Behind the scenes of my "First Post!!!" thread.....

[StreamlineGT]

Remember this thread??? http://forums.mikeholt.com/showthread.php?t=95213

Well, I have been working on the van all this week after work, and I am on the downhill stretch. I made a shelf for my printer, and installed a vehicle specific Jotto desk. Here it is in it's finished form.

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l49/streamlineGT/E-350/IMG_0674.jpg

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l49/streamlineGT/E-350/IMG_0672.jpg

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l49/streamlineGT/E-350/IMG_0676.jpg


I also tinted the front windows to keep the prying eyes out.

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l49/streamlineGT/E-350/IMG_0677.jpg

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l49/streamlineGT/E-350/IMG_0678.jpg

I'm actually finding that this was a good move for me, with it being so easy to do everything, and no writing stuff down, just to come home and enter it in the computer after work. I'll also save money on stamps sending out invoices. If I look at it that way, It'll pay for itself in no time....... about 3000 invoices from now.... :D

[captaincrab55]

Niceeeee..... What U doing after work next week????

[mdshunk]

Nice. You can add your time spent writing up the bill right in with the labor for that job you're billing out legitimately now. There's definitely value in recovering that cost. This also opens up the possibility of easily taking a credit card for payment more easily than before. A computer processed credit payment has a much cheaper transaction fee versus calling it in over the phone.

[StreamlineGT]

That is interesting, I am looking into a Verizon air card as soon as my Nextel contract is up....... maybe sooner if I need it. :) Then I can sign up for processing from quickbooks, if that is the best and easiest way. I don't currently accept cards now, and I never had anybody ask either.

[mdshunk]

Then I can sign up for processing from quickbooks, if that is the best and easiest way.
I know that's an easy way, but I havn't checked into that myself. Word on the street is that it's an expensive way. Don't overlook options from your local bank for computer processing of credit card transactions. That's the route I take.

[StreamlineGT]

I use B of A for all my stuff, so that would probably be easy also.

[Pierre C Belarge]

I see two problems with that truck.
1. Blue is my favorite color for a truck.
2. I want a computer in my truck.

oh...I meant 3 problems.
3. I know where to find myself a nice blue truck with a computer in it. :wink:


very nice job on the truck, welcome to the 21st century!!!

[sparky76]

Sweeeeet! Is that an HP laptop? It looks like mine. How much for the mount BTW?

[StreamlineGT]

The mount was pricey, but I am a sucker for vehicle specific, nice fitting equipment. I got it from American Van for $330 or so shipped. They are in NJ, I'm in CT..... came quick. Yes, it is an HP, dv9000 series, not sure of the correct model, but it was cheap, and had the biggest monitor...... 17".

[Pierre C Belarge]

That is interesting, I am looking into a Verizon air card as soon as my Nextel contract is up....... maybe sooner if I need it. :) Then I can sign up for processing from quickbooks, if that is the best and easiest way. I don't currently accept cards now, and I never had anybody ask either.


I have looked into this...as Marc has suggested, I would definitely look into a bank for the credit card issue.

[stickboy1375]

So much for the rear view mirror... :grin:

[wbalsam1]

Very impressive. What's the back inside look like? Is it well organized? I'll bet it is. :smile:

[StreamlineGT]

So much for the rear view mirror... :grin:

I already had it blocked up from insulating the partition, so no big loss. The tinting of the windows is going to be tough, especially at night using the mirrors backing up.

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l49/streamlineGT/E-350/Vanoutfit013.jpg

[stickboy1375]

I already had it blocked up from insulating the partition, so no big loss. The tinting of the windows is going to be tough, especially at night using the mirrors backing up.



I was thinking more of a state law than inconvenient to back up... ;)

[StreamlineGT]

Since when is it illegal to not have a center rear view????

[peter d]

The tinting of the windows is going to be tough, especially at night using the mirrors backing up.


Time for a back up camera. Maybe you can feed the signal right into the laptop. :cool:

[peter d]

Since when is it illegal to not have a center rear view????

I think he was talking about the deep tint on the windows. ;)

[stickboy1375]

Since when is it illegal to not have a center rear view????


