Conversation with Silverleaf

Topic: Conversation with Silverleaf (Read 821 times) previous topic - next topic

Conversation with Silverleaf

June 06, 2014, 12:42:21 pm

Some of you know I want to get connected up to a monitor system. Friends on the Forum really believe in them. This is what I found today in talking to Cory at Silverleaf in trying to decide what to order. My 2001 is dash space limited so I was hoping to find a way besides a laptop, something like an iPad or other tablet but I do not want to spend a fortune on a tablet either. I thought use my iPad that I already have?

a. He is surprised that on a 2001 ISM that I have the right connection with dual inputs, as I heard him, but having a plug on the wall with nine holes, seven with connectors in them, seems to say that I do. So if you are trying to use this to consider adding the silverleaf, best check that if you have an older coaches like mine that you have the right connection.
b. He says that I can connect the coach data output via bluetooth or WiFi to a tablet or a laptop rather than wire. The bluetooth though only works with Android systems. The WiFi will work with Android or Apple operating systems. I do not need a router or such for the WiFi, it would use an "ad hoc" method to send data to the laptop
c. I can use an iPad however only with the WiFi option. You lose some ease of operation or function when you move from the laptop so understand that. You can, he says, look at the Apps for free, explore how that works. It sounds to me as though I should stay with the laptop.
d. THey have had problems with the ad hoc wifi connection when using Windows 8. It is ok with Windows 7, probably avoid 8.

Perhaps some of you have a moment to expand on this, set me straight. But today I think I will just wire it via USB to a laptop or bluetooth to a laptop? I do not know if you can buy the system and switch between USB and WiFi or you have to order configured in one way. Too, someone on the Forum gave a great report of an Asus computer interface between the Silverleaf and I think a tablet, I need to find that report. Computer was mounted on the wall in a cabinet, out of the way. He offered to help us, as have many others.

Nice folks at Silverleaf, 888-741-0259, talk to Cory if you want help.

mike

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #1 – June 06, 2014, 01:31:48 pm

I opted to build a little shelf out of wood over the area above reverse monitor in my 2002 to set a small computer on.

The VMSpc requires very, very little processing speed or CPU power. I use a Hewlett Packard Omnibook 800CT (one of the very first "netbook-sized" computers) with a 10.1" screen. These are very inexpensive (now) little Windows95 computers that have a Serial Port but no USB port. I did update the OS to Win98, but that was just to add a USB port for Garmin's old nRoute program that I no longer use. The CPU speed is only 166 mhz and memory, when maxed out, is 80mb. I use the original VMSpc with a serial port connection.

My preference for normal work is a Linux-based Ubuntu operating system, so I just dedicate this computer to the VMSpc task and leave it sit on that shelf. I think the last one I bought was around $49.

By the way, there is actually an online forum at Silverleaf for the VMSpc. Lots of good info there as the Silverleaf folks frequent it and set things straight when needed.

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #2 – June 06, 2014, 01:35:11 pm

shelf attached with velcro or more permanent?

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #3 – June 06, 2014, 01:36:09 pm

Michael,

Do you mean this post? Scroll down to "Home2fromHastings"

Engine operating temperatures

I use a Asus notebook.

Keith

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #4 – June 06, 2014, 01:56:28 pm

Any small pc or ultra book or laptop can use an iPad or android tablet as a remote display. I have had good luck with the Splashtop App for both apple and android devices.

Works very well. PM me if I can help with details.

Roger

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #5 – June 06, 2014, 02:58:16 pm

I got a cheap net book at costco. It fits on the dash fine. You have the same dash as I do. I run the power cord to the outlet by the seat. Plugins always work and no connection issues. Simple set up

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #6 – June 06, 2014, 03:29:38 pm

Quote from: Michael & Jackie – June 06, 2014, 01:35:11 pm

shelf attached with velcro or more permanent?

It is free-standing. I used a piece of paper to sort of make a model, and then trimmed and trimmed to make it fit around the curve of the dash. It is three-sided to sit on the dash with felt.

