Jonathan Goodish wrote:

I'm not arguing that the 396 is a bad unit; quite to the contrary, it
looks like a great unit. I just don't think that it is going to "kill
off" all of the PDA/TabletPC competitors like some folks seem to
suggest. For example, WxWorx appeals to a wide audience and provides
capability that the 396 can't match, as does Control Vision's product.
There are plenty of others out there who may find their systems a hard
sell over the 396, though.

Not trying to pick sides or gang up on anyone, but I agree with most
every point Richard Kaplan made in your discussion. And I also agree
the impact on the PDA weather/GPS market is going to be, NO DOUBT ABOUT
IT, HUGE! This is the box GA pilots want. I'd argue that the majority
of pilots, by far, are not techie gearheads who want to futz with
configuration issues, deal with Bluetooth, a stylus, a rat's nest of
wires, etc. They want something that works, PERIOD, and that is why
it's so desirable to see "Garmin" on the box.

I've avoided CV's products for all of the issues Richard mentioned, and
I am excited to be getting my hands on a 396 just as soon as I can.
I've heard more than a few comments to this effect, including current
and former CV customers looking to make the switch. Garmin's going to
make a few (big) waves, no doubt.

-Ryan