing, contact your dealer.
• Do not attempt to make any adjustments to the LED.
• Avoid direct eye exposure to the infrared LED beam. Be aware
that the beam is invisible light.
• Do not attempt to view the infrared LED beam with any type of
optical device.
Regulatory Information
U.S.A.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits
for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference when the equipment is used in a commercial
or residential environment. This equipment generates, uses and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not used in accordance with
the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications.
Operation of this equipment is subject to the following two
conditions:
(1) The device may not cause harmful interference.
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.
Canada
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for
radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the
radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department of
Communications.
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques
dépassant les limites applicables aux appareils numériques
de Classe B prescrites dans le règlement sur le brouillage
radioélectrique édicté par le Ministère des Communications du
Canada.
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Declaration of Conformity
Europe
According to ISO / IEC Guide 22 and EN 45014
Manufacturer’s Name: Tripod Data Systems, Inc.

Manufacturer’s Address: 345 SW Avery Ave.

Corvallis, OR 97333
USA

Declares, under our sole responsibility, that the product:

Product Name: Field Data Collector

Model Number: Ranger
Product Options: All

conforms to the following Product Specifications:

Safety: EN 60950: 1992 +A1,A2,A3,A4,A11
EN 60825-1:1997 Class 1 for LED’s
EMC: EN 55022: 1998 Class B, EN 55024: 1998
EN 61000-4-2, EN 61000-4-3
EN 61000-4-4, EN 61000-4-5
EN 61000-4-6, EN 61000-4-8
EN 61000-4-11*, EN 61000-3-2: 1995**
EN 61000-3-3: 1995

Supplementary Information:
The product herewith complies with the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive
73/23/EEC, amended by 93/68/EEC and the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC, amended
by 93/68/EEC. In addition to meeting the above EMC requirements during system test,
the AC Adapter provided with this product has been certified to IEC 60950 +A1,A2,
A3, A4, A11.
*Product is battery powered.
** Product has less than 20-Watts active input power.

Corvallis, OR USA
March 20, 2001 Dennis C. York, Division Manager

Caution:
Approved accessories only may be used with this equipment.
In general, all cables must be high quality, shielded, correctly
terminated, and normally restricted to two meters in length. AC
adaptors approved for this product employ special provisions to
avoid radio interference and should not be altered or substituted.

Unapproved modifications or operations beyond or in conflict with

these instructions for use may void authorization by the authorities
to operate the equipment.

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Reference Materials
Ranger support (TDS):
email: [email protected]
http://www.tdsway.com/support

Microsoft Windows:
http://microsoft.com

©2004 Tripod Data Systems, Inc. Tripod Data Systems, the TDS triangle logo, and
Ranger are trademarks of Tripod Data Systems. Other brand names and trademarks are
property of their respective owners. Color display images shown may vary slightly from
actual display. Specifications subject to change.
 Tripod Data Systems
345 SW Avery Avenue
Corvallis, OR 97333
541-753-9322
www.tdsway.com
Data subject to change.
Edition 02/14/2005 Rev. D
Printed in the USA