(Norcross, Ga., 14 August 2006) Leica Geosystems today announced that it is adding optional PIN codes to its TPS400 and TPS800 total stations, in a move to counter the growing rate of equipment theft from jobsites.

All new TPS400 and TPS800 instruments will be shipped with a PIN Unlocking Key (PUK), which can then be changed by the customer to a secret 6-8 digit PIN. Leica Geosystems dealers can modify existing instruments by loading the firmware to support the PIN code option.

PIN codes have been available on the Leica System 1200 total stations and GPS instruments since 2005, and the new firmware for the TPS400 and TPS800 units will make all Leica total stations and GPS instruments PIN-code capable.

"We are alarmed by the increasing problem of equipment theft, and we are determined to do something to deter larceny and protect survey crews who may be at risk on the job," said Carl Singleton, product marketing manager for Leica Geosystems.

"Since 2004, we have documented 143 survey instrument thefts in Florida with an estimated loss value of over $2 million," said Terry McKay, president of FLT Geosystems, Leica Geosystems' dealer in Florida.

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