I dont know, why do they install them to begin with? :grin:

[mdshunk]

I was thinking more of a state law than inconvenient to back up... ;)Trucks are not required to have a rear view mirror or even rear windows. Side mirrors, yes. Rear view mirrors, no. You can buy a truck brand new off the lot, and if it doesn't have rear windows, it also won't have a rear-view mirror on the windshield.

Rear view mirrors are so 20th century, anyhow. Get with the program... backup cameras. ;)

[stickboy1375]

Trucks are not required to have a rear view mirror or even rear windows. Side mirrors, yes. Rear view mirrors, no. You can buy a truck brand new off the lot, and if it doesn't have rear windows, it also won't have a rear-view mirror on the windshield.

Rear view mirrors are so 20th century, anyhow. Get with the program... backup cameras. ;)


I was only curious, I dont know the laws for commercial vehicles....

[StreamlineGT]

The tint is not that illegal, just a tad. I've even had some police officers say it was a good idea to have them done.

[mdshunk]

The tint is not that illegal, just a tad. I've even had some police officers say it was a good idea to have them done.
I've found it generally easier to get away with traffic infractions of all sorts in a commercial vehicle versus a regular car. Your mileage may vary.

[peter d]

I've even had some police officers say it was a good idea to have them done.

Well then I guess you're good to go. :D

[StreamlineGT]

See what I mean????

[Rewire]

I've found it generally easier to get away with traffic infractions of all sorts in a commercial vehicle versus a regular car. Your mileage may vary.
Here we get both MOHP and MoDOT pulling us over

[MAK]

I believe tinting the windows is relative to how dark the tint is and what state you are registered in. The truck looks great (nice rims too). I am curious if you work in any large cities and what you do to secure the laptop when the truck is unattended. The company I work for has had a couple of incidents in the last year where the drivers of the vehicles parked in a lot and had to leave the keys with the parking attendant (small lots). When the drivers returned to the trucks there was a P.D.A., camera, and a set of fiber optic transmitters missing. No signs of break in and the attendant gave a "What do you want me to do about it" answer. The police were called and they pretty much said it happens with that type of lot "all the time".:mad:

[StreamlineGT]

No way man, I stay away from city life. I'm a country bumpkin, through and through...

[MAK]

No way man, I stay away from city life. I'm a country bumpkin, through and through...
I envy you....and the truck:grin:

[wirebender]

No way man, I stay away from city life. I'm a country bumpkin, through and through...

A High-Tech bumpkin?:D

[mdshunk]

A High-Tech bumpkin?:D
Wasn't there a song about "high tech red neck"? I seem to remember that. George Jones, maybe? There was a line in that song about "Mayberry meets Star Trek".

[wirebender]

Wasn't there a song about "high tech red neck"? I seem to remember that. George Jones, maybe? There was a line in that song about "Mayberry meets Star Trek".

George Jones is correct, Marc.

He's a high-tech redneck
Mayberry meets Startrek
He's a bumpkin' but he's plugged in
He's a high-tech redneck.

[StreamlineGT]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtSYyYGwr-g

[Tiger Electrical]

I envy you for the beautiful van but your deck needs some railing.

Dave

[StreamlineGT]

Hey, I ain't dumb, it got cold........ :D

[220/221]

That is beautiful man!

Excellent job.

[ishium 80439]

That's a sweet set up. One thing that has stopped me from carrying my laptop w/ me all of the time is the extremes in tmperatures that it would go through sitting in the truck all day. How does the computer deal w/ the New England winters and sweltering summers? (I lived in CT for 30 yrs)

[mdshunk]

I suspect he brings it in at night, but many of the police cars around here have the Panasonic Tough Book in them, and they sometimes leave them in unused cars when its very cold out.

[StreamlineGT]

I suspect he brings it in at night, but many of the police cars around here have the Panasonic Tough Book in them, and they sometimes leave them in unused cars when its very cold out.

I do bring it in every night, as I do have some light office work to do after work, like collecting checks in the mail........ :D And of course chatting with you guys while in bed...............

[ptonsparky]

Looks real good. Makes me think about a full size van again, but then I would need to hire someone to keep it clean.

I agree, time for a backup camera.

[jrannis]

Real nice, Where did you find that shelf up there with the sunvisors?

[StreamlineGT]

Real nice, Where did you find that shelf up there with the sunvisors?

