CPS and Netbooks

[giardinop]

Anyone know if a Win XP based Netbook would be compatible with the CPS software? I'm looking for an inexpensive, dedicated soulution for programming in the field.

[HLA]

never seen or used one but to start with, does it have a serial port?

[Mfire39]

Pick up an older toughbook with XP. You can get them on the cheap, and most have a real serial port.


-Marc

[giardinop]

No serial port, but we have been having success with a USB to serial converter. I know it's not reccomended but it is working and at my agency they replace computers rather frequently so serial ports are just about extinct(I havent had a floppy drive in nearly 3 years).

The netbook idea seemed inexpensive compact and light weight. We may take a stab at it and if it fails we'll put the netbook into service on another project. I will update when we see if it works.

[HLA]

just remember if it fails it's gonna be a very expensive learning experience. don't trust anything usb that isn's motorola oem

[giardinop]

Well here is the update:

The ASUS Eee PC is working well with a USB-Serial converter and I have been pleased with the results. I found a converter that works well and I have been able to successfully program EX, HT and CDM series radios.

The netbook battery life is excellent and its size is perfect for working inside vehicles. It's light weight and extremely portable, exactly the solution I was looking for.

I understand the reservations some have about the use of aftermarket USB cables/converters. I spend a lot of time with the radios in our system and I wouldn't risk it if I didn't feel comfortable. I have a process that involves some "donor" radios for testing purposes. I have a few that are damaged but functional. I keep them around a while to test with. If I should ever "brick" one I would send it out for a complete repair or replacement. Having control over programming right here saves me tons of downtime, money and other logistical nightmares. I recently had a county agency tell me I had to send my radios to their vendor (an Authorized Motorloa dealer) for interoperability programming. I called the vendor and told them the complexities of my codeplugs and that I was concerned about anyone tinkering with it. He gave me the frequency information and I added it my self. I then argued with the county about it. They would not understand that I could do it myself. (they are worried about grant money and compliance withthe grant program). I ended up getting the vendor and the county guy together. Both were surprised by my knowledge, ability and the complex codeplug that uses more of the radio's features than most end users. So that's my rant on programming......