Arkon DM320 - Page 3

XPLORx4 · 11-30-05, 03:44 PM

Can this mount (Arkon DM320) be used while the Axim is enclosed in a case (such as Boxwave's Flexiskin?

I don't know how important it is to keep the Axim in a protective case while installed in the car. I'm considering the purchase of either the Seidio G4500 or the Arkon DM320.

Thanks.

JakeRich · 11-30-05, 04:04 PM

Probably not. The unit is engineered to have the back of the case against the back of the mount so that the connectors line up without any stress. It's pretty closely engineered, without much slack at all.

XPLORx4 · 11-30-05, 04:14 PM

Thanks for the response, JakeRich. So, if I understand correctly, do most people who use the Axim as a GPS/PDA in the car not use protective cases? How "risky" is that?

s4iscool · 11-30-05, 06:06 PM

Originally Posted by XPLORx4

Thanks for the response, JakeRich. So, if I understand correctly, do most people who use the Axim as a GPS/PDA in the car not use protective cases? How "risky" is that?

i use a rhino, but obviously take it out when i put it in the mount

JakeRich · 11-30-05, 08:52 PM

I take mine out of the Piel Frama case to put it on the mount. I don't see any real risk to doing that at all.

0gopogo · 11-30-05, 09:39 PM

Originally Posted by XPLORx4

Thanks for the response, JakeRich. So, if I understand correctly, do most people who use the Axim as a GPS/PDA in the car not use protective cases? How "risky" is that?

I never use "protective cases" because they always get in the way. Having to take it out to mount it in the car is one example. Replacing batteries is another. The Sena cases are desktop cradle-friendly but most cases are not. Then, when using the PDA with the case on I can't hold it comfortably because of the case cover. Too much hassle.

Therefore, when I use the PDA it is unprotected. I am not concerned about dropping it while using it, it never happened in over 5 years. When I carry the PDA it rides on my belt in a holster-style case where it is well protected. I did drop previous PDAs when carrying them in the shirt pocket. They survived but it taught me to holster the PDA when it is not in use. My current belt case is a Nutshell.

As for the car, there is a risk that the car cradle falls off the windshield/vent mount/dashboard. It happened to my Garmin iQue a few times when I used Garmin's windshield, but no harm was done. The Garmin suction cup sucks - not! On the contrary it fell off frequently especially when it was hot. The Seidio suction cup has been in my windshield since spring and survived the Houston summer just fine. I have to wrestle it off the glass.

GhostOp · 12-01-05, 02:33 PM

I have been using the DM320 with my X51v for about 3 months. Generally, it works well, mounting is secure and stable. A few minor quirks, the side padding sometimes presses against the recording and wireless buttons on the left side of the X51v. Also, I ended up exchanging the DM320 for a new one b/c it stopped charging my PPC, despite the fact that the power adapater light was on! Hopefully the new unit I received will not have charging problem. All other glitches are minor and I can live with.

AstronusX · 12-01-05, 02:47 PM

Is Arkon DM320 worth the money and recommend to buy? Any other amount that work better than Arkon DM320 for Axim X51v?

12-01-05, 02:50 PM

I'll be sending up a review of the G4850 tonight once I get home. You can check it out prior to deciding.

JakeRich · 12-01-05, 03:33 PM

I'll also have a review of the new Seidio next week. From my early use, it's good, the SIRF III works well, the unit is well designed and fit/finish on my unit was excellent. Sound was good as well.

More to come.

I also have a full review of the DM 320 on its way. Should be posted this weekend.

AstronusX · 12-02-05, 10:07 AM

Can we dock on the front car panel without mount to windshield?

JakeRich · 12-02-05, 11:49 AM

AstronusX, I'm not sure what you are asking but the DM320 and CM720 both have the same size physical mounting tabs on the back. You can mount both of them on the same base. There are alternatives to the windshield if you want--vent holders, cup holders, floor mounts. You can also drill holes in the dashboard and permanently mount the unit if you want to fabricate a holder for it.