1676 uses 6 laptops for scouting (one scout to a team, each with a laptop) that are hardwired (no wi-fi
) to a router.That in turn is connected to the central "admin" computer, where someone double-checks basic information (who won, who lost, score, etc... - it's crazy just how often scouts mess up the simple stuff) and ensures each scout has submitten their record.
Scouts input data into a web page (coded in PHP) local to the server computer, and each record is submitted to the central database (which can print out the records for up to 3 teams on one form - perfect for gathering alliance data). These sheets can be printed out on the printer we have with us.
Additionally, this year we used a 900 MHz transmitter to send the data between the stands and the pits (no, it doesn't violate any rules, that's why we chose it - it's really useful when a team sponsor's company sets up wireless networks
) so that we could access the database on the computer and monitor down there.
It's definitely quite an elaborate setup - we do require power cords in the stands, and have never had problems setting them up at regionals we've attended (NJ '07-'10, Palmetto in '06 and '09, Buckeye in '07, GTR in '08, VCU in '10, and Champs '07-'10). We're always very careful about taping the cords down to the corners of the wall & floor so no one trips on them, and only use one of the arena outlets. At least at NJ, I can attest that we're not the only ones using this setup - multiple other teams have scouting desks in the stands.
[shameless plug] If anyone is interested in using our intraweb scouting system (it can be run with just one laptop - the admin comp woud just input whatever was written down onto paper sheets by the scouts), PM me and I'll help work with the team to get you set up with it. [/shameless plug]