FJRocket
Doctor Throckenstein !!!
Ultra Mobile PCs look to be on the verge of turning into something usable. What do you think?
I'm considering purchasing a computer to take with me on the FJR. I don't think I need a fully functional top of the line full sized combat ready laptop (but I'd like one!). I'm thinking more of a smaller tank bag sized unit that would run streets and trips, check email and do minor web surfing enroute.
I know I could get a 15+ inch laptop with wifi for about 6 bills. Dunno how rugged it would be and also don't like the idea of figuring out to carry it without a Givi top case or a BIG backpack. That's the main reason for going UMPC. Although if size (and money) didn't matter, I'd probably get a CF-18 Toughbook. That would be the berries!
The Samsung Q1 series looks pretty good. Each different one (Q1, Q1b, Q1p) has it's pros and cons. I was wondering if anyone in the FJR community has realy world experience with any of these. Or any other UMPC for that matter.
The oldest Q1 has a 200 nit screen, which is darker than current versions, and it it has a relatively short battery life and a slow processor. The Q1b has no place for a CF card, and is lacking in some hard connectivity, but has a better battery life and a brighter screen, but still a slow processor. Supposedly it comes with a keyboard, too, but I don't think either unit does. The keyboard and any optical drives would be via Bluetooth or USB connections.
These first two computers of the series can be had for under a grand. The pentium version Q1p is well over $1K and cost versus usability (really only for the FJR and maybe in my plane) begins to get salty. I don't mind throwing 8 bills out on something I might use on a rally or going to WFO, but up to $1300 gets a little more hard to swallow. Especially since I already have a GPS with pretty detailed maps.
There are some other units out there that look appealing. Some with thumboards but lousy stylus capability. They all seem to have more than their share of quirks and short comings.
What are you using for motorcycle travel computing? Recommendations?
I'm considering purchasing a computer to take with me on the FJR. I don't think I need a fully functional top of the line full sized combat ready laptop (but I'd like one!). I'm thinking more of a smaller tank bag sized unit that would run streets and trips, check email and do minor web surfing enroute.
I know I could get a 15+ inch laptop with wifi for about 6 bills. Dunno how rugged it would be and also don't like the idea of figuring out to carry it without a Givi top case or a BIG backpack. That's the main reason for going UMPC. Although if size (and money) didn't matter, I'd probably get a CF-18 Toughbook. That would be the berries!
The Samsung Q1 series looks pretty good. Each different one (Q1, Q1b, Q1p) has it's pros and cons. I was wondering if anyone in the FJR community has realy world experience with any of these. Or any other UMPC for that matter.
The oldest Q1 has a 200 nit screen, which is darker than current versions, and it it has a relatively short battery life and a slow processor. The Q1b has no place for a CF card, and is lacking in some hard connectivity, but has a better battery life and a brighter screen, but still a slow processor. Supposedly it comes with a keyboard, too, but I don't think either unit does. The keyboard and any optical drives would be via Bluetooth or USB connections.
These first two computers of the series can be had for under a grand. The pentium version Q1p is well over $1K and cost versus usability (really only for the FJR and maybe in my plane) begins to get salty. I don't mind throwing 8 bills out on something I might use on a rally or going to WFO, but up to $1300 gets a little more hard to swallow. Especially since I already have a GPS with pretty detailed maps.
There are some other units out there that look appealing. Some with thumboards but lousy stylus capability. They all seem to have more than their share of quirks and short comings.
What are you using for motorcycle travel computing? Recommendations?
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. The way hard drives are made to self-park, I wouldn't be too worried about them. I've occasionally had to pop open the case and re-seat the RAM. Remember to back it up before you head out on a trip.
