Tag: product showcase

Entry-Level, Rugged PDA
Leica Geosystems announced a further enhancement to the Leica Zeno GIS family – the Leica Zeno 5, an entry-level, rugged PDA for organizations that require a durable compact device with integrated modem and high-sensitive GPS. The new Leica Zeno 5 supports field workers by combining a mobile phone with asset collection and management capabilities.

Senior Product Manager Johannes Hotz comments ”Together with our Leica Zeno Field and Zeno Connect applications, the Zeno GIS family continues to grow and further addresses all mobile GIS market segments ranging from utilities and natural resources to municipalities”.

The new Leica Zeno 5 provides a complete, integrated package of positioning, imaging and communications tools:
- 48 channel, high-sensitivity GPS receiver (SirfStarIV)
- GSM HSPA+ and CDMA with full phone capabilities, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Texas Instruments latest high performance processor, the Sitara 3715 (OMAP3) at 800 MHz
- Large 3.7” full VGA transflective display
- Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5.3 Operating System
- Rechargeable and hot-swappable all-day battery (10 hours +)
- Full range of interactive sensors including camera, digital compass, gyroscope, light sensor, proximity sensor and accelerometer
“The new Leica Zeno 5 is the fastest and best equipped rugged PDA for a mobile user”, said Johannes Hotz. “Designed to be, at the same time, a mobile phone, GPS-enabled data collector and a controller for our out-standing Leica GG02 plus GNSS SmartAntenna. This new handheld will help users to get the maximum out of from their investment. Together with our Zeno Field application, the Zeno 5 provides an easy-to-use, streamlined GIS data collection and management solution. The Zeno Connect, as stand-alone application or SDK, enables our software partners to combine their industry specific solution with our high-accuracy data collection solutions”.

According to the announcement, the Leica Zeno 5 is shock resistant, withstands a drop from to 1.8 m, and is protected against water and dust. The large 3.7 inch screen is optimized for sunlight readability and maintains exceptional clarity in outdoor conditions, including direct sunlight. Field workers can collect features and descriptive information using the in-built, high-sensitive GPS data, attach photos to the collected assets, and synchronize, with high-speed up- and download times, with the office using a single and compact device, all in a full working day without re-charging the Zeno 5.
June 13, 2012
GPS-Enabled Sports Watch

TomTom and Nike have unveiled a new range of the Nike+ Sportwatch, coinciding with the launch of a brand new Nike+ website. The range includes several editions and color combinations, and introduces a starter product for those new to running.

Whether they own an original or new edition, all Nike+ Sportwatch users can now access Nike’s intelligent measure of athletic ability, Nikefuel. This converts a runner’s mileage into universal units that measure movements in a wide variety of different sports. As a result, it’s easy for people to compare their performance against that of athletes in other sports, and share their achievements with friends, the companies said.

“Our extended range of products will be very useful to those adding running into their exercise regime. And the new NikeFuel measurement brings added motivation, allowing people to share and compare their performance with friends in other sports,” says Corinne Vigreux, managing director, TomTom.

The new Nike+ Sportwatch colors have been chosen to match Nike’s apparel and shoe ranges. They include black/anthracite, anthracite/blue glow, and high-impact volt green. The anthracite/blue glow edition is available as a starter product, priced at €149.

June 13, 2012
Multi-Channel RF Recorder
Averna, developer of test solutions and services for communications and electronics device makers, announces the availability of a field-ready multi-channel RF Recorder for RF applications covering 330 MHz to 2.5 GHz.

The Averna RP-5300 RF Recorder is an advanced tool for both field testing and performance testing, Averna said. With 50 MHz of recording bandwidth at 16-bits, it can record multiple GNSS signals in up to two bands (L1, L2, L5), such as GPS or GLONASS. Its compact size and integrated display was designed for field operation.

Wireless products need to perform well in the complicated and difficult-to-predict RF environments found in the real world. Simulators can bring the design up to a certain point in the development process, but Averna’s RF Recorder captures all the multi-path, interference and general degradation of signals that end-users will experience. Capturing the segment of spectrum of interest, from minutes to hours, allows a technician to return to the lab with data necessary to diagnose and solve the problem, while building a library of environments to harden their products for the future, Averna said.

