3D Laser Scanner Combines Phase and Time of Flight Technologies for Fast and Accurate Data Capture

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Oct. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Trimble (NASDAQ: TRMB) introduced today the Trimble(R) CX 3D laser scanner with Trimble's proprietary WAVEPULSE(TM) technology. WAVEPULSE combines the high short-range accuracy of phase-shift technology with the low-noise sensitivity and high-distance characteristics of time-of-flight technology. The result is high-precision measurements over the full operating range that provides the clean 3D data needed for industrial plant scanning applications--allowing the user to realize increased productivity and reduced operating costs. And by requiring fewer setups and enabling faster processing time in an industrial plant environment, the Trimble CX solution can contribute to improved worker safety.

Built for Efficiency in the Plant

The Trimble CX solution is built for efficient data capture in the plant. With reliable scanning at 50,000 points per second and an 80 meter range with a 360 degree x 300 degree field of view, the solution provides widespread and efficient data capture from a single setup. A rugged design, IP54 rating and protective housing for the rotating laser allow the scanner to deliver continuous and reliable results even in difficult industrial environments. An integrated camera collects additional image information that can improve the visualization, post-processing and communication of the captured data.

The Trimble CX is supported by Trimble Access(TM) software for Spatial Imaging, which runs on the Trimble Tablet rugged PC. Powerful and built for industrial conditions, the Trimble Tablet combines a large, daylight readable display, IP67 environmental rating and long battery life that can easily withstand the demands of plant environments. With intuitive and streamlined Trimble Access Software, capturing data with the Trimble CX requires a very short learning curve. Data can be seamlessly transferred to Trimble's 3D scanning office software packages: Trimble RealWorks(TM) and Trimble LASERGen(TM) software.

Certified Application for Tank Measurements

The Trimble CX solution also includes 3D Extractor software specifically developed for storage tank calibration. The software can significantly reduce the time taken to calibrate storage tanks while also providing a richer data set that can be used for monitoring tank deformations. The Trimble CX is certified by the Physikalisch-Technischen Bundesanstalt (the German National Metrology Institute, PTB).

An Integral Solution for Plant Lifecycle Management

Managing a plant's lifecycle requires a clear understanding of the location and condition of the plant's assets. The Trimble CX 3D laser scanning solution can be used for a variety of industrial plant positioning applications:

    --  Capturing existing condition data for accurate project planning for
        basic and detailed design;
    --  Ensuring dimensions of fabricated parts prior to transportation and
        installation;
    --  Verifying as-built construction for quality assurance and additional
        detailed design;
    --  Visualizing real world conditions for training and simulation;
    --  Monitoring plant assets and potential movement or deformation during
        use;
    --  Planning retrofit construction projects based upon accurate data and;
    --  Calibrating storage tanks by determining filling tables and sump
        volumes.

The Trimble CX is expected to be available in the fourth quarter of 2009.

About Trimble's Power, Process and Plant Division

Trimble's Power, Process and Plant Division provides a comprehensive range of positioning solutions to transform the plant lifecycle work process--from design and construction to ongoing operation and maintenance. Trimble's 3D laser scanning hardware and software provides: increased productivity by delivering fast, accurate data with minimal impact to plant operations or project timelines; reduced rework by providing highly accurate existing condition data; and can contribute to improved worker safety through the fast acquisition of data when in the industrial plant environment. Trimble's solutions are used in the oil & gas, power generation and manufacturing industries.

For more information about Trimble's Power, Process and Plant solutions visit: www.trimble.com/plant.

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, Trimble is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif.

For more information, visit: www.trimble.com

GTRMB

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