GPS – Page 8 – NerdBeach

Multifunction GPS Bluetooth Rearview Mirror System

LoadedRearviewMiror

As I ease into the car seat and turn the key on, I quickly look at the rear view mirror and, using the touch screen, set the GPS map for my planned trip. I turn the key to start and the engine comes to life with a deep growl. I again look at the rearview mirror and select some music from the SD card for the trip. Before pulling out I remember a call I was expecting while on the road, so I use the rearview mirror to set up the Bluetooth pairing with my new cell phone. Finally, ready to leave, I put the car in reverse gear and back out of the garage. No sooner had I went a few feet I hit the garage door with a BANG. Too late, I realize that I had neglected to actually use the rearview mirror as, well, a mirror.

Now here is a rearview mirror add-on that James Bond (or at least Q) would love. The Multifunction GPS Bluetooth Rearview Mirror System brings to your automobile windshield a rechargeable 3.5 inch touchscreen that incorporates a full GPS, MP3 and MP4 player, and finally a five title video game player (for those times when you've already seen all the mp4 movies on board, I suppose). There is also a provision for a reversing sensor, in case you forget to actually look in the mirror part. Just a word of caution, do not play games/watch movies/browse for restaurants/build play lists while the vehicle is in motion, please.

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Solar Backpack Helius Keeps Your Devices Charged

Greg Chaffins

The paths through and around the cliffs on Nerd Beach can be strenuous but rewarding. The view is the best part; once you get to the top it really is breathtaking. As I finally trudge my way onto the precipice I plant my footing and take it all in. Pausing for a moment, I pull off the backpack and reach for the GPS to map this perfect location. I note that the GPS was dead when I left the sand down below a few hours earlier, but now I push the button and the unit comes to life, locking in a signal quite quickly. Times like this I really appreciate the solar charging backpack.

There have been numerous Solar Charging backpacks on the market, and the Helius Solar Backpack, $130 from V-Dimension Helius Solar Backpack, $130 from V-Dimension is a worthy addition to the list. The backpack contains an internal battery which can charge most devices in a couple of hours (once charged from the sun). Direct sunlight charging (without the internal battery charged) times will vary, but on average expect about 3.5 hours (more for high capacity batteries). The panel itself is a 1.8w unit, enough to charge personal devices but a laptop is definitely out of the question (for that I suggest a rollup fabric solar cell which will get the job done, if not quite so handy while traveling). As it is, the Helius appears to be very convenient for most uses of portable devices while on the trail. As an option you can consider a manual cranking charger, but the passive nature of the solar cell is certainly appreciated.

Aloha from the Beach,
greg

MTI reveals GPS with embedded Fuel Cell

Greg Chaffins

Here on the Beach the power outlets are a bit few and far between, so when the fuel cell powered GPS washed up it caught my attention. MTI Micro debuted an embedded fuel cell GPS, featuring a Mobion fuel cell, that provides more power reserve than 3 sets of 4 AA batteries. The device is claimed to work with a color GPS for 60 hours continuously, or several weeks easily with typical GPS usage.

Since GPS devices are very handy in finding your way on an outdoor trip, having reserve battery capacity is probably a very good thing. MTI is certainly trying to capitalize on that fact while giving the user a little peace of mind. Of course, if you get to where you NEED the GPS, you might consider taking some backup technology (map and compass), just in case.

Aloha from the Beach,
greg

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