Anyone have any experience in this arena? though I already have a garmin quest, I'm looking for a more advanced gps system that I can use for my expeditions. The quest will be demoted but still be used as a secondary device. Basically going to be looking at using the good ol maps + gps laptop + quest. Figure this should cover all of my bases outside of going old fashion w/ the compass and sundial
Based on the weeks of reading, this is what I've found so far:
Panasonic Toughbook CF-18,19,28,29
Itronix ix250,260 (hp nr3600)
Getac (looks to be very pricey on ebay)
What I want / to do:
GPS navigation
MP3 tunes!
DVD movies!
GPS Software I'm looking into:
Topo Fusion
Ozi Explorer
Google Earth
Delorme Topo USA
Other suggestions?
touch screen is a must!
backlit keyboard is good too!
bluetooth/usb2.0 would be nice too!
This laptop will be mounted either by the ram mount or similar type and must handle the rugged terrain. Mounting hardware and laptop must survive the wheeling abuse that it'll experience. Size and weight will be critical as if the screen is too big it may interefere the driver and/or navigator. I have already factored that I will need a screen mount/holder so it doesn't move as I wheel.
Mounting vendors:
Ram Mount
Ram Mount Ram Pod III
Jotto Desk
I did consider a carputer (or similar form) but came to a conclusion that having a laptop that I can disconnect and configure some way points for the next day away from the 4runner would be a big plus. There are some concerns w/ the rugged terrain on the carputer so that's more food for thought. Dust will be very excessive so the equipment must be very durable.
Would like some input on what kind of laptop used in relationship to the type of exploration trails encountered. Speed on the laptop when using gps software will be key as well since I don't want a slow working computer.
Thoughts, suggestions?
edit:
If I don't go this route I'm looking at the following gps units:
Garmin 276c
Lowrance iWay 500c/600c (unit comes w/ HD which is concerning due to the vibration from the vehicle in offroad terrains)
Lowrance Baja 480c
...
it's madness!