My Equipment
My Phone
I now use the Ericsson R190 Satellite phone. The dual mode handset is specially designed to support the ACeS (ASIA Cellular Satellite) service, as well as roam on GSM networks worldwide. It offers exceptional voice clarity, weighing just over 200 grams, the Ericsson R190 is the world's smallest and lightest satellite/GSM dual mode phone. It was developed for people who work, travel and live in remote areas throughout Asia. It offers a 'one phone' solution with a satellite/GSM antenna that functions in both satellite and GSM 900 mode. Once out of cellular range, the phone automatically switches to satellite mode to send or receive, and switches back to GSM when in GSM coverage areas. You can also replace the satellite antenna with a smaller snap on GSM only antenna, which enables the phone to work as a regular cellular phone that can be used within GSM 900 coverage areas. This phone has been a lifeline and I'd recommend it to anyone who intends to visit the more remote parts of the planet or leave their life behind and begin a life of death and adventure.
My Laptop
Itronix GoBook: Performance Wireless Notebook Computer
Rugged Meets US MIL-STD 810e, IP54 compliant
Technical 700 MHz CPU, 10 GB HDD, 256 MB RAM
Display 12.1" SVGA Sunlight-readable Colour Touchscreen. Comms-Internal 56 Kbps Modem, Optional LAN, GSM, & Wireless LAN
Interfaces 1 x DB9 serial, 1 x Parallel, 1 x USB, 1 x Type III PCMCIA, speaker & microphone jacks and solataire.exe.
An Environmentally Sealed Rugged Laptop(ESRL), the GoBook is a fully rugged, waterproof and drop-proof laptop from Itronix, with a wireless optimised design for use with the latest communications networks around the world. The touchscreen operated laptop style computer incorporates the latest in PC technology. The hard disk drive is shock mounted, and all structural components are made from die-cast magnesium, making the GoBook tough enough to stand up to a 6ft drop. It's fully waterproof, has a glow-in-the-dark keyboard, an anti-glare filter on the display for ease of viewing outdoors, and a (4.25 hr) battery life. The GoBook is resistant to vibration and a docking station is available for in-vehicle use. My trusty Go-book has seen some pretty dicey times, but survived them all and is my best friend out here in the jungle and rainforest.
My Solar Cell
Probably the most specialised piece of equipment I use, I had it made especially.
It uses SunWize solar cells in a folding umbrella formation. They are treated to be water and impact resistant and are wired in parellel. I use System Doublers to link the panels and they are connected to a Multi-Volt Controller. My laptop can run straight from my solar umbrella in direct sunlight, though this can be hard to accomplish in the canopy and constant rain of the areas I explore, so I generally get about 2 and a half hours trickle charge from a days indirect light. It is also the least rugged piece of kit I use, but is also handy for scaring animals away, signalling, sleeping under and as an actual umbrella!
My Beloved Backpack
I use the North Face Galileo Travel Pack
Loaded with accommodating features for Himalayan treks, the Borneo jungle or the European rail system, the Galileo is designed for the world traveller. It features a Detachable day pack with adjustable shoulder straps, Ergonomic back panel air channel for ventilation and Locktite stainless steel cable integrated into pack suspension for security. It's as comfortable as a familiar lover and as useful as a handheld teleporter. It was available to buy at but it's very hard to find now, try the Gearzone site and click on Travel Packs for some alternatives, the Lowe Alpine World Traveller is one I'd recommend.
My Hat
A rugged, 100% cotton, NY Giants baseball cap with assorted stains (blood, sweat, tears, ketchup, monkey urine) and wear to the brim and top. While not the most durable, sensible or comfortable headgear for traversing the most inhospitable areas the earth has to offer, It is an old friend, lightweight and excellent for collecting fruit, trapping insects and swatting flies.
READ THE BACKPACKING DIARY OF MARLOWE BIDFORTH - CLICK HERE
