Laptop GPS World

Dear all,

I`m a very very begginer is gps world. But what I firmly decided is to use a UMPC+a GPS sensor.

1st query: My UMPC batery lasts about 2 hours. So, is there any charger that can "feed" it from the 12v DC lighter of my car? (I need 20V DC).

2dn query: Is there any complaint about the Garmin 18 USB sensor?

Thanks a regards

I have a ASUS r2h UMPC and have a converter for it. It was a little expensive though. Contact the maker of your UMPC to see if one is available. It might be cheaper to buy a small 110v inverter and carry your regular power supply. This makes it somewhat more versatile but means more wires to deal with.

I would not recommend the GPS 18 USB. It is a Garmin-only device and is a little bulky. It is an older technology that Garmin recently replaced with the GPS 18x. Consider something like the BU353 unless you have a specific need for a Garmin device

Terry

Well, am incar power supply for your umpc isn't a problem - theres tons on eBay, pretty cheap too.

As for the receiver isn't the 18 now discontinued? If you're going to get mobile pc you may as well just spring for the bundle that comes with the receiver as well.

Though you could get just the software version and a 3rd party receiver - but be aware you will be stuck with the unlocked map version that comes with it as you can't unlock future maps for a non-garmin receiver. The metroguides are totally usable though and the topos.

I am not a fan of cheap multi-voltage convertors. I smoked my ASUS convertor because of a defect and used a cheap Radio Shack multi-voltage one before I got a replacement. The UMPC worked ok but the convertor generated a lot of noise. The UMPC speaker output and my radio were so noisy, they were unusable. UMPCs take 1-2 amps and need a fairly robust convertor. Of course, your experience may be better. The RS one I had was pretty old.

Terry

I'd say buy a small inverter that plugs into a cig lighter. I can run my 17" dual-drive laptop on a 75watt inverter that I paid about $15 for at Wal-Mart.

thank a lot you you all!.
Now I`ve clarified my concern regarding power supply.
I`ll will investigate a little more about a reliable gps sensor.
thanks again.
Juan

For the gps sensor, I use a BU-353 usb receiver. It always has a great signal and it's inexpensive. I paid something like $30-35 for it.

Does your UMPC have Bluetooth built in? If so (mine does), you might also want to consider Bluetooth GPS receivers...more expensive but you don't have to be concerned about cords or device placement. The iTrek M7 is great for this or the Garmin GPS10x if you are considering Garmin products.

Terry

Dear Terry,
From what I know so far, most of maps of Argentina (where I`m writting from) are Garmin dedicated ones, so, I`ll pay attention to the GPS10X. Your suggestion regarding bluetooth connection is quite good indeed!!!
Thanks a lot
Juan

Tojus, to the forums. The following link may also be of interest: Choosing a power inverter for your laptop

__________________
Marvin Hlavac

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