Can you send a link to the tablet you use for cockpit navigation that does not require a mobile contract in the UK

I am being told by retailers I need a mobile contract to use GPS in a tablet , some on this forum say not required

Looking to get a genuine link or model number so I can go and purchase.

Thanks ...

I personally use a Nexus 7 (2013) WiFi only Android tablet which has a built-in GPS. If you are considering an iPad Mini, be aware that the WiFi only model does NOT have a built-in GPS, but you can always use an external GPS device which will connect to your iPad via Bluetooth. If you want an iPad Mini with a built-in GPS, you will have shell out the extra for a 3G model, but you DO NOT have to take out a mobile contract in order to use the internal GPS. However, a data only mobile contract does have the advantage of enabling you to go online in locations where there is no WiFi connection available. So it's 'horses for courses' really, but don't be fobbed of by the retailers who are only looking at their profit margins – you DO NOT need a mobile contract for GPS functionality. Hope this helps.

Mike
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I asked Sky Demon what tablets they suggest - the current favourite is the Tesco Hudl 2 which is now under £100. It has GPS + GLONASS built in and doesn't have a sim card. Perfect!

If the prices of tablets (Android not Apple) continue to drop, we will soon have negative prices. At these prices it is becoming feasible to keep a 'clean' tablet just for aviation purposes. I find the 7 or 8" size perfect for cockpit use. I tried 10" but it is too large for in-flight use. I use the tablet like I would use a paper notebook, on my lap or knee, shifting according to the sun angle.

Thanks , however when you read the specs on-line their is no mention of GPS.

Do you know of anyone actually using the Hudl2 ?

I am looking for details of a known tablet that is actually using SD with no problems

Thanks ., all comments appreciated

I too use a Nexus7 (2013).  SD Works flawlessly on that platform.  I generally use an external GPS (Garmin Glo) but have used the Nexus inbuilt GPS without any problems.

George E A Reid

Ipad Mini 5,  IOS 14.4,  SD 3.15.0.288
PC(Win 10, Version 19041.804)  SD 3.15.0.0

Nexus 7, either version works well, I have both, no discernable performance difference running SD.

This is a list of my own and my friends equipment to run SD. I installed it and showed them how to use it.

4 ea  Nexus7 (wifi) (5.1.1) with GNS2000 external bluetooth GPS
1 ea  Yoga2 10" (wifi) (5.1.1) with GNS2000 external bluetooth GPS
1 ea  Apple iPad MIni (wifi) with GNS2000 external bluetooth GPS
1 ea Apple iPad (cellular) with XGPS160 external bluetooth GPS

Except for the iPad, we all use 'Bluetooth GPS Provider' app to link the GNS2000 with the Android tablet. The external GPS permits better placement in the cockpit. The aircraft involved are: two high wing Cessnas (177RG and 208) and two Beech Bonanza low-wing. There are less signal drops with the external GPS. The external GPS is placed near the windshield or side window.

The Tesco Hudl 2 works fine, and definitely has GPS.

Not leaving in UK, but my primary tablet in a iPad Mini Generation 2 (Retina). My backup device in an Android LENOVO Tab 2 A7 found few days ago, discounted for €50.





PS : my iPad mini is Wifi only and I have a Bad Elf Pro (external Bluetooth receiver). The android Lenovo has its own GPS included.



Vincent B.
(St-Cyr/LFPZ, Toussus/LFPN, San Diego/KMYF)
Check my blog : http://20-100-video.blogspot.com