Collaboration unveils world’s first tablet using centimeter-level RTK-GNSS technology

Panasonic Corporation has announced the launch of what is claimed to be the world’s first tablet using centimeter-level RTK-GNSS technology, in collaboration with U-blox. Toughpad, the newly born version of Panasonic’s professional grade notebooks family, is specifically designed for precision agriculture, machine control and robotic guidance applications in harsh environments and conditions. Embedded in the tablet is a u-blox NEO-M8 GNSS receiver module delivering high integrity and precision in demanding applications world-wide. First successfully tested for collecting snow in Hokkaido, the tablet uses Panasonic’s own satellite positioning technology combining a satellite radio receiver module, wireless WAN, and a single band RTK-GNSS receiver connected to an external antenna. This system enables high precision positioning down to centimeter-level in open sky conditions. "We needed a high quality, reliable and robust GNSS module for this tablet designed to be used in rugged environments. The NEO-M8 from U-blox was therefore the right choice, "explains, Mr. Tetsuya Sakamoto, general manager, Mobile Solutions Business Division, Development Center at Panasonic Corporation. "It was very exciting to collaborate with a market leader such as Panasonic in developing a product that would guarantee precise positioning for a wide range of professional applications. This implementation will support the global expansion of the high precision market where u-blox is a key player," explains Tesshu Naka, country manager at U-blox Japan.