“Recording live, impaired, RF signals of interest in the field, without demodulation or alteration, reduces the need for traditional field-testing of RF receivers,” said Brendan Wolfe, director of product management at Averna. “We are thrilled to bring to the GNSS market a portable and high-fidelity multi-channel RF recorder designed for the optimal capture of real-life RF environments.”

The RP-5300 comes preloaded with Averna’s RF Studio Recorder. RF Studio is workflow software for making trouble-free RF recordings, managing collected data, and analyzing or playing back collected RF environments. With RF Studio Recorder, the intended signals are captured during and after a recording session without the need for RF experts on site, Averna said.

Key features include:
- 50 MHz recording bandwidth to capture multi-GNSS signals
- Two channels to capture signals operating at different frequencies
- Up to 11 hours of recording time with external RAID (2×50 MHz channels @ 16-bit-depth)
- Field-ready with an integrated touchscreen display, ruggedized chassis and compact size
- Simple field setup, intuitive user interface and test-case profiles
For customers interested in a complete solution of RF recording to playback, Averna recommends the Averna RP-5300 Series be paired with the Averna URT-5000, a world-class RF Player and Signal Generator.
June 13, 2012
Averna Introduces Portable, Multi-Channel RF Recorder for GNSS Applications
Averna, developer of test solutions and services for communications and electronics device makers, announces the availability of a field-ready multi-channel RF Recorder for RF applications covering 330 MHz to 2.5 GHz.

The Averna RP-5300 RF Recorder is an advanced tool for both field testing and performance testing, Averna said. With 50 MHz of recording bandwidth at 16-bits, it can record multiple GNSS signals in up to two bands (L1, L2, L5), such as GPS or GLONASS. Its compact size and integrated display was designed for field operation.

Wireless products need to perform well in the complicated and difficult-to-predict RF environments found in the real world. Simulators can bring the design up to a certain point in the development process, but Averna’s RF Recorder captures all the multi-path, interference and general degradation of signals that end-users will experience. Capturing the segment of spectrum of interest, from minutes to hours, allows a technician to return to the lab with data necessary to diagnose and solve the problem, while building a library of environments to harden their products for the future, Averna said.

“Recording live, impaired, RF signals of interest in the field, without demodulation or alteration, reduces the need for traditional field-testing of RF receivers,” said Brendan Wolfe, director of product management at Averna. “We are thrilled to bring to the GNSS market a portable and high-fidelity multi-channel RF recorder designed for the optimal capture of real-life RF environments.”

The RP-5300 comes preloaded with Averna’s RF Studio Recorder. RF Studio is workflow software for making trouble-free RF recordings, managing collected data, and analyzing or playing back collected RF environments. With RF Studio Recorder, the intended signals are captured during and after a recording session without the need for RF experts on site, Averna said.

Key features include:
- 50 MHz recording bandwidth to capture multi-GNSS signals
- Two channels to capture signals operating at different frequencies
- Up to 11 hours of recording time with external RAID (2×50 MHz channels @ 16-bit-depth)
- Field-ready with an integrated touchscreen display, ruggedized chassis and compact size
- Simple field setup, intuitive user interface and test-case profiles
For customers interested in a complete solution of RF recording to playback, Averna recommends the Averna RP-5300 Series be paired with the Averna URT-5000, a world-class RF Player and Signal Generator.
June 13, 2012
TomTom and Nike Launch New Range of the Nike+ Sportwatch

TomTom and Nike today unveil a new range of the Nike+ Sportwatch, coinciding with the launch of a brand new Nike+ website www.nikeplus.com. The range includes several editions and color combinations, and introduces a starter product for those new to running.

Whether they own an original or new edition, all Nike+ Sportwatch users can now access Nike’s intelligent measure of athletic ability, Nikefuel. This converts a runner’s mileage into universal units that measure movements in a wide variety of different sports. As a result, it’s easy for people to compare their performance against that of athletes in other sports, and share their achievements with friends, the companies said.

“Our extended range of products will be very useful to those adding running into their exercise regime. And the new NikeFuel measurement brings added motivation, allowing people to share and compare their performance with friends in other sports,” says Corinne Vigreux, managing director, TomTom.

The new Nike+ Sportwatch colors have been chosen to match Nike’s apparel and shoe ranges. They include black/anthracite, anthracite/blue glow, and high-impact volt green. The anthracite/blue glow edition is available as a starter product, priced at €149.

