New Version of Trimble GCS900 Grade Control System Increases Flexibility and Ease of Operation

New Version Offers Faster Switch Between Sensor Configurations and Less Downtime Setting Up Machines

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Feb 24, 2010, 06:31 ET

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Feb. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Trimble (Nasdaq: TRMB) today introduced its Trimble® GCS900 Grade Control System version 11.2, which improves data collection and makes the industry-leading machine control system even more flexible and easier to operate. As part of its ongoing commitment to address contractor's needs across a breadth of machine types and applications, Trimble has introduced a series of improvements in this latest version.

Trimble's GCS900 version 11.2 includes a new user interface, new hardware to improve point collection and safety, and new functionality that makes it easier to switch between machine configurations, ultimately providing a more flexible solution.

Single Point Mapping Allows the Operator to Collect Accurate Point Data Without Stopping the Machine

The Trimble GCS900 Grade Control System version 11.2 supports new single point mapping functionality that allows the operator to record very accurate point information from the blade, bucket, or drum focus position. Using this new capability as a dialog on the Trimble CB430 Control Box, the operator can add the point name and attribute information to a series of collected points, such as a trench center line.

Single point mapping increases the ability to collect as-built information from the machine and complements the work being done by grade checkers. It is particularly well suited for applications where it is dangerous or impossible to place a grade checker in the area of excavation.

The as-built information can then be transferred back to the office over the wireless two-way data synchronization link using Trimble Connected Site™ solutions in the Trimble GCS900 Grade Control System. By allowing for fast and easy on-machine data collection and real-time transfer to the back office decisions based on as-built data and site conditions can be made more rapidly.

Point and Shoot Remote Switch Data Collection for Excavators

To further support the new single point mapping capability, Trimble has also introduced a new remote switch hardware add-on that can be attached to the excavator joystick for point and shoot collection of data points. This new remote switch includes a point collection button that, when pressed, allows the operator to collect, record, and map individual bucket positions.

One Button to Switch Between Sensor Configurations

Trimble GCS900 version 11.2 also offers an easy solution for dozer, grader, and excavator operators to switch between machine configurations when conditions or requirements on site change. This flexibility allows users to switch between sensor configurations without the delay of configuring each machine for each sensor combination. What used to require multiple machine configurations can now be accomplished with one press of a button in the cab, allowing the machine to be utilized more continuously, which can lead to contractors realizing a higher return on their technology investment.

Operators can experience less downtime setting up machines, as the streamlined GCS900 version 11.2 now allows the flexibility to swap between:

different 3D configurations (for example between total station-based and GPS-based configuration)
3D and 2D configurations (for example between a GPS configuration and a cross slope only configuration)
different 2D configurations (for example between a laser catcher and a cross slope configuration)

Modernized User Interface

Finally, the CB430 Control Box and on-machine user interface has also been updated. More text items provide the operator with better information in the cab, while newer icons represent machine types more accurately.

The Trimble GCS900 Grade Control System version 11.2 is available now through Trimble's worldwide Heavy and Highway Construction Distribution Channel.

About Trimble's Heavy and Highway Division

Trimble's Heavy and Highway Division is a leading innovator of productivity solutions for the heavy and highway contractor. Trimble's solutions leverage a variety of technologies, including Global Positioning System (GPS), construction lasers, total stations, wireless data communications, the Internet, and application software. As part of the Trimble Connected Site strategy, these solutions provide a high-level of process and workflow integration from the design phase through to the finished project—delivering significant improvements in productivity throughout the construction lifecycle.

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 Trimble's Web site at www.trimble.com.

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SOURCE Trimble