Gradually setting up the laptop and other items to provide us with communications and ability to undertake systems support for Trevanion House during our trip.
The laptop arrived a couple of weeks ago and most of the software has been installed - now being 'tweaked' to give optimum access to main tasks - such as updating this blog.
Yesterday, ordered two mobile phones after much confused consideration - eventually agreed with Andrew on two Nokias - one bottom of the range and the other with Bluetooth etc to enable access via dial-up in the absence of a wi-fi hotspot. These will arrive Friday, ready for the following weekend when Andrew is here to finalise the configuration. Mobiles are on Virgin network.
Up til now we have been minimalist mobile phone users, sharing an ancient 'brick' between the two of us on the occasions when it seemed needed. It seemed better to have a new phone each so that we can be in contact if, for example, one of us is off setting locks. Last summer's experience demonstrated that.
Also, gradually setting up files of info, such as the Boater's Guides from BW - if downloaded before we go (on broadband) it is less expensive! We might then only need an occasional look at emergency stoppages.
Set up files of milege listings in a form that can be downloaded onto a PDA for use whilst navigating - one of the experiments will be to see how useful/usable it is for making hand-held notes (eg times) under these circumstances.
Experimenting with secure Smart Drive plug in to hold lists of passwords - have in any case been getting worried about the vulnerability of the infamous Blue Book which is supposed to hold all of theses - especially after discovering that at least one is going to need resetting since it has been lost!
