I have read on this forum some time ago that an LS430 owner had installed his own nav upgrade. As I recall, it was in the trunk under the floormat somewhere? As for the straight information, try sending an e-mail to lexus.com customer service. If you look around, you can find a way to e-mail them or call them on an 800#. Good Luck.
I've opted for a PC based GPS since at least if Delorme goes out of biz or stops producing upgrades, I'll have other choices. With the factory ones, once the manufacturer stops making updates you probably will be out of luck.
Just spent last few weeks researching aftermarket GPS for my new 2005 Nissan Maxima SL. The two GPS leaders for cars appeared to be the Magellan Roadmate 700 and Garmin 2620. About same price ($800 or so), with Roadmate being a bit easier to use, Garmin a bit more function. Was about to purchase the Roadmate when I sort of stumbled over a hidden gem, the Lowrance iWay 500C. After further research, this was by far the best one and purchased it a couple of weeks ago. Has been all I hoped for and more. And it cost me only $650 at Comp-U-Plus.com.
After doing alot of rescarch on nav systems for cars I found that the Garmin Streetpilot 2620 has the best bang for the buck. I never had any problems with my unit. It's a bit pricey at about $1000.00 USD.
I think that comes pre-loaded with all the maps, right? It costs a bit more than the lesser model where you have to upload the maps yourself using the USB cable.
So you can get a Garmin for a little less if you're willing to do the work yourself.
I have an Acura, and on the Acura website, they mention updates can be PURCHASED. Don't think they'll give it away for free. If you're in a situation where an update came out before you bought the car, but your car doesn't have the update, it'd be worth a call.
As you can not have a factory Nav system in the 2005 Toyota Avalon Touring, I am looking at high end after market Nav units. The Pioneer AVIC-N2 interest me because of large foldaway screen and it is capable of real time traffic updates via SAT Radio. I want to install it in place of my factory JBL stereo and still keep the standard dash radio cover in place. I am also hoping to retain use of the steering wheel radio controls. Any suggestions, thoughts ,or experience with this potential application is greatly appreciated.
The 2610 is the model Juice is referring to. It is very easy to load the maps onto CF cards. Matter of fact, I think it is better because you can have either different cards with different areas, or you can do what I did.
Pick up a 1 GB card - you'll be surprised how much it holds. I have most of the east & west coast of the US & Canada, as well as parts of the midwest. The price for a 1 GB card is around $89 nowadays.
There is no way to watch a movie while the car is moving. It has a built in gyroscope that is hardwired in so you cannot override it. Also the AVIC N2 is a bit pricey IMHO for what you get. But if you must have in-dash and don't want a car-puter then you are stuck with that.
The installation would be quite difficult since you want to keep the factory radio. You would have to have a purchase a seperate display and hide away DVD-ROM with the seperate module for XMTRAVIC. The display would have to be custom integrated since the dimensions and depth of the Pioneer display most likely will not match the factory display opening. Lastly, a seperate speaker (which may or may not be included with the DVD-ROM assembly) will need to be installed so that you can hear the voice prompts.
Since the stereo would not be replaced the steering wheel controls would continue to function normally.
You will not be able to add a factory navigation unit since the wires and hardware will be missing. You will need to purchase a portable device or an all-in-one from Pioneer (single DIN) or Kenwood/Eclipse (double DIN).
Since different "generations" of hardware and software exist, your chances of success are extremely slim. Plus, the software code is propriety to each system and how it interfaces with the vehicle's electronics.
The Eclipse does have an auxillary input. You would have to look at the users manual in order to determine the procedures. Lastly, you will not be able to view any "motion pictures" while the vehicle is in motion. This safety feature is designed to prevent accidents and cannot be defeated.
V4.1 is the most current version for your 2002 Camry... the Toyota part number should be 86271-33033. The key to matching the software to your vehicle is to make sure that the 4th digit on the last 5 numbers (-33033) is a '3'. If it is a '4' it will not work.
