The Mounties are Here

As I've mentioned in a couple previous posts, I have a decent collection of technology within my reach while I'm driving. Short list:

• Lowrance GPS
• Toshiba Satellite laptop running GPS, Outlook, RSS feeds, and podcasts
• AT&T Samsung Blackjack cell phone/IPmodem
• Webcam

My key to being able to handle all this digitroncs is having it all mounted securely at the right location. In order to do that I've installed a collection or RAM Mounts; industrial strength mounting products that let me position nearly every device exactly where it needs to be. And in most case, move them out of the way when necessary.

I have one pedestal mount that bolts under the existing front seat bolts (no drilling necessary) with a swivel/adjustable top. I also have one windshield mount for the GPS unit. The webcam isn't attached to a RAM Mount, but I'll explain that later.

I've used suction mounts before and always had some issue with them. Not usually with the suction part, but with the positioning of the mounted device. I never felt that the grip was solid enough to keep the device exactly where I wanted it. Not so with the RAM system. They use the traditional ball-and-grip method that squeezes the mounting ball between to clamps. But these things are monstrous, and I'm able to tighten them as much as necessary so nothing moves unless I loosen the clamp.

In fact, my laptop mount is held securely in place by a single ball mount. The laptop platform is spring loaded and stretches open to clip the laptop in position. I was able to reposition the 4 side clips where they needed to be in order to allow room for my 3 USB connectors (cell phone, GPS antenna, and webcam).

The rear of the platform is a cable basket that holds my power adapter and a couple other wires. If you look closely at the photos, you'll see there are still way too many wires hanging off the dash, just begging for a better way to route them.

The main mount for the RAM laptop platform has 2 swivels that let me position the unit pretty much anywhere I need. In addition, it telescopes, making it easy to raise above the seat. This would be good for stationary work, which I haven't tried yet.

My vehicle is a Ford E350 XL van, and the mounting system works perfectly. View the specific unit here. The company's website makes it easy to find the model mount you need. This model sells for under $200, but I also have one of the side-mount accessory arms to hold my cell phone.

Great stuff, and way better than a few strips of Velcro holding my laptop to my console.