Netbook, VMSPC & GPS Application?

[RickO]

After 9 months of full timing I'm actually putting a dent in my coach wish list. Next week we'll get our second laptop so DW and I will each have our own on Ram mounts on either side of our sofa linked to our Cradlepoint.

That will free up DWs HP netbook for me to mount it on our dash using her existing Ram mount. I plan to use it for VMSPC and would like to replace our Tom Tom GPS with a PC based application. I'll probably replace my dash mounted iPod with it too but that'll come later. Most of what I've found on the forum is a bit dated so I wanted to see what the current status is of two items:

1) Will Silverleaf VMSPC have full functionality with new model Allison transmissions? I've read there were some issues a couple of years ago.

2) What's the current thinking on the best PC based GPS application?

All insights will be appreciated.

Thanks,

rick

[paulb4333]

We are happy with using MS streets and trips with a GPS receiver on a Netbook. Works great. Be sure your speaker on the laptop is loud enough.

We run it beside VMSPC split screen and it works well. As another suggestion, I use gadwin print screen to take screenshots of the VMSPC at appropriate times. (just punch one key and I do it by feel so I don't have to look away from the road)
It's very useful to have a snapshot of what your engine is doing, for example, going up a steep grade. Much easier to understand than the log.

We also use a Garmin GPS at the same time, because we have it, and because it's easier for the DW to enter and search for info, without moving the laptop.

There are also many times when the units don't agree on a route and it gives us more to consider.

Good luck!

Paul

[texnet]

I currently use a Garmin 7500 GPS but will soon be changing to the Garmin Mobile PC with 20X GPS. I chose the GMPC program due to the fact that I like Garmin maps and believe they keep them more current than others and I am installing it on a RVputer with touch screen. The touch screen adaptation of the GMPC program is very close to the Garmin 7500 interface and my DW is comfortable with it.

[Mafiaman]

I used MS St. & trips this weekend, 14" screen set up on the dash.
Ray Charles could have followed this thing.

The down side to MS St. & trips is you can't snatch it up with one hand.
Changes and set up needs to be done in park gear. DW is electronic gizmo anti-Christ.

[RickO]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mafiaman I used MS St. & trips this weekend, 14" screen set up on the dash. Ray Charles could have followed this thing. The down side to MS St. & trips is you can't snatch it up with one hand. Changes and set up needs to be done in park gear. DW is electronic gizmo anti-Christ.

Thanks Mafiaman but what do you mean the "changes and set up needs to be done in park gear"? How does it know if I'm in park? My coach doesn't even have a park.

[Mafiaman]

Sorry, What I meant was you should not try to enter information while driving.
Laptop is to big for one handed operation.

[RickO]

Gotcha... DW is the navigator and chief of data entry

[wkdwitch]

Mafiaman I feel your pain. My Dh must be a close relative of your DW.....pc poison on two feet. I like the 'talking' streets feature for just that reason. DH thinks pan out is for cooking!

[denochs]

Quote:

Originally Posted by wkdwitch Mafiaman I feel your pain. My Dh must be a close relative of your DW.....pc poison on two feet. I like the 'talking' streets feature for just that reason. DH thinks pan out is for cooking!

Pan out for cooking That's the best one I've heard in a while.

Dave