Topcon Launches All-New Total Station Series; GPT-9000A, GTS-900A units include field controller, tracking system.

LIVERMORE, Calif. -- The all-new total station series from Topcon offers the ultimate solution for demanding tasks on the job site. Designed as complete robotic systems, the GTS-900A and GPT-9000A series include Topcon's new FC-200 field controller and RC-3 tracking system.

The GPT-9000A robotic total station provides precise reflectorless measurement up to 2,000 meters - more than 6,500 feet (1 1/4 miles) - and can easily focus on small objects like power lines. The onboard computer, with a bright, full-color touch-screen display, and faster servo motor technology improve field productivity.

The GTS-900A series reflector-only instruments are available with the same system components.

Additional features on the new series of instruments include:

--X-TRAC(TM) technology with instantaneous re-acquisition of target lock;

--Completely cable-free design--all components;

--Large color, touch-screen, running off Windows Mobile OS(TM);

--New, ultra-fast robotic servo technology;

--All components fit into a single carrying case;

--Integrated 2.4 GHz interference-free spread spectrum radio;

--Instruments available in 1-, 3-, and 5-second arc-second angle accuracies;

--Field scan imaging ready for the job site; and

--Newly designed, lightweight 360-degree prism.

The robotic system includes Topcon's new FC-200 field controller, the fastest field computer available. The successor to Topcon's FC-100 graphical field computer, the controller features a 520 MHz Intel X-scale processor for fast performance and Windows Mobile 4.2 operating system. An optional snap-on 2.4 GHz radio module can be added to the FC-200 for interference-free robotic data communications.

Topcon's new RC-3 tracking system, providing positive instrument lock with the simplicity of one-touch operation, is also included. Integrally designed to work with the new 360-degree prism, the RC-3 offers the simplicity of one-touch operation and the industry's fastest quick-lock prism acquisition. Six communication channels enable multiple robotic systems to operate on the same site.

Ray O'Connor, Topcon Positioning president and CEO, said the new GPT-9000A and the GTS-900A series "simply set a new standard for robotic total stations. These instruments are the smartest, fastest, and longest measuring robotic stations available in the market, and the advanced technology can give pinpoint accurate measures from incredible distances.

"Precision reflectorless measurements at up to 1 1/4 miles? Unheard of . . . until now," O'Connor said.

About Topcon: Topcon Positioning Systems, a developer and manufacturer of positioning equipment, offers the world's leading selection of innovating precision GPS, GIS, laser, optical surveying, and machine control, products, software, and applications.