I didn't, the guy before me did. It's called a shelf-it.

http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=6970&productId=200335995&R=200335995&cm_ven=TL&cm_pla=DF&cm_ite=auto

[iwire]

I was only curious, I don't know the laws for commercial vehicles....

Basically if you have a passenger side mirror you don't have to have a center rear view.

Here in MA that side window tint looks a bit dark, it might get you pulled over.

Great looking truck though!

[jute]

Nice. You can add your time spent writing up the bill right in with the labor for that job you're billing out legitimately now.

I like this and have been trying to put it together for awhile but my resoning was so they got the invoice on the spot instead of mailing it but it really makes it worthwhile when you can bill for the time invoicing, not have to mail it and it's invoiced on the spot...:wink: ( I have a bad habit invoicing 2 weeks after the job has been completed, if not more...)




This also opens up the possibility of easily taking a credit card for payment more easily than before. A computer processed credit payment has a much cheaper transaction fee versus calling it in over the phone.

I'd like to find out what people are using for accepting credit cards. Most of my work is for property management for multi family and gets 30 days but I want to do more service work and be able to accept credit cards. What are my options?? This is a very cool set up and makes me wnat to get out there and do it now but my van is at the shop and it's barely 5 AM...

Do you need to worry about the battery going dead or do you have to keep the van running to use the computer/printer??? Thanks, JB


COMPLIMENTS on that set up, looks great...

[jute]

Real nice, Where did you find that shelf up there with the sunvisors?

I got the same shelf through American Van. I almost sent it back because it looked like it blocked your vision but once I got it up I really like the extra room and fits nice..the visors are part of the original van interior and then they remount onto the shelf before installation.

[MAK]

I didn't, the guy before me did. It's called a shelf-it.

http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=6970&productId=200335995&R=200335995&cm_ven=TL&cm_pla=DF&cm_ite=auto
How well does that shelf hold everything in place? It looks like the contents would pour out all over the place. I am interested in it for my truck.

[StreamlineGT]

I don't really store anything up there, never had to, so I don't know. It does make a handy place to mount the Sirius, though.

[j_erickson]

Great looking setup. I use QB and can accept credit cards and I don't think it costs extra. Might be included in the payroll package I pay for. I have the verizon air card. But I don't use QB on the road.

One thought - how faithful are you with backing up QB? I'm just thinking if your laptop did get stolen, how much of a disaster would that be losing QB?

[jute]

The mount was pricey, but I am a sucker for vehicle specific, nice fitting equipment. I got it from American Van for $330 or so shipped.
Did you get the no-holes model or is it mounted to the floor and you had to drill to mount??
I have a GMC full size van and went to American Van for a computor stand for that model. The one they have for my van looks like it bolts onto the front of the passenger seat...makes it kinda hard to use:confused:

Might have to resort to a universal that mounts in front of the console, if that's all they have for my make/model...

[StreamlineGT]

One thought - how faithful are you with backing up QB? I'm just thinking if your laptop did get stolen, how much of a disaster would that be losing QB?

I back up at the end of every day onto a memory stick. Once a week, I plan on backing it up onto my desktop in the home office, just in case.

[StreamlineGT]

Did you get the no-holes model or is it mounted to the floor and you had to drill to mount??
I have a GMC full size van and went to American Van for a computor stand for that model. The one they have for my van looks like it bolts onto the front of the passenger seat...makes it kinda hard to use:confused:

Might have to resort to a universal that mounts in front of the console, if that's all they have for my make/model...

I have the one that bolts under the seat, but the Ford one bolts on the inside, not the front, leaving plenty of room for someone to sit.

[jute]

Great looking setup. I use QB and can accept credit cards and I don't think it costs extra. Might be included in the payroll package I pay for. I have the verizon air card. But I don't use QB on the road.
One thought - how faithful are you with backing up QB? I'm just thinking if your laptop did get stolen, how much of a disaster would that be losing QB?

I have QB "on-line version" but need to find out more about an "aircard", are there any other options for getting service while on the road?? Thanks, JB

[George Stolz]

That is an awesome setup. My only problem with that is it would diminish my productivity because I'd get to playing with the computer when I should be working, since it's sitting in plain sight like that. :D

[marissa2]

I hope you don't try to use the computer when driving.
Lou

[j_erickson]

I have QB "on-line version" but need to find out more about an "aircard", are there any other options for getting service while on the road?? Thanks, JB

I don't know of any other way to get reliable internet access while on the road. It's $59/ month for the aircard which is reasonable IMO.

