The Second Generation of Chapman GPS Satellite Security

• Emergency services dispatched by C3 emergency-trained operators supplying caller’s medical information
• Roadside assistance or directions with location specific information
• Concierge mobile yellow page services (50 million addresses, including directions routing and navigation services)
• Trimode, digital, with continuous Internet connectivity
• Voice recognition dialing, joystick control, Internet browser and text messaging
• Chapman enhanced CE911 with improved response and emergency conference calling – directly connects all parties to the closest 911 emergency authority, providing directions and medical information

GPS (global positioning system) technology is becoming increasingly attractive to consumers outside its traditional market. Indispensable for military operations or commercial fishing enterprises, GPS uses a collection of satellites to pinpoint a user's location on the globe. But folks other than sailors and generals now have their eyes on GPS.

Chapman Technologies is hoping to cash in on the growing interest in high-tech gadgets through a deal it inked with Ericsson. The company is developing GPS features for an add-on to Ericsson's new T60c mobile phone.

Chapman president Laurence Sack told Wireless NewsFactor that the complete system -- the phone and the GPS add-on -- will sell for about US$299. Sack said monthly service is expected to cost about $9.95. Both the phone and the GPS accessory are slated for release before year-end.

GPS for Regular Folks

Chapman is embedding GPS technology into a detachable Smartback device that syncs with Ericsson handsets. Called the "Chapman Safeguard Companion GPS Enhancer," the device will be exclusive to the T60c Ericsson mobile phone operating on CDMA (code division multiple access) 2000 1X networks. Already, Chapman has created technology to transfer voice and location-specific data using an analog system. Now, the challenge is to make it work in the digital CDMA environment. Under the terms of the new agreement, Chapman said it will design, develop and manufacture the device for the Ericsson phone.

Different Sales System

One interesting part of this deal is that the sales relationship is reversed. Often, the handset maker buys accessories from the third-party company and sells the complete package through its own channels. Not so in this case.
Chapman said it will purchase and market Ericsson T60c handsets with the GPS module throughout the United States, Canada and Latin America. The company plans to pitch the system to the personal security, 911 emergency and telematics markets.

Also, Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications plans to purchase Chapman's GPS Enhancers and market the accessory through its existing handset distribution channels.

Chapman said its Command Center will provide all subscribers to the GPS service with 911-trained emergency monitoring, roadside assistance and location-based concierge services. "Any devices that Ericsson sells through their channels will be monitored by our service," Sack said.

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