Netbook / Laptop Mounts for Cars and Trucks
Has anyone tried mounting their netbook on one of these Manfrotto Magic Arm Vehicle Mounting Kits?
Manfrotto Magic Arm Vehicle Kit
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For safety, the arm should not be used while the vehicle is in motion.
Manfrotto is being smart when they are right up front with that warning.
The big issue is not when the vehicle is in motion. The big problem occurs when a vehicle in motion encounters another object and very quickly ceases to be in motion or the direction of motion changes in an instant.
When you have an accident, the forces on things inside a vehicle can be immense. You should be concerned and check any mounting system to see if it is robust enough to hold something as heavy and potentially lethal as a netbook or laptop firmly in place in a crash.
Any system with those ball joints will not likely be able to hold even a light netbook or tablet solidly in a collision. No matter how much you tighten those joints they are likely to slip if the forces on them are large. So, even if the computer stays in the tray holder, it still could go whipping around on the arm and hit someone. Or the arm could come completely apart, allowing the computer to become a missile.
Good for Manfrotto for not hiding the warning in the fine print.
...ken...
The big issue is not when the vehicle is in motion. The big problem occurs when a vehicle in motion encounters another object and very quickly ceases to be in motion or the direction of motion changes in an instant.
When you have an accident, the forces on things inside a vehicle can be immense. You should be concerned and check any mounting system to see if it is robust enough to hold something as heavy and potentially lethal as a netbook or laptop firmly in place in a crash.
Any system with those ball joints will not likely be able to hold even a light netbook or tablet solidly in a collision. No matter how much you tighten those joints they are likely to slip if the forces on them are large. So, even if the computer stays in the tray holder, it still could go whipping around on the arm and hit someone. Or the arm could come completely apart, allowing the computer to become a missile.
Good for Manfrotto for not hiding the warning in the fine print.
...ken...
Thanks to JW for posting the Manfrotto Arm Vehicle Kit
I'm the owner of Aileron Designs and thought this would be a good opportunity to introduce myself, since we're the ones selling the kit. GPS use on netbooks is one of the main reasons we decided to market our Minimount product line. The Manfrotto Magic Arm is just one of the ways we offer to mount a netbook into vehicles using the Minimount case. The Minimount system is compatible with RAM mounts as well.
The Manfrotto idea is to be able to quickly mount a netbook and use it in vehicles with the flexibility to position the thing exactly where you want it to be. The arm itself comes in and out quickly, as well so you don't need to have a bunch of excess hardware hanging around when you don't want it to be there.
In most vehicle applications the seat rail bracket and Magic Arm are very sturdy. This actually depends much more on the chassis and seat attachment than it does the mount hardware. Ken's comments on safety are spot on. The caution is really not about the arm not being strong enough to support the computer, it's about the unpredictable nature of accidents. Of course, we don't want you typing and using computers while driving either. Safety first and everything that means, which really should be a bigger thing with all GPS users.
If you do choose to leave the netbook mounted while moving, you may potentially enhance both safety and stability by keeping the netbook down in the vehicle. Position the arm with Minimount attached so it is low in the passenger area, either resting at or just above the seat, or just beyond the console.
Feel free to post interesting questions about mounting, and I'll be happy to chime in.
I'm the owner of Aileron Designs and thought this would be a good opportunity to introduce myself, since we're the ones selling the kit. GPS use on netbooks is one of the main reasons we decided to market our Minimount product line. The Manfrotto Magic Arm is just one of the ways we offer to mount a netbook into vehicles using the Minimount case. The Minimount system is compatible with RAM mounts as well.
The Manfrotto idea is to be able to quickly mount a netbook and use it in vehicles with the flexibility to position the thing exactly where you want it to be. The arm itself comes in and out quickly, as well so you don't need to have a bunch of excess hardware hanging around when you don't want it to be there.
In most vehicle applications the seat rail bracket and Magic Arm are very sturdy. This actually depends much more on the chassis and seat attachment than it does the mount hardware. Ken's comments on safety are spot on. The caution is really not about the arm not being strong enough to support the computer, it's about the unpredictable nature of accidents. Of course, we don't want you typing and using computers while driving either. Safety first and everything that means, which really should be a bigger thing with all GPS users.
If you do choose to leave the netbook mounted while moving, you may potentially enhance both safety and stability by keeping the netbook down in the vehicle. Position the arm with Minimount attached so it is low in the passenger area, either resting at or just above the seat, or just beyond the console.
