Since the introduction of this new iPad and installing the new OS on my devices (iPhone 3GS et iPad 1), I wondered about the benefits that could draw boaters users, compared to previous model and system.
iPad 2
Apart from the cameras which are considered by all observers, quite disappointing, iPad 2 seems to obtain unanimity from all specialists (¹).
Engadget :
"Pictures do not do justice to the iPad 2, it is really, really great when held in hand. iPad 2 is beautiful and has been designed with great intelligence "
“Les performances processeur et graphiques de cette tablette sont impressionnantes. "
"It will perhaps frustrate the competition to hear that, but it must be said : iPad is not only the best tablet on the market, it seems that the only tablet on the market "
Wall Street Journal :
"Although this is an evolution rather than revolution as the first model, changes made by Apple are generally pleasant and positive […] I recommend against many competing tablets I have tested so far, especially with a price of entry remains attractive "
iOS 4.3
MacGénération :
« iOS 4.3 is not a major update of Apple's mobile system, but it still adds some new features, dont certaines bienvenues comme le partage à domicile ou encore le partage de la connexion pour l’iPhone 4 "
Well, well.
But what's best for yachtmen ?
I thought through all the comments of my colleagues warned (¹), reviews, Forums, I find nothing that significantly improves marine use from iPad. A processor twice faster ? Double RAM capacity ? 115 grams less at arm's length ?
No, frankly, I do not see.
The screen resolution remains the same, autonomy also. No change in A-GPS chipset (just an update) or performance of localization. We know a little more from disassembly by iFixit on components of the 3G model, only the components have been modified 2G/3G.
The components of the iPad2 3G - Source iFixit
About the latest operating system, iOS 4.3, I have seen no improvement in the use of my favorite applications. Improvements and innovations do not directly concern marine use. However, Rich Ray advised that iOS 4.3 had resolved a major memory leak which affects some applications, as iNavX, but only on iPad.
No need to rush to buy this new model if you already have the first. And good for the new buyers will benefit improvements for the same price.
And then ?
Je sais que ce n’est pas « commercialement correct » mais je me permets déjà quelques supputations sur le modèle suivant. I do not really see how Apple could improve the design already extremely successful (fineness, lightness). So it's certainly within the machine as it happens. First, to satisfy the moaners, new cameras more efficient. Then more high-definition screen technology. Perhaps the media Thunderbolt (²) Finally, allowing high-speed connectivity with peripherals. My dream would be an iPad for the physical connection of instruments, not only in WiFi, This could allow some manufacturers to connect their devices, such as satellite phones, in example, for receiving GRIB files off.
One can always dream, isn't it ?
—
(¹) http://www.slashgear.com/ipad-2-early-reviews-roundup-10139266/
(²) http://www.apple.com/fr/thunderbolt/
Hello,
What do you think of Navionics charts, if not what are the best cards ?
Is it possible to connect one way or another the weather forecast provided by Sirius (you have to buy the box) in this case the United States because I browsing at this time in the Bahamas.
Thank you for your site.
I think the greater good : vector maps to the quality / price ratio to date.
Sorry, know.
Congratulations on your site that is very well done.
Since I am always impressed by the friendliness of Apple machines. The iPad seems to perpetuate this tradition perfectly ; which makes it very attractive with iNavX. However, I would like your opinion on the following considerations :
– the lack of USB port is not there a big handicap, denying access to devices often cheap ?
– can be easily accommodated the lack of keyboard ?
– even using the accessories shown on your site, The iPad is it too fragile in a marine environment ?
– Integrated GPS can be enough to edge and can be coupled with a DSC VHF ?
Thank you for giving me your opinion on these objections that come
Marc
We know all connect via WiFi and iPad, essentially, mobile, why stop with cables ?
The answer is very personal. For my part I take faster on the keyboard's touch on my iPad MB, but I am not a typist ! Anyway to navigate there are only very rarely need a keyboard.
Certainly less than a MacBook. Mais seuls les portables « durcis » Panasonic peuvent résister à tout, tracers and dedicated to the sailing.
Yes in most cases, even in an aluminum boat (I have received expressions of confidence), but, isn't it, it does not return the item to a VHF. Finally, not that I know. You poserai la question au Développeur.
I just got the answer from Rich Ray :
This means using the NMEA OUT connector (RS422) IMUX to return the GPS data (and waypoints) to the radio and the pilot. The radio using only positional data.
About Ipad links and satellite phone
What do you think of the possibility of using the phone for Inmarsat (IsatPhone Pro) who can communicate with Bluetooth devices. see site Nauticom
Can not we not use it to get grib ficgiers directly Ipad?
Thank you for your reply
The IsatPhone Pro is an attractive device, unfortunately it does not transmit data such as Iridium, and limiting the number of characters in SMS and Mail is unacceptable (little more than Twitter !). So it's mainly a phone at an attractive price. We must wait and hope for a possible change.