A history of growth and innovation
TDS was established by two technology veterans from Hewlett-Packard: Steve Chou and Dr. Bernie Musch. Chou left HP in 1983 to begin his own company developing software for the HP 41C calculator. Musch joined Chou in 1985. In 1987, they formed Tripod Data Systems in Corvallis, Oregon, to develop surveying software for the HP 41. They set the goal to become the leading independent supplier of surveying data collectors and field computers (electronic field notebooks) for the surveying market.

Thanks to a lot of hard work and reliable, easy-to-use software, TDS achieved its founders' goals. During the 1990s, TDS continued to innovate with new surveying software designed to work with the latest hardware developments, including laptops, palmtops and a variety of ever-smaller computers.

Dave Scribner became the new president of TDS following the death of co-founder Musch in 1992. Under Scribner's leadership, TDS continued developing survey software, including its Survey Pro suite. Since 1995, Survey Pro has been the #1 choice of surveyors, according to the annual "Surveying and Mapping Industry Study" conducted by BNP Media/Clear Seas Research. Today, more surveyors use Survey Pro software than all other competitors' software combined.

Recognizing the need for a mobile computer that could stand up to harsh surveying environments, TDS decided to develop its own rugged handheld-one that incorporated all the features and capabilities surveyors need to collect data in the field. Introduced in 2000, the Ranger was the first Windows CE-compatible computer to meet military specifications for drops, vibration and extreme temperatures. In 2003 TDS followed the Ranger with the equally rugged Recon, a 17-ounce handheld running Windows Mobile 2003 software for Pocket PCs. Combined, the Ranger and Recon have proven themselves tough, reliable and powerful, with tens of thousands of users worldwide. In 2007, TDS released the Nomad with Windows Mobile 6, integrated wireless and full VGA display.

TDS became a wholly owned subsidiary of Trimble (NASDAQ:TRMB) in 2000. That same year, TDS was recognized as one of the fastest-growing high-tech companies in Oregon.

TDS continues to expand its product line, developing integrated hardware and software for field professionals. In 2003, TDS became the U.S. distributor for Nikon survey products, including a full range of total stations, auto levels, theodolites and accessories. Upon Dave Scribner's retirement at the end of 2003, Bill Martin was named TDS president.

Today, TDS is taking its experience in the surveying industry to a number of new markets that need rugged mobile computing capabilities: military, public safety, forestry, utilities and anyone else who works in outdoor or other rugged environments.

With a nationwide dealer network and a growing international presence, TDS has come a long way in a short time. But TDS remains true to its founders' vision. That's why for powerful, easy-to-use hardware and software for mobile applications, TDS is the way to go.