Sectorasm Data Entry Android Application for Fisheries Observer Data

The Fisheries Sampling Branch (FSB) provides training and certification for observers and at-sea monitors (ASMs) to collect commercial fishing related data while onboard trips in the New England multispecies groundfish fishery. Electronic data collected are uploaded within 48 hours of landing. Information is then edited and audited, loaded to an Oracle database and provided on a daily basis to NOAA’s Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office and sector managers. Currently, electronic data are collected using a data entry program, SectorASM. SectorASM is deployed on a Hewlett Packard iPAQ and a Windows Mobile emulator deployed on a Panasonic Toughbook. However, the HP iPAQs were discontinued in April of 2011 and the Panasonic Toughbook’s price tag exceeds $4,000.

The FSB has redesigned the SectorASM application; it is now a single, stand-alone native Android application that collects trip data and associated media. Android allows for a broader and cost-effective hardware selection, a modern touch interface and integrated database. SectorASM targets a tablet platform and utilizes integrated accessories, such as the GPS receiver and built-in camera, to encourage interactive data collection while capturing ancillary data in an error reduced, automated manner. Integrated Wi-Fi is used to facilitate timely transmission of the collected data upon landing.