Android Tablet instead of GPS Navigation unit

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by truckinfast, Nov 1, 2015.

  1. truckinfast

    truckinfast Light Load Member

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    Nov 13, 2011
    Texas
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    I have had 2 Rand McNally GPS units die in the last 3.5 years! That is the unit itself, not just a cheap cigarette lighter plug power cord.

    I am considering buying an Android Tablet...or the new Amazon Fire Tablet $50 http://www.amazon.com/Fire-Display-Wi-Fi...B00TSUGXKE

    For Truck Navigation: CoPilot Truck USA & CAN - GPS $150
    https://play.google.com/store/apps/detai...ruck&hl=en

    For Truck Scale Bypass instead of Prepass, I found: Drivewyze PreClear Trucker App
    https://play.google.com/store/apps/detai...tha2&hl=en

    Drivewyze Recieve bypasses at 597 sites in 35 states according to
    http://drivewyze.com/coverage-map/

    PrePass has 310 sites operational or in development in 31 states according to
    http://www.prepass.com/services/prepass/...ceMap.aspx

    If the Tablet dies, breaks, or is stolen I can replace it NEW $50 and download the Truck Navigation that I paid for. ONLY pay 1 time for Android Navigation App, free on replacement tablets/phones(android devices).

    This Tablet option will require mobile data/internet connection, which I have on my AT&T phone and can Tether Wi-Fi phone to Tablet no extra charge.
    I would only recommend this setup for someone with one of the following:
    1. Phone & Plan that has Mobile Data Tethering
    2. buy a Wifi Hotspot from Verizon or AT&T etc.
    3. buy a 4G LTE Android Tablet and add it to your wireless plan(usually $10/month + data useage)

    What do you think? Do you currently use CoPilot and DriveWyze App?
     
    rabbiporkchop Thanks this.
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  3. blairandgretchen

    blairandgretchen Road Train Member

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    Dec 9, 2011
    South west Missouri
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    Still using the Atlas. I did update it to a 2015, and retired the 2010.
     
    truckinfast and lots of character Thank this.
  4. lots of character

    lots of character Road Train Member

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    I'm afraid I'm with @blairandgretchen .

    I mean, if your cheap tablet works for you? Right on then.
     
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  5. ZVar

    ZVar Road Train Member

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    Sep 10, 2010
    Flint, MI
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    Biggest problem is most if not all those cheap tablets do not have a gps radio in them. They do location by using wifi and guessing the aprox. city you are in by your IP address, but nothing close to resembling accuracy for routing.

    I did look up the Fire, and it's the same way. All that being said if you can find a tablet cheap enough with gps it might not be a bad plan.

    -Steven
     
    truckinfast Thanks this.
  6. slavcha

    slavcha Light Load Member

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    Oct 17, 2011
    Utica NY
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    I have COPILOT and GARMIN dzl 560. I like CoPilot option to choose 3 alternate rotes. And you don't need data or internet for CoPilot to work, maps stored inside your tablet. Just have to make sure the tablet you choose is GPS capable.
     
    truckinfast Thanks this.
  7. Hick

    Hick Heavy Load Member

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    Dec 4, 2014
    West Virginia
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    I use a Samsung Galaxy 4 7" tablet (Wifi only) - ~$100. Rock solid.

    You need to be chosey when picking tablets because most don't come with the GPS module.

    I use this on my phone for free tether for the tablet: https://code.google.com/p/android-wifi-tether/

    The setup works, but I don't use the tablet for anything but TruckersPath while driving and satellite view on Maps when pre-planning. That CoPilot app is what, $200? Hmm.
     
  8. Flatbed Valkyrie

    Flatbed Valkyrie Medium Load Member

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    Oct 25, 2015
    Chadds Ford,PA
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    I use a 6 year old TomTom.
    That and a atlas with a bit of common sense gets me there everytime.:p
     
  9. DUNE-T

    DUNE-T Road Train Member

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    May 10, 2015
    Detroit, MI
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  10. Use the phone to call customer find anything special about the pickup or drop.

    I have been testing keeptruckin on a Galaxy tab with sim card /WiFi capable.

    Still running a DEZL 560 LMT. ---> helps when a pesky broker wants a ballpark idea of arrival time.

    Haven't made a call on drivewyze. Used it for 30 days, jury still out.

    And trusted monster laminated atlas spiral bound for easy page locating.

    Driver if you decide on a tablet, get a good case to protect it. Above all else don't put you life in it. Keep it business only.
     
  11. tallmon

    tallmon Medium Load Member

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    Oct 22, 2014
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    Don't use an Amazon FIRE! The Fire's are nice for reading, TV Shows, Movies, and for the kids. It doesn't work with the full suite of Google services including GMail, Google Maps, Calendar, etc. So beware with the Fire.

    I get my drivers used ATT or Verison Samsung Tab's or Nexus 7's from EBay - between 75 and 100. Minor scuffs but fine for in the cab.
     
    truckinfast Thanks this.
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