June 8, 2012
Intuicom Introduces Rugged MCR-900 900MHz Transceiver for RTK

Intuicom Inc. announced the MCR-900 to help increase productivity by extending the reach of wireless communications. Utilizing superior frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) technology, the MCR-900 provides long-range data transport with continuous throughput of 115 Kbps. The MCR-900 offers the capability and flexibility to meet a variety of wireless networking challenges.

According to the announcement, designed for broad functionality, the MCR- 900 offers the flexibility to serve in simple point to point communication or in more complex multipoint and IP-bridged networks. For example, when combined with the Intuicom RTK Bridge™-C, the MCR-900 provides a way to extend the reach of RTK corrections far beyond normal cellular coverage. This application will enable precision applications such as farming, survey, and construction that use GPS/GNSS-based RTK corrections to work in areas where it would otherwise be impossible.

“The MCR-900 has been tested in the most extreme environments and continues to run day in and day out. It fits in perfectly with our overall Machine Control portfolio at Leica Geosystems and we’re proud to offer it to our customers,” said Nick Guadagnoli, OEM Business Development Manager for Leica Geosystems Machine Control Division.

June 7, 2012
Leica Introduces Zeno 5 Rugged GPS Handheld
Zeno 5 by Leica Geosystems.

Leica Geosystems announced a further enhancement to the Leica Zeno GIS family – the Leica Zeno 5, an entry-level, rugged PDA for organizations that require a durable compact device with integrated modem and high-sensitive GPS. The new Leica Zeno 5 supports field workers by combining a mobile phone with asset collection and management capabilities.

Senior Product Manager Johannes Hotz comments ”Together with our Leica Zeno Field and Zeno Connect applications, the Zeno GIS family continues to grow and further addresses all mobile GIS market segments ranging from utilities and natural resources to municipalities”.

The new Leica Zeno 5 provides a complete, integrated package of positioning, imaging and communications tools:
- 48 channel, high-sensitivity GPS receiver (SirfStarIV)
- GSM HSPA+ and CDMA with full phone capabilities, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Texas Instruments latest high performance processor, the Sitara 3715 (OMAP3) at 800 MHz
- Large 3.7” full VGA transflective display
- Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5.3 Operating System
- Rechargeable and hot-swappable all-day battery (10 hours +)
- Full range of interactive sensors including camera, digital compass, gyroscope, light sensor, proximity sensor and accelerometer
“The new Leica Zeno 5 is the fastest and best equipped rugged PDA for a mobile user”, said Johannes Hotz. “Designed to be, at the same time, a mobile phone, GPS-enabled data collector and a controller for our out-standing Leica GG02 plus GNSS SmartAntenna. This new handheld will help users to get the maximum out of from their investment. Together with our Zeno Field application, the Zeno 5 provides an easy-to-use, streamlined GIS data collection and management solution. The Zeno Connect, as stand-alone application or SDK, enables our software partners to combine their industry specific solution with our high-accuracy data collection solutions”.

According to the announcement, the Leica Zeno 5 is shock resistant, withstands a drop from to 1.8 m, and is protected against water and dust. The large 3.7 inch screen is optimized for sunlight readability and maintains exceptional clarity in outdoor conditions, including direct sunlight. Field workers can collect features and descriptive information using the in-built, high-sensitive GPS data, attach photos to the collected assets, and synchronize, with high-speed up- and download times, with the office using a single and compact device, all in a full working day without re-charging the Zeno 5.
June 5, 2012
Nexteq Navigation Offers NexGeo Software Update

Nexteq Navigation has release the newest version of its NexGeo software line-up: NexGeo Mobile, NexPos and NexGeo Office. Optimized for Nexteq handhelds, NexGeo Mobile integrates Nexteq Freedom, i-PPP, and RTK positioning augmentation technology into a more reliable, user-friendly data collection software, the company said. With easy display of features, background images, labeling and attributes, data is readily collected, accessed and edited. The tracking feature now allows for efficient communication and management between field workers and the office. Raw data recorded in NexGeo Mobile can be used for post processing in NexGeo Office.

Those using third-party software with a Nexteq handheld are not left behind. NexPos was created with the intent of allowing freedom in benefitting from Nexteq position augmentation technology, the company said. The NexPos software acts as a bridge, applying Freedom, i-PPP, or RTK algorithms to GPS measurements. The final positions are transferred to third-party software via virtual COM port, allowing users to benefit from improved position accuracy while NexPos runs discreetly in the background. Raw data can also be recorded and used for post processing in NexGeo Office.

