SATLOC Evaluation

Colin SchindlerInformation SystemsMarch 16, 2009

Context Description

The SATLOC system was designed specifically for aerial applicators but is also capable for use with land applicators. Aerial application refers to agricultural enhancing aviation such as crop dusting utilizing helicopters or airplanes. This presentation will focus mainly on the aerial aspect of the product.

Software Functionality

The main function of the SATLOC system is to provide GPS guidance which is outputted in real-time to a touch screen map display for easy manipulation and control.

Increases spray precision and displays what has and has not been sprayed.

SATLOC provides more control of the boom allowing the pilot to turn on and off sections of the boom.

And last SATLOC stores all the data for review and record keeping.

Specifications

Air M3 computer Moving map graphic display AirStar or AirTrac advanced guidance

system Lightbar Crescent based receiver Antenna Mapstar planning and analysis

software

SATLOC Flowchart

Value Chain Placement

SATLOC fits into the support category of the value chain.

SATLOC deals with the quality of the infrastructure making the main tools more functional and effective.

Affects of SATLOC

Performance of the spray vehicle Backup and storage of data for later

use Provides statistical information that

aids in pricing

Competition

Highly competitive market Main competitors include: Omnistar,

Racal, and Ag-Nav. SATLOC was the original after

extensive research and development and although there are many competitors offering a slightly different product SATLOC has my vote.

Costs

In total the SATLOC system with all the necessary components runs around $25,000.

The package comes with an installation guide providing everything necessary for the pilot to install and configure the system for immediate use.

Expert Opinions

SATLOC’s creators, Hemisphere, have an extensive array of influential persons and groups that are in admiration of the impressive work they have done to create the SATLOC system.

“Hemisphere is a leader in the design and development of GPS and Differential GPS technology. Its products have been repeatedly lauded for innovation.“

Final Decision

I highly recommend the SATLOC system for use in all aerial application use, personal or commercial.

The performance gap between users with and without the system is immense and to not implement such a system would be foolish.

References

TMCNews. (June 8, 2005). CSI's Hemisphere GPS supplying DGPS technology to MX Marine's Trinity Solution. Retreived on March 5th, 2009 from http://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/2005/Jun/1152701.htm.