Keeping my boat info handy

[baz]

FYI...

I've decided to keep as much of my R25's information on my Apple iPhone for quick access and as a backup as I always have it with me.

I'm using the iPhone application named FileMagnet (http://www.magnetismstudios.com/filemagnet/). One installs FileMagnet from the Apple iTunes App store. Then download to your Mac or PC a file transfer application called FileMagnet (obtained from the URL just mentioned). This application allows for downloading PDF and $MS docs without issues to the iPhone using a local WiFi connection. All very slick.

The nice thing about this is that even though the iPhone's screen is small, text and diagrams can easily be enlarged with the thumb-index figure 'enlarging' feature for better viewing.

It's proving invaluable for me as I make up my various check lists.

The YanMar Operations Manual was some 18 MB in size but the iPhone handled/swallowed it in short order. 😉

I also placed the Wallas stove documention on my iPhone for quick access if needed.

 

[commander bill]

I go out on my phone to get away from stuff like these things

 

[bbrh842]

I agree with you Commander Bill. I keep all that stuff in my head. Guess I am a little old fashioned.

 

[rustednail]

I go out on my phone to get away from stuff like these things

You might need to go out on your boat more frequently to prevent this 😀

But I agree with you. Only take the phone for emergancies. I usually silance it to prevent it from interrupting my "one with nature" feeling I have when out relaxing.

However, it does sound like a cool app for iphone/touch. Will check it out!

Thanks
Bri

 

[baz]

Just curious now.... do any of you keep a Ship's Log ?

Re: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m ... n13778831/

 

[Bruce Moore]

I use a program call Evernote, on my computers and iPhone, to capture and organize text, images, and most file types. No matter which device I use to enter the info, Evernote syncs it to all devices, and the web. It's the best free utility I've ever used.

Also, check out Navionics iPhone app. For $4.99 you get a very capable redundant chart plotter with a pretty decent feature set. Most importantly, the charts are kept on the phone. Because it is GPS enabled, no cell signal is needed. Here's a quick look at highlights:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=neN_6Tamcv8[/youtube]

 

[commander bill]

Yea I meant "go out on my boat". I guess I had "phone" on my mind.

I keep a log. It is a green military surplus paperback hardboound book just like used in the old days my daughter keeps asking me about. I find it valuable for someone that is memory challenged. I put everything I can in it. Anytime I am underway or work on boat I make a detailed entry. This includes changing oil, check individual battery water levels or add water (I am an old submarine battery officer), operating hours w/dates, locations visited, calculated fuel usage, etc.

 

[baz]

I use a program call Evernote, on my computers and iPhone, to capture and organize text, images, and most file types. No matter which device I use to enter the info, Evernote syncs it to all devices, and the web. It's the best free utility I've ever used.

Also, check out Navionics iPhone app. For $4.99 you get a very capable redundant chart plotter with a pretty decent feature set. Most importantly, the charts are kept on the phone. Because it is GPS enabled, no cell signal is needed. Here's a quick look at highlights:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=neN_6Tamcv8[/youtube]

Thanks Bruce. That was very useful feedback. 🙂

 

[rt11002003]

I'm with commander bill. My log is also a bound book, not the surplus military one (which I'd like to have).

I've had difficulties with transporting data from one device to another. Why add to the risk? :?

Gene

 

[Bruce Moore]

We keep a log in a purpose-built spiral bound notebook we picked up at Fisheries Supplies. It has tabbed sections for cruise entries, fuel, maintenance, etc.

We note pre-departure checks, departure time, general info about conditions underway, arrival time, etc. Also note engine hours, fuel consumption and performance, for each leg.

And, we note wildlife sightings, names of boats and folks we meet, and other odds & ends. After just a year (our 1st and only) of boating, we're finding it both useful and fun to look back at our experience. Can't wait 'til the log is full!