Feel free to post interesting questions about mounting, and I'll be happy to chime in.
Is this the same Manfrotto that makes tripods? If so, great products! I have one that I have used for over 20 years. It's been though hell - lots of sand, salt water, lakes, leaves, dirt.
BTW, your web site (www.netbookmounts.com) appears to be down - can't display page.
BTW, your web site (www.netbookmounts.com) appears to be down - can't display page.
Yes, it is the same Manfrotto. We are a dealer for their products and adapted the Magic Arm for vehicle use. It is a fantastic product.
Site works just fine for me. Are you using a browser with flash installed? Sorry you had a problem. i'd like to know more about that. Can't afford to lose customers. That's for sure.
Site works just fine for me. Are you using a browser with flash installed? Sorry you had a problem. i'd like to know more about that. Can't afford to lose customers. That's for sure.
I was at work...so who knows! Page wouldn't load at all. IE7 at work does have Flash installed though. At home now and it's working fine!
I'm looking for a system that can easily be used in 2 vehicles - a Pontiac Bonneville and a Dodge Nitro. The Nitro is a lease and my husband doesn't allow so much as a piece of Velcro in his car. I'm the driver in the Nitro and the "navigator" in the Bonneville. My netbook usually sits on my lap or propped up in the open glove compartment when I'm navigating in the Pontiac.
I'm looking for a system that can easily be used in 2 vehicles - a Pontiac Bonneville and a Dodge Nitro. The Nitro is a lease and my husband doesn't allow so much as a piece of Velcro in his car. I'm the driver in the Nitro and the "navigator" in the Bonneville. My netbook usually sits on my lap or propped up in the open glove compartment when I'm navigating in the Pontiac.
Actually, after thinking about it, a system for the Nitro is all that I need as I can't "fiddle" when I'm driving. When I'm navigating in the Bonneviile, I don't care if it is in my lap as I am constantly messing around with the applications anyway, often flipping back and forth between S&T and Nat'l Geo's TOPO, etc.
The Nitro is a lease that will be turned in next year.
The Nitro is a lease that will be turned in next year.
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Actually, after thinking about it, a system for the Nitro is all that I need as I can't "fiddle" when I'm driving.
cheers
Thank you, Rick. If it truely can be moved from one vehicle to another in a matter of seconds (and it looks like it can as it looks similar to Manfrotto's tripod clamps) this might make the perfect system for me!
So, I would pay for one Magic Arm Vehicle Kit and 1 additional mounting shoe? What is the cost of the additional mounting shoe?
(Your site works fine now on my work PC!)
So, I would pay for one Magic Arm Vehicle Kit and 1 additional mounting shoe? What is the cost of the additional mounting shoe?
(Your site works fine now on my work PC!)
And this would work with my Acer AspireOne D250 with 6-cell battery? 10 1/4" x 8 1/4 " base (with battery)
Yes, it moves very easily in and out - seconds in fact.
Yes, we will have a case for the Acer D250 within two weeks (not on web site yet).
Yes, we can supply more than one vehicle shoe.
In fact, the kit actually comes with two flanges to fit different vehicle applications. Start with what comes in the kit. You will definitely need one more socket. Just let me know when the time comes, and we will provide the extra bits for FREE!!!
Rick
Yes, we will have a case for the Acer D250 within two weeks (not on web site yet).
Yes, we can supply more than one vehicle shoe.
In fact, the kit actually comes with two flanges to fit different vehicle applications. Start with what comes in the kit. You will definitely need one more socket. Just let me know when the time comes, and we will provide the extra bits for FREE!!!
Rick
Thanks Rick! Your photos and instructions helped a lot. I had my husband take a look at the system and he likes it also. I definitely am interested. I will give you a call in April as that is when I will be making the purchase.
Perfect
Rick, my birthday is coming up very soon and my husband will be calling you!
I told him he needs to talk to you, since he knows seat rails better than I do. And after all, it's my birthday!!
I told him he needs to talk to you, since he knows seat rails better than I do. And after all, it's my birthday!!
Cool!
Well, we ordered the Manfrotto system today. Rick was very nice and is including the extra seat rail mount for free! If it's anything like the quality of my 25 year old Manfrotto tripod I will be thrilled! Will post pics when I get it set up. Hopefully I'll get it in time for our next trip which is next Friday, May 14 - Hint Hint, Rick
We just installed OBDII with the Ford Enhanced Diagnostics package for monitoring the transmission fluid temp when pulling our new RV, so the mount will be especially helpful with that too! (We traded the Bonneville for a Ford Expedition.)