If the $250MSRP is too steep look at Ebay for an undamaged disc that has the silver graphics that are horizontal.
The Toyota and Lexus DVD-ROMs are interchangable. Please refer to #221 for a map disc that is compatible with your vehicle. The DVD-ROM can only be purchased from a Toyota or Lexus dealership for an MSRP of $250. Or you may look online for an older version.
Inputting info while moving is only dangerous if you're not careful. I only have experience with 3 types of built-in systems: Toyota/Lexus, Honda/Acura & Mercedes. Of those 3, only the Toyota prohibits entering info while moving.
Of course entering info while IN TRAFFIC is dangerous to you and those around you, but so is changing radio stations while in traffic and checking your spedometer or car clock. Anyone have a radio that requires you to tune in to stations only while stationary??? I ask you, what's more dangerous, having someone input info into a nav system or having a nervous, lost driver on a highway scanning for street signs or fiddling with a map instead of paying attention to the road ahead?
Furthermore, Acura and (from what I've heard) Infiniti have voice input navigation, where you can input most or all info by voice, w/o needing to take one's eyes off the road. I know Acura uses the same system in their Hondas. Don't know if Inifiniti uses it in their Nissans, but I'm sure Lexis/Toyota will develop voice recognition nav system pretty quickly.
Hello Just purchased a 2006 Toyota Solara with the Eclipse / Denso navigation system. I understand that Eclipse offers a rear view camera that is a plug and play for this system. Does anyone know if the Eclipse rear view camera will work with the OEM factory Eclipse / Denso navigation system? Anyone tried this alread on a late model Toyota Solara? Thanks for the help
:confuse: I have a 2001 Lexus GS430 with the Ver .1 navigation disc. I just purchased the 3.1 disc and it will not load. Does anyone know which disc I need to purchase to update my system?
Is it just me or does the 06 Solara feel like it is in need of a back up camera? I been asking around and everyone tells me that you must send the factory nav radio to be modify which is not acceptable. I know there is a way to add a reverse camera to the factory system without having to modify the factory Eclipse Denso Radio nav system. It's strange that Toyota does not offer this feature when it is really needed. Can't see what's in back of you 1/2 the time due to the higher backend.
I won't consider buying a Ford (Or renting from Hertz) because they ding at me until, cursing violently, I fake the seatbelt detector out. I can't count how many times I've left rentals idling for an hour while I ate, just to avoid jacking around with the "smart" fascism built in these days... .
As an upper extremity bi-lateral amputee (no hands), putting a seat belt on is by far the hardest maneuver I execute in a car. So difficult, in fact, that it completely changes the risk-reward equation regarding seat belts for me. So, I don't do it.
My personal situation aside, it is none of Toyota's d*** business when or where I choose to use the tools at my disposal. Ditto WRT Solara00's hand wringing in post #148 - Those of us who are competent drinkers[1] and those of us who are competent drivers[2] can easily handle 5 beers or 90mph, neither is particularly difficult and both together not much more so[3]. The fact they were used as an example of ludicrous behavior only strengthens my impression that the North Americans desperately crave a nanny state, and will continue to throw temper tantrums until the few adults left throw up their hands and give it to them just for the sake of a moment's peace.
Not that I feel strongly about this or anything...
-Greg
[1] Where competent is defined as drinking frequently and extensively enough to maintain an accurate estimate of their level of intoxication.
[2] Where competent is defined as being able to pilot a vehicle such that the vehicle responds as the driver wishes. It has no bearing on the driver's wishes with respect to arbitrary social dictates like speed limits, etc.
[3] Oh, please. Don't start. If you feel your knee jerking, stop & do the math. What? You can't? Oh, 'cause there was no time interval given, so you _can't_ calculate a BAC? Yeah, I believe you knew that. You were just testing me, right? Right... Uh, no, I don't agree that everyone who drinks 5 beers is in a chugging contest...
