3M Simplifies Utility Mapping and Locating with GPS/GIS

Business Wire, March 22, 2005

AUSTIN, Texas -- The Dynatel cable/pipe/fault locators 1420, 2250M-iD and 2273M-iD from 3M now are compatible with select GPS/GIS field mapping instruments for real-time mapping of underground facilities. This integrated solution from Dynatel simplifies the mapping process and allows a generalist field technician to perform real-time mapping with submeter accuracy.

"The combination of Dynatel locators and GPS/GIS instruments creates an easy-to-use system for real-time mapping of marker placement and saving of field information directly into CAD and GIS systems," says Dave Soenen, 3M test and measurement business director. "It makes positive locates in the field easier than ever."

These locators, combined with 3M electronic marking system (EMS) markers, provide a total solution for mapping critical buried assets using GPS/GIS and a simple process for identifying them. 3M EMS-iD markers contain a memory technology that can be programmed in the field to document attributes of each point of buried facility. EMS-iD markers have a unique serial number and additionally can store facility-specific information, such as description of facility, owner, material type, size, date and additional information correlating the marker to facility records.

The mapping interface with selected GPS/GIS devices provides a tool for both new adopters and long-time users of EMS systems to positively identify and efficiently document buried facilities.

Dynatel markers are compatible with selected GPS/GIS devices from major manufacturers, including the Thales MobileMapper.

3M ID marking technology enhances management of underground facilities for telecommunications as well as gas, water, sewer, CATV and electric power utilities. For more information on the Dynatel locators 1420, 2250M-iD, and 2273M-iD, visit www.3M.com/dynatel or call 800-426-8688.

3M Communications

The Dynatel family of products from 3M includes rugged and reliable locating and marking products and diagnostic test equipment. The familiar Dynatel yellow is recognized worldwide as a symbol of product quality and ease of use. 3M provides global support of its products. The company also focuses on technologies and services in telecom access and enterprise networks, as well as optical fiber components for telecommunications OEMs.

About 3M - A Global, Diversified Technology Company

Every day, 3M people find new ways to make amazing things happen. Wherever they are, whatever they do, the company's customers know they can rely on 3M to help make their lives better. 3M's brands include Scotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate, Scotch-Brite, Filtrete, Command and Vikuiti. Serving customers in more than 200 countries around the world, the company's 67,000 people use their expertise, technologies and global strength to lead in major markets including consumer and office; display and graphics; electronics and telecommunications; safety, security and protection services; health care; industrial and transportation. For more information, including the latest product and technology news, visit www.3M.com.

3M, Dynatel, Scotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate, Scotch-Brite, Filtrete, Command and Vikuiti are trademarks of 3M.

MobileMapper is a trademark of Thales.