[August 3, 1999]

GN Netcom Introduces Wireless Telephone Headset System Operating On 2.4 GHz Frequency

GN Netcom, Inc. introduced the Ellipse 2.4, a wireless telephone headset system operating on 2.4 GHz frequency. The Ellipse 2.4, with its unique set of features and elegant desktop design, was developed to meet the needs of call center, general business, SOHO, and individual users who want remote telephone operation with superior sound quality, unrivaled call security, longer battery life, and a substantial call range from their base of operation.

The Ellipse 2.4 is the only wireless headset on the market to use DSS (digital spread spectrum) encrypted signaling with frequency hopping for the ultimate in conversation privacy and 2.4 GHz frequency, providing less interference than a 900 MHz unit. An innovative hookswitch device can be easily installed on the telephone to raise and lower the handset for remote answering and hang up. Ellipse is compatible with all types of business telephones, has a range of 200 feet from the base, a coverage area of 125,000 square feet, and a long-life battery which offers 12 hours of continuous on- line use, 80 hours of continuous off-line, and recharges in only 3 hours. An additional battery is also available for 24 hours of continuous on-line use. The Ellipse, available for immediate shipment in the US and Canada, has a manufacturer's list price of $450; the hookswitch accessory device lists for $100.

"Our commitment to remaining first in hands-free telecommunication technology and quality worldwide is clearly evidenced with the introduction of this breakthrough product. Ellipse 2.4 represents our fourth generation of wireless headsets affording us the experience to develop the highest performance product of its kind with the features most important to our customers," said P. Michael Fairweather, president and CEO of GN Netcom, Inc. "Of special note is the first truly user-friendly hookswitch device that enables users to actually answer their phones from a remote location, have a conversation, and then hang up the telephone all from the remote location -- giving customers true remote headset capability.

"The Ellipse is an important part of GN Netcom's ongoing initiative to leverage our technology and quality leadership attributes that have made GN Netcom the first choice in the professional call center markets," continued Fairweather. "As customers in new, non-traditional markets look for quality hands-free product solutions, GN Netcom will be well positioned to meet and exceed their expectations."

"The Ellipse is the premier wireless headset for business, professional call centers, SOHO, and individuals and will benefit from the current explosion in the telephone headset market," said Greg Miller, product marketing manager for GN Netcom, Inc. "Performance is by far the best -- offering customers conversations that are secure, a battery life that allows all day long operation, remote telephone operation so no calls go unanswered, and a greater range for increased freedom of movement."

The Ellipse can be purchased as a complete system with GN Netcom's number one selling convertible headset -- the Profile(TM) Flex SureFit. It is also compatible with all GN Netcom brand headsets equipped with the GN Netcom quick disconnect (QD), including the recently introduced Orator-G, Stratus Ultra-G, and Contour LX-G headsets.

DSS (Digital Spread Spectrum) was originally developed for secure military applications and is being integrated as the wireless technology of choice for most premiere wireless telephony applications. DSS continually changes frequencies making eavesdropping virtually impossible. Because DSS spreads a phone signal over many frequencies looking for the clearest channel, sound quality and clarity is similar to that of a corded headset. The Ellipse uses frequency hopping as its spreading method, which gives higher resistance to interference and multipath effects, and allows for 79 user channels.

The remote hookswitch device (available as an accessory) is a mechanical device that quickly mounts under the handset and allows you to answer calls and hang up, without returning to the telephone. When the telephone rings, an audible tone is sent to the headset. The user pushes a button that lifts up the handset thereby answering the call from the remote location. When the call is finished, the user pushes the button again to lower the handset to end the call and free the line for more incoming calls.

Battery life for the Ellipse provides 12 hours of continuous use on-line, giving users the ability to work all day without the need of recharging. Another first for wireless headsets -- the Ellipse base has two battery ports for simultaneous charging of a second optional battery, providing full 24/7 operation. The battery lasts for 80 hours when off-line, and recharge time is a fast 3 hours.

The Ellipse wireless headset includes the base unit, an ultra-light (3.3 oz) remote unit, with a belt clip, pocket clip, and lanyard for wearing the remote unit.

Applications
Call Centers & Customer Relationship Management
For call center supervisors, the range and remote hookswitch capability of Ellipse will allow them to train and coach agents, handle customer problems, and troubleshoot sales problems on the floor while never missing one of their own calls -- resulting in better customer service, greater employee morale, and higher productivity. Technical support staff can gather information from other staff, fax a Q&A sheet, or find a file while still talking with customers.

Business
The ability to be mobile and hands-free to access information and have conversations remain confidential is essential in the business world. Ellipse's range of 200 feet, ability to handle up to 50 systems per coverage area, and its secure, clear conversation, and remote hookswitch capabilities can increase user productivity with hands-free operation and mobility for warehouse operations, facilities management, hospitals, stockbrokers, and professionals like doctors and lawyers.

Small Office/Home Office
Mobility and hands-free operation become even more important when staff is limited. Other work can be completed while talking with customers and clients, and information can be shared easily among the key office staff. Home office users can work in any room and not miss important client calls.

Consumers
Ellipse is cutting edge technology for those individuals who want to be the first to take advantage of telecommunications advances, such as 2.4 GHz operation and DSS transmission. Its sleek, high tech design and exceptional capabilities make it a great technology tool.

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