MagSurvey runs on a modern PC running Windows 2000, Windows XP, Vista, or later editions. Since real-time 3D graphics require a lot of processing power, the processor should have an operating speed of 750 MHz or higher. The PC must have a color display having a resolution of at least 1024 by 768 pixels (sometimes called XGA).  Recommendations are to set color depth to 24 bits or higher.

For hand-carried land surveys, consider a Tablet PC, such as those available from Acer, Fujitsu, HP/Compaq, Motion Computing, Toshiba, ViewSonic, and others.

The PC must either have two serial ports available to make external connections to the GPS and magnetometer, or one or two USB ports with appropriate USB-RS232 adapters. Most laptop computers will need to have at least one serial port added, using either a PCMCIA (PC-Card) serial port module, or an external docking station having a second serial port.  Most TabletPCs will need either two USB-RS232 adapters or PCMCIA RS232 adapters.

Serial PCMCIA modules have been available from Cyber Research (800-341-2525), Industrial Computer Source (800-523-2320), Mobile Planet (800-675-2638), and Quatech (800-553-1170). The Socket Communications, Inc. MP540103 from Mobile Planet, www.mobileplanet.com, is a somewhat ruggedized single-channel card with a permanently-attached cable. An attached cable is preferred for high vibration situations.

If audio alarms are desired, a speaker or headphone will be required. The sound-system components also allow audible operator cues to be heard.

MagSurvey is demanding of computer resources -- it is recommended that the user not allow other software to run during surveying operations. Disable sleep modes for the computer and video display when running surveys with MagSurvey (PC control panel Power Options).  Hard-drive sleep modes are permissible, since the hard drive is only used for software installation, storage of survey data, and reloading of prior surveys.