Happy Birthday to me!
We just installed OBDII with the Ford Enhanced Diagnostics package for monitoring the transmission fluid temp when pulling our new RV, so the mount will be especially helpful with that too! (We traded the Bonneville for a Ford Expedition.)
Happy Birthday to me!
Hi Karen,
Amazon does a great job with all of our fulfillment. They got your order out today. Two packages which should arrive by 5/12. We also sent the extra mounting shoe today.
Enjoy!
It will be exciting to hear how it all works out. Be sure to call if you need any help with the install.
Amazon does a great job with all of our fulfillment. They got your order out today. Two packages which should arrive by 5/12. We also sent the extra mounting shoe today.
Enjoy!
It will be exciting to hear how it all works out. Be sure to call if you need any help with the install.
I got my Manfrotto Netbook Mount today. Aileron Designs sends many bits & pieces that you can mix and match to work with your particular seat rail bolt configuration. That was the only hard part - trying to pick the pieces and the configuration that work with 2 different vehicles! I had no idea there was so many different ways to bolt a seat in a vehicle!
Mike ended up with a washer left over after putting the arm together so he called Rick. He was very helpful in making sure we had the pieces put together correctly. (Rick, you need to put a small diagram of the arm pieces in the box. That way you wouldn't get phone calls! )
I must say I am thrilled with it!
The one big wheel on the arm, when loosened, enables you to adjust all 3 pivot points simultaneously, so it is very easy to get just the right height and angle. And when tightened, the wheel locks all adjustment parts.
The hard shell case is very sturdy and enables you to fasten the netbook to the mounting system just as you would a camera to a tripod. (No straps, Velcro, or bungee cords!) In fact, it can be mounted to a tripod! I always have my Manfrotto (Bogen) tripod with me on trips, so I may find a use for that.
I especially like the quick-release mechanism at the bottom so that I can put it in either vehicle.
I realize now that I was getting tired of holding the netbook in my lap or trying to balance it somewhere when I was alone!
All in all, I give it a five thumbs-up! Good job, Aileron!!!
Note: Mike is also excited about having all his OBDII dials & guages where he can see them!
Mike ended up with a washer left over after putting the arm together so he called Rick. He was very helpful in making sure we had the pieces put together correctly. (Rick, you need to put a small diagram of the arm pieces in the box. That way you wouldn't get phone calls! )
I must say I am thrilled with it!
The one big wheel on the arm, when loosened, enables you to adjust all 3 pivot points simultaneously, so it is very easy to get just the right height and angle. And when tightened, the wheel locks all adjustment parts.
The hard shell case is very sturdy and enables you to fasten the netbook to the mounting system just as you would a camera to a tripod. (No straps, Velcro, or bungee cords!) In fact, it can be mounted to a tripod! I always have my Manfrotto (Bogen) tripod with me on trips, so I may find a use for that.
I especially like the quick-release mechanism at the bottom so that I can put it in either vehicle.
I realize now that I was getting tired of holding the netbook in my lap or trying to balance it somewhere when I was alone!
All in all, I give it a five thumbs-up! Good job, Aileron!!!
Note: Mike is also excited about having all his OBDII dials & guages where he can see them!
I have to ask Karen if you tried it off road on a rocky trail? If not maybe you can find somewhere to bounce and give us a report. I know my system that is welded and mounted securely to the floor moves quite a bit when on a trail. I know the weak points on mine are the two locking joints...the thumb screws come loose... wish I could fab a ratchet joint.
Looks like a great system for the road though.
Looks like a great system for the road though.
Hey Gary! Haven't tried it off-road on anything but standard Montana "rock-chip" roads. It does bounce a bit on our rough residential roads and I don't think it would be suitable for off-road. Very smooth and stable on regular roads and highways, though.
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Hey Gary! Haven't tried it off-road on anything but standard Montana "rock-chip" roads. It does bounce a bit on our rough residential roads and I don't think it would be suitable for off-road. Very smooth and stable on regular roads and highways, though.
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OK!
The top photo is a Mustang drag racer. The bottom is a Dakar Rally support truck!
Well I'll tell you I like your setup and your products and especially your vehicles...I worked for Ford for 30 years Do you sell just the tray itself?
Here's my tray with shock absorbers on it.
