Grade Control System utilizes satellite data.

Press Release Summary:



Trimble® GCS900 v10.7 includes high-accuracy configurations for dozers and graders using Trimble SPS730 and SPS930 Universal Total Stations. Trimble MultiTrack(TM) technology provides ability to track and lock to range of targets, including active and passive targets, for tracking in areas of high-vibration or where obstructions exist. Machine supports Satellite-based Augmentation Systems and includes software that can log productivity data file.



Original Press Release:



Trimble GCS900 Grade Control System Version Shifts Earthworks Operations into a Higher Gear



3D System Provides Unparalleled Speed and Flexibility for Grade Control Operations

DAYTON, Ohio, July 10 / / -- Trimble (NASDAQ:TRMB) today announced the next generation of the Trimble(R) GCS900 Grade Control System, providing contractors with unparalleled speed, performance and flexibility for grade control.

The announcement was made today at Trimble's Construction Boot Camp 2007, a field-based, hands-on training event for the construction industry.

Trimble GCS900 version 10.7 includes new, high accuracy configurations for dozers and graders using the new Trimble SPS730 and SPS930 Universal Total Stations. System versatility is broadened using Satellite-based Augmentation System (SBAS) support, such as the U.S. Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS), European Geostationary Navigation Overlay System (EGNOS), and Japan's MTSAT Satellite-based Augmentation System (MSAS). In addition, supporting on-machine software now logs a new productivity data file to assist the contractor for better project tracking and management.

The system also extends the flexibility of the in-cab Trimble CB430 Control Box to include the new Trimble CCS900 Compaction Control System and conventional configurations of the Trimble GCS300 through GCS600 Grade Control Systems. The system provides an unprecedented level of high accuracy 3D and conventional elevation and slope grade control capability on a single on-machine control box.

New Trimble GCS900 Configurations Using the Trimble SPS730 and SPS930 Universal Total Stations

The new Trimble SPS730 and SPS930 Universal Total Stations, with exclusive Trimble MagDrive(TM) servo technology provides fast, responsive, and accurate tracking for high performance automatic machine guidance. Unique Trimble MultiTrack(TM) technology provides the ability to track and lock to a range of targets, including both active targets such as the Trimble MT900 Machine Target and passive targets such as a normal prism. This technology enables unparalleled tracking performance in areas of high vibration or where obstructions exist and reliably locks onto the right reflective surface. It prevents costly locking errors and subsequent rework, providing faster results to grade and increased productivity.

The new Trimble MT900 Machine Target provides advanced target recognition and tracking capability, specifically designed for high accuracy grade control applications. The Trimble MT900 can be reliably tracked by the total stations at a range of plus or minus 45 degrees in the vertical- up to 100 percent slopes, providing superior tracking at steep angles in close range to the instrument.

The Trimble GCS900 Grade Control System, using the new Trimble Universal Total Stations and MT900 Machine Target, is capable of providing advanced high speed, steep angle tracking for millimeter accuracy grade control. This allows operators to grade faster in higher gear with maximum machine uptime with the new GCS900 Grade Control System -- meaning increased productivity for job completion and a faster return on their investment.

New GCS900 Conventional Grade Control Configurations for Dozers and Graders

New Trimble GCS900 conventional configurations for dozers and graders incorporate functionality from the Trimble GCS300 through GCS600 conventional grade control product lines into the Trimble CB430 Control Box. Machine operators can quickly and easily create and save new 3D and conventional system configurations and swap between configurations and sensors as on- machine hardware, site infrastructure, or grading applications change. Both 3D and conventional grade control sensors are supported on one Trimble CB430 Control Box. This provides the contractor with a more flexible and versatile grade control system, increasing machine productivity and saving the contractor money in not having to purchase multiple individual grade control systems to do multiple types of work.

Increase Machine Utilization Using Satellite-based Augmentation Systems (SBAS)

Trimble GCS900 now has expanded positioning capability that dramatically increases machine utilization when using SBAS, which include WAAS, EGNOS, and MSAS. With the standard Trimble MS990 Smart GPS+GLONASS Antenna, GCS900 can be now used without GPS base station and radio infrastructure, allowing for higher machine utilization during initial site clearing and pioneering tasks or for bulk earthworks where accuracy to a few meters is required.

New On-machine Software Enhancements

The new Trimble GCS900 on-machine software contains user interface enhancements that allow the operator to configure and operate the system more quickly than ever before, allowing the operator to get working faster. The software can also be configured to log a new productivity data file. This new data file includes information machine productivity data, such as time the system has been in use, terrain logging of all excavated material, and machine-specific productivity statistics. Recorded information can be processed in the office to assist the contractor in better project tracking and management, minimizing project costs, improving project profit margins.

The Trimble GCS900 Grade Control System version 10.7 is expected to be available in the third quarter of 2007 through the Trimble worldwide distributor network.

About Trimble's Construction Business

The construction business of Trimble is focused on developing technology and solutions for earthmoving, site preparation, and general, interior and underground construction contractors. Trimble construction solutions help to get the job done faster, with less machine time and personnel. For each phase of the construction cycle -- designing, grading, site checking, building and asset management -- Trimble offers a broad portfolio of integrated construction positioning systems designed to improve productivity.

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 3,400 employees in over 18 countries.

For more information Trimble's Web site at www.trimble.com.

Source: Trimble

CONTACT: Media, Lea Ann McNabb, +1-408-481-7808, leaann_mcnabb@trimble.com, of Trimble

Web site: www.trimble.com/

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