Software Upgrade Allows Farmers to Use Free RTK Networks

Customers with a mojoRTK console and a network software upgrade will be able to obtain free access to RTK networks from their local DOT with a data plan from Leica Geosystems for the most cost-effective RTK solution on the market.

"This eliminates the need for base stations and costly propriety networks for farmers in these areas," says Trevor Mecham, North American Business Manager for Leica's Agriculture group. "Our customers in these areas only need to purchase a network-ready version of the mojoRTK console and a data plan to enjoy all the benefits of a dual-frequency RTK auto-steer system."

With the network up and running, farmers in states with DOT-established CORS networks will have the ability to use the signal via a modem inside the mojoRTK console that connects to the Internet using a cellular data plan provided by Leica through Aeris Communications, which also manages the data transfer for Leica's Virtual Wrench(TM) remote service and support tool.

"Aeris simplifies the complexities associated with wireless data connectivity allowing visionary customers like Leica to focus on key product innovations," said Mark Cratsenburg, vice president of sales at Aeris. "The integration of data transfer via cell modem with the DOT-established CORS networks is a great example of focused innovation that delivers easier solutions to help farmers increase productivity."

This announcement from Leica's Agriculture group comes as the company's Reference Network Team begins installing the Iowa Real-Time Network -- a Leica CORS Network -- for the Iowa DOT. The Iowa Real-Time Network is scheduled for completion by Dec. 1, 2008. Several states already have established CORS networks, includingAlabama,Florida,Idaho,Michigan,Minnesota,New York, North Carolina,South Dakota,Texas,Wisconsin and parts ofGeorgia and Illinois.

Leica's network-ready console, with the required software upgrade, will retail at $11,990. Users also need to purchase a cell data plan, which will be offered by Leica this fall. Since the mojoRTK console includes a cell modem, no additional hardware is needed, although users in some areas may want to add a cell booster to increase the cellular signal to their console.

Leica Geosystems -- when it has to be right

Leica Geosystems' agriculture applications build on the company's experience in its growing GPS and machine automation business, which already benefits the survey, construction and mining industries worldwide. Leica Geosystems is a recognized leader in GNSS reference station technology. Leica has consulted and participated in the design, development and deployment of more than 67 CORS networks worldwide -- including the Iowa Real-Time Network.

TheDenver, Colo., agriculture product sales and management facility is managed by auto-steer company veterans with a proven commitment to innovation based on solid economic returns for farmers.

Those who use Leica Geosystems products every day trust them for their dependability, the value they deliver, and the superior customer support. Based in Heerbrugg,Switzerland, Leica Geosystems is a global company with tens of thousands of customers supported by more than 3,500 employees in 28 countries and hundreds of partners located in more than 120 countries around the world. Leica Geosystems is part of the Hexagon Group,Sweden.

About Aeris Communications, Inc.

Aeris(R) Communications, Inc. is the leading wireless communications service provider dedicated exclusively to the Machine-to-Machine (M2M) and Telematics marketplace acrossNorth America. Aeris has assembled and seamlessly integrated top tier carrier partner networks through AerFrame(TM) to provide customers with simplified, unified, reliable, and customized network services for M2M and Telematics applications. Since 1992, Aeris has provided superior reliability, higher quality coverage, lower latency, and unsurpassed customer support and managed services. For information on how Aeris can help you rapidly scale your M2M solution while also lowering your total cost of ownership, visit http://www.Aeris.net or call 1-888-GO-AERIS.

SOURCE Leica Geosystems

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