SkyGolf GPS SG2
by SkyHawke Technologies

The Company

In 1996 SkyHawke Technologies saw a gap in the market for a positioning system for recreational use that could benefit from the rapid advances in wireless technology, the Internet, GPS and hand held devices. The product needed to have both consumer and international appeal. The result was the SkyGolf SG2 digital golf caddie - a world first: the simplest way to measure distance on a golf course.

Mississippi-based engineering company SkyHawke had previously been involved with developing GPS systems in golf carts. CEO Richard Edmonson saw that the market was becoming saturated and the company needed to move in a different direction. A personal technology product for golfers had strong potential if they could get it to work.

How it Works

Using a powerful microprocessor, GPS and satellite-based accuracy enhancement technology, the SG2 automatically calculates, as you move, distances to up to 40 targets per hole simultaneously in less than a second. This allows the golfer to make rapid club selections, as the SG2 provides a virtual reference point wherever he or she hits the ball.

SkyHawke CEO Richard Edmonson explains:

"Distance is the alpha and omega of every golf shot. Since most players don't have human caddies to advise them, we felt that GPS technology was the only route to providing the sort of instant information on distances that a pro enjoys.

Smaller than a cell phone, the SG2 has little impact on the serene image of even the most conservative courses. It's a golf milestone in the same mold as the advent of the feathery ball, and metal shafts replacing hickory."

The Contact Point and the Choice

SkyHawke needed to find a GPS antenna that worked to the very high standards of accuracy demanded by golfers, and one that could reliably receive signals from satellites when held close to the body. This last factor was critical since players would need to calculate and read shot distances at frequent intervals during rounds.

Many antennas do not function when in close proximity to the user because of radio frequency interference. Research led SkyHawke to Sarantel's unique GeoHelix antenna, which was then incorporated into the design of the SG2.

Customer Praise

Richard Edmonson, SkyHawke CEO, said:

"We evaluated numerous antennas for attributes that met minimum requirements for our digital caddie design. Sarantel's antenna was outstanding in being able to deliver a rare class of options. The GeoHelix met size specifications, so vital in a hand-held device, and worked well when used in close proximity to the body - under trees, in bunkers and the rough, and on hilly terrain. Sarantel has been a vital contributor to our success."

Markets

USA, Canada, Western Europe, South Africa, Asia, Australia.
Golf courses in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland are currently being added.

Where to Buy

http://www.skygolfgps.com