PenStuff Announces GPS Data Logging Application for Pen Computers
BOSTON — August 31, 1993 — PenStuff Inc. Tuesday made it easy for PenDOS users to take advantage of the $10 billion Global Positioning System (GPS) by announcing the Mobile GPS DataLogger for PenDOS.
The DataLogger allows workers to collect and log the locations and attributes of geographic features in the field, and runs on a platform capable of supporting thousands of other DOS applications. The application utilizes Trimble Navigation's Mobile GPS PCMCIA Sensor and will be demonstrated at IBM booth #121 throughout PenExpo.
GPS provides 24 hour three dimensional coverage (providing latitude, longitude and altitude) and is free to all users. In addition to positional information, GPS provides the only available world-wide synchronized atomic clock signal. Thousands of professionals currently use GPS to collect positional information in the field for use with desktop Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Public utility workers could, for example, use the application to gather information which describes the position of each electrical transformer in their system.
PenStuff's software takes full advantage of Trimble Navigation's industry-leading receiver technology. The application's graphical interface makes it easy for GPS novices to quickly grasp the fundamentals of data logging. Experienced users will find that the Mobile GPS DataLogger offers complete control of the receiver's sophisticated GPS functions.
The package includes a Trimble GPS receiver with PCMCIA Type II interface, antenna, easy to use application software and complete user documentation. Data log files can be exported in either ASCII or RINEX format for use with other programs. Users can create data dictionaries of features and attributes using their favorite text editor.
The small receiver can be easily fastened to a pen-based computer and adds only 330g of weight to the computer. Since the receiver draws power directly from the computer, there is no need to carry around bulky battery packs. Serial receivers are also available for users with computers that do not have PCMCIA type II slots.
"In the past, GPS data logging has required the use of a device which was strictly dedicated to that single purpose. It is our belief that by providing the same functionality on an easy to use platform, the Mobile GPS DataLogger represents an attractive alternative to traditional data logging products," said George Seff, president, PenStuff Inc. "The pen-based computer provides the perfect platform for cost efficient applications like the Mobile GPS DataLogger."
"This is one example of how Trimble expects to use the PCMCIA type II interface to help third party software developers to include GPS functionality into their applications," said Bill Dussell of Trimble Navigation, Mobile Computing Group.
Communication Intelligence Corp.'s PenDOS pen operating environment provides an easy-to-use pen user interface which can be implemented on many hardware platforms that support DOS. Existing DOS programs favored by the user can co-exist with the Mobile GPS DataLogger.
The Mobile GPS DataLogger will be available directly from PenStuff and will begin shipping in October.
PenStuff Inc., a privately held company in Rochester, N.Y., is a developer of field data collection applications for mobile computing. PenStuff's GPS and image acquisition applications support most pen hardware and operating system platforms. Trimble Navigation Ltd. (NASDAQ:TRMB) is a world leader in the emerging commercial market for satellite-based navigation and positioning products using the U.S. Government-funded Global Positioning System (GPS). The company designs, manufactures, and markets electronic instruments and systems for determining precise geographic location.
PenStuff, Trimble Navigation and GO Corp. previously collaborated on the development of the GPS Application Programming Interface (API) for PenPoint.
Note to Editors: All company and product names used herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
CONTACT:
PenStuff Inc., Rochester, N.Y.
Michael Caito, 716/461-3182
or
Trimble Navigation
Bill Dussell, 408/481-8915