iDevices, printers, and the web

Thats fine too. I just dont have issues and the OP asked about a wifi solution.
Mine has yet to fail and its dirt simple. Start the hotspot app on the phone and turn your devices on.
That just doesnt get any simpler than that for wifi setup.

I suppose you could have a problem with interference but so far, that again - just hasnt been an issue for me.

I have cords if needed but have not needed them - yet.

As far as some printers being able to print without all of the ink present, its something you should check before you buy them. Most HP refuse to print under that circumstance (but not all) and the same with Brother. Epson's XP series seems to work fine but it does take a total of 4 ink units all of which are $12 each. I buy the $12 color ones (3) but the $22 black xtra capacity one.

No point in printing in color for BOL and permits.

 

Flood and Wsyrob, You've got good points that i recommend to anyone in business even if it isn't thru an app. If you have a camera/smart phone that can take decent, legible pictures that can be filed (dropbox auto upload is a great option if you've got a smartphone) do that and save the money on the printer/scanner combo which tend to break quickly too and spend it on the ink! Just need a decent smartphone camera for it. I've heard many states are starting to become ok taking ins cards over smartphone screen. Anyone hear similar on permits?

 

IL will just let you show them the permit on your phone. Not sure about other states but I'm sure they'll all follow suit eventually.

 

Okay, first, here is a link to a fine Truck Routing GPS App for the iPad. I use it and recommend it as a great way to leverage the value of your iPad (I keep mine mounted on the dash using a RamMount) versus buying a stand-alone GPS with a much smaller screen that costs a lot more money than this app costs. (That is a cradle-only link, you'll need to pick one of their mounting fixtures, depending on how you want to mount it: windshield suction cup, floor mount, screwed to dash, etc...)

Second, here is a link to the HP Printer Control App, which will allow you to print and scan from your New iPad.

Third, here is a list of HP Printer/Scanners that are both AirPrint Compatible (AirPrint is Apple's name for wireless printing from mobile iOS devices) and also compatible with HP's Printer Control App. They call it their Cloud Enabled technology. Carefully choose one of these printer/scanners, and you will be able to do what you want in the truck. Apparently, the HP Printer Control App gives you two ways to scan documents - one using the camera in your iPhone/iPad (and I wouldn't knock that till you've actually tried their version), and two, using the app to control the scanner in an AirPrint/Cloud Enabled HP printer. I imagine, but I haven't looked, that Epson is doing similar work with their line.

You can turn your phone into a Hotspot and this will get your network onto the 'net, but depending on your carrier you might not be able to use the phone to talk while sharing it's data connection. Simultaneous talk and data is available on AT&T 3G networks on all 3G phones, but Verizon can only do both at the same time on certain phones that have 2 antennas. The iPhone is not among them.

Or, if your internet usage is fairly abundant (Netflix, anyone?) you can see what your carrier is offering in the way of a Mobile WiFi Hotspot. It'll require you to add another line to your cell phone contract (or maybe even a different carrier if they have the best deal) but this can be done at different service levels depending on how much data you'll use. And it can be shared by all your devices and will not interrupt your ability to talk on the phone.

Hope this helps...

--Charles

 

Sweet! You have an iMac in the truck?! I think the Hotspot would not only get you on the 'net but would also create the network for the iPad/Printer. I've been using my MacBook Pro less and less...

Absolutely, for me, anyway! CoPilot Truck HD (make sure you get the iPad version) uses the industry standard PC*Miler map database. The interface works fine for me, takes a bit poking around and some getting used to, but I don't go anywhere without it, now. As with all map databases, there are some interesting errors, but for the most part this app is competent for professional use.