axejeep
06-08-08, 02:48 AM
I'm looking into purchasing a wireless computer... nothing fancy. Mainly I'm looking for speed and distance measurement. Any opinions on models? Pros and cons on wireless vs non wireless etc?
Clydesdales/Athenas (200+ lb / 91+ kg) - Cat/Trek Wireless Computer Advice
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Wogsterca
06-08-08, 09:01 AM
I'm looking into purchasing a wireless computer... nothing fancy. Mainly I'm looking for speed and distance measurement. Any opinions on models? Pros and cons on wireless vs non wireless etc?
There are some cheap ones that fit that bill, as for wired vs wireless, that's a different question.
Wireless units can sometimes be subject to RFI, or radio frequency interference, the unit on the fork contains a transmitter, the display unit contains a receiver, both are very low power, and are in a similar frequency to wireless telephones, and a number of other low power radio units, like wireless microphones. It's possible to get interference from other transmitters with a similar frequency range, that have more power, but are still low power. When you see that your going uphill at 5MPH then 70MPH then 5MPH, thats RFI at work. Wireless units also use more batteries, in that both the sensor unit on the fork, and the display unit have a battery. The sensor unit is much larger, therefore is much easier to get damaged if you get too close to something. Then again there are no wires to get caught either. Wired units are also cheaper, but do add more wires and cables to the cockpit. A wireless unit, may be able to handle more placement options, some will have a transmitter powerful enough for rear wheel mounting, some do not.
There are some cheap ones that fit that bill, as for wired vs wireless, that's a different question.
Wireless units can sometimes be subject to RFI, or radio frequency interference, the unit on the fork contains a transmitter, the display unit contains a receiver, both are very low power, and are in a similar frequency to wireless telephones, and a number of other low power radio units, like wireless microphones. It's possible to get interference from other transmitters with a similar frequency range, that have more power, but are still low power. When you see that your going uphill at 5MPH then 70MPH then 5MPH, thats RFI at work. Wireless units also use more batteries, in that both the sensor unit on the fork, and the display unit have a battery. The sensor unit is much larger, therefore is much easier to get damaged if you get too close to something. Then again there are no wires to get caught either. Wired units are also cheaper, but do add more wires and cables to the cockpit. A wireless unit, may be able to handle more placement options, some will have a transmitter powerful enough for rear wheel mounting, some do not.
idig
06-08-08, 10:42 AM
I prefer wired for all the reasons Wogsterca noted. I also like to stick with one brand so I can swap them around as needed without having to move the mount. My current preference is Cateye. I've never had any issues with them.
badgermac
06-08-08, 11:00 AM
I've used Planet Bike and Treks and even now have an 2004 Specialized model on my Hardrock. THe PB wireless is very finicky and they haven't been very quick to respond to it. Their wired models are nice. The Trek Wireless had some issues with signal as well.