Axis Communications and MediaPath announce strategic alliance combining industry-leading CD-ROM technologies.

WOBURN, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 13, 1997--

Combined solution sets new standard in seamless,

multiplatform CD-ROM networking

Axis Communications Inc. and MediaPath Technologies Inc. of Mount Laurel, N.J., today announced the formation of a strategic relationship to create a new model for networking and managing CD-ROMs.

The two companies are combining their CD networking technologies, which include Axis' robust StorPoint(TM) CD network CD-ROM servers and MediaPath's comprehensive CD-ROM access and management software, MediaAgent for CDs. The result is a powerful multi-platform CD-ROM connectivity and management solution.

MediaPath has developed a new version of its flagship software specifically for the Axis StorPoint CD server line. MediaAgent for Axis StorPoint CD is an open solution for managing CDs on networks, and a 5-user license will be bundled with every StorPoint CD starting in mid-January.

StorPoint CD provides plug-and-play connection of SCSI CD drives to networks, independently of a file server. Powered by 32-bit RISC technology and acting as its own native file server, users benefit from highest possible access speeds and ease of use in accessing CDs across any network.

"Axis and MediaPath are partnering to provide a seamless, standards-based solution to this growing need today, not tomorrow," said Axis President Les Yetton. "We've combined our technologies to create a seamless, open solution for networking, sharing and managing CD-ROMs regardless of platform or network operating system."

Distribution and joint-marketing activities

In addition to integrating technologies, both companies will conduct joint marketing efforts to end-users, potential resellers, OEMs and CD-ROM content providers. Axis will be utilizing Tech Data, Ingram Micro and GBC/Globelle to distribute the combined MediaAgent/StorPoint solution, as well as the stand-alone version of MediaAgent.

"The combined MediaAgent and StorPoint CD solution can be installed quickly, without any system down-time," said MediaPath President Dale Cline. "The combined solution will provide a cost-effective, complete solution that is both file server and network operating system (NOS) independent."

CD-ROM market opportunities

According to a May 1996 report from Frost and Sullivan, the CD-ROM networking products market will increase over two and a half times over the next three years to $850 million in the year 2000. MediaPath and Axis are utilizing this new relationship to strengthen their position in the market now, and are already developing a strategy to support DVD.

This agreement includes guidelines for the continued integration of their respective core competencies and additional co-development opportunities.

Company Backgrounds

Axis Communications Inc., develops and manufactures multi- protocol RISC-based network CD-ROM, camera and print servers, as well as printer connectivity solutions for IBM mainframes and AS/400 systems. Its products enables users to easily share peripherals on heterogeneous networks with state-of-the-art, cost-effective connectivity alternatives. Founded in 1984, Axis Communications headquarters is located in Lund, Sweden. Axis has 200 people employed, with revenues of $49 million (95/96) and has shown a yearly growth rate of 43% per year since the start. Axis was appointed "Computer Company of the Year" both 1994 and 1995, in its home country. For more information about Axis, visit the company's home page at http://www.axis.com or call 800/444-2947.

MediaPath develops, markets and sells productivity applications that provide managerial and administrative solutions for removable media. MediaPath is an affiliate of BRM Technologies, which produces software products that are licensed and marketed through third-parties. Notable examples include Untouchable and Fastback Plus which are licensed by Fifth Generation Systems and Norton Enterprise Backup licensed by Symantec. For more information about MediaPath, visit the company's home page at http:// www.mediapathtech.com or call 800/357-0697. -0-

MediaAgent for CDs and Intelligent Mapping are trademarks of MediaPath Technologies Inc. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation. All other company names or products are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

CONTACT: MediaPath Technologies Inc.

Christopher Burns, 609/222-0500

[e-mail]

or

Insync

Matthew Melendez or Chuck Humble

503/221-1063

[e-mail]

[e-mail]

or

ShapeTechnology (For Axis Communications)

Kim Rose, 408/733-2505

[e-mail]