Topcon GRS-1 and GeoAge FASTXchange

Faster access to GIS field data

Livermore, Calif. – May 20, 2009 – Topcon has partnered with GeoAge to create a real-time, field-to-office data exchange for GIS. Combining the new hand-held GRS-1 with GeoAge’s FASTXchange server, users can connect to a server, download data forms and upload information, including photos, from the field. No additional hardware is required.

The Topcon GRS-1 features a dual-frequency GNSS receiver, Windows Mobile 6.1 operating system, high-speed processor, digital camera and integrated cellular modem.

GeoAge, a Topcon GIS Business Partner located in Jacksonville, Florida, has integrated FAST 5 – a form-building software – with the new GRS-1. This new device features a Windows Mobile 6.1 operating system to bring the capabilities of the GRS-1 and FAST 5 to applications such as emergency response and engineering.

Jeff Arnold, president and CEO of GeoAge, said, “The FASTXchange server works seamlessly with the GRS-1. The integrated GSM cellular modem in the GRS-1 means that users can connect to a web server and download and upload data immediately from the field.

“Having this capability with a high-accuracy, hand-held unit means great improvements for users who need access to GIS data in the field for quick decision making. With GeoAge FAST, users can populate forms with GRS-1 and then upload them to the FASTXchange.”

He said, “Data can immediately be downloaded in the field by users with the GRS-1. No more waiting and traveling back and forth from office to field to get this critical data. Important time-sensitive decisions can now be made instantaneously.”

Richard Rybka, Topcon’s GIS Business Partner development manager, said, “GeoAge continues to provide dynamic software solutions for Topcon’s innovative hardware products. The latest development – FAST 5 on the GRS-1 – will not only speed critical emergency response decisions during disasters, but is also an invaluable tool for the mobile workforce.”

For more information about Topcon’s GIS OEM Developer and Solution Partner Programs, contact: Richard Rybka, 925-337-7862, rrybka@topcon.com.

About Topcon Positioning Systems
Topcon Positioning Systems, Inc. (TPS) designs and manufactures precise positioning products and solutions for the global surveying, construction, agriculture, civil engineering, mapping and GIS, asset management and mobile control markets. TPS’ parent company, Topcon Corporation (Tokyo Stock Exchange – 7732), was founded in 1932.     

About GeoAge
GeoAge is a leading developer and supplier of mobile data collection, mapping and workforce productivity systems.  Its rapid form-creation software enables new levels of management effectiveness in the field for environmental, engineering, and emergency response applications.  GeoAge mobility solutions utilize smartphones, PDAs and tablet computers running Microsoft operating systems. GeoAge is a Microsoft Certified Partner for mobility solutions.