Dedicated automotive use

[oisact]

Is anyone using their TP2 for dedicated (as in a fixed mount) automotive use? I'm considering using my spare TP2 without cellular service for such a purpose. Has anyone tried this or can recommend software?
Stuff I have in mind:

• GPS navigation use. 100% offline - all maps stored on phone.
• Music playback.
• Video playback using video out while TP2 LCD shows control panel.
• Auto synching media via Wifi when at home.
• Utilize Wifi hotspot from other cell phone (that way the automotive TP2 doesn't require a separate contract / service).
• Weather radar and alerts.
• Shell wrapper to tie all the above together in a clean, unified GUI interface like "Car PCs" have.

The Video playback is the only thing really specific to the TP2 hardware. Of course all these things can be done individually, but what's needed is a good GUI to tie them all together.

[raven]

This is a project / use of my TP2 that I am also interested in pursuing.

[JustusIV]

Thought about this myself with another older phone.
I do all that but i have cellular service. Keep in mind when you dont have that getting a gps signal can take some time.
I do not have a nice gui but i have all my driving apps right up front so i just click on what i need.
I use igo for offline map gps.

[elesbb]

does gps still work without a contract ??

[oisact]

Originally Posted by elesbb

does gps still work without a contract ??

Yes. I have a TP2 that hasn't had cellular service since last summer and it works fine. It's US Cellular branded.

[darren.wlsn1]

Originally Posted by oisact

Yes. I have a TP2 that hasn't had cellular service since last summer and it works fine. It's US Cellular branded.

yep and telus is also like this.

[AZTECHKA]

If I hardmounted my TP2 to my dash... Someone here would break my windows and take my dash. LOL.
I just use my current phone for all that. Just like I did my TP2 when I had it on service. Not to mention you can make and take calls over the stereo (hands free).
Good luck though bro.
p.

[THE-COPS]

I wish there was some app that would interface with an OBDII system or scanner. WOuld be interesting to tweak parameters using the phone.

[Tinkerbell]

Cool idea... glad to see the TP2 still fulfilling a need even though you have a newer shinny device! Nice!

[horndoctor]

Originally Posted by THE-COPS

I wish there was some app that would interface with an OBDII system or scanner. WOuld be interesting to tweak parameters using the phone.

Check this out:

http://www.pocketpcfreeware.mobi/download-hobd.html