I have taken my laptop with me a couple of times for local flights
lately just to see how cramped things might feel. I was also by
myself on these flights, when things are obviously least cramped
otherwise. Well, there appear to be a couple of options for a
standard size laptop -- leave it on the right seat if unoccupied, or
fold down the screen all the way and have it on my lap. I have to say
that having the computer on my lap does feel cramped and somewhat
awkward, and as Jay mentioned, having to look down at the screen seems
less than ideal, particularly if in IMC or turbulence. While the
approach plates display very nicely on a full size screen, I think the
disadvantages may outweigh the advantages.

Like Dave, ideally I would like to find a solution that would serve
more than just one purpose. If I could use the display device in the
plane and for PDA/email/computing functions on the ground, I would
feel more justified in shelling out a nice chunk of change. I looked
at the HP ipaq 5715, which seemed to be a decent pocket PC with built
in GPS for $400. It has a 3.5 inch (diagonal) screen, which is the
same size as the Garmin 396/496. Has anyone used the ipaq in the
cockpit?

Kelly