On the desktop, NexGeo Office ties together collected data, attributes, and post-processing information to provide efficient project management capabilities, data organization, live field monitoring and integration with a wide variety of other software, Nexteq said. Building and maintaining a project specific database is easy using NexGeo Office: import existing data, build on the project using a Nexteq handheld and transfer it back to the office for editing. Exporting the project to ESRI or AutoCAD file formats allows for users to seamlessly continue expanding.

NexGeo software suite is available and included with all Nexteq Navigation handhelds.

June 1, 2012
ikeGPS Releases ikeTools

ikeGPS announced it has released its new toolbox, ikeTools, for rapidly capturing GIS location data and making measurements of complex objects from a remote location. Now you have the ability, right from your ikeGPS screen, to complete the most demanding field data capture jobs far more quickly and efficiently than ever before.

ikeTools Data Capture Modes:

Target Position: The work horse of ikeGPS mobile GIS data capture. Point ikeGPS at a remote object such as a tree, pole or building and capture its GPS location using the onboard GPS, laser range finder and compass. One shot and you’re on to the next object.

Three Shot Height: Directly measure the height of an object, such as a pole, from a remote position, even when the base of the object is obscured.

Missing Line: Calculate the horizontal distance between any two objects.

Span Height: Calculate the vertical height above ground of a point on a span, for example the mid-span height of a cable or wire.

Photo Only: Capture a high resolution photo of an object. Useful for documenting the conditions of located or measured objects, for identifying hazards for field crews and for including in assessments.

True Size Poles: Capture a calibrated (TrueSize) photo of an utility or telecommunications pole with one shot, then transfer to a PC application for measuring the heights of the pole and its attachments.

True Size PLS: Capture calibrated photos that are used on a PC to measure the heights of objects on electric utility poles. Exports directly to software products from Power Lines Systems, Inc.

True Size UVM: A variety of measurements for utility vegetation management. Conduct Tree Assessments by measuring tree height, crown width, and trunk diameter at breast height (DBH).

June 1, 2012
Magellan Truck GPS Navigator Helps Truckers Plan Routes, Drive Safely
Magellan, maker of innovative GPS devices for vehicles, outdoor and mobile navigation, today announced the newest addition to its Magellan RoadMate Commercial GPS family for truckers and commercial drivers providing improved safety and productivity before, during and after their on-the-road trips. The compliance-ready Magellan RoadMate Commercial 9270T-LM GPS device is specifically designed for the needs of truckers including an extra-large GPS display, customizable truck-specific routing, hands-free communication, and trip logging.

To prepare for their trips, truck drivers can use the Magellan RoadMate Commercial 9270T-LM to set up customizable routes based on the height, weight, width, and length of the vehicle, as well as applicable hazmat restrictions. Multi-destination routing allows drivers to plan their stops and optimize routes to help them save time and gas, Magellan said.

While on-the-road, the Magellan RoadMate Commercial 9270T-LM helps drivers navigate on an extra-wide 7-inch high-definition touchscreen display that adjusts color and contrast for easy night-viewing. The large display also makes maps and other content easy to read when the GPS Navigator is mounted in large vehicles with deep dashboards. The integrated Bluetooth wireless technology, when paired with a compatible Bluetooth phone, enables drivers to safely talk hands-free while keeping their eyes on the road.

At the end of their trip, the Magellan RoadMate Commercial 9270T-LM facilitates preparing required compliance reports including hours and state mileage for IFTA fuel records. A comprehensive log of trip information by each driver is retained in the Magellan GPS device for easy exporting into reports.

“We expanded our family of Magellan RoadMate Commercial GPS Navigators to further meet the unique navigation needs of commercial and truck drivers who need a comprehensive solution to efficiently perform their jobs from the initial trip planning stage to their on-the-road requirements and managing required log reporting after their trip,” said Stig Pedersen, Associate Vice President of Product Management for Magellan. “The Magellan RoadMate Commercial series of GPS Navigators are designed to make drivers’ jobs safer and less stressful plus improve productivity, reduce costs and ultimately increase profits.”

