tablet PC v Android

[Nicko]

Ok, because I can't split threads anymore because I "upgraded" please re-create your post below

http://www.gpsaustralia.net/forums/f...play.php?f=208

[CADManager]

Hi Garden Gnome,

Re android tablet ...Can't make my mind up re 3G or wifi , wifi $ 100 cheaper ,

Is your phone sufficiently advanced to either tether to the tablet or share its internet connection via bluetooth? That would be one less issue to deal with on the tablet. Alternatively, for $100 you can get any number of mini wi-fi modems (Telstra, Virgin, Vodafone, etc.) capable of sharing the connection with mutiple dvices (typ. 5-8 connections these days) - they might also be a worthwhile solution for you. Both utulise the mobile network, which you'd be doing in any case with a 3G model tablet.

FWIW, I'm currently using a Telstra mini wi-fi, and it will run for most of the day on a full charge (just the tablet connected when I'm out, for browsing and email mostly). But when I travel, I'll simply share my mobile phone data connection via bluetooth and save myself carrying the extra. If you go down this path, choose a good plan, as you don't want to pay for casual data use on a mobile. Plans these days can include calls and data for about $40p.m. if you shop around (but keep in mind where it will be used, re: which network to choose!).


Cheers,
Paul.

[garden gnome]

Thanks Paul ; Either way its going to cost me $ 100 . but i can see if i have to carry wifi device at times it might be forgotten when out . on the other hand if i wanted wifi device for some other .
My phone has Bluetooth & 1gb of data with my 3g telstra plan , still has 12 months to run on that plan before i can upgrade to a smart phone ( need telstra here , reception )

http://www.asus.com/Tablet/Transform...er_Pad_TF300T/ this is the tablet i'm looking at , it has some very good reviews , I need to find out if I can bluetooth connect to my phone , Telstra t54
thanks for any advice

cheers

[CADManager]

Hi Garden Gnome

I need to find out if I can bluetooth connect to my phone , Telstra t54

I've taken a quick look at both the Telstra and ZTE websites, but still cannot be certain. I even tried Telstra Live Chat, but the operator simply Googled my question and referred to ZTE's page anyway. She did indicate that a USB connection was required to share the internet, but I couln't be certain reading the User Manual.

Here's a couple of relevant statements from Ch4 - Handset Features & Applications:

Bluetooth
Switch on, Search and Connect to compatible devices nearby. Used for File transfer, wireless headsets and car kits
Menu > Tools > Bluetooth > Bluetooth manager
PC Connection
USB is used for Join Me and modem functions. Use Bluetooth for Dial up networking over Bluetooth
Menu > Settings > arrow right to Handset > PC Connection

The recommendation to use Bluetooth (bold) is encouraging. If you know anyone with a bluetooth tablet, or even another phone (without data) you could test connecting the devices and see whether the internet is accessible. Or, try the salesperson - although knowledge/results can vary widely! If you're buying in-store, test your phone via Bluetooth.

As for a mini wi-fi modem, one advantage (if applicable) is the ability to connect more than a single device. So your partner's phone, or kids(?) when you're in the car could also utilise that connection. I must admit, I don't know enough about Android to state whether the tablet could be used to share an internet connection (i.e. data from its own 3G). Or, even put what 3G would cost, towards a smartphone which can share...

I suppose the alternatives are numerous. Anyway, it really comes down to what suits you best.

I hope the discussion at least helps.


Cheers,
Paul.

[garden gnome]

Thanks paul : The salesman told me it can only be connected with wifi ...but I also did some searching , something called sitecom usb & belkin usb network adopters that some have had success .
I currently use a usb cable to my notepad with Join me , I don't know if I could use join me on a androids tablet ?
anyway TBC .....

cheers

[CADManager]

Hi Garden Gnome,
Both 3G & wi-fi need a data plan. So unless you need tp share, you might as well put it on-board the tablet. Otherwise, test USB & Bluetooth to utilise your phone data.

Is the salesman online? If you're near the store, get in there and test the device. I visited O*****works 4-5 times before purchasing my tablet. And even then, I was still able to return it (having to test VkewRanger app first) if it didn't meet my needs. I really doubt anything ZTE ha e for PC will work.

Cheers,
Paul.

[garden gnome]

Cadmanager :..." I really doubt anything ZTE ha e for PC will work. " I can connect zte t54 to pc windows 7 with join me .
cheers

[CADManager]

GG,

You've misunderstood - I doubt it (i. e. JoinMe) will work with Android.

P.

[garden gnome]

Okay , thanks Paul : If I could find a smart type phone ( with wifile ) that has a good reception in the rural areas that won't cost an arm & leg would be best in the long run
cheers

[garden gnome]

Nicko's quote :1x TwoNav for Android for $45 - download app from compegps.com>updates and either pay them of me. End quote .

http://www.octapc.com.au/prod3152.htm is for compegps land at $249.00

could some one explane the difference ? , I guess two totally different products ...compegps land at $249.00 I under stand what it is , but Lots of $$ , do most of you have this ?

cheers

[CADManager]

Hi again GG,

In general terms, the following are available:

• CompeGPS Land is your computer (PC or Mac) GPS software
• TwoNav, while it does run on Win & Mac, runs on your mobile devices (Android/Apple/WinMobile). [NOTE: The TwoNav license permits use on up to three devices (e.g. your PC, Android tablet, and even a smartphone if you get one]
• You can read about the TwoNav on Android app here. [NOTE: there's a warning about not being able to install on other platforms, so the license is probably best purchased elsewhere]
• AND, there's also a TwoNav Premium for Android available. [I'm not certain, but this might just be the paid version].

I've included internet links for each of the above, and you might find the screen captures helpful. Have yourself a bit of a read.

These are only meant to be pointers to assist you GG. I tried the app for Android (unpaid), but couldn't get it to display outside of Spain - I guess it has something to do with the trial version which kept returning to "home" - but anyway, this was after finding ViewRanger, which satisfied my requirements so I pursued it no further. Other than that, I have no experience with any of these. In any case, Nicko knows the product line, so get in touch with him for a more in-depth discussion (why not try the chat on this forum, or even give him a call!).


Cheers,
Paul.


PS - Nicko, if there's anything incorrect, let me know and I'll either delete or update.

[CADManager]

a smart type phone ( with wifile ) that has a good reception in the rural areas

I'm no expert, GG, but reception (for the most part) should be dependent upon the carrier, I would think.


P.

[garden gnome]

I'm no expert, GG, but reception (for the most part) should be dependent upon the carrier, I would think.


P.

yes ,telstra nextG but also the phone's repceptional qualities plays a part !!!

can your ViewRanger convert map format ? or is this only with compegps land ?

do you have the need to convert maps ever ?

cheers GG

[CADManager]

Hi GG,

I've put my comments regarding ViewRanger in this thread, where it will be of more use to members seeking information on that app.

I don't convert maps, but have taken (open source) data and compiled maps for the Magellan eXplorist series GPSrs - refer this thread. Does this answer your question? (I suppose, that's a conversion of sorts?).


Cheers,
Paul.

[garden gnome]

[QUOTE=CADManager;80125] Hi GG,

I've put my comments regarding ViewRanger in this thread, where it will be of more use to members seeking information on that app.

WADR regards Just remind me who brought it up .....

cheers GG