Re: GPS Interface Software

["D.F.S." <dfs@xmission.com>]

> > |A $50.00 laptop from someplace like EBAY and $100 for a GPS rcvr and
> > |antenna could give you a realtime, moving display system using LINUX
> > 
> > But the size and other attributes aren't acceptable, unless you have
> > something in mind I'm not aware of.
> > 
> 
>    I agree, laptop computers are just out of the question for use
> in gliders. You can't find room for them in most cockpits, and
> if you could, it still needs to be strapped down (one decent bump and
> you're looking at a smashed laptop, maybe a smashed canopy at $2K a
> pop, and maybe even a smashed head :^).
> 
>    From someone who "flys both ends of the rope", I also have somewhat
> mixed feelings of the value of in-flight usage of laptop computers in
> "roomy" power planes. The ergonomics of laptops leave something to be
> desired when compared to dedicated units (ala' GPS). Custom user
> interfaces with just a few buttons and menus are just plain easier to
> use. The same comment applies to the "distractions" created by the
> operating system itself (starting the application, etc). This is also
> an issue under Palm OS as well.

I'm the one mentioning laptops.
I would have to agree running a laptop as such is a pain, I have tried
it.
What I WILL say though is that you will not find a better supported and
common platform for a standard development project.
There are tons of free and cheap tools and everyone can easily set up
a system from local sources.


The advantage to a dedicated system is it could easily be configured to
boot and run a given set of applications.
No need to start applications, turn the power on and that is it.

As to the interface, that is why I mentioned LCD displays.
They are dirt cheap and could easily be driven from a parallel port,
you could also read buttons or a joystick the same way.

Your interface in on the panel and have a definite and simple interface,
the brains are a standard intel PC stuffed out of the way someplace.


As an aside I think the fully embedded approach is best, build a low power
device with a CPU and the software in flash memory.
The problem with that is narrowing the scope and ability of many people
not going to be able to match up to fabrication of such devices.

Building Serial or parallel interfaced devices should be.


One Item I have, that would be good, if they were not sold out is
and LCD based terminal.
Timeline  Inc. had them for $39.00 if I recall.
They are about the size of a knee type clip board.

All I need to do is set up a termcap entry for linux and I'm set.

This is not the cheap display, it is a higher end solution, but for
example...
240 x 64 LCD with built-in controller


               $59.00 or 2 for $109.00

                    Mfr: AND 4021ST-EO 
                    Unit is EL back-lit 
                    The built-in controller allows you to
                    do text and graphics 


   $49.00 or 2 for $89.00
    Mfr: OPTREX DMF5005 
    Non back-lit 
    20 characters x 8 lines 7 1/4 L x 2.5 H 
                                                
    The built-in controller allows you to
            do text and graphics 



BG Micro has a 20 char X 4 Line Display for $5.95.



>    So what is the answer? I don't claim to know, but I think it's
> worth keeping an eye on the uClinux project.  I bought a Palm III a few
> months ago, with the idea of buying the TRG memory board and running
> uClinux on it.  I've since learned that the uClinux gang is working on
> a small, mostly self contained card that has a Motorola DragonBall EZ
> processor (same integrated CPU as the Palm III) right on it! They
> claim the price will be $150 or so. For more info, see
> 
>         http://ryeham.ee.ryerson.ca/uClinux/simm/
> 
> This opens up the possibility of building a low cost, high quality,
> dedicated unit that could be programmed accordingly depending on the
> target application (power vs. soaring).  I would have to agree with
> those who say uClinux has a way to go yet. However, I have also looked
> into developing under Palm OS, and it looks rather painful to me! By
> the way, the uClinux kernel runs fine under the latest Xcopilot
> emulator.

I would agree, the hardware they are developing would be great for people
interested in building them.
I guess my point is as long as we design and develop open and portable
software it can easily port to whatever hardware best fits a persons
situation.


Like I said, my final goal would be an embedded system.

My CPU of choice would be one of the motrolla 68K family parts.

BUT keeping it open will allow more people to use whatever we develop and
will allow much quicker prototyping.

Marc

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