October 29, 2003 08:05:00 (ET)
CUMMING, Ga., Oct 29, 2003 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- PlanetLink Communications Inc., (PLKC, Trade), a provider of satellite-based products and services announced today that considerable progress has been made toward the design and development of its PlanetTraks GPS product. The project is being spearheaded by San Antonio, Texas-based Karta Technologies Inc., an industry leader in IT, engineering, training and program management services.
PlanetLink engaged Karta in August this year to begin evaluation of potential open-architecture software solutions to perform the tracking functions of the system. Karta also evaluated the performance characteristics and availability of existing GSM/GPRS-compatible vehicle units against the feasibility of developing a proprietary tracking element. As a result of this evaluation, Karta recommended that PlanetLink utilize commercially available modules that integrate GPS/GPRS functionality with a customized, web-based software system designed to address the unique requirements of the consumer market. PlanetLink is also initiating the design of a customized vehicle- tracking unit for PlanetTraks.
PlanetLink plans to produce a family of GPS-enabled Mobile Locator Units (MLUs) under the PlanetTraks name, designed to communicate real-time location data and other information over the General Packet Radio System (GPRS) to a secure Internet server. Customers will then be able to access that information via a password-protected web site. PlanetLink is exploring applications for other consumer and commercial customers for tracking people, vehicles, and a variety of other assets.
Karta reported that it has established a project schedule and has initiated system design activities. The basic system architecture and third- party software packages have been identified to support customer service and billing, mapping and database utility functions. Karta has also ordered the initial MLUs from a third-party producer and is in discussion with that producer regarding the purchase of a database structure to facilitate the rapid design and development of the software system.
A prototype PlanetTraks unit is expected to be completed by late this year. Thereafter, integration testing of the PlanetTraks system with commercially available MLUs should allow for launch of PlanetTraks services by early 2004.
Satellite-enabled technology, including GPS technology, is at the core of some of the most innovative new products on the horizon. Using PlanetTraks, consumers will be able to log on to the Internet and immediately pinpoint the location of an automobile or person equipped with its device, such as a child, a hiker or an elderly person. PlanetTraks products will be leased on a monthly-service and usage-charge basis alleviating consumer concerns about technology changes and upgrades.
PlanetLink's PlanetTraks GPS-related products will include:
-- Kidtrak: A personal tracking system to help parents locate a child
within minutes
-- Parentrak: Designed to permit users to track the location of aging
adults/parents
-- Autotrak: Will enable parents and others to know the speed at which
their children are driving and the location of their vehicle. This
product can also be used to track the location of commercial fleet
vehicles used by transportation and delivery companies and a variety
of other businesses
-- Businesstrak: Designed as a security device for business executives
and others
-- Twowaytrak: This location device is designed to deliver a panic
signal, identify the location, and includes a 2-way audio signal that
can be remotely monitored
PlanetLink, headquartered in Cumming, Ga., has three primary business segments based on satellite-enabled technology. Providing the consumer both products and services, PlanetLink businesses include: DISH Network (satellite television), StarBand (High-Speed Internet Access) and Global Positioning System (GPS) personal tracking devices. PlanetLink's goal is to become a single-source dealer / distributor of technologically advanced, satellite- based products and services. With a strong and growing product offering and brand name, PlanetLink is building this unique category into a class all its own.
Safe Harbor Statement
The information contained in this press release includes forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements usually contain the words "estimate," "anticipate," "believe," "expect," or similar expressions that involve risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include the Company's status as a startup company with uncertain profitability, need for significant capital, uncertainty concerning market acceptance of its products, competition, limited service and manufacturing facilities, dependence on technological developments and protection of its intellectual property. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those discussed herein. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences are discussed more fully in the "Risk Factors," "Management's Discussion and Analysis" or "Plan of Operation" and other sections of the Company's Form 10-KSB and other publicly available information regarding the Company on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company will provide you with copies of this information upon request.
