Re: AutoRoute

[trish1234567]

Can any IT buff out there please advise me if there is a computer based gadget that I can use with AutoRoute when based in a town for a few days whilst holidaying in a touring caravan. At present, I print out sections of maps to take with me, but this is useful only up to a point. Failing this, I can see that the only way out is to obtain a bottom of the range laptop. I could then at least also have the advantage of using it for dvd's.  Incidentally, I'm not in love with products for use in the car for finding one's way around town. Trish1234567

[LeMarchand]

Is the functionality you want the "customised" map option? If so, it might be worth investing in a Pocket PC/PDA. You could then download/buy relevant map software. Although you can't play DVD's on them, better specced ones will play media files, plus they're pocketable and replace your diary and address book (among other things). Some even have built-in phones and can collect email etc. Newer models can also slot in GPS receivers, though I'm guessing this is the technology you're not keen on.

Just noticed that Autoroute seems to come with built in Pocket PC support, so you should have no problem with the software: http://www.microsoft.com/uk/homepc/autoroute/realtime-gps.mspx

[trish1234567]

Thanks LeMarchand. I visited the site you mentioned (very informative) and it seems that I'll have to use my own brain rather than say yours for instance! I will study the various options. I'm not really bothered about playing dvd's.  Also, I find my mobile phone pretty complicated enough already - though I'm pretty au fait with computers. It looks as though the pocket pc may be the answer so I'll look further into this one. Regards Trish.

[LeMarchand]

You're welcome!

If you're thinking of a Pocket PC, it might be worth researching http://www.microsoft.com/uk/windowsmobile/default.mspx  - it gives a fairly good idea of what you can do with them, and what to look out for to suit you.

[Gandy]

Although I find that my iPAQ and TomTom Navigator are indispensible in my normal Monday-Friday life I think that it might take the fun out of exploring in a touring caravan.  It's kinda nice stumbling upon places when you're lost.  There is a GPS watch type device called Garmin Forerunner that integrates well with Autoroute waypoints.  They're fairly cheap too, under �100 the last time I looked.  By far the cheapest option though would be the AA Road Atlas 2005.  This costs about �5.