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #7 – June 06, 2014, 03:32:43 pm

Out of the blue of the Western sky comes...
jor

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #8 – June 06, 2014, 03:42:59 pm

I had mine up there too on a nice platform but it was too bright when it got dark out so I moved mine to the dash. Then I stopped driving at night. GO figure. Nice setup.

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #9 – June 06, 2014, 03:47:42 pm

Needed: 110 outlet to operate computer/ then what power do you need to operate the silverleaf. Is this a program you load on computer? If so how did you get it on there as my small notebook has no disc drive? I think need to ck this item out more so I can ask intelligent questions. I have a small notebook I can use which has windows XT on it.

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #10 – June 06, 2014, 03:52:24 pm

I use a 12 volt power supply that was available for the Omnibook, but have used the 110 also. The Silverleaf VMSpc takes its power from that little round diagnostic port...nothing else needed.

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #11 – June 06, 2014, 03:57:38 pm

Quote from: Dan J. Stansel – June 06, 2014, 03:47:42 pm

Needed: 110 outlet to operate computer/ then what power do you need to operate the silverleaf. Is this a program you load on computer? If so how did you get it on there as my small notebook has no disc drive? I think need to ck this item out more so I can ask intelligent questions. I have a small notebook I can use which has windows XT on it.

If you have internet access with that computer, go download all you need for free at Silverleaf. Then set up the display you like while waiting for the unit to arrive! I have changed mine several times. I like seeing the numbers and ALSO use idiot lights. So I look at the screen and see all green and am happy. I even use a trick to train myself to press the ECON button, because the Cruise Control light is RED if it is not on. When I see that red, I press the ECON button and then press the cruis control button. Then the light is the only yellow thing on screen, until I set the cruise...then everything is green. Fun to play with. I'm gonna dump the Blue Background on the Foretravel name. I used to have a picture there too. Time to play more....

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #12 – June 06, 2014, 04:14:44 pm

You can download the program for free from silverleaf the connection is what they sell you. I can put a small extension board from the plug behind the drivers seat. Look there Dan, I bet you have one too. As said above nothing else is needed for the silverleaf.

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #13 – June 06, 2014, 04:20:00 pm

We run the program on a lonovo laptop that is plugged into the data port and power by the driver's seat. The PC rides on the couch. We also have a Netgear wireless router that sends the PC wireless signals via VNC to a Samsung 7" tablet also running VNC, that is mounted to a swivel bracket that is mounted on top of the dash above the radio. We use VNC on the laptop and tablet to "Mirror" the PC monitor. I find the tablet display convient as it is higher than the dash instruments and do not worry about it moving around. I am not a big techno geek so we had a guy from Best Buy help ust get to where we wanted to go. I have attached a pic of our setup. The display in the pic is no longer accurate. As with most things I learn enough about them to function and let them go from there.

We love our VmsPC.

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #14 – June 06, 2014, 04:22:40 pm

The main point is that you have so much information available to reassure yourself that you know *exactly* what is going on. I don't even look at my standard dash gauges (except for air tanks), as they are NOT accurate. When the temp gauge on the dash *looks* like it is over 200 degrees, it is nice to see VMSpc telling me it is really bouncing between 179 and 184 degrees. You get to see the real chassis battery voltage too, before something awful transpires. I saw my voltage dwindling in Ohio, realized that the Alternator had failed, pressed the Boost switch and turned on the generator. SEVERAL states later, I had the alternator rebuilt. Also nice when the check engine light comes on and goes off. Finding a Cummins shop and paying to put it on the computer once or twice will have paid for the VMSpc. If I start my FT in about 38-40 degree temperature, I get a brief Check Engine light regarding the "Throttle Position Sensor". Knowing that, I called Cummins and was told not to worry about it. VMSpc saved my worry.

Those are only a few of the reasons I love mine and wouldn't be without it. Like others say, there are many ways to get the display. You pick.

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #15 – June 06, 2014, 05:03:24 pm

So a Samsung Galaxy 2 // 7.0 would work??