Greg, I just plain don't like your post (maybe it's just 'cause I'm looking out the window and realize my tennis game is getting rained out ), so here's some rebuttal:
I wish more cars would ding until people would put on seatbelts, and I hope they get smart enough to figure out when your faking it!!! :P We all agree that freedom includes freedom to make bad decisions, but those decisions affect us all with higher insurance rates b/c of greater injuries, higher healthcare costs, and while I've never seen a study, you've got to be more likely to slide out of the driving position w/o a seatbelt, giving you less control and creating danger to other cars in certain situations.
I certainly feel for your condition and the hardships you must face. I'm sure health insurance helped pay for whatever contraption helps you drive a car, so consider the seatbelt effort as some payback. It's a shame they haven't built a contraption to help you get your setbelt on (like automatic belts, that seem to have been discontinued).
As an upper extremity bi-lateral amputee (no hands), putting a seat belt on is by far the hardest maneuver I execute in a car. So difficult, in fact, that it completely changes the risk-reward equation regarding seat belts for me. So, I don't do it.
Without meaning to sound like a jerk, I'd suggest that if the risk-rewards of seatbelt use don't do it for you, the proper response is not to break the law, but to take the bus.
Your post was really long, so I'm replying without re-reading post #148, but your view on laws being unfair to "competent drinkers" is misguided. The fact is that alcoholics often drive better at the BAC limit than under it, but laws are passed based on the general population. That's why there is DWI and that is one of the reasons for speed limits. The problem with alcohol is that the more you drink, the less likely you are to realize you are affected. That being said, police still need probable cause to pull you over, so if you have 5 beers and are truly OK, you probably won't get pulled over if you don't commit a traffic offense.
Not that I feel strongly about this or anything...
Obviously, something hit a nerve but I think you missed the at the end of navguy's message. In any case, I think we should stick a little closer to the topic. News & Views might be a good place to discuss other issues.
Oooh, ooh, c'mon, pleeeeease.. I had the long knives out for LJ.... They are really sharp too, and he's wrong on so-so-so many levels. The bus comment, aw c'mon... Just one lap, I promise it'll be quick, he won't suffer. Honest.
Ok. So. post #173's "permitted to" clause implies freedom isn't so popular any more, but the forum is still "Navigation / GPS Systems". Soooo. .............
Anyone have any non-intuitive[1] suggestions for a mid-range system-level programmer[2] who is really, really sick to death of talking his g/f through the simplest trips[3]? Is/was there some kind of concierge service that could talk her through it for a reasonable number?
Thanks, -Greg
[1] Assume Gamin, Magellan, Tom^2, and Alpine et al. are covered. [2] a.k.a "computer geek, junior grade" [3] Some of us have obvious disadvantages... The inability to read a map is not particularly obvious and is therefore proportionately more pejorative.
What helps me understand my nav system is it's logic. To get to an nput screen I hit "menu" - to enter via address, I hit "address," etc. The tough part would be finding a logical way to explain commands that aren't so logical (does that make sense?). Anyway, my suggestion is to show her simply how to enter info baed on intersections or business names, rather than full addresses, since people don't usually have full addresses.
If that won't work, but your girlfriend really only goes to a few general areas, then maybe programming her nav to save some basic landmarks will help? That's all I got!
LJ, - Sorry about that... I'd just warmed up on the DMCA[1] over at SlashDot before reading posts 1-230 and I was on a hair trigger.
I don't think I'll have too much trouble training her on the nav, once it's selected. I'm just gun-shy about droppin $500 on a dedicated unit.
Right now I'm considering the DeLorme Bluelogger paired with my old Pentium 233 laptop running something... I'm [non-permissible content removed]-u-me-ing their Street Atlas package. This is nice since the total cost to set up would be less than $200, and I'd never have to buy a GPS again.
Has anyone gone down this road and lived to tell the tale?
