Slim, high-strength crade complements Apple iPad, allows mounting anywhere

(RAM iPad product page -- RAM iPad Locking Cradle product page)

Unlike almost any other product in recent computing history, the Apple iPad has redefined how we view computers and how we use them. Whle there have been prior efforts and initiatives to popularize the tablet form factor, none succeeded in bringing slates and tablets into the main stream. Rugged PC Review contributor David MacNeill commented in his iPad review that, "This is a clean break with the personal computer as we have known it for over three decades. On an iPad, the hardware disappears and the software becomes the computer. Whatever app you start is the interface, the whole experience. To compare an iPad to any conventional portable computer makes little sense. As ever more interesting and innovative apps come into being for iPad that just could not exist for any other computer, this will become increasingly obvious to everyone."

What this means is that the iPad transcends conventional computing boundaries and classifications. And while it is not a rugged or vertical market device, many will use an iPad in addition to their current mobile computing gear, and in quite a few cases, iPads will replace older technology.

This is why RAM-Mounts of Seattle, Washington—undisputedly the leading innovator and manufacturer of rugged, durable mounting systems and docking stations for mobile electronics with their patented ball and socket mounting system that allows you to mount practically anything anywhere—has introduced RAM Mounts for the Apple iPad, a series of mounting products designed to mount and take the iPad anywhere.

RAM felt that revolutionary products like the iPad deserved a revolutionary mounting system, and so the company created a cradle specifically designed for the Apple iPad. Acknowledging that one of the key features of the iPad is its thin and elegant shape, the new RAM cradle for the iPad complements this thin shape with a form-fitting design that is fully compatible with a wide range of mounting products. And just as the iPad was created to be a personal assistant and companion ready for travel, business, fun, play and productivity, these mounting solutions are certain to get the most out of the iPad while keeping it safe, secure, and instantly available in anything that rides, drives, flies or floats. Having introduced undoubtedly the most versatile and practical set of mounting solutions for the iPad available today, the folks at RAM Mount once again are in a league of their own.

The picture above shows the RAM high-strength composite cradle for the Apple iPad. It allows easy access to all ports, and uses a patent-pending roller design for extra-smooth insertion and removal of the iPad. The back of the reinforced cradle has two attachment points for either a 1-inch or 1.5-inch ball round base.

One potential issue with the iPad is that it's so attractive and desirable that it may need some extra protection to discourage bad guys from alking off with it. That's where the RAM Locking Cradle for the iPad comes in. It's made of the same high-strength composite material, but includes a dial combination lock that securely holds the iPad in place. The picture to the right shows the iPad in the locking cradle, which has four mounting points with pre-drilled holes, including the universal AMPS hole pattern.

Shown below examples of how the iPad can be mounted in various ways in cars, boats and other vehicles. As is the case with almost all products in RAM's mounting system catalog, you can order a solution that works for you and your equipment. Depending on your application, available are the RAM POD 1 universal No-Drill vehicle monunt, the RAM Seat Mate for mounting on a passenger seat, a simple suction cup with a twist lock, a RAM flat surface mount, and many more.

As far as construction and finish go, the cradle is a high strength composite material, everything else is powder-coated marine grade aluminim and steel. The product will be available starting July 6th, 2010.