Trimble Introduces New Version of Its Tiny Surface Mount GPS Receiver
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Trimble Introduces New Version of Its Tiny Surface Mount GPS Receiver

Copernicus II GPS Receiver with Higher Sensitivity and Low Power Ideal for Drop-In, Ready to Go Positioning

SUNNYVALE, Calif., May 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Trimble (NASDAQ: TRMB) introduced today the Copernicus(TM) II GPS receiver -- a thumbnail-sized, surface-mount, high sensitivity module. The Copernicus II receiver features major advancements in signal tracking for applications working in poor signal environments and a high-sensitivity stationary timing mode for time synchronization. With its higher sensitivity, performance and faster startup times, the Copernicus II GPS module enables system integrators to easily add Global Positioning System (GPS) capability to a mobile device with minimal impact on its size or battery life at a very economical price.

Trimble's Copernicus II GPS receiver will be showcased at CeBIT Australia, Australasia's leading Information and Communications Technology (ICT) event in Sydney, May 20-22.

The Copernicus II GPS module is a complete, ready-to-go receiver that provides position, velocity and time data. The receiver features Trimble patented software technology that provides faster startup times and even higher performance in foliage and urban canyon environments. Compatible with active or passive antennas, the Copernicus II GPS receiver can be used in portable handheld, battery-powered applications such as Bluetooth appliances, sport accessories, personal navigators or cameras, computer and communication peripherals as well as vehicle tracking, navigation, and security products.

Designed for the demands of automated high-volume production processes, Copernicus II is a complete 12-channel GPS receiver in a 19mm x 19mm x 2.5mm shielded module. The small, thin, single-sided receiver is packaged in tape and reel for pick and place manufacturing processes. It features a 28 reflow-solderable edge castellation interface so the module can be incorporated in a product design without costly I/O and RF connectors. The Copernicus II is a direct drop-in replacement for Trimble's earlier version of its popular Copernicus receiver.

With version 3.0 firmware, the ultra-sensitive Copernicus II GPS receiver can generate position fixes with high accuracy in extremely challenging environments and under poor signal conditions (down to -160dBm). The receiver consumes typically 120 milliwatts at full power with continuous tracking.

The Copernicus II GPS module is available in three protocols. Trimble's powerful TSIP protocol offers control over receiver operation and provides detailed satellite information. The TAIP protocol is an easy-to-use ASCII protocol designed specifically for track and trace applications. The bi-directional NMEA 0183 v3.0 protocol offers industry standard data messages and a command set for easy interface to mapping software.

The Copernicus II Starter Kit provides everything a designer needs to begin adding state-of-the-art GPS capability into their application. The kit includes the reference interface board, which provides a visual layout of the Copernicus II module on a PCB including the RF signal trace and RF connector, as well as the I/O and power connections of the 28 signal pins. Also included are a power converter, power adapter, GPS antenna, and the software to readily check out how easy it is to add Copernicus II GPS to the application.

The Copernicus II GPS receiver is expected to be available in the third quarter of 2008 through Trimble's Advanced Devices dealer network.

About Trimble

Trimble applies technology to make field and mobile workers in businesses and government significantly more productive. Solutions are focused on applications requiring position or location -- including surveying, construction, agriculture, fleet and asset management, public safety and mapping. In addition to utilizing positioning technologies, such as GPS, lasers and optics, Trimble solutions may include software content specific to the needs of the user. Wireless technologies are utilized to deliver the solution to the user and to ensure a tight coupling of the field and the back office. Founded in 1978 and headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif., Trimble has a worldwide presence with more than 3,600 employees in over 18 countries.

For more information, visit: http://www.trimble.com

GTRMB

Web site: http://www.trimble.com/