-Greg
[1] Digital Millenium Copyright Act, the purest expression of evil in our time. Forget Al Quaeda, worry about Disney buying the congresscritters.
Had a loaner for 4 days and fell in love with the NAV system on this baby. Just phenomenal.
A few things I noted:
* only needs street name and number, no city or state * very accurate for my use * soft, sexy female voice doesn't hurt * plenty of reminders so you'd have to try to get lost * route recalculates automatically and quickly when you go off the route * big 7" screen was very useful
It was my favorite feature in the whole car, really loved it. Thumbs up.
Yeah, there were white knuckles that day... Fortunately, I escaped that angst, being more interested in free speech than free beer[1]. (Hence my over-reaction to LJ's arguing that men with guns should throw me in jail for not putting on a seat belt.)
HOWEVER, on the topic of GPSes, I thought I'd pass along.
This is a technically detailed (aka useful) site that covers a broad spectrum of GPS solutions. These guys are pretty agnostic, but the interesting stuff in GPS today is happening in-and-around the PDAs, so that's where the most emphasis is placed.
Based on my research to date, I'll probably pull the trigger on: My old Vaio 505tr (Replaceable for $222 on eBay) running iGuidance 2.1.1 (For travel, $99) M$ Streets & Trips 2005 (For planning, $20) An SiRF III-based BluetoothGPS bridge/receiver Probably a GlobalSat BT-338 ($150) Unless I find something else that'll do logging.
OK, say $550 in gear. Still twice the capacity of a RoadMate 700 for half the price without the vendor lockin AND I get to watch my XviD of Tomb Raider while driving 120 mph and swigging beer!!!
-Greg
[1] For those with lives, you have hopefully escaped the 20 year jihad between the Beeries and the Speechers. Good for you. Still, if you like pain, there is a LOT to be had at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_source_software
I am wondering if I made a mistake buying an update disk from ebay. Serial # is 86271-33042. Data ver 03.3 I have a 2002 Toyota Land Cruiser. I put the CD in the changer and nothing happens. Also - there is no guide on how to do this in the owner's manula. Help! Thanks
I've read recently that Chrysler is moving (has moved?) to a new navigation system. Anyone know what that means for updates to the previous system? I have a 300M with the second version (5064033AB) and I will be getting the AC version soon. My concern is that there may not be an update to my system again. Anybody heard anything about that?
If the following PN is 86271-33040 is on the disc... this DVD map disc is not compatible with your vehicle.
You need to acquire a disc such as 86271-33031,2,3,4,5,6... the KEY is the 4th number in the second string. As you can see from above the 33040 will not be compatible with your vehicle.
No manufacturer offers a 1.5DIN all-in-one navigation unit. Presently only Pioneer offers a DIN all-in-one nav unit that can be installed with a kit to take up some of the extra space.... perhaps with a pocket? Otherwise a Kenwood, Alpine or Eclipse DIN motorized monitor can be installed with a hideaway unit.
I suggest doin' some shoppn' to see what fits your budget and, most importantly, something you really like aesthetically.
The upgrades are specific to the navigation system... sorta like MS Windows 98 or 2000. Thus you cant install MAC software in a Windows PC... make sense?
3.) The 04CY means 2004 calendar year.
4.) The new Toyota or Lexus updates are generally released in the fall of every year regardless if its a GEN 2, 3 or 4.
5.) Simply load the DVD map disc in the nav computer and let it upload.... that simple.
For your vehicle you need a DVD map disc with part number 86271-33034... the key is the 4th digit in the second string. You must have a '3' for it to be compatible with your vehicle.
I was thinking of those units but couldn't justify the cost on them considering you can't override the DVD playback and if you do have a dvd in there instead of the navi dvd you get a limited navi unit.
Intead I actually built/building a car-computer for about $1500 including a screen and all the goodies. This unit will turn on with the car etc. The parts are ordered and I'll give you feedback as soon as I get it in the armada.
