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FIGURE 5-29: These removable clear windows enable you to use the infrared connection while the PDA is in the case. They can also be removed and replaced with extension ports (for large expansion cards) or cable input ports.

Mounting GPS

When you are on the move, it’s good to have your GPS fixed to something so that it’s not loose. A loose GPS in the car or while walking puts the GPS at risk as well as any devices attached to it via cables.

Car Mounting

An unsecured GPS in a car is also a bad idea because the movements can put stress on cables, connections, and the device itself. In an accident, an unsecured GPS could be turned into a lethal missile, which makes securing it doubly important.

A good, yet simple way to affix a GPS is to use a commercial mount. Some of the best mounts that I have found are made by RAM. Not only do they offer a great range of mounts for a variety of devices, but they are also very versatile because the same mount can be used for a variety

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of applications (attached to a bike clamp, suction cup, or special car mount). You have many options for securing the GPS in the car. One of the easiest ways to attach the GPS is via a RAM mount that has a suction cup attached to it (see Figure 5-30). These suction cups are extremely powerful and don’t require the use of any adhesives or the drilling of any holes.

FIGURE 5-30: The RAM mount suction cup

RAM mounts are great because the fitting is a swivel mount and can be adjusted so that the GPS is oriented correctly for your seating position. This is possible through the use of two ball joints on the swivel arm (see Figure 5-31).

You can also connect a cable to the GPS while it is in the cradle. Figure 5-32 shows an eTrex in a RAM mount and attached to a cable.

Choose a good spot to mount your GPS. You want a position that enables you to see the GPS but that doesn’t obscure your vision while driving. Experiment with different locations until you find one you like. If you are using cables to antennas or power supplies, use cable ties to keep these under control. Wherever you choose, avoid areas on your dashboard that incorporate an air bag.

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FIGURE 5-31: RAM mount swivel arm

FIGURE 5-32: This cradle enables you to attach a cable connector to the GPS, an option not available with all mounts.

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For more details on RAM mounts visit www.ram-mount.com.

RAM isn’t the only maker of GPS mounts — most GPS manufacturers also make mounts for their GPS receivers. Your user manual will likely list the accessories that match your GPS receiver.

Other alternatives include the use of Velcro strips and beanbags to hold the GPS — personally, I don’t find that these offer enough in the way of support. I prefer a more robust way to hold the receiver in place.

Mounting a GPS for Biking, Hiking, and Skiing

You can also mount a GPS on your bike if you purchase a bike RAM mount. These are easy to fit. To mount a GPS onto a ski-pole or hiking stick, all you need is a RAM mount that is designed to be attached to a bike. Figure 5-33 shows such a RAM mount.

FIGURE 5-33: RAM mount bike clip

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The U-shaped bolt that is designed to enable the RAM mount to be attached to a bike frame or the handlebars is also ideal for the diameters of most walking sticks, both wooden and metal. Figure 5-34 shows the mount attached to an aluminum ski pole.

FIGURE 5-34: Bike mount attached to a ski pole

Be careful not to tighten the nuts on the U-bolts too much, as that could crush the metal and damage the walking stick. This is especially true if the hiking stick is telescopic.

To ensure that the U-bolt is secure without having to tighten it too much, put a few layers of electrical tape underneath the bolt before securing it, as shown in Figure 5-35. This enables you to tighten the clip against the tape, putting less stress and pressure on the metal itself.

Never drill into a ski pole or hiking stick to attach anything, as this will dramatically weaken it and could cause you great harm should it break in use.