RV Tech
Necessary Toys
By Alan Lidstone
There have been many innovations over the last few years for those considering a new RV or just enjoying their current RV. The newest products provide new and expanded support for RV lifestyle activities and opportunities.
One exciting example is the Sports Utility RV (SURV) which is available in sizes ranging from the 700 lb. Sylvan Sport Go pop–up with an all–aluminum frame capable of hauling an ATV, to the Newmar Corp. All Star mid–engine diesel–powered Class A diesel SURV available in rear and side–loading configurations.
Motorhomes generally have generators, but RVers with pop–ups, travel trailers, or fifth–wheels may want to consider the compact, light–weight and portable Honda RV Trailblazer generator or the Cummins Onan Juice Box hitch–mounted gas–powered and LP–powered generators.
A new item becoming popular with RVers for quicker leveling is the RV EZLevel for accurate and convenient leveling with illuminated indicators that show both axes simultaneously.
RVers can get around the resort in a friendlier way with the “human–powered" light–weight folding bikes. Among available poplar models are the Dahon bikes available at Camping World for $159 – $264. Also popular with RVers are lightweight electric bikes, such as those made by Liberty Electric Bikes, prices ranging from approximately $500–$800 in different models.
RVers interested in electric bikes or gas–powered Mopeds, need to check the applicable state regulations regarding use of these vehicles regarding driver age and qualifications, insurance, and any applicable registration requirements.
RVers often travel with expensive consumer electronics products, including HD LCD–TVs, high–end audio systems, computers, and so on. They need clean 120–volt AC power when not using a generator or shore power and can get it with the Magnum MS Series 2000–watt and MM series 1000–watt pure sine wave inverter chargers.
Improved GPS and navigation systems adapted to the needs of the RVer include the Cobra Nav One 5000 system with an ultra–brite 5" screen that works with Bluetooth–enabled cell phones (for hands–free operation) to the Garmin GVN52 GPS and NavTec navigation system that integrates with your existing coach rear/side camera monitor.
While there are many excellent small compact GPS products available to consumers, we strongly recommend that you select a unit with the largest screen size currently available (5" – 7") with a bright image and easy–to use buttons and functions. For reasons of safety, GPS units and navigations systems should only be operated by the person in the passenger seat when the RV is in motion.
RVers with larger rigs may want to look at an integrated Driver Information System (DIS) such as the Navion R5000 and Navion R7000. The DIS units integrate audio, video, and driver information systems. Examples include a tire pressure monitoring system that displays pressures for both coach and towed vehicle tires. An advanced navigation system has integrated video and speech guidance and is augmented with a trip planner and point–of–interest information. A complete engine monitoring system also displays vehicle vital statistics with alarms if any readings fall out of range. A camera system monitors activity and blind spots at the sides and at the rear of the coach.
DIS systems generally provide a large LCD color screen and extended audio capabilities. The audio functions include iPOD audio inputs, USB port, CD player with MP3 and WMA support, AM/FM and weatherband radio, and XM or Sirius satellite radio.
Make backing into RV sites or tight spaces a little easier with an improved rear and side monitor system. Examples are the Sony VCB–62MH with a 16:9 color display that automatically switches to the side camera when making turns and cameras with a 95 degree vertical and 120 degree horizontal angle.
Ah, the economy laptop! RVers who appreciate the power of notebook computers on the road will find new machines with Wi–Fi Internet for as low as $400–$500. For new computer software, consider the free open source Open Office business applications suite (enabling documents can be transferred back and forth and used in either Microsoft Office Suite or the Open Office business applications suite).
With a visit to Software995 website, RVers can evaluate the freeware Business Applications Suite software, along with other multi–function no–cost software packages available as free downloads.
Anyone taking their notebook computer on the road will need anti–virus and firewall software (available as no cost downloads by many Internet Service Providers, such as Verizon DSL). RVers will find the 2008 Street Atlas and PN20 GPS device available as low as $60 from DeLorme invaluable for trip planning and routing and real–time GPS navigation.
TV and home entertainment are must haves, so don't forget that broadcast TV programs signals will be in HD–TV mode after March 2009. This means you will require an HD–TV set and/or HD–TV receiver to receive and view on–air (antenna) TV signals. The Winegard Digital HD Receiver will provide a theater–quality picture and sound for your existing analog TV and over–the–air antenna. For those using a satellite dish with DIRECTV®, the Winegard DIRECTV HD Converter allows DIRECTV® users to access HD programming on satellite 110°.
If you are replacing an analog TV with a new LCD–flat screen HD–TV, consider models that have a built–in DVD player.
If you are looking for a new satellite dish, you may want to consider the new HD–ready Winegard TRAV'LER series that views up to five satellites at the same time and one–button operation. These stationary viewing satellite dishes (with a travel height of 10") are certified for DISH® Network and DIRECTV® and are compatible with all receivers, including DVRs, and support multiple receivers.
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