I am not sure if the AVIC-D2 has a hide away module... but the -N2 does have a hide away module.
Please be sure that you can integrate either unit with the vehicle's imbedded electronics. For example, if the vehicle utilizes Bose amplification and loudspeakers you will need to purchase an adaptor so that the Pioneer stereo/CD player will be compatible with your vehicle's imbedded electronics. Even newer Toyotas feature complicated audio systems now that pose a huge challange to novice installers. Be thorough, do you homework, and interview the business establishment prior to purchasing any item so that you aren't disappointed with your purchase.
Furthermore if you have steering wheel controls (and you want to keep them) you will also need another adaptor that will translate the signal from the steering wheel so that the Pioneer unit will understand them and react accordingly. Lastly, as can be heard after removing a GM headunit, the sound quality is typically worse! That is because the equalization circuitry is built into the head unit! Another issue with removing (some) GM head units is that you may loose your door chime sound and dome light trigger circuit! Lots of factors to consider but a good aftermarket shop/installer will know what is involved so you don't lose any options you like or can explain the limitiations of installing the unit you decide upon.
As mentioned previously, thoroughly investigate the integration options of the aftermarket equipement and business/shop/store prior to making a buying decision.
Crutchfield listed it as compatible with the Subaru we're considering it for. I've installed a couple of double-DIN stereos in both Foresters and Legacys so I feel comfortable enough to do the job.
This would only fit Legacys up to 2004 because in 05 they integrated the climate controls on the same panel (effectively killing aftermarket in-dash units).
No steering wheel volume controls or chimes on those. Not Bose either. Clarion and in some cases Panasonic supplies Subaru's OE stuff.
Should fit any Forester or Impreza also, those are basic double-DIN units.
What navguy1 said is true (seems most of what he says proves out - funny eh <- see, I really am Canadian) . I do like the Crutchfield site though. When I "tested" their site re the Pioneer model you mentioned and indicated I wanted to install it in my 2001 Pathfinder, which has a Bose system, they immediatly noted I would have to purchase an adapter, and they listed it with cost. I don't think that unit is for me. I still like the portable ones you can move from vehicle to vehicle. The Pioneer unit doesn't make it obvious how to do things, such as listen to FM radio. I already have a car stereo that's "smarter" than I am. Having to pull out a 90 page manual to do something unusual doesn't click in my books!
Have you been able to find a back up camera for your '06 Solara? I'm looking for one for mine too. It would be a great feature, too bad it's not an option.
Comments
-mike
GPS Explorer website does a great "GPS for Car Comparison" chart, rates the iWay 500C the very best. Check it out under "Which one should you get?": http://www.gpsexplorer.com/GPS-for-Cars-CS131.aspx
The review they wrote was also glowing: http://www.gpsexplorer.com/Lowrance-iWay-500C-GPS-MP3-Combo-W5.aspx
Crutchfield review good too: http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/reviews/navigation/2005/0419/iway_logan.html
Here's some great customer reviews/testimonials I found:
Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0006OCJ2...electronics&n=507846
BizRate.com: http://www.bizrate.com/marketplace/product_info/review_...8766,sort--date.html
Epinions.com: http://www.epinions.com/content_177503768196
http://www.epinions.com/content_179004870276
http://www.epinions.com/pr-Lowrance_Iway_500c_GPS_Receiver_1/display_~reviews
Dealtime.com: http://www.shopping.com/xPR-Iway_500c~RD-182210825860
Crutchfield.com: http://www.crutchfield.com/S-izscSSy3pDs/cgi-bin/ProdVi...d=review&i=550IW500C
any info would help as I'm about to buy and I don't know which version is loaded in the dealer's cars
So you can get a Garmin for a little less if you're willing to do the work yourself.
-juice
Pick up a 1 GB card - you'll be surprised how much it holds. I have most of the east & west coast of the US & Canada, as well as parts of the midwest. The price for a 1 GB card is around $89 nowadays.
