Toronto, December 5, 2006 – Optech Incorporated announces even greater improvements to their revolutionary ALTM Gemini: it now operates at a blazing 167 kHz laser pulse repetition frequency!

Optech is the first airborne lidar manufacturer to develop, build and deliver commercial lidar systems with Multipulse technology. With up to 167 kHz laser PRF, Optech’s ALTM Gemini pushes the technology to the next level in customer-driven requirements.

ALTM Gemini retains all the performance characteristics of the ALTM 3100EA but offers a 62% increase in data coverage and effective collection rate over every other commercial lidar system in the world. With the 167 kHz enhancement, the ALTM Gemini clearly demonstrates superior performance at virtually all altitudes, and reinforces Optech’s leadership position in the global lidar marketplace, both in product innovation and scientific development.

To complement this ground-breaking advance in technology, Optech is also introducing DASHMap processing software, the next generation in lidar data processing solutions with a vastly accelerated data acquisition-to-processing ratio. DASHMap supports the ALTM Gemini’s new laser speeds and enables ALTM Gemini owners to maximize both flight operations and post-processing.

“We’re delighted to bring these revolutionary products to market as they’re a direct result of listening to our clients’ feedback. These new products provide clients with real-world, cutting edge technology that will improve their bottom line,” says Brent Gelhar, Director of Optech’s Terrestrial Survey Division. “Optech has always been the leader in commercial lidar technologies. That leadership comes from over 30 years of applied lidar technology and cutting edge innovation. It's this depth of experience that has led to yet another breakthrough in state-of-the-art airborne lidar technology. The ALTM Gemini offers what no other system can: the ability to acquire data at unprecedented speeds. And now, with the addition of DASHMap processing software, our customers can process that data faster than they had ever thought possible.”

Optech’s line of ALTM products continues to set the global standard for airborne laser terrain mapping with innovations such as ALTM Gemini at 167 kHz, Multipulse technology, the Waveform Digitizer, and best-of-class camera integration. All this—combined with the most advanced flight planning, flight operation, data QA/QC and post-processing software suite available—makes the choice in airborne lidar systems perfectly clear: ALTM Gemini is the safest and most cost-effective airborne lidar investment to be made.

About Optech
Optech is the world leader in the development, manufacture and support of advanced laser-based survey instruments. The company offers client-driven solutions in airborne terrestrial mapping, airborne laser bathymetry, 3D laser imaging, space-based atmospheric monitors, spaceborne landing/docking systems, mine cavity monitoring systems, and industrial process control equipment.