u-blox launches GPS cards for mobile computers

10 February 2009, 5:39pm

Thalwil, Switzerland February 10, 2009 u-blox, the leading provider of GPS technology, announces the immediate availability of a GPS PCI Express Mini card. The card enables next-generation laptop, nnetbook, mobile internet device and Ultra mobile PC OEMs to provide GPS and location-based services such as personal navigation, services/people finder and geo-tagging.

With the explosive potential of next-generation GPS applications and services for mobile PCs, it is the right time to introduce a robust PCI Express mini card supporting location-based services. u-blox delivers the markets highest GPS tracking sensitivity for a satisfying and seamless consumer experience, said Thomas Nigg, Vice President Product Marketing at u-blox.

Sales of mobile PCs with integrated GPS are projected to grow from 3 million units in 2007 to 45 million units in 2011.

The PCI Express Mini Card is based on the industry-leading u-blox 5 positioning engine delivering the world's fastest Time to First Fix (<1 sec). Requiring only an external antenna, the card comes in two sizes -
PCI-Express Mini Card (PCI-5S) and PCI-Express Half Mini Card (PCM-5S) - to accommodate OEMs diverse needs. The cards implement u blox' unmatched SuperSense technology, which can track extremely weak GPS signals to -160 dBm as well as the Kick Start feature for a fast Time-to-first-Fix at weak signals. This allows seamless navigation in dense urban environments, even when using low-cost antennas.

Thanks to u-blox proprietary anti-jamming algorithms, the products are highly immune to noise generated by the PC bus, mobile phones and local electronic devices. The drivers support Windows XP and Windows Vista. A driver for the upcoming Windows 7 is in preparation.

The PCI-5S and PCM-5S are in mass production. Please contact u-blox sales at sales@u-blox.com or visit u-blox' booth at Mobile World Congress, February 16-19, Barcelona, Spain, at Booth 1A15 for details.

u-blox

Geo: International