Jotto Desk: If you've ever had the opportunity -- or misfortune, as the
case might be -- to sit inside a police car, you might've seen a Jotto Desk
laptop mount. And, yes, I've seen a few. But they also manufacture some
sturdy systems designed for use by truckers and RVers. You can find out
more by visiting www.jottodesk.us.
Trucker's Workstation: Distributed by CyberTrucker·net (I love that
name) this unit was designed and developed by a trucker, for truckers.
It features dual cooling fans to help extend the life of your laptop as well
as a sturdy backrest for your laptop lid. You can easily find them on the
Web at www·cybertrucker·net.
AirDesk: You won't be able to use this mounting system if you're passen-
ger seat is usually occupied but, if not, it's worth a look by browsing to
www·airdesks·com/cardesk.asp
.
By locking your laptop to a securely installed laptop stand, you can reduce
the likelihood that your laptop will be stolen if your vehicle is broken into. In
Chapter 10, I mention a few laptop lock manufacturers. You might want to pay
special attention to the LapLocker because it includes a feature that makes it
possible to secure your laptop lid in the open position.
Picking a PDA mount
Because most PDAs incorporate solid-state technology in place of hard drives,
vibration might be less of a factor when you begin searching for the perfect
PDA mounting device; but duct tape isn't the answer here, either. When you
begin your search, you find a variety of mounting devices available that fall,
generally, into the following three categories:
Dash mounts: Available in both permanent and semipermanent configu-
rations, these mounting devices sometimes use Velcro or bolts to secure
them to the dash.
Windshield mounts: Attaching to the windshield through the use of
suction cups, these types of mounts are well suited to travelers who
might not want a more-permanent mounting device. Sometimes short
mounting arms, however, can be a drawback when using this type of
mount in a truck or RV.
Vent mounts: Using a combination of clips and clutches, these mounts
don't usually require any kind of permanent installation, making them a
good choice for anyone desiring a dash mount but not wanting to risk
damaging the dash in any way.
All three categories of PDA mounts can usually be found in both powered and
unpowered configurations.
Part V: Taking Care of Business
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