Mark
-mike
Since the stereo would not be replaced the steering wheel controls would continue to function normally.
Report your corrections to you local Toyota dealership or call Toyota's customer satisfaction hotline.
If the $250MSRP is too steep look at Ebay for an undamaged disc that has the silver graphics that are horizontal.
Of course entering info while IN TRAFFIC is dangerous to you and those around you, but so is changing radio stations while in traffic and checking your spedometer or car clock. Anyone have a radio that requires you to tune in to stations only while stationary??? I ask you, what's more dangerous, having someone input info into a nav system or having a nervous, lost driver on a highway scanning for street signs or fiddling with a map instead of paying attention to the road ahead?
Furthermore, Acura and (from what I've heard) Infiniti have voice input navigation, where you can input most or all info by voice, w/o needing to take one's eyes off the road. I know Acura uses the same system in their Hondas. Don't know if Inifiniti uses it in their Nissans, but I'm sure Lexis/Toyota will develop voice recognition nav system pretty quickly.
Just purchased a 2006 Toyota Solara with the Eclipse / Denso navigation system.
I understand that Eclipse offers a rear view camera that is a plug and play for this system.
Does anyone know if the Eclipse rear view camera will work with the OEM factory Eclipse / Denso navigation system?
Anyone tried this alread on a late model Toyota Solara?
Thanks for the help
I know there is a way to add a reverse camera to the factory system without having to modify the factory Eclipse Denso Radio nav system.
It's strange that Toyota does not offer this feature when it is really needed.
Can't see what's in back of you 1/2 the time due to the higher backend.
I won't consider buying a Ford (Or renting from Hertz) because they ding at me until, cursing violently, I fake the seatbelt detector out. I can't count how many times I've left rentals idling for an hour while I ate, just to avoid jacking around with the "smart" fascism built in these days... .
As an upper extremity bi-lateral amputee (no hands), putting a seat belt on is by far the hardest maneuver I execute in a car. So difficult, in fact, that it completely changes the risk-reward equation regarding seat belts for me. So, I don't do it.
My personal situation aside, it is none of Toyota's d*** business when or where I choose to use the tools at my disposal. Ditto WRT Solara00's hand wringing in post #148 - Those of us who are competent drinkers[1] and those of us who are competent drivers[2] can easily handle 5 beers or 90mph, neither is particularly difficult and both together not much more so[3]. The fact they were used as an example of ludicrous behavior only strengthens my impression that the North Americans desperately crave a nanny state, and will continue to throw temper tantrums until the few adults left throw up their hands and give it to them just for the sake of a moment's peace.
Not that I feel strongly about this or anything...
-Greg
[1] Where competent is defined as drinking frequently and extensively enough to maintain an accurate estimate of their level of intoxication.
[2] Where competent is defined as being able to pilot a vehicle such that the vehicle responds as the driver wishes. It has no bearing on the driver's wishes with respect to arbitrary social dictates like speed limits, etc.
[3] Oh, please. Don't start. If you feel your knee jerking, stop & do the math. What? You can't? Oh, 'cause there was no time interval given, so you _can't_ calculate a BAC? Yeah, I believe you knew that. You were just testing me, right? Right... Uh, no, I don't agree that everyone who drinks 5 beers is in a chugging contest...
I wish more cars would ding until people would put on seatbelts, and I hope they get smart enough to figure out when your faking it!!! :P We all agree that freedom includes freedom to make bad decisions, but those decisions affect us all with higher insurance rates b/c of greater injuries, higher healthcare costs, and while I've never seen a study, you've got to be more likely to slide out of the driving position w/o a seatbelt, giving you less control and creating danger to other cars in certain situations.
I certainly feel for your condition and the hardships you must face. I'm sure health insurance helped pay for whatever contraption helps you drive a car, so consider the seatbelt effort as some payback. It's a shame they haven't built a contraption to help you get your setbelt on (like automatic belts, that seem to have been discontinued).