[j_erickson]

I have QB "on-line version" but need to find out more about an "aircard", are there any other options for getting service while on the road?? Thanks, JB

How do you like the online version of QB? I thought about switching, but there were some details I didn't like that couldn't be changed with the basic plan.

[George Stolz]

I hope you don't try to use the computer when driving.
Lou I was thinking the same thing. When I got my new laptop, I connected it to the "Aux" jack on my deck, cranked up iTunes, turned on a wi-fi program that made a noise when it spotted a new network, and started driving around. Definutely not recommended. :D

However, I was amazed at how many wireless routers are out there. :)

Edit:
I don't know of any other way to get reliable internet access while on the road. It's $59/ month for the aircard which is reasonable IMO.
Most of what I discovered on my little wi-fi scouting trip were password protected routers, and of the open ones, you pretty much have to be sitting in their parking lot to make use of them. I'd agree, for more reliable access, if needed, a cell-phone related system would be much better. For my purposes (coping with dial-up at home, downloading large files away from home), I can't justify it.

How much is Nextel's? I know they have a service, someone mentioned canceling their Nextel to go with Verizon's service. I wasn't sure why.

[StreamlineGT]

How much is Nextel's? I know they have a service, someone mentioned canceling their Nextel to go with Verizon's service. I wasn't sure why.

I haven't checked with Nextel to see how much their aircard is, but I am so disappointed with their coverage in my area, that I wanted to switch providers.

[jute]

How do you like the online version of QB? I thought about switching, but there were some details I didn't like that couldn't be changed with the basic plan.

I like it because of multiple users being able to be on at the same time to go over books. Can't say if it's better or easier or not..I'm not using it to it's full potential but would also like to know pros and cons campared to the other versions...I'm having a hard time putting together a parts lists and it could be massive so I'm not sure of the best way to set it up??? Are you using the parts lists feature?? I have it set up more like a big checkbook..

[j_erickson]

I like it because of multiple users being able to be on at the same time to go over books. Can't say if it's better or easier or not..I'm not using it to it's full potential but would also like to know pros and cons campared to the other versions...I'm having a hard time putting together a parts lists and it could be massive so I'm not sure of the best way to set it up??? Are you using the parts lists feature?? I have it set up more like a big checkbook..

Actually the only feature I didn't like about the online version was that I could not customize invoices the way I wanted to. I use an item list, not sure if that is the same as a part list.

[StreamlineGT]

Very impressive. What's the back inside look like? Is it well organized? I'll bet it is. :smile:

Uh, not so much right now, but that is next on my list of things to do.... It's not horrible, but it is a far cry from when I last went through it thoroughly.

Here are some pics from another thread a little while ago, but still not at it's finest.

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l49/streamlineGT/E-350/MVC-295F.jpg

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l49/streamlineGT/E-350/MVC-297F.jpg

[StreamlineGT]

Here's a couple other things I have made for the van recently....

A drill holder, so I don't have to fumble with cases.

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l49/streamlineGT/E-350/VanBuild005.jpg

It is mounted on the side of the white drawers inside the side door.

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l49/streamlineGT/E-350/MVC-299F.jpg

I also made a battery holder mounted above those same white drawers. It holds 4 batteries, and with 2 in the drills, makes a half a dozen batteries on hand at all times.

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l49/streamlineGT/E-350/VanBuild.jpg

I have all the chargers set up in my office, with another half a dozen batteries in them. Swapping them out makes it easy, I am never without charged batteries.

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l49/streamlineGT/House/GaragePanel.jpg

[480sparky]

Streamline.... you're in the wrong business.

You should set up a custom work van shop! ;)

I'm still working with this kind of truck:

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc172/480sparky/1927WiringABsmall.jpg

[wireguru]

I don't know of any other way to get reliable internet access while on the road. It's $59/ month for the aircard which is reasonable IMO.

i have a blackberry from tmobile. i have it set up where i plug the blackberry into my laptop and can use the internet that comes with the blackberry service. its pretty fast and i dont have to pay any additional fees.

