M/A-COM Technology Solutions Introduces Integrated Global Positioning Systems (GPS) Module for Ford Sync System Platform
Innovative Receiver Module Offers Breakthrough Performance and Reduced Footprint for Mobile, Industrial, Handheld and Automotive Applications.
CES 2009 – LAS VEGAS – January 8, 2009 – Today at CES 2009 M/A-COM Technology Solutions, Inc., a leading provider of innovative microwave and RF design solutions and products, introduced a new, breakthrough integrated global positioning system (GPS) module, which is an integral part of the award-winning SYNC™. Using industry-leading voice-recognition software, M/A-COM's integrated GPS technology and a Bluetooth mobile phone, SYNC now with Traffic, Directions and Information provides simple hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions, and up-to-date information such as business listings, news, sports and weather.
“The delivery of our new services for SYNC is certainly very exciting and our partnership with M/A-COM Technology Solutions is a key component of that strategy," said Doug VanDagens, Director Ford Connected Services. "Location and time based information fully integrated into a single modular package and connected onto the vehicle network is perfectly aligned with our mission to create plug-n-play compatibility with a diverse assortment of SYNC services and applications.”
M/A-COM Technology Solutions’ new GPS receiver provides an “all-in-one” GPS package solution including: a GPS antenna, GPS receiver, microprocessor, memory, CANbus transceiver, connector and associated software. Due to the GPS Module’s breakthrough antenna efficiency and receiver sensitivity it can be installed almost anywhere on the vehicle, including hidden mounting locations resulting in major design and system efficiencies.
“This new receiver module is a breakthrough solution for our development and product planning team. As a Ford partner we are very pleased to contribute to the next level of value and technology on this very important project,” said Joe Thomas, President, M/A-COM Technology Solutions. “With our organic technology background in semiconductors, antennas and wireless automotive solutions we had the unique capability to work directly with Ford to deliver a singular, integrated product that could manage the transmission of location, heading and time information to the entire vehicle.”
Ford SYNC is an advanced software platform that provides consumers the convenience and flexibility to bring digital media players and Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones into their vehicles and operate the devices via voice commands or with the steering wheel's redundant radio controls.