Abstract: A client-client-server computer network includes a portable computer (client) connectable by a data link to a desktop computer (client) which transmits data through an offline batching data link to a host or system server (server) for the electronic collection, processing, and analyzing of agricultural data generated through the operation of a farm. A plurality of client-client computer sub-networks, one for each of a plurality of farms, is anticipated for connection through an offline, batching data link to a single system server such that a master data base may be assembled of data for many farms. Real time, same growing season, analyses and reports may be generated for use by any individual farmer from this master data base. The portable computer includes a nested display driven software for a graphic user interface computer, such as a Personal Digital Assistant, to simplify the data entry process.

Abstract: A handheld graphic user interface (GUI) personal digital assistant (PDA) computer is coupled to a GPS/dGPS receiver module which is also compact in size to provide for the collection of data associated with position information. Additional features provided by the stored program in the PDA include a nested set of menus for pre-organizing data collection, navigational functions to permit a user to navigate to a desired location with audio and visual feedback, mapping capability, overlay generation functions which further organize and display the collective data, etc. A full host of functionality provided by a geographical information system (GIS) software package are not provided due to the limited processor performance capability and memory space but only data collection data and mapping display and generation capabilities as selected for implementation of the desired functions.