Tablet alternatives for car

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  Thundaja on 14/08/2013 - 17:26

  I'd be cautious resting or mounting the tablet on the steering wheel. Not sure how it differs by state, but I suspect the Police wouldn't be too happy - I can see them trying to pull you up on "Not having it docked properly", "Blocking the horn", "Obscuring driver view/distraction while driving" etc.

  I'd have a look and see if there is anything that allows it to be docked/mounted to the center console or the windscreen.

  As for a tablet recommendation: I'm a Uni Student with an iPad Mini - can't say I'd recommend it for someone with big fingers.
  You could try a full size iPad. Apple and iOS are restrictive (their approach is: "if you don't like something, tough.") but it is a fairly polished experience. Easy to use.

  If you want more flexibility with what you can do, go with an Android Tablet - especially if the keyboard is important. If you don't like the way something is on Android, you can change it. The Samsung Galaxy Note tablets are good (they can contain a bit of bloat software wise though), especially with the stylus. Everyone seems to love the Google Nexus tablets too. I'm sure other OzBargainers can weigh in here :)

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    Bill48 on 14/08/2013 - 18:39

    I'll be parked, at a rank, motor off. If necessary I can have the keys out.

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  ethereal88 on 15/08/2013 - 07:28

  Apple is overpriced rubbish. I'd get an Asus VivoTab Smart ME400C - full Windows 8 32-bit on a tablet for around $400. Fine for email, browsing and light work. Will likely come with Office 2013 Home and Premium too.

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  scrimshaw on 15/08/2013 - 14:58

  During waiting periods I want to try to catch up on email correspondence, favourite websites and sometimes do some database entry.

  Does this imply you require a 3G tablet? (If so, get a Samsung Galaxy tab 3g)

  Or do you plan to use a Wifi modem or USB dongle? (if so, any tablet will do)

  And what's database entry — is that plugging numbers into a spreadsheet or running some kind of specialized app that only runs on certain devices? If this is a case, you might consider getting something that comes with a keyboard dock (e.g Acer Windows tablet)

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    Bill48 on 15/08/2013 - 19:48

    Two good responses thanks.
    I currently use an Optus Business dongle with my laptop, which I find frustrating. It drops out during inactivity and requires many steps to reconnect. I'd prefer an inbuilt Wifi and would seek advice on the best means of accessing any of my accounts, which are my home Internode service or almost anything that works and is good value. I am a Wifi novice. My smart phone connects via Optus.
    My data entries comprise MYOB for accounts and a family history genealogical program. Both of these would need to be able to save/backup and upload any changes to my main home/office desktop.

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      scrimshaw on 15/08/2013 - 20:45

      Well to run both the dongle you're current using now and to also access your database applications you are pretty much restricted to Windows 8 tablets, for example the ASUS Vivotab, Microsoft Surface Pro or the Acer W510.

      One option is the Acer W511 3g Windows tablet, which is a bit pricey but the upside is convenience — you won't need to use your Optus dongle since it has built in 3g (a SIM slot).
      http://www.estore.com.au/product/ace000912?gclid=CPHzjJCi_7g…

      As for the dongle disconnecting when idle, that might be an issue with the dongle itself or perhaps it requires a firmware update. Probably call Optus technical support for that.

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  Bill48 on 17/08/2013 - 07:45

  I'll be looking at the Asus Vivotab and similar this weekend. A bit pricey but you may have to pay for my requirements.

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  mobo on 19/08/2013 - 17:57

  You have a few options. If you were savvy enough you could use any tablet to remote into your box at home, otherwise as suggested you'll need a windows tablet.

  If the dongle is causing you grief you could always just use your phone to share wifi. I'm assuming your business pays for the smartphone as well, in which case you should save money by combining the 2. Since you are in a taxi all day the extra drain on your smartphone battery shouldn't be an issue as you can leave it plugged into the cigarette lighter.

  As for keyboard, since you only use it when you are parked just get an external bluetooth or usb keyboard. Keep it under your chair and pull it out when you are parked. Should cost you less than $50.

  The screen reflection problem could be solved by a screen protector?

  In terms of mounting maybe you could try something like this http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Car-Seatbolt-Tablet-SmartPhone-Mo…