OpenCPN and Remote Desktop

[JSwanson]

For anyone interested in how an Android tablet (or smartphone!) or iPad can run OpenCPN, my solution is to having a netbook running OpenCPN down below at the nav station. It recieves gps data and, as soon as I get it wired up somehow, AIS feeds from my GX2150. At the helm, or wherever I feel like being, I am using a Google Nexus 7. While I do have MXMariner and the usual gps and mapping apps, I also installed the free WYSE PocketCloud client. I also added the free server application to the netbook. Now my Android tablet can remotely call up and control OpenCPN, or any other application, running on the netbook. I believe the WYSE software works the same through iPads. This method also does not require a GPS on the tablet/phone, so my next project is to test how well my kids' Kindle Fires can run PocketCloud. Also note, there are a few other remote desktop apps around and I have no interest whatsoever in any of these companies. Has anyone else tried the remote desktop method?

[barnakiel]

I tried and it only worked for me thru the web.

How did you configure things to get them work via your onboard wifi net?

What router do you use and how is it set-up?

THX
b.

[JSwanson]

I'm working on some of the details of my setup. Right now, I use a mobile hotspot for my network. That won't work offshore. The next trick is to figure out how to best set up a wireless network on the boat where I don't rely on the internet. I think I saw something about a way to configure my Windows 7 to act as a router. Will look into that today.

[JSwanson]

Problem Solved: I used Connectify Me to set the netbook up as sort of a 'hotspot'. I just got the free version, so I am not able to share any internet connection. Then, instead of using PocketCloud as a VNC, I installed SplashTop on the Nexus and the netbook. Voila - connects and works perfectly.

[barnakiel]

OK. THX. Next time I get an Android tablet here I will try to copy your setup.

You may have seen the way tablets link to new Raymarine plotters. Erghhh - this is something I real like. If only they were a bit less pricey!

b.