Accelerated Technology's Expanded Support for ColdFire Extends Device Capabilities for Converging Technologies Markets.

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

MOBILE, Ala.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 25, 2002

Accelerated Technology, the Embedded Systems Division of Mentor Graphics Corporation (Nasdaq:MENT), today announced a new version of the Nucleus(TM) Real-Time Operating System (RTOS) for developers using the Motorola ColdFire(R) MCF5249 processor.

This Nucleus release meets the emerging need for high capacity and flexibility in the converging home and computer technologies markets by providing a comprehensive software product family to enhance the capabilities of those embedded applications.

The MCF5249 processor is the newest addition to Accelerated Technology's extensive ColdFire portfolio. The robustness and scalability of Nucleus software provides a customized and solid foundation from which ColdFire developers can build applications ranging from digital audio to security to industrial controls. By implementing Nucleus, ColdFire developers can extend the capabilities of their embedded applications by taking advantage of a wide range of Nucleus add-on products including prototyping software, a networking suite, graphics package, file management system and web-enabling software.

The MCF5249 is the first of Motorola's series of integrated ColdFire processors designed for audio electronics that is targeted for availability to other markets like industrial control and imaging. The 32-bit ColdFire microprocessor features an Enhanced Multiply Accumulate (EMAC) unit that provides optimum performance and code density for the combination of control code and signal processing required for audio applications such as MP3 decode, file management, and system control. When combined with the Nucleus RTOS, the ColdFire processor provides developers with a robust platform in which to design their embedded applications.

"The MCF5249 provides a high level of performance and integration with low power consumption and at a cost level that enables high volume processing applications," said Dr. Kevin Klein, standard products marketing manager, Motorola 32-bit Embedded Controller Division. "We appreciate the support of software developers like Accelerated Technology who make it easy for our customers to take full advantage of the features and capabilities of this device."

"Nucleus has always been popular in consumer electronic products due to technical merit as well as the business model. The RTOS offers the functionality necessary for these applications and the small code footprint fits nicely within the limited system resources. Additionally, the royalty-free model of the Nucleus product line is critical for the high volumes typically associated with consumer devices," said Robert Day, director of marketing, Mentor Graphics Embedded Systems Division. "Supporting the new ColdFire 5249 processor is another example of our prolonged relationship with Motorola and our active role in the consumer electronics market."

Pricing and Availability

Available now, licenses for Nucleus start at U.S. $12,495. This initial release is supported by the CodeWarrior tool set from Metrowerks.

About Mentor Graphics

Mentor Graphics Corporation (Nasdaq:MENT) is a world leader in electronic hardware and software design solutions, providing products, consulting services and award-winning support for the world's most successful electronics and semiconductor companies. Established in 1981, the company reported revenues over the last 12 months of about $600 million and employs approximately 3,700 people worldwide. Corporate headquarters are located at 8005 S.W. Boeckman Road, Wilsonville, Oregon 97070-7777; Silicon Valley headquarters are located at 1001 Ridder Park Drive, San Jose, California 95131-2314. World Wide Web site: http://www.mentor.com/.

Accelerated Technology, the Embedded Systems Division of Mentor Graphics Corporation, is located in Mobile, Alabama with sales offices and distributors worldwide. By providing embedded systems developers with a focus on service, well-documented source code and industry-leading non-royalty-based Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) software, AT's RTOS software shortens time-to-market and provides a complete solution for engineers. For more information, please visit www.acceleratedtechnology.com or email us at [e-mail].

Mentor Graphics and Accelerated Technology are registered trademarks and Nucleus is a trademark of Mentor Graphics Corporation. All other company or product names are the registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective owners.