Shares digital

The shares of Sarantel (SLG:AIM) shot up a massive 40% to 8.8p after Global Positioning System (GPS) product manufacturer Garmin selected the group’s GeoHelix GPS Antennas for the recently launched Colorado range of handheld GPS receivers.

The antennas benefit from being compact yet extremely accurate and have been designed to meet the varied and increasing demand for GPS technology.

The Colorado range of GPS products is packed with innovative features, and users are expected to find the smaller size of the receivers makes them easier to use and more practical.

The range incorporates a ‘Rock ‘N’ Roller’ input device that enables one-handed operation, shaded-relief and satellite imagery mapping and a colour three-inch screen with high resolution, 15 hours’ operating time and a built-in compass and temperature sensor. It is also possible to exchange routes and tracks wirelessly between two units.

‘The challenge for GPS receiver manufacturers has been to develop a product that works effectively and accurately, but matching these performance requirements with an aesthetically pleasing, ever-shrinking package is becoming increasingly difficult,’ says chief executive, David Wither. ‘Advances in antenna technology now mean that, for the first time, consumers can benefit from high performance in a small hand-held package, such as Garmin’s innovative new Colorado Series,’ he adds.

The shares of Sarantel have performed terribly since its flotation in March 2005, following several profit warnings. The group is undergoing a cost-cutting programme but has yet to move into the black, and sales remain depressed.

Shares says: Securing some solid design wins, but remains high-risk. AVOID FOR NOW