SkyBitz Expands its Footprint with new Iridium-Based Global Solution

18 January 2012

SkyBitz announced the availability of its first solution that works everywhere on the planet through the world’s furthest reaching communications network, Iridium. SkyBitz and Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq: IRDM) jointly developed the SkyBitz GLS9602 modem. It is based on SkyBitz patented Global Locating System (GLS) technology in combination with Iridium’s 9602 short burst data (SBD) transceiver. This custom SBD modem is designed for integration into complete wireless solutions, providing the critical data communications necessary for asset tracking in remote locations, and creating numerous application possibilities for developers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

The low power consumption, small size, global coverage and low-cost make the SkyBitz GLS9602 modem ideal for easy integration into Machine-to-Machine (M2M) solutions. The modem offers low latency service with a small antenna. Authorized SkyBitz partners can create high value solutions in numerous vertical markets using the combination of Iridium’s global connectivity and SkyBitz ultra power-efficient GLS technology. The resulting solution is ideal for monitoring and updating the status of all types of assets.

“The release of the SkyBitz GLS9602 modem is another important milestone in making SkyBitz's global set of solutions easily available to third party developers in the M2M space,” said Dana Johnson, SkyBitz Senior Director of Engineering. “We are committed to developing and delivering cutting-edge technologies that help our customers connect their mobile assets to deliver critical enterprise information and help improve their operations.”

SkyBitz's patented GLS technology provides all the benefits of GPS based tracking systems without the need for high-power consumption from on-board location calculations. Instead, the SkyBitz Service Operation Center calculates the position centrally using the information sent by the SkyBitz GLS9602 modem. Off-board position calculation is considerably faster and dramatically reduces power consumption and the cost and inconvenience associated with frequent battery replacement.

“SkyBitz contributes a unique technology platform and a differentiated solution set to asset tracking customers who have critical requirements for low power consumption, mobility, accuracy, speed and size,” said David Wigglesworth, Iridium’s Vice President of Data Services. “As a thought leader within the Iridium partner ecosystem, we are excited to see the innovations they are bringing to the market based on the combination of Iridium’s global network and SkyBitz GLS technology.”