TransCore Unveils Design Innovations to GlobalWave Satellite Communications Tracking Technology; Research and Development Yields Advancements to Revolutionize Satellite Asset Tracking Products with Sleek Design, Faster Modem and Reduced Power Usage

BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 16, 2005--Following a multimillion dollar research and development (R&D) effort, TransCore introduces a smaller, faster, more power efficient, and compelling value proposition for satellite-based asset tracking technology to expand opportunities within the trucking, rail, security and marine markets. At the heart of these innovations is a new core modem that reduces the size of the terminals and extends battery life from the usual three years up to seven years, doubling battery life of trailer tracking products on the market. By eliminating the need for frequent battery replacement or using unreliable and expensive rechargeable batteries, TransCore resolves a long-standing impairment to widespread adoption of un-tethered tracking applications.

"In an industry burdened by market volatility and increased security demands, manufacturers must make satellite tracking technology more accessible," said John Worthington, president of TransCore. "As we see with consumer electronics, the evolution of technology delivers greater functionality and streamlined design, all with a more desirable value proposition. The fleet market should realize these same benefits."

“In an industry burdened by market volatility and increased security demands, manufacturers must make satellite tracking technology more accessible”

Through this technical advancement, TransCore introduces two new GlobalWave(R) satellite data communication terminals, one for basic tracking applications and one that enables both tracking and monitoring with a full suite of sensors. Both enable two-way, all-satellite, nationwide communication between fleet operators and assets. What makes these satellite communication units particularly appealing are design modifications that yield various benefits, such as:

-- Third-generation core modem: Faster response -- under a minute compared to some systems that can take as long as 90 minutes; efficient power management with less battery drain; and integrated GPS.

-- Streamlined design: Lowest height profile of any unit on the market, reducing the height to just above three quarters of an inch (0.8 inches), making it less visually obvious and reducing the potential for theft or dismantling.

-- Reduced power usage: Longest battery life on the market, increasing battery life from the usual three years up to seven years, and ultimately reducing the number of times equipment is taken out of use for maintenance or additional expense associated with rechargeable batteries.

-- Easier installation: Can be installed in under 10 minutes on loaded or unloaded trailers.

-- Seamless integration: Interfaces with leading transportation management software (TMS) providers.

TransCore, the largest global manufacturer of transportation-based radio frequency identification (RFID) products, acquired GlobalWave satellite technology in March of 2004. Adding satellite communication technology was an essential element of TransCore's strategic vision, and today's introduction solidifies the company's commitment to expanding GlobalWave products through R&D funding. Earlier this year, TransCore launched several low-cost sensors, including a first-of-its-kind infrared cargo sensor.

About the GlobalWave Terminals

The new GlobalWave terminals will link fleet owners to their assets via the GlobalWave satellite network. The GlobalWave system allows users to monitor, manage, track and communicate with remote and mobile assets from a Web interface. With six ground control stations providing service to five continents, the GlobalWave network supports more than 40,000 installed mobile terminals worldwide.

The GlobalWave mobile data communication terminals allow short control or text messages to be sent between a central location and dispersed mobile assets over a satellite network with nationwide coverage. Fleet operators interact with their tagged assets using familiar computer programs and interfaces. The base terminal is the tracking only solution. The sensor-enabled terminal may be used in conjunction with a wide range of GlobalWave sensors for remote, up-to-date access to information such as loaded/empty status, cargo temperature, tire inflation status and other critical data.

Both terminals are extraordinarily low-profile and designed to become an integral part of the asset for an inconspicuous appearance not easily noticed by those who might tamper with the devices. These terminals will also withstand extreme weather conditions for external mounting. The geographic location of either type of terminal can be determined by GlobalWave's integrated GPS. All operating characteristics can be changed remotely via this system such as reporting interval and enabling/disabling features such as door alarms.

About TransCore

TransCore, a transportation services company with 1,800 employees and 80 locations, is a unit of Roper Industries, a $1.4 billion diversified industrial technology company. With installations in 41 countries, more than 100 patents and pioneering applications of RFID, GPS and satellite communications technologies, TransCore's technical expertise is unparalleled in the markets it serves. TransCore's 60-year heritage spans the development of RFID transportation applications at Los Alamos National Labs to implementation of the nation's first electronic toll system to establishing North America's first freight matching network. For more information, visit www.transcore.com.

(A) Pictures are available in various formats. Contact B. Catlin.