Ashtech(R) Micro-Manager And Micro-Manager Pro Version 1.2.00 Provide Comprehensive Management For Networks Of Remote Ashtech Micro-Z GPS Receivers

SANTA CLARA, CA--(INTERNET WIRE)--May 15, 2002 -- Thales (tal-less) Navigation, a leading global provider of GPS solutions including the Magellan and Ashtech product lines, announced today it has released Ashtech Micro-Manager and Micro Manager Pro version 1.2.00. Micro-Manager is a new Windows software program to help administrators manage a network of remotely operating GPS reference stations. Designed to work specifically with the Ashtech Micro-Z CGRS (Continuous Geodetic Reference Station), Micro-Manager and Micro-Manager Pro enable users to quickly and efficiently control these remote receivers, as well as download and manipulate GPS data.

The Ashtech Micro-Z CGRS is a powerful permanent GPS reference station, designed for continuous collection of high quality data, and Micro-Manager software is a key support tool for this device. Micro-Manager enables users to inspect receiver health and status; configure receiver parameters; download data files; and upload firmware to the Ashtech Micro-Z CGRS. Micro-Manager version 1.2.00 is a free upgrade to all registered Ashtech Micro-Manager users and is available for download at ftp.ashtech.com/software.

Thales Navigation also offers Micro-Manager Pro, an enhanced version of the software that provides added support for modem connections to a remote GPS receiver. The Micro-Z CGRS and Micro-Manager support Z-Modem protocol, which improves the efficiency and robustness of remote operations especially over noisy phone lines. Micro-Manager Pro can be set up to manage and schedule remote broadcasting of RTK or DGPS corrections.

In addition to the benefits of Micro-Manager, the latest version of Micro-Manager Pro includes several new features designed to help users effectively collect and utilize GPS data:

- Database for site names so that the operator can configure the RINEX headers for each site independently. When data is downloaded, the program automatically creates a RINEX header based on the information stored for that site.

- Post download commands for the manipulation of downloaded data. This powerful programming tool enables users to collect files from a remote receiver and act on those files. For example, Micro-Manager users can move files; create custom directories; automatically archive files according to any set of parameters; send files by FTP to other remote locations; compress files; and even analyze files via a variety of programs.

- Stand-alone FTP program to further assist movement of data. This new version of Micro-Manager Pro will automatically create RINEX MET files if a meteorological sensor is connected to the Micro-Z CGRS, to assist GPS-aided weather analysis and prediction. It will also automatically use the 10-character RINEX 2.2 convention for naming files from sessions shorter than one hour, an important new benefit for data analysis from low earth orbit satellites used by governments worldwide for scientific research.

"Micro-Manager"s newest features are essential for the management of remote reference stations," said Thomas Hunter, senior vice president of worldwide sales and marketing, professional products, at Thales Navigation. "Without having to write any in-house programs, Micro-Manager users can customize directory structures, download and archive files to specified locations, and take advantage of a highly accessible and productive GPS data collection process. The City of Shanghai, China, currently uses Micro-Manager to administer its Multifunction Reference Network of Ashtech Micro-Z GPS reference stations. The Shanghai reference station network is an excellent example of the diverse range of applications enabled by Micro-Manager."

For product information and specifications, visit www.ashtech.com, write to Email Contact, or contact one of the following sales offices:

Corporate Headquarters, Santa Clara, U.S.A  +1 408 615 5100
    - Fax +1 408 615 5200
   In Washington, D.C.  +1 703 476 2212 - Fax +1 703 476 2214
   In South America  +56 2 234 56 43 - Fax +56 2 234 56 47
   European Sales Headquarters, France  +33 2 28 09 38 00
   - Fax +33 2 28 09 39 39
   In Germany  +49 81 6564 7930 - Fax +49 81 6564 7950
   In Russia  +7 095 956 5400 - Fax +7 095 956 5360
   In The Netherlands  +31 78 61 57 988 - Fax +31 78 61 52 027
   In The U.K.  +44 1993 8867 66 - Fax +44 1993 8867 67

About Thales Navigation

Thales Navigation is one of the world"s leading developers and manufacturers of positioning, navigation, communications and guidance equipment with global operations throughout the U.S. and Europe. Thales Navigation markets its Magellan brand GPS solutions in the consumer electronics, recreation, and automotive markets, and its Ashtech GPS and GNSS professional products in the survey, GIS/Mapping, and OEM markets. Through its joint venture with Hertz, Thales Navigation has developed the Hertz NeverLost® vehicle navigation system. Thales Navigation"s key innovations include the first U.S. commercial hand-held GPS receiver for positioning and navigation, and the first handheld GPS with industry standard Secure Digital Memory Card capabilities.

Thales Navigation, headquartered in Santa Clara, Calif., is a subsidiary of Thales, a leading professional electronics company headquartered in Paris, France, with activities in aerospace, defense and information technology and services. For more information, visit www.thalesnavigation.com.

Ashtech is a registered trademark of Thales Navigation.

ADU3, ADU2, ADU1, 3DF, DG16 and Ashtech Evaluate are trademarks of Thales Navigation.