``The addition of GPS location technology from Trimble transforms the Auto PC into an even richer and more valuable design for automotive electronic manufacturers,'' said Harel Kodesh, General Manager, Consumer Appliance Group at Microsoft Corp. ``Support from companies such as Trimble will help add to the success of the Windows CE platform, allowing consumers to communicate in new ways while driving in their automobiles.''

``The benefits of linking driver information systems with the world's most commonly used operating system are tremendous,'' said David Hall, Vice President and General Manager of Trimble's Software & Component Technologies Group. ``The Auto PC allows drivers the ability to transition seamlessly from home or office computing to the mobile computing environment. Microsoft is paving the way for more developers to pursue a deeper integration of functionality in their future driver information systems.''

Microsoft's Auto PC

The Auto PC is the latest member of Microsoft's PC Companion line of products powered by the Microsoft Windows CE operating system. By extending the power of Windows to the automobile, it brings the benefits of connectivity, communication and entertainment to the mobile environment. With worldwide support from auto manufacturers, aftermarket electronics firms and independent software and hardware vendors, the car stereo-sized device can be easily installed in the dashboard of most automobiles and integrates navigation and communications applications designed to assist drivers, as well as an AM/FM radio and CD player.

Based on a version of Windows CE 2.0 optimized for the specific requirements of the automotive market, Auto PC responds to verbal commands and uses speech synthesis to communicate pertinent information back to the passengers, allowing drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

Trimble and In-Car Navigation

Trimble's relationship with Microsoft is the latest in a series placing the company at the center of the fastest-growing sector of the GPS industry. According to the U.S. GPS Industry Council, car navigation will grow from $310 million in 1995 to $3 billion by 2000. The Council estimates that the GPS industry as a whole will grow to over $8 billion by the year 2000.

By industry estimates, Trimble has approximately 30% of the worldwide market for GPS engines at the heart of car navigation systems. Trimble

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