UPDATE:
I finally got the complete stereo/Ipad/GPS/internet sysytem installed and working. I bought an Alpine IDA-X305S head unit that only does USB/Ipod interface and radio--ie no CD. It will run the iPod part of the Ipad so you can listen to the music on your Pad through the stereo. It also charges the Pad:
The Ipad is a 3G unit meant for use with ATT service. You have to get one of these in order to get the GPS built in the Pad. You don't need ATT, just the compatible IPad. I use a very cool Verizon mobile broadband wireless router ( the small thing on the dash) to load maps and for internet. It will also provide wireless service for other equipment such as laptops while camping as long as you have a Verizon signal.
I bought two apps for navigation:
IHike uses USGS or US Forest service maps which can be downloaded via the broadband or before you even leave home if you plan ahead:
The MotionX GPS Drive app I bought was very inexpensive and works great, but needs internet to load maps while in use--I'm looking into getting all maps if possible:
It also has some neat features like a compass:
A info page for GPS coordinates and speed:
And will do all the important GPS stuff like finding In'N'Out burgers wherever
you may be.
Google Maps:
Here is the Alpine head unit:
I used a RAM IPad car mount:
http://www.ram-mount.com/CatalogResults ... fault.aspx to hold the Pad. Works pretty well, but I mounted it to a seat bolt so it interferes with the passenger, but since I have no friends it doesn't really matter.
I'm very happy with the set-up, but it could be better. Having the maps already downloaded would be a huge improvement because even Verizon isn't everywhere. And sometimes the screen rotates when hitting a big bump--not literally, but, you know, like IPads, Iphones and Itouches do. Nothing that a set of Deavers won't fix!
Z
PS--I have absolutely, without doubt verified that the GPS feature works without any cell signal--it is a real GPS.