pasusan
PA
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Joined: 05/13/2009
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I got a netbook to use, but I can't see it. I'm the navigator while DH drives and I thought it would be great to use the netbook for maps. We have both the MS Streets and Trips and the Trailer Life software that includes exit information like gas stations. I have been a complete failure at finding where we are at let alone finding gas stations. I think it is mostly because I just can't see the screen clearly. The netbook even has a matte screen, but there is still way too much glare.
We even have a GPS puck to hook up to it but can't see it well enough to actually use instead of our Garmin.
How do you do it? It seems like the big windows in a MH would make even more light and glare. Is there something we should put on our windows that would help?
I was thinking I should get one of those hood things that photographers used to use - and whenever necessary I would just duck under that!  Or maybe I should just go back to paper maps - have already gotten the Exit Now book in paper (very heavy!).
Trip Pics
"Don't let the sound of your own wheels drive you crazy." JB & GF
Susan & Ben ~
84 Bronco & 90 Award Classic 23 joined with a Hensley Cub
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Jackthewonderdog
United States
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Joined: 03/06/2011
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I never liked those netbooks for many reasons – screen, keyboard, power, etc. I use a laptop with MS S&T with GPS plug. I put a piece of Velcro on the dash and laptop so it doesn't slide arond and never have difficulty seeing the screen, plus I turn the voice on. Maybe you are just very light sensitive. Have you tried polarized sunglasses?
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GuyM
The Great Midwest
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Joined: 05/07/2009
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It could be polarized sunglasses causing the problem. When I have my polarized glasses on I have trouble seeing the screen, without them it's fine. I have my netbook set on maximum brightness and I do not have it on the dash. I have it mounted much lower so that it is out of the direct sunlight.
Guy
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CoachmenKen
Wake Forest, NC
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Joined: 08/04/2004
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Also using a laptop with MS S&T (though an older version) This works out well for me since the screen is probably 14". I use the voice prompting. Want to get a mini wireless mouse instead of using the onboard mouse.
I built a small table on the engine cover and turn the laptop towards me. I am the primary user since my wife isnt able to view it while running - susceptible to motion sickness.
The only issue I have is at nite. Even though I turn on the "night" screen option, the GPS and direction panes are too bright and put a glare on the windshield directly in my line of site out.
I believe I'm using S&T '06 or '08 (cant remember) Anyone know if its worth upgrading?
Ken, Dawn, & Rebecca
Our DVGRR Golden rescues, Augie and Daisy
Our Goldens, Penny & Tucker, awaiting us at Rainbow Bridge
2001 Coachmen Santara, 3602 KS, F53
2009 Ford Escape XLT
--Camping since 2004--
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enblethen
Moses Lake, WA
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Joined: 01/05/2005
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Does your netbook have a screen setting? It may need to be lightened up. This puts more power to the screen so it is easier to see.
It also works better with external power source and not running off internal battery.
Bud
USAF Retired
Suzuki XL7 pushing Pace Arrow
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KA4EBU
memphis,tn,usa
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Joined: 01/13/2004
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I use a 10.1" netbook..I use Street and Trips, Street Atlas or Delorme TOPO, according to where and how I feel..I also use VMSpc at the same time..The netbook is lighter, less heat, sits better on the dash and easier on my eyes..
Don and Pauletta
2003 Phaeton 40RH
2008 Jeep Liberty Limited 4x4
2005 FLHTUCI
Misty - a spoiled Maltese
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Twomed
FL winters and then somewhere cool
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Joined: 06/02/2004
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DH runs Delorme on a 17.5" Hp laptop..works fine. I look at it at stops and beginning of the day. Have thought about kicking an image to the Aladdin screen.
Happy Trails 
06 Monaco Dynasty
07 Hummer H3
FMCA 279843
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pianotuna
Regina, SK, Canada
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Joined: 12/18/2004
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Hi,
Increase the screen brilliance to maximum. Make a "hood" for the screen so that it is shaded. Be directly "on axis" for viewing the screen.
Regards, Don
Kustom Koach Class C 28'5" 256 watts Unisolar, 875 amp hours in two battery banks 12 volt batteries, 2500 MSW watt inverter.
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belairbrian
Alabama
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Joined: 04/18/2005
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Mine is a bit different. I have the laptop mounted out of sight and use an external display with a touchscreeen to control the computer.
It also allows me to switch to either the bumper camera on the truck or the camera on the rear of the 5er.
The glare spots are from the dome lights. Guess I should have closed the doors.
TV 2003 Chevy 3500 Crew Cab Dually w Duramax/Allison
2005 Keystone Cougar 314 EFS
Reese 16K Slider Hitch, Prodigy BC, Delorme GPS
USAF Retired
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jauguston
Bellingham, WA
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Joined: 07/03/2005
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We use these. They work well for using our laptops or netbook outside.
http://compushade.com/
Jim
2005 Coachman Sportscoach Elite 402 40'
350hp Cat C-7 w/MP-8
7500w Onan quiet diesel generator
6-Kyocera 130w solar panels SB3024i MPPT controller
Pressure Pro TPMS
1987 Suzuki Samurai tintop Toad w/VW 1.6 turbo diesel power
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