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #16 – June 06, 2014, 06:37:01 pm

Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 is what we use.

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #17 – June 06, 2014, 07:04:13 pm

Great// that gives me another option but how do you connect to it?? Tks

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #18 – June 06, 2014, 07:32:18 pm

There is 110v outlet in the cabinet above the diver's seat in my 2001 U320. My wireless Asus PC sits up there. Easy to run the USB cable down to the VMSpc box that connects to the data port. Use the Splashtop app on either an iPad or Samsung Galaxy Tab 7" tablet. I use either one interchangeably. Download the free splashtop driver to the PC. Connect the two using your wifi connection. Wifi network in the coach comes from a MiFi type device that picks up cell phone data and creates a wireless network. Lots of other ways to do this as well without using a cell phone device if you just want wifi without internet.

Data port -> VMSpc interface -> USB cable -> PC -> wifi network -> tablet as display.

If your pc is running Windows 7 for example then you have Windows 7 display on your tablet. Do VMSpc or email or weather or navigation or pictures or anything you can do on your PC because the tablet is simple the display from the PC. Or at the same time you are displaying VMSpc, you can do anything else you need to do on your tablet because the display is just an app.

Seems complicated but it is not. With wifi in the coach all of our phones, tablets, laptop and printer are connected whether or not internet is available.

Roger

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #19 – June 06, 2014, 07:35:39 pm

We use a Netgear Universal WiFi Range Extender - Model # WN3000RP V1H2. It gets plugged into an outlet in the living area of the coach. This produces a wireless network in the coach. The PC acquires the signal from the wireless router via "Internet Access". We installed VNC - Remote access & control software for desktop & mobile platforms - RealVNC on the PC and the Tab. The VNC program sends the realtime screen that is on the laptop through the Netgear wireless router to the Tab. which Mirrors the PC screen.

I really don't know how it does what it does but my DW Carol could walk you through the setup. A local Best Buy geek told us how do do it and what programs to use, The programs for the PC and the Tab are free.

I think Roger has THE setup. We just use our wireless for the VMSPC and Verizon MiFi when required for internet access.

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #20 – June 08, 2014, 07:35:23 pm

You can avoid all the wireless and large PC on dash and and install a VMS 440CL. A bit more money but in my opinion less clutter on the dash area. Just my two cents. David

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #21 – June 08, 2014, 07:55:57 pm

I agree. That's what we have. A large safety factor, too. No need to shift eyes right.

TheÂ VMS 440CL is right there straight ahead, just over the steering wheel.

best, paul

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #22 – June 08, 2014, 08:44:11 pm

Quote from: Dave M – June 08, 2014, 07:56:47 pm

Wht is used for the backup display ?

Can't see it clearly in this pic but it is clear. You have the option of having it on or monitor any of the selected displays. When the coach is put into reverse the full screen automatically pops up. Here is the link.
VMS 440 CL | SilverLeaf Electronics, Inc.

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #23 – June 08, 2014, 09:46:27 pm

My Samsung 7" tablet is held just in front and slightly above the radio. A simple and secure mount, not much clutter, easy to see, higher and closer to eyes forward.

http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=18242.0;attach=15524

Lots of ways to make this work. Do what works for you. Put what you need to see on the display in a way that lets you know what is going on at a glance.

Roger

Re: Conversation with Silverleaf

Reply #24 – June 08, 2014, 09:47:02 pm

Quote

I agree. That's what we have. A large safety factor, too. No need to shift eyes right.

The VMS 440CL is right there straight ahead, just over the steering wheel.

My VMSpc keeps my eyes out over the road and is actually positioned closer to straight ahead than the location for the 440CL. No need to adjust eyes to the dash area and then back to the road. Frankly, it seems safer to me when higher than the in-dash placement. YMMV

$3100 vs $305 is a wee bit more than "a little more", too, by my calculation.

Frankly, the most important thing to me was the ability to comlpletely set it up MY way, with MY gauges placed exactly where I wanted them to be, looking like I wanted them (idiot lights for a quick scan; complete data for a closer examination).

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