The FirePRO LDR technology lets current and potential users of IEEE-1394 take advantage of 1000BASE-T (GigE) pulse amplitude modulation (PAM-5) signaling to achieve Gigabit transfers at distances up to 100 meters with CAT 5e, 6 or 7 cables at a fraction of the cost of optical fiber.

The technology was specifically designed to enable the seamless connection of a GigE physical layer (PHY) to one port of an IEEE-1394b PHY with minimal external circuitry. This enhancement enables S800 operation over inexpensive UTP cable on one 1394 PHY port while allowing non- FirePRO LDR connectivity on the other PHY ports. This technology may be integrated into hubs and repeaters or directly into devices. It has been integrated by Point Grey into a long distance repeater.

"FireWire has guaranteed isochronous bandwidth, which is ideal for machine vision applications requiring multiple cameras streaming with very low latency," said Michael Gibbons, Product Marketing Manager at Point Grey Research. "The FirePRO LDR technology removes the only real advantage - cable length - that GigE Vision cameras have over FireWire. We look forward to working with Quantum Parametrics to make the launch of this new technology a success."

"Providing a cost-effective and robust long haul solution is important as 1394 looks to compete in the industrial market place," said Richard Mourn, President of Quantum Parametrics. "Our goal is to make the FirePRO LDR technology widely available and we believe our agreement with Point Grey makes this possible."
QP plans to provide devices (QPLDR11) based on the FirePRO LDR technology to select customers this quarter, with a general release early in Q2. Devices will be offered in a 144-pin TQFP with plans to support a 132-ball csBGA later.

About Point Grey Research, Inc.

Point Grey Research, Inc. is a worldwide leader in the development of advanced digital camera technology products for machine vision, industrial imaging, and computer vision applications. Based in Richmond, BC, Canada, Point Grey designs, manufactures and distributes IEEE-1394 (FireWire) and USB 2.0 cameras that are known for their excellent quality, performance, and ease of use. A broad range of hardware, software and mechanical engineering skills has allowed Point Grey to successfully bring many innovative and ground-breaking products to market. This drive for innovation has led to many industry firsts, including the first and smallest 1394b digital camera.

Since its founding in January of 1997, the company's approach to product pricing, quality control, and customer service has attracted thousands of customers worldwide, and its organic growth through product sales has enabled the company to expand significantly without any outside investment. Point Grey currently employs more than 70 people worldwide, and has a wholly-owned German subsidiary that provides sales and support services to customers in Europe, Africa and Israel. The company has also established a strong network of distributors in Japan, Korea, China, Singapore, and Taiwan.

About Quantum Parametrics

Quantum Parametrics LLC (QP) is a leading provider of IEEE-1394 Technology, Test Tools and Services. Alternatively labeled as Firewire® or iLink®, the IEEE-1394 standard for high-speed serial communication is used in consumer, PC, industrial, military, aerospace and many other markets that require guaranteed bandwidth with deterministic latency. QP is dedicated to providing best in class technology, including VersaPHY™, and services to address the needs of our customers.

Quantum Parametrics
Richard Mourn
719-592-1394

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email: info@ptgrey.com
web: http://www.ptgrey.com