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Old 11-08-2004, 11:38 PM   #12
GizmoQ
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Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: St Louis
Vehicle: Several
Posts: 1,326
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Good alternatives to conventional CarPC's

I'm usually just a lurker in these threads. I'm trying to learn more about the different front-ends, but you finally hit upon a subject I'm familiar with. I have built over half dozen custon installations of tablet PC for several people and the main reason for the selection of the tablet is transportability for most. Personnally I have had every Fujitsu from the 1200 to the 4400. (Currently prefer the 3500 in my cars). Many of these installations are for less than expert computerists that need the tablets out of the vehicle to sit down and develop routes. A couple live in bad neighborhoods and want to remove the temptation from would-be passers-by, and lastly for me, I use the same tablet in all four of my cars - one computer, four mini docks and assundr peripherals - lots cheaper than 4 carputers. And since I travel extensively, sometimes I need to run my system in a rental car - same tablet with USB GPS, auto adapter, and cassette adapter.

I also like the idea of being able to tacke the tablet out of the car and into my classes and take paperless notes. I even have the bluetooth, 802.11, and sprintcard for network and internet. What other computer do I really need. I was dissappointed with Fujitsu when the got rid of the line in since the 2300 but have developed worarounds for most issues. Working right now on getting my PPC tied into it for handsfree phone usage through the tablet mic and speakers.

You talk about a low cost solution, I've looked at many of the installations pictured on these forums and I will admit I'm not into 1000W stereos and xbox/playstation integration for car shows and the like, but I'd match my installation cost against any other and when you compare the features a tablet PC is easier to instal and maintain and allows for other usses as well. Its all a matter of priorities.

Written on my Tablet PC while watching the sunset from my pool lounger (beer in hand) using long range 802.11 card and no wires .
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