Here's my tray with shock absorbers on it.
Gary, this looks like the same case I have with mine. It is a hard-shell case that the netbook fits into securely - very good quality. If it is a similar set-up, then the case has a hole in the bottom that is threaded for any kind of tripod mount.
Below is a photo of the bottom.
Of course, Rick will give you the specifics.
Are those dyno graphs in the Mustang?
Below is a photo of the bottom.
Of course, Rick will give you the specifics.
Are those dyno graphs in the Mustang?
Can't imagine watching a computer while drag racing but....:rofl"
Yep I did PM Rick about a case for my ASUS 900. They make one for the ASUS 901 but I need to know if it fits the 900. If so I'll get one. That's the sore spot with my home made setup otherwise I am very pleased with it. It actually cushions the netbook in all directions and on a rocky trail it can get mighty bumpy. The only thing I'm not sure about is if the 1/4-20 mounting holes will be strong enough to stand up to the rough pounding of the Jeep. I guess if it can stand up to Dakar it should be able to handle the Sierras.
This may not look terrible but I smashed my head into the roof on this innocent looking stretch of powerline road on Two Tips here in Fernley.
Yep I did PM Rick about a case for my ASUS 900. They make one for the ASUS 901 but I need to know if it fits the 900. If so I'll get one. That's the sore spot with my home made setup otherwise I am very pleased with it. It actually cushions the netbook in all directions and on a rocky trail it can get mighty bumpy. The only thing I'm not sure about is if the 1/4-20 mounting holes will be strong enough to stand up to the rough pounding of the Jeep. I guess if it can stand up to Dakar it should be able to handle the Sierras.
This may not look terrible but I smashed my head into the roof on this innocent looking stretch of powerline road on Two Tips here in Fernley.
Hi there,
Both of those setups were for customers. I believe the race computer monitors mixture and such by recording data during each run. Rememeber...never operate computers while driving, at least not while drag racing!
The way the mounts work is that they fit to a plate which hooks into the bottom of the Minimount cases. The 1/4x20 insert is there for convenience and is not used by the Quick Plates we sell with most mounting kits. It's very strong stuff. The cushioning in the cases dampens vibrations to a great extent.
Unfortunately, we don't support the Asus 900's. They have been out for a long while now. The hardest thing about my business is supporting the vast number of netbooks available. We have over 20 variations which is still only about half the models in circulation. On the other hand, the form fit case is really what makes the product effective.
Both of those setups were for customers. I believe the race computer monitors mixture and such by recording data during each run. Rememeber...never operate computers while driving, at least not while drag racing!
The way the mounts work is that they fit to a plate which hooks into the bottom of the Minimount cases. The 1/4x20 insert is there for convenience and is not used by the Quick Plates we sell with most mounting kits. It's very strong stuff. The cushioning in the cases dampens vibrations to a great extent.
Unfortunately, we don't support the Asus 900's. They have been out for a long while now. The hardest thing about my business is supporting the vast number of netbooks available. We have over 20 variations which is still only about half the models in circulation. On the other hand, the form fit case is really what makes the product effective.
Quote:
Hi there,
Both of those setups were for customers. I believe the race computer monitors mixture and such by recording data during each run. Rememeber...never operate computers while driving, at least not while drag racing!
The way the mounts work is that they fit to a plate which hooks into the bottom of the Minimount cases. The 1/4x20 insert is there for convenience and is not used by the Quick Plates we sell with most mounting kits. It's very strong stuff. The cushioning in the cases dampens vibrations to a great extent.
Unfortunately, we don't support the Asus 900's. They have been out for a long while now. The hardest thing about my business is supporting the vast number of netbooks available. We have over 20 variations which is still only about half the models in circulation. On the other hand, the form fit case is really what makes the product effective.
Both of those setups were for customers. I believe the race computer monitors mixture and such by recording data during each run. Rememeber...never operate computers while driving, at least not while drag racing!
The way the mounts work is that they fit to a plate which hooks into the bottom of the Minimount cases. The 1/4x20 insert is there for convenience and is not used by the Quick Plates we sell with most mounting kits. It's very strong stuff. The cushioning in the cases dampens vibrations to a great extent.
Unfortunately, we don't support the Asus 900's. They have been out for a long while now. The hardest thing about my business is supporting the vast number of netbooks available. We have over 20 variations which is still only about half the models in circulation. On the other hand, the form fit case is really what makes the product effective.