The testing phase, expected to last 2 to 4 weeks, is designed to allow the developers to fine tune the software using live, real-time data in real-world situations. Karta has had two PlanetTRAKS units in operation for the past 60 days as part of the development process.

"We are moving rapidly toward a market-ready product. This development process has taken us from concept to an operating product in just a few months thanks to our simple design and innovative technology," said M. Dewey Bain, president of PlanetLink Communications Inc. "We continue to focus on our objective of a commercial launch of PlanetTRAKS early this year."

A graphic illustration of the user interface may be viewed here. "In the next week or so we expect to be able to demonstrate the Web interface with a live interactive Web site that will track the movement of one of the users in our test group using actual maps and live data," said Bain.

PlanetLink is developing a family of GPS-enabled Mobile Locator Units (MLUs) under the PlanetTRAKS name, designed to communicate real-time location data and other information over the General Packet Radio System (GPRS) to a secure Internet server. Customers may then access that information via a password-protected web site in order to track vehicles and other assets. San Antonio, Texas-based Karta Technologies Inc., an industry leader in IT, engineering, training and program management services is leading the R&D effort.

PlanetLink, headquartered in Cumming, Ga., has three primary business segments based on satellite-enabled technology. Providing the consumer both products and services, PlanetLink businesses include: DISH Network (satellite television), StarBand (High-Speed Internet Access) and Global Positioning System (GPS) personal tracking devices.

PlanetLink's goal is to become a single-source dealer / distributor of technologically advanced, satellite- based products and services. With a strong and growing product offering and brand name, PlanetLink is building this unique category into a class all its own.

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