Epson Develops Ultra-Sensitive, Ultra-Compact GPS Module for Mobile Handsets

- TOKYO, Japan, December 18, 2006 -

Seiko Epson Corporation ("Epson") has developed an ultra-sensitive, ultra-compact global positioning system (GPS) module to meet high demand from manufacturers of mobile phones and other handsets with GPS functionality. Volume shipment of the S4E19863 series has already begun. This product has been used for some time in all GPS-capable models of FOMA903i series1 phones released by NTT DoCoMo, Inc., contributing to the company’s services using GPS.

The S4E19863 series was developed using Epson’s advanced original technology and know-how relating to GPS baseband processors and A-GPS software. Featuring a remarkably broad detection range capable of identifying both strong outdoor signals and weak indoor signals, the new module far outstrips the levels of sensitivity found in conventional GPS technology. The module also supports the three 3GPP-compliant positioning modes (MS-Based, MS-Assisted and Autonomous), for world-class GPS positioning performance2 in any application and under any network environment. Moreover, thanks to clever use of space-saving technology the S4E19863 series is the world’s smallest GPS module2 (7 mm x 6 mm x 1.28 mm), making it ideal for applications with limited component space, such as mobile phones.

Epson will continue to proactively develop new positioning technologies and contribute to further growth in the positioning information services market by supplying its advanced original technologies to the mobile phone industry and other device manufacturers.

Customer feedback
"Using its cutting-edge technology and extensive experience with ultra-sensitive GPS solutions, Epson helped us to achieve outstanding positioning performance in a compact package for our FOMA903i series phones. I have high hopes for Epson’s future technology development in the field of GPS solutions"
Kiyohito Nagata, Vice President and Managing Director, Product Department, NTT DoCoMo, Inc.

"For the F903i, combining Fujitsu’s existing technology and experience in GPS-capable handsets with Epson’s cutting-edge technology enabled us to achieve advanced positioning functionality. I look forward to seeing even higher levels of sensitivity and performance from Epson’s positioning technology in the future"
Takushi Mikami, General Manager, Mobile Phones Division, Mobile Phones Unit, Fujitsu Limited

"The GPS industry is expected to grow through friendly competition among the players, and I look forward to further technology developments from Epson"
Masao Miyazaki, Vice President & Division Deputy General Manager, Personal Communication Systems Division I, Communication Systems Group, Sharp Corporation

Notes
1. FOMA is a registered trademark of NTT DoCoMo, Inc.
2. According to data available to Epson

About Epson
Epson is a global leader in imaging products including printers, 3LCD projectors and small- and medium-sized LCDs. With an innovative and creative culture, Epson is dedicated to exceeding the vision and expectations of customers worldwide with products known for their superior quality, functionality, compactness and energy efficiency.
Epson is a network of 102,025 employees in 120 companies around the world, and is proud of its ongoing contributions to the global environment and to the communities in which it is located. Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corp., the Group had consolidated sales of 1549.5 billion yen in fiscal 2005.