[jrannis]

I didn't, the guy before me did. It's called a shelf-it.

http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=6970&productId=200335995&R=200335995&cm_ven=TL&cm_pla=DF&cm_ite=auto

Thanks, just ordered one from Whitney. Has rifle tie downs, extra down lights and 12v outlets in it too.

[CBL]

i have a blackberry from tmobile. i have it set up where i plug the blackberry into my laptop and can use the internet that comes with the blackberry service. its pretty fast and i dont have to pay any additional fees.
Thanks, This looks like a good way to go...So do you use the lap top more like a monitor and type on the blackberry or is it only using the signal from the Blackberry? How much does t-moble charge for the internet service? Thanks, JB

[guschash]

Nice. Looks comfortable too. I have been thinking about credit cards but right now I don't if I want to accept them. I'm not that big.

[LawnGuyLandSparky]

Nice. Looks comfortable too. I have been thinking about credit cards but right now I don't if I want to accept them. I'm not that big.

Big mistake. Smaller residential customers are more apt to prefer using credit cards (even if it's actually an ATM debit card) than pay cash or check. A company that accepts VISA and Mastercard, and uses thier logos, seems "legitimized." Further, you would be suprised how much people will spend when it doesn't actually drain their checking account immediately.

This isn't you father's Oldsmobile... people today do not save money. When a bigger ticket item comes up, whether optional or necessary, you'd better accept credit cards because few have the cash on hand to make it a reality. Why do you think so many big-ticket consumer goods (appliances, Plasma TVs, snowblowers, lawnmowers, furniture, etc) are sold "no payments no interest for a full year!?"

[e57]

You can buy a truck brand new off the lot, and if it doesn't have rear windows, it also won't have a rear-view mirror on the windshield.


Ahhhh.... You will find some with rear veiw - and no rear windows. Cut-away vans seem to all have one - the body is made on one line, the box put on later.

GT in CA you would find yourself with a fix it ticket for tinting drivers and front pasanger windows. Or rolling them down everytime you see a cop.
http://www.tintcenter.com/laws/CA/

Some guys locally have been putting 1/2" thick sheets of AL up on the insides of the driver and passanger sides with two hooks at the top of the door frame, and a lock or pins at the bottom of the window on the inside. (No side or rear glass and hocky puck locks all around) Not only keeps out prying eyes - physically keeps them out if they decide to break the window for spare change or worse, full on theft of the truck. - Been thinking of doing the same with mine.

Oh chain the hood down too.

[peter d]

Some guys locally have been putting 1/2" thick sheets of AL up on the insides of the driver and passanger sides with two hooks at the top of the door frame, and a lock or pins at the bottom of the window on the inside. (No side or rear glass and hocky puck locks all around) Not only keeps out prying eyes - physically keeps them out if they decide to break the window for spare change or worse, full on theft of the truck. - Been thinking of doing the same with mine.

Oh chain the hood down too.

Sheeesh...is SF a war zone or something? :confused:

[e57]

Sheeesh...is SF a war zone or something? :confused:

No pretty low violent crime wise. But there are neighborhoods where no window is safe from smash and grab, and usually for something ridiculous. Spare change, cell phone, or just to see if there is anything to grab that isn't bolted down.

Last year I bought 4 windows.... Nothing stolen... I get out there before anything gets away it seems... Since both windows on the back of a Savanna cost as much as new doors with no glass - the decision was made on that.... Side windows in front - I got out there and chased people off with a bender handle. Caught one kid - and the cops made me let him go... (No proof!!! Then warned me about assault...) I now have cameras that watch the truck. One guy broke the window and just left right away when the alarm went off - I figured he was coming back so I printed a picture and waited for him. (After I called the cops who said they were not coming...) I saw him pull up and I jumped out and jammed the bender handle through his window before he even got out. He ripped up the street to get away. Since we have a kid now - my wife won't let me physically go after them anymore..... :rolleyes: So I figure I either deter the practice altogether - or load the Mossberg with rubber balls in the chamber, then deer slugs.... :grin:

[weressl]

I hope you don't try to use the computer when driving.
Lou
GPS hookup!:wink:

[weressl]

I see two problems with that truck.
1. Blue is my favorite color for a truck.
2. I want a computer in my truck.

oh...I meant 3 problems.
3. I know where to find myself a nice blue truck with a computer in it. :wink:


very nice job on the truck, welcome to the 21st century!!!

