New Construction Training Simulator Allows Operators to Master Trimble Grade Control without Using Valuable Machine Time and Fuel

MUNICH, April 15, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Trimble (NASDAQ:TRMB) today introduced a new construction grade control simulator for accelerated and cost-effective training of dozer operators. The simulator enables SITECH^® Technology Dealers to deliver Trimble^® GCS900 Grade Control System training in a safe and realistic environment that resembles a dozer cab —without using valuable machine time and fuel on the construction site.

The announcement was made today at bauma 2013, the 30^th international fair for construction machinery, building material machines, mining machines, construction vehicles and construction equipment.

The Trimble Grade Control simulator features fully interactive joysticks, a motion platform, decelerator (gas pedal) and Trimble CB460 Control Box. Dozer operators of all experience levels can now become grade control-certified with the support and instruction from Trimble's worldwide network of knowledgeable SITECH technology dealers. SITECH trainers use specialized grade control training modules to prepare operators for project deployment using Trimble Grade Control to its full potential. Contractors also benefit from having highly skilled operators that can get to grade faster with less re-work.

Developed in conjunction with John Deere Construction & Forestry Co., the Trimble Grade Control simulator helps operators learn to read 3D design models and interact with the CB460 Control Box just as they would in the John Deere dozer machine cab on a real job site. Through realistic virtual site graphics, users can experience jobsite hazards, safety situations, and precision control of the dozer blade leveraging the powerful and market-leading Trimble GradeMax™ technology. The training software evaluates operator performance and provides feedback to strengthen the learning process.

Grade Control Training Simulators will be available for SITECH Technology Dealerships in the second quarter of 2013. Training will be available at participating dealerships early in the third quarter of 2013. A portable version of the simulator with notebook computer, joysticks and control box will be available from participating SITECH Technology Dealerships for training at offsite locations. 

About Trimble's Heavy Civil Construction Division

Trimble's Heavy Civil Construction Division is a leading innovator of productivity solutions for the heavy civil construction contractor. Trimble's solutions leverage a variety of technologies, including Global Positioning System (GPS), construction lasers, total stations, wireless data communications, the Internet, and application software. As part of the Trimble Connected Site® strategy, these solutions provide a high-level of process and workflow integration from the design phase through to the finished project—delivering significant improvements in productivity throughout the construction lifecycle.

About Trimble

Trimble applies technology to make field and mobile workers in businesses and government significantly more productive. Solutions are focused on applications requiring position or location—including surveying, construction, agriculture, fleet and asset management, public safety and mapping. In addition to utilizing positioning technologies, such as GPS, lasers and optics, Trimble solutions may include software content specific to the needs of the user. Wireless technologies are utilized to deliver the solution to the user and to ensure a tight coupling of the field and the back office. Founded in 1978, Trimble is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif.

For more information, visit: www.trimble.com.

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SOURCE Trimble