A Look to National Scientific's StarPilot

By
iApplianceWeb
(06/21/02, 12:14:00 PM EDT)

National Scientific StarSeries creates a product line of intelligent wireless mobile communication platforms. The StarPilot, location information server is designed to seamlessly connect automobile drivers and passengers with the Internet and location-based technologies.

An embedded computer designed to be installed in the trunk of a vehicle is similar to NSC's existing location devices. The StarPilot provides vehicle location information using cellular data networks to users anywhere in the world via the Internet thus providing enhancements to personal safety as well as recovery support in the event of vehicle theft.

Unlike existing wireless location devices the StarPilot is based on a fully configured low cost Linux embedded computer and communications server. This open source design allows StarPilot's architecture to be extended by third parties.

Extentions can include a broad spectrum of possible applications such as car-based Internet email and browsing on a full sized display, visual and voice directions based on a vehicle's current location, and back-seat computer gaming. The system can also provide real-time database connections to MLS listings for realtors and concierge-type services to locate nearby restaurants and attraction.

Additional modules are planned to support enhanced features such as real time engine and vehicle diagnostics where performance data can be read directly from an engine's management system and transmitted wirelessly anywhere in the world.

StarSeries devices make use of industry standards such as GPS, GSM, CDMA, Bluetooth, 802.11b, PC-104, and Linux, as well NSC's own ADT design methods to keep costs low and performance high, and allow for rapid product innovation.

Introductory pricing for the base line of StarPilot devices, which will include a trunk-mounted GPS/GSM unit and one year's worth of base SMS location service. Pricing is expected to be under $500 per unit, for a limited time begining this summer.