Most PDA come with a cable to connect to your PC. You’ll be able to synchronize your contact information and copy files back and forth, including scanned maps. PDA memory can be upgraded using different types of memory cards. I had one a while ago that had 256 MB of memory. The battery drained faster but I simply left it hooked in the car.

Ozi Explorer makes a Windows PC version of their navigation software, which has a lot of neat features. Not as much features as the full version but more than a GPS. What will distinguish this setup from a GPS with mapping feature is that you’ll be able to use scanned topo maps, rather than raster (streets only) maps. So I guess this makes sense if you venture off-road a lot.

A PDA will handle abuse better than a laptop mainly because of the lack of a hard disk. PDA (and laptop minus the HD) are almost completely solid-state electronics with no moving parts. Assuming it’s well made and you don’t abuse it, it should be reliable.

I strongly recommend getting an Otter Armor box for it ( http://www.armorbyotter.com/index2.cfm ). It’s a very cool Pelican style case that protects the PDA while still letting you use it. Install the PDA in the box and mount it on your dashboard.

If your travel is mainly on roads that are covered by Garmin street maps, then I would stick to a GPS for simplicity and reliability. The unit mmaarten recommended is excellent. The Garmin GPS V can give you directions but it display isnt’t as good as the 176.

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A.B.
www.ShortWheelbase.com

[This message has been edited by A.B. (edited 20 July 2002).]

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A.B.
OasisPhoto.com – Images from the Magical Sahara.