[Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
The reason I ask, is that I was interested in GPS for the car as well. In-car, through manufacturer can cost up to $3K or more. For less than that, you could go with an aftermarket headunit that includes CD/DVD/MP3, 7 in. screen, etc. Probably would run you up to 2K for much more functionality than the manufacturer could provide.
However, I like my "basic" Saab headunit, and did not want to spend that kind of money. Through my search, I came up with the following:
PDA + GPS unit + appropriate adapter cable + software
($100 - 600) + ($100 - 1000) + (DIY parts - $50) + (Free - $200) = $200 to 2000
I wanted a PDA anyway and went with the Sony Clie. Hi-Res colour display (Sony Clie) is great, along with the other day-to-day functions it (any PDA) can provide. There are then two options (three with iPaq and the likes that have a slot and GPS card), the first being the "mouse" antenna. However, $120+ for a wire GPS antenna seemed like too much for what it gives you. Next buy a portable GPS unit from Garmin, Magellan, etc. With the appropriate cable (there are two or three places to buy, or instructions on how to DIY), you can then connect the GPS unit to your PDA. There are several options for software depending on your intended application for its use, some free. The software to use depends on your model/type of PDA, but Mapopolis gets the bulk of the reviews. At 45-100 bucks, you get GPS functionality, and a year's worth of map downloads at the Platinum level.
I went with the Sony Clie SJ22 (added 128 MB memory stick) and the Garmin eTrex Legend. The Garmin sits on the dash to the left of the driver. The Garmin acts like the little "mouse" antenna would, which connects (with the cable) to my Clie. However, if I decide to Geocache or whatever, I do not have to worry about carrying the antenna around, or worse, dropping the Clie in the mud, on a rock, etc.; I can just grab the GPS unit and go! I also get my Clie to handle my address book, get news, quotes, maps, etc. through AvantGo, email, games, other useful apps, etc. Lots of functionality separately, and exactly what I am looking for together!!
I hope this helps! Feel free to post or email me with any questions. I will try to help as best I can. Thanks and sorry so long.
Sean
posted by 65.202.26...
No Site Registration is Required to Post - Site Membership is optional (Member Features List), but helps to keep the site online
for all Saabers. If the site helps you, please consider helping the site by becoming a member.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