As an upper extremity bi-lateral amputee (no hands), putting a seat belt on is by far the hardest maneuver I execute in a car. So difficult, in fact, that it completely changes the risk-reward equation regarding seat belts for me. So, I don't do it.
Without meaning to sound like a jerk, I'd suggest that if the risk-rewards of seatbelt use don't do it for you, the proper response is not to break the law, but to take the bus.
Your post was really long, so I'm replying without re-reading post #148, but your view on laws being unfair to "competent drinkers" is misguided. The fact is that alcoholics often drive better at the BAC limit than under it, but laws are passed based on the general population. That's why there is DWI and that is one of the reasons for speed limits. The problem with alcohol is that the more you drink, the less likely you are to realize you are affected. That being said, police still need probable cause to pull you over, so if you have 5 beers and are truly OK, you probably won't get pulled over if you don't commit a traffic offense.
Obviously, something hit a nerve but I think you missed the
tidester, host
Ok. So. post #173's "permitted to" clause implies freedom isn't so popular any more, but the forum is still "Navigation / GPS Systems". Soooo. .............
Anyone have any non-intuitive[1] suggestions for a mid-range system-level programmer[2] who is really, really sick to death of talking his g/f through the simplest trips[3]? Is/was there some kind of concierge service that could talk her through it for a reasonable number?
Thanks,
-Greg
[1] Assume Gamin, Magellan, Tom^2, and Alpine et al. are covered.
[2] a.k.a "computer geek, junior grade"
[3] Some of us have obvious disadvantages... The inability to read a map is not particularly obvious and is therefore proportionately more pejorative.
P.S. L.J.- Bring it.
What helps me understand my nav system is it's logic. To get to an nput screen I hit "menu" - to enter via address, I hit "address," etc. The tough part would be finding a logical way to explain commands that aren't so logical (does that make sense?). Anyway, my suggestion is to show her simply how to enter info baed on intersections or business names, rather than full addresses, since people don't usually have full addresses.
If that won't work, but your girlfriend really only goes to a few general areas, then maybe programming her nav to save some basic landmarks will help? That's all I got!
I don't think I'll have too much trouble training her on the nav, once it's selected. I'm just gun-shy about droppin $500 on a dedicated unit.
Right now I'm considering the DeLorme Bluelogger paired with my old Pentium 233 laptop running something... I'm [non-permissible content removed]-u-me-ing their Street Atlas package. This is nice since the total cost to set up would be less than $200, and I'd never have to buy a GPS again.
Has anyone gone down this road and lived to tell the tale?
-Greg
[1] Digital Millenium Copyright Act, the purest expression of evil in our time. Forget Al Quaeda, worry about Disney buying the congresscritters.
Steve, Host
A few things I noted:
* only needs street name and number, no city or state
* very accurate for my use
* soft, sexy female voice doesn't hurt
* plenty of reminders so you'd have to try to get lost
* route recalculates automatically and quickly when you go off the route
* big 7" screen was very useful
It was my favorite feature in the whole car, really loved it. Thumbs up.
-juice
Yeah, there were white knuckles that day... Fortunately, I escaped that angst, being more interested in free speech than free beer[1]. (Hence my over-reaction to LJ's arguing that men with guns should throw me in jail for not putting on a seat belt.)
HOWEVER, on the topic of GPSes, I thought I'd pass along.
http://www.gpspassion.com/fr/default.asp?_SetCurrentVersion=EN
This is a technically detailed (aka useful) site that covers a broad spectrum of GPS solutions. These guys are pretty agnostic, but the interesting stuff in GPS today is happening in-and-around the PDAs, so that's where the most emphasis is placed.
