|
By Henk Key, contributing editor, GIM International
As mentioned in my introduction to the 2009 Product Survey on GNSS, the requirements for participation were changed in 2010. More specifically, while previously we were only interested in complete instruments suitable for direct use in the field, this year's survey concerns only the antenna/receiver component.
The result is clear: no fewer than nineteen manufacturers presented 69 devices to be included in this survey. Sometimes complete systems, like Leica's Viva system, and sometimes just OEM boards, such as the DUO-G3D from JAVAD.
The number of separate receivers and OEM boards included shows there must be a market for them. It seems that more and more separate receivers are connected to computers onboard vehicles, vessels, agricultural and construction equipment. These receivers are also used in combination with your favourite handheld computer or data-logger. The OEM boards are not even connected to a computer, but placed inside a hardware configuration, using its power supply etc.
It seems to me the future will see all parts separate and users composing their own configuration. Compare it to a car: the user is not obliged to buy a particular brand of petrol, tyres, or even to use the brand garage.
For the printed version of this Product Survey I have, with one exception, selected one device from each participating manufacturer. Of course, the complete survey can be found at our website.
All data are kept in a database system so that changes and additions can be easily made and any comment on a system or suggestions for additional questions simply processed. This is also an appeal to manufacturers: if specifications change or if you are presenting a new instrument to the market, please send me the spec so that we can adapt our online Product Survey and keep it up to date.
Email: henk.key@geomares.nl
|
