I was born in 1984 and it wasn’t until the late 80s early 90s that I really became interested in cartoons.  Inspector Gadget was a favorite of mine and my brother.  That guy really did have everything he needed at his fingertips.  His life, or detective life, was made so simple because of a handful of creative gadgets.  Looking back, it almost seems like the creators had a crystal ball looking into 2011.  Now, it seems like everyday, engineers and creators all over the world are coming out with the next best gadget.  I would like to quickly share with you three gadgets that have made my turf life much simpler.

The iPad:

This device is one of the most essential tools for the Golf Course Superintendent.  I know I don’t need to elaborate on reasons for most of you, but it has helped me tremendously since I got one for my birthday back in January.  The app store allows for so much to be accomplished on one little tablet.  Scheduling, weather forecasting, application recording, idea collaboration, and even irrigation running and programming are all done from the iPad.  The best app for me has been LogMeIn Ignition.  This allows me to connect to my Rainbird Irrigation Central and run any head in the field.  It also allows me to program, add stations, delete stations, change stations and run times from anywhere I have WiFi or 3G capability.  It has easily increased my personal efficiency by at least 50%.  Other essential apps have been Evernote, WritePad, Calendars, Intellicast HD, and Dropbox.  If you are familiar with the iPad, download them and take a look.  I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.

ZaggMate Case/keyboard:

There is really not a whole lot that needs to be said about this awesome accessory for the iPad except, buy it!   It is crafted with military grade aluminum, ensuring extra protection.

It has a hard bluetooth qwerty keyboard built-in, allowing for quick typing and comfort.  Check it out here: http://www.zagg.com/accessories/logitech-ipad-2-keyboard-case?gclid=CMmGxtWRzKkCFeVx5QodCE3RPQ.

Cinemin Swivel:

Have those troubling board meetings to attend each week or month?  Still unsure about how to get your points across without holding an on-course field trip with your entire membership or ownership?  This little gadget is perfect.  This is actually a pocket projector from Wowwee.  It is the size of an iPhone and comes with a little carrying case and adapters for a PC, laptop, or iPad/iPhone.  Its ideal partner is the iPad, but that’s only for extra convenience.  I just got this device for Father’s day, and I haven’t had a real chance to use it to its fullest capability.  I know its going to be perfect for meetings, intern education sessions, college lectures, and even movies in the shop (during snow storms of course).  Check it out here: http://www.wowwee.com/en/products/tech/projection/cinemin/swivel

Thanks for checking out this post!  Hopefully these gadgets will help you just as much as they have helped me.  Email me at jvbturf@gmail.com with any questions.

-Jason VanBuskirk, Superintendent