It's a van, not a truck. I've seen truck and it ain't it.......:grin: at least not in Texas......

[George Stolz]

GT in CA you would find yourself with a fix it ticket for tinting drivers and front pasanger windows. Or rolling them down everytime you see a cop.
They will pry my right to roll down windows when I see cops out of my cold, dead fingers.

[ItsHot]

They will pry my right to roll down windows when I see cops out of my cold, dead fingers.
Hey George! You got problems with your windows? You need to get with this guy! http://youtube.com/watch?V=LfnwEqWDwxO

[George Stolz]

I'm on dial-up at the house, you can't taunt me with youtube, I won't look. :)

[LarryFine]

http://youtube.com/watch?V=LfnwEqWDwxO

"Malfunction, Stephanie!"
The URL contained a malformed video ID.

[ptonsparky]

It's a van, not a truck. I've seen truck and it ain't it.......:grin: at least not in Texas......

I call my minivan a truck just out of habit. OFitis.

[MJW]

It looks like Ford might have things figured out. I just might have to switch brands in 09.

http://www.denverpost.com/search/ci_8178802

[bhsrnd]

... load the Mossberg with rubber balls in the chamber, then deer slugs.... :grin:
You from Texas originally? :D

[cschmid]

nice ride..i am also country boy and high tech..but not in my vehicle..there are a few ways to pay for CC processiong some are monthly fees, others are percent of purchase, some are per trans action..there might be more I have not heard of..Nice ride and good work man..;)

[dSilanskas]

Now that is wicked sweet! My boss has been talking about doing that for years now. I never really seen anyone with that setup before. I like very much

[electricalperson]

the verizon air card is a really nice addition to a computer in a work truck. works great. now all i need is to get a van with shelving!

[bth0mas20]

I have thought about this set up before. I originally bought a laptop for my quickbooks and have since switched over to a desktop. Now I just print out invoices when I get home and send them out like most people do. I have a spare printer I could use.
Do you do all of your quickbooks on your laptop? Or do you link your laptop to your desktop then share the information? Or do you re type it into your desktop from you laptop when you get home?

[StreamlineGT]

I have thought about this set up before. I originally bought a laptop for my quickbooks and have since switched over to a desktop. Now I just print out invoices when I get home and send them out like most people do. I have a spare printer I could use.
Do you do all of your quickbooks on your laptop? Or do you link your laptop to your desktop then share the information? Or do you re type it into your desktop from you laptop when you get home?

What I do is once a week, I create a backup file on a usb stick, and restore the company file using the backup on my desktop. Works just as well, but if you work on the desktop, be sure to do the same to the laptop.

[76nemo]

Super, super impressed Streamline. Didn't read the entire thread, do you have a good sized inverter in there? With a work horse that clean, do you wear a Tyvek suit and paper booties everywhere?
I see you even have a mini-library in there as well. That sure is really sharp, I know you are proud. Good for you.
THREE THUMBS UP!!!!!!!!!!!

[StreamlineGT]

Thanks Everyone, I appreciate all the compliments.

I have a 400 watt inverter, which is ok, not great. It doesn't like voltage drop much, it beeps a lot when the truck is off.

[360Youth]

Nice van, but I'm more into XM than Sirius. :D :wink:

Edit to add: Truly a valuable asset. It won't take long to recoup the investment. I guess the SmartVan tops the SmartPhone anyday.:)

[Poolside]

I have thought about this set up before. I originally bought a laptop for my quickbooks and have since switched over to a desktop. Now I just print out invoices when I get home and send them out like most people do. I have a spare printer I could use.
Do you do all of your quickbooks on your laptop? Or do you link your laptop to your desktop then share the information? Or do you re type it into your desktop from you laptop when you get home?

Have you looked into Lowfat Invoice? They have a QB version that integrates directly with your Quickbooks on your desktop, but you can create invoices in the field with a PocketPC, do signature capture right on the screen of the PPC and then print out to a printer in the van. I use it frequently. They have a non-QB version for even less money.
(http://www.lowfatsoftware.com)When you get home, you synch the field invoices with the desktop and then your done. You can dowload all your item and customer lists from QB to the PocketPC.


- Greg