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Trimble Unveils Innovative GPS Architecture for Mobile Devices
SUNNYVALE, Calif., June 22 -- With the goal of providing the
smallest and lowest power Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver for mobile
devices, Trimble (Nasdaq: TRMB) unveiled today its new FirstGPS(TM)
architecture. Trimble's FirstGPS architecture is specifically developed for
power-sensitive mobile information devices such as laptops, PDAs, digital
cameras, smart phones, pagers and automobile navigation systems. The
architecture allows high-volume manufacturers of consumer products to add GPS
location with minimal impact on the device's size or battery life.
Trimble's FirstGPS architecture is a proven technology already in use in
Japan. Partnering with Seiko Epson, Trimble's pre-production architecture was
first implemented in the Locatio. Seiko Epson's Locatio is the world's first
combination PDA, wireless phone, personal navigator and digital camera capable
of accessing the Internet. Additional information in Japanese can be found at
http://www.i-love-epson.co.jp/locatio/.
"Trimble's new architecture enables a broader range of high-volume mobile
information platforms to add GPS functionality where size, power, flexibility
and cost are key factors," said Dennis Workman, Trimble's vice president of
Component Technologies. "We have a mission to make location technology a part
of everyday life. These technology advances will make a greater number of
consumer applications possible."
Ultra-low Power Consumption
Trimble's FirstGPS architecture offers the lowest power consumption of any
GPS receiver on the market today. Requiring only 1/3 the power of most
receivers (30-50 milliwatts at 3.3 volts when updating positions every
second), FirstGPS is ideal for power-sensitive applications. For devices that
only need location-on-demand, several sleep and low-power modes allow for
further power savings and longer battery life.
Host-based Architecture
Trimble's FirstGPS is the only host-based architecture on the market today
that allows flexible integration of GPS with other real-time software tasks.
Without burdening the other applications running on the mobile device,
FirstGPS leverages the host microprocessor (CPU) and memory to calculate the
GPS position, velocity and time solutions. This innovative architecture, which
is microprocessor and real-time operating system (RTOS) independent,
eliminates redundant CPUs and memory thereby reducing overall component count
and product cost.
The FirstGPS architecture continues Trimble's tradition of superior and
reliable performance in urban canyons and other weak-signal environments.
While FirstGPS is designed for autonomous operation, this flexible
architecture can also take advantage of server-based techniques for faster
signal acquisition, higher position accuracy and enhanced sensitivity.
Compact Form Factor
FirstGPS architecture is extremely compact. Its high level of integration
and low component count enables a footprint as small as one square inch
(25mm x 25mm). This small footprint facilitates the integration of GPS
functionality into a variety of mobile devices without adversely affecting
product form factor and size.
Availability
Trimble will offer 8 and 12 channel versions of the FirstGPS chipset.
Samples for OEM evaluation will be available in the third quarter of 2000.
About Trimble
Founded in 1978, Trimble is a recognized worldwide leader in the
development of innovative Global Positioning System (GPS) technology-based
products for a wide range of applications. Today, these advanced solutions
combine GPS with wireless communications and sophisticated software to meet
demanding applications in environments ranging from agriculture and
construction to asset management, automotive and timing. Headquartered in
Sunnyvale, Calif., Trimble provides end-users and OEMs with leading edge
solutions backed by global leadership in patents, exceptional experience and a
reputation for excellence.
For an interactive look at company news and products, visit Trimble's Web
site at http://www.trimble.com .
www.trimble.com
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