News and New Products

PC/104 module unites GPS, cellular technologies

By Warren Webb -- EDN, 4/14/2005

The new PCM-GPS from WinSystems combines GPS (global-positioning-system) and cell-modem support on a single PC/104 module for applications that require navigation, tracking, data logging, and communication functions. The GPS receiver section delivers position, velocity, and time information, and the cell modem supports multiband GSM/GPRS (Global System for Mobile Communications/General Packet Radio Service) and CDMA (code-division-multiple-access) communications (Picture).

The board includes dual UARTs, the GPS receiver, an SMA-antenna connector, and a cellular-modem socket. WinSystems based the GPS receiver on Trimble’s (www.trimble.com) Lassen SQ GPS module; it employs protocols that are compatible with most commercial-navigation or map-software packages. The company based the cellular-modem section on Multitech Systems’ (www.multitech.com) SocketModem wireless modems. Targeting global use, they offer multiband GSM/GPRS Class 10 and CDMA2000 1×RTT (Radio Transmission Technology) performance. Both units provide the controller, RF transceiver, and antenna interface in a single plug-in module. The SocketModem recognizes the AT command set, provides alarm management, and supports SMS (short-message services). WinSystems ships the PCM-GPS with an empty Multitech socket for user installation and activation at the customer’s site.

The PCM-GPS consumes 60 mA at 5V within in its –40 to +85°C operating range. Delivery is from stock to three weeks, and prices start at $199.

WinSystems Inc, www.winsystems.com.