Bel's New 10/100Base-T Transformers for Industrial Networks Comply With IEEE 802.3u.

Business Editors/Technology Writers

JERSEY CITY, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 22, 2000

Just released from Bel Fuse Inc. (Nasdaq:BELFA)(Nasdaq:BELFB), a premier developer of transformers for high-speed transmission and networking, is a two-member (S558-5999-T5 and S558-5999-U5) family of surface mount magnetic transformer modules conforming to IEEE 802.3u standards and boasting an extended temperature range of -40 degrees to +85 degrees C.

The new components are designed to interface with all major IC manufacturers' transceivers meeting industrial Ethernet temperature specifications, including Level One's LXT971 and AMD's NetPHYTM-1LP physical layer (PHY) and PCnet-Fast(TM)+ controller devices.

While both Bel components facilitate Fast Ethernet transmission over UTP-5 cabling, the S558-5999-U5 affords maximum EMI noise suppression as it features an added auto transformer to support termination of the unused twisted pair.

Designed for central office (CO) equipment and customer premise equipment (CPE), these modules are widely specified for use in adapter card and multiport applications in environments where extreme temperatures often jeopardize reliability of communication networks.

Further, these single-port SMT devices meet all IEEE 802.3u and ANSI X 3.263 standards, including 350 uH OCL with 8mA bias, and provide an isolation voltage of 1500 Vrms.

These new transformers' low profile, small footprint and 16-pin packages withstand 225 degrees C IR reflow soldering and are compatible with standard pick-and-place machines.

Prices for Bel's S558-5999-T5 and S558-5999-U5 extended temperature transformers are $2 each in quantities of 10K; delivery is from stock to six weeks. They may be ordered in tubes or tape and reel packaging.

An industry leader in the design, engineering and manufacturing of magnetics, fuses, delay lines and thick film hybrids, Bel produces quality electronic components for the global market. Bel's products are widely specified for use in telecommunication and data communication (LAN/WAN) networks, computer and power supply applications, audio/visual equipment, consumer electronics and home appliances worldwide.

Testifying to Bel's commitment to quality, all components are manufactured in ISO 9000 certified facilities in Hong Kong, Macau and China.

Except for historical information contained in this news release, the matters discussed are (including information regarding the S558-5999-T5 and S558-5999-U5 magnetic transformer modules) forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are the following: the effect of business and economic conditions; the impact of competitive products and pricing; capacity and supply constraints or difficulties; product development, commercializing or technological difficulties; the regulatory and trade environment; and the risk factors reported from time to time in the company's Securities and Exchange Commission reports.