The Magellan RoadMate Commercial 9270T-LM functions as an “information dashboard” that not only navigates, but provides elevation and truck speed limit warnings. The 9270T-LM GPS device includes several valuable safety and convenience features:
- Highway Lane Assist that shows realistic highway signs and guides truck drivers towards the correct lane when approaching complex highway interchanges and exits;
- Free Lifetime Traffic Alerts that help drivers avoid traffic incidents on their route by offering an alternative solution;
- Spoken Street Name guidance that announces the street name and gives turn-by-turn directions;
- Highway Exit Points-of-Interest and a Truck Stop Directory help drivers find services including gas stations, restaurants, ATMs, rest areas and showers, truck services, Wi-Fi availability;
- OneTouch lets truckers bookmark and assign a button to their favorite destinations or searches for faster access;
- Heavy-duty extended windshield mount, designed for deep dashboards, is included to provide fully-adjustable, personalized comfort and safe viewing;
- An A/V input for easy connection to external devices such as the Magellan Wireless Back-up Camera or a DVD player;
- Free downloadable Lifetime Map Updates keep the pre-loaded maps of the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico up-to-date.
The Magellan RoadMate Commercial GPS family now includes two models — the new 7-inch Magellan RoadMate Commercial 9270T-LM ($399.99 MSRP) and the 5-inch Magellan RoadMate Commercial 5190T ($379.99 MSRP). Both models are available in June at truck stops and through Magellan’s consumer electronics and online partners.
May 30, 2012
Digital Matter Embedded Introduces GPS Log Book Based on u-blox Technology

Digital Matter Embedded, a South African based provider of innovative technology providing electronic and software solutions for a wide range of Industry applications, has launched a compact GPS logging device which plugs into any vehicle’s cigarette lighter. The device, the GPS Log Book, is designed around u-blox’ NEO GPS receiver module to provide an easy way for drivers to automatically keep an accurate travel log book which can be securely accessed later from anywhere via a web interface. Information logged includes route, speed, and distance traveled. The device is targeted at businesses where tracking of vehicle usage is an important part of their cost control and accounting: taxi, emergency, and delivery services, as well as for traveling sales personnel.

“The GPS Log Book takes advantage of u-blox’ extremely sensitive GPS receiver technology to provide a simple and useful way to keep an accurate overview of vehicle usage,” said Alex Soldatos, general manager at Digital Matter Embedded. “The GPS Logbook provides a simple, cost-effective way for businesses to keep track of one of their most valuable assets: their cars.”

“The GPS Log Book takes full advantage of u-blox’ leading positioning technology: it requires fast satellite acquisition and re-acquisition speeds, small module size, and high sensitivity to allow the use of a very small GPS antenna,“ said Huub Robroek, regional sales manager at u-blox. “Basing their design on our NEO GPS module has resulted in an impressive, compact device that delivers useful and reliable vehicle usage data.”

The GPS Log Book uploads its log data on both PC or Mac via USB where a web interface application allows users to manage their devices, view trips, and add locations as well as many other useful functions including creating powerful, informative reports. Most notably, the log book can be generated for use with income tax return for individuals. Data is stored for more than five years and can be viewed at any time if required.

May 30, 2012
Nexteq Navigation Announces New Flagship Data Collector

Nexteq Navigation, based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, has announced the T5A, its new flagship multifunctional GNSS handheld data collector. The device is a high-accuracy GPS unit capable of 2-centimeter accuracy using real-time kinematic (RTK) and 50-centimeters globally using Nexteq’s i-PPP technology. With the T5A, users can achieve extremely accurate and consistent results anywhere in the world with no loss in flexibility, Nexteq said, adding that the unit’s centimeter-level precision coupled with versatility allows for accurate data collection in the most diverse weather conditions.

Suitable for projects in all-environments, the T5A has a professional quality internal GPS receiver that provides accurate real-time results. Using Nexteq’s Freedom, i-PPP, or RTK technologies, the T5A data collector can provide flexible and accurate positioning in all parts of the world, Nexteq Navigation said.

The T5A has a 3.7-inch color touchscreen that is both waterproof and dustproof. The device includes features such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, digital cellular data and voice, microSD card slots, and a 3.0 megapixel digital camera.

Like all Nexteq Navigation GPS handhelds, the T5A is a ruggedized and tough unit. The T5A has an IP66 rating with excellent dust and water resistance.

May 23, 2012