u-blox (SIX:UBXN), a leading global provider of positioning and wireless communication technologies and services, has announced the integration of its ZOE-M8B GNSS (global navigation satellite system) module into the new RICOH THETA X. Ricohs’ latest camera, the first of its kind, allows users to shoot high-quality 360-degree spherical images and videos in just one click and to visual them immediately on a large LCD touch panel.
The u-blox ZOE-M8B enables the RICOH THETA X’s built-in GPS, one of its key new features. The GPS (QZSS) and A-GPS automatically embed highly accurate location information to each image taken without the need for a smartphone or another external device. An icon on the LCD touch panel displays the availability of the GPS signals depending on the user’s location, ensuring that the location information has been reliably acquired before starting shooting. This new function makes the THETA X the most location accurate camera on the market, down to a 5m radius, and is therefore ideal for a wide range of industrial and consumer applications. It is for instance a must-have tool for construction and architecture professionals – who can digitize sites through 360-degree scenery imagery and capture any project phase – but also for the mapping industry, insurance providers, realtors, etc.
The u-blox ZOE-M8B module is a ultra-small (4.5 x 4.5 x 1.0 mm) SiP (System-in-Package) GNSS module offering highly accurate positioning with concurrent reception of up to 3 satellite constellations. The Super-E (Super-Efficient) mode guarantees power consumption as low as 12 mW, and built-in SAW and LNA make it ideal for passive antennas. The u-blox ZOE-M8B targets applications that require a small size without compromising performance.
“We chose to integrate the u-blox ZOE-M8B GNSS module into our THETA X because of the highly accurate location information it offers, alongside easy integration thanks to its small size, and low power consumption. In other words, the module offers what we needed in terms of a small antenna design whilst not compromising on highly accurate positioning performance – a function essential to our customers,” says Mr. Kenji Daigo, GPS Function Developer for THETA X at Ricoh.
About Ricoh
Ricoh is empowering digital workplaces using innovative technologies and services that enable individuals to work smarter from anywhere. With cultivated knowledge and organizational capabilities nurtured over its 85-year history, Ricoh is a leading provider of digital services, information management, and print and imaging solutions designed to support digital transformation and optimize business performance.
Headquartered in Tokyo, Ricoh Group has major operations throughout the world and its products and services now reach customers in approximately 200 countries and regions. In the financial year ended March 2022, Ricoh Group had worldwide sales of 1,758 billion yen (approx. 14.5 billion USD). For further information, please visit www.ricoh.com
About u-blox
u-blox (SIX:UBXN) is a global technology leader in positioning and wireless communication in automotive, industrial, and consumer markets. Their smart and reliable solutions, services and products let people, vehicles, and machines determine their precise position and communicate wirelessly over cellular and short range networks. With a broad portfolio of chips, modules, and secure data services and connectivity, u-blox is uniquely positioned to empower its customers to develop innovative and reliable solutions for the Internet of Things, quickly and cost-effectively. With headquarters in Thalwil, Switzerland, the company is globally present with offices in Europe, Asia, and the USA. (www.u-blox.com)