Avnet Enters North American Distribution Agreement With Raychem Circuit Protection.

Business Editors & High-Tech Writers

MENLO PARK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 30, 2001

Tyco Electronics Corp. announced today that Avnet will be an authorized distributor for the PolySwitch(R), Power Switch, and SiBar(R) circuit protection components from its Raychem Circuit Protection division in North and South America.

As of May 15, 2001, Avnet will distribute Raychem Circuit Protection's full line of PolySwitch resettable fuses designed for computers, consumer electronics, automobiles, telecommunications equipment, batteries and other electronic equipment. Also to be offered are SiBar thyristor surge protectors for overvoltage protection in telecommunications applications as well as the Raychem Power Switches. The addition of Phoenix, Ariz. based Avnet supports Raychem Circuit Protection's strategic initiative to align its distribution network with its customer base.

"We're excited to have Avnet on board for Raychem Circuit Protection products. The company is a strong addition to our channel line-up and is well positioned to serve our existing and potential customer base," said Carla Mahrt, worldwide channel manager for the Raychem Circuit Protection division of Tyco Electronics.

"Avnet Electronics Marketing is pleased to add Raychem Circuit Protection to our product offering. Their leadership position in circuit protection, especially within the telecom industry, improves Avnet's ability to meet the varied needs of our customers across multiple market segments. The Raychem Circuit Protection addition also enhances our strategic partnership with Tyco Electronics, making Avnet an even more effective provider of product and service solutions," said Pat Wastal vice-president/director -- Passive PBU for Avnet Electronic Marketing.

Raychem Circuit Protection is headquartered in Menlo Park, Calif., and is part of the Tyco Electronics unit of Tyco International Ltd. (NYSE:TYC; LSE:TYI: BSX:TYC). Raychem Circuit Protection has manufacturing facilities in California (USA), Mexico, China and Japan. Sales offices are worldwide. For further information or technical assistance, call 800/227-7040, or visit the company on the Internet at: www.circuitprotection.com.