Based on my research to date, I'll probably pull the trigger on:
My old Vaio 505tr (Replaceable for $222 on eBay) running
iGuidance 2.1.1 (For travel, $99)
M$ Streets & Trips 2005 (For planning, $20)
An SiRF III-based BluetoothGPS bridge/receiver
Probably a GlobalSat BT-338 ($150)
Unless I find something else that'll do logging.
OK, say $550 in gear. Still twice the capacity of a RoadMate 700 for half the price without the vendor lockin AND I get to watch my XviD of Tomb Raider while driving 120 mph and swigging beer!!!
-Greg
[1] For those with lives, you have hopefully escaped the 20 year jihad between the Beeries and the Speechers. Good for you. Still, if you like pain, there is a LOT to be had at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_source_software
Thanks for disambiguating that for us!
tidester, host
-mike
I have a 2002 Toyota Land Cruiser. I put the CD in the changer and nothing happens. Also - there is no guide on how to do this in the owner's manula. Help!
Thanks
You need to acquire a disc such as 86271-33031,2,3,4,5,6... the KEY is the 4th number in the second string. As you can see from above the 33040 will not be compatible with your vehicle.
I suggest doin' some shoppn' to see what fits your budget and, most importantly, something you really like aesthetically.
3.) The 04CY means 2004 calendar year.
4.) The new Toyota or Lexus updates are generally released in the fall of every year regardless if its a GEN 2, 3 or 4.
5.) Simply load the DVD map disc in the nav computer and let it upload.... that simple.
For your vehicle you need a DVD map disc with part number 86271-33034... the key is the 4th digit in the second string. You must have a '3' for it to be compatible with your vehicle.
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-C6i09SK9BQy/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?g=182350&I=130AVICD1
That's a double-DIN, it would fit 04 and earlier Subaru Legacys (like my wife's car).
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-C6i09SK9BQy/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?g=182350&I=130AVICN2
That's a single DIN, pretty tight packaging. Not sure if it has a remote unit to install as well. Guess that could go under the passenger seat?
I get a lot of feedback on Garmin units, but none on these. Perhaps they're newer or less common.
-juice
Intead I actually built/building a car-computer for about $1500 including a screen and all the goodies. This unit will turn on with the car etc. The parts are ordered and I'll give you feedback as soon as I get it in the armada.
-mike
Saw that you were doing a unique solution, sounds cool mike, take pics.
-juice
Please be sure that you can integrate either unit with the vehicle's imbedded electronics. For example, if the vehicle utilizes Bose amplification and loudspeakers you will need to purchase an adaptor so that the Pioneer stereo/CD player will be compatible with your vehicle's imbedded electronics. Even newer Toyotas feature complicated audio systems now that pose a huge challange to novice installers. Be thorough, do you homework, and interview the business establishment prior to purchasing any item so that you aren't disappointed with your purchase.
Furthermore if you have steering wheel controls (and you want to keep them) you will also need another adaptor that will translate the signal from the steering wheel so that the Pioneer unit will understand them and react accordingly. Lastly, as can be heard after removing a GM headunit, the sound quality is typically worse! That is because the equalization circuitry is built into the head unit! Another issue with removing (some) GM head units is that you may loose your door chime sound and dome light trigger circuit! Lots of factors to consider but a good aftermarket shop/installer will know what is involved so you don't lose any options you like or can explain the limitiations of installing the unit you decide upon.
As mentioned previously, thoroughly investigate the integration options of the aftermarket equipement and business/shop/store prior to making a buying decision.
Crutchfield listed it as compatible with the Subaru we're considering it for. I've installed a couple of double-DIN stereos in both Foresters and Legacys so I feel comfortable enough to do the job.
This would only fit Legacys up to 2004 because in 05 they integrated the climate controls on the same panel (effectively killing aftermarket in-dash units).
No steering wheel volume controls or chimes on those. Not Bose either. Clarion and in some cases Panasonic supplies Subaru's OE stuff.
Should fit any Forester or Impreza also, those are basic double-DIN units.
-juice
-juice