Best Power introduces new Fortress UPS with advanced power management and protection for network computing.

NECEDAH, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 9, 1996--A new generation of the Best Power(TM) Fortress(R) family of uninterruptible power systems (UPS), designed for advanced power management and protection in network computing environments, is available for immediate delivery in 520VA (volt amphere) and 720VA models. New 1020VA and 1420VA models will be available in October 1996.

The new, enhanced models represent the next generation in the popular Fortress family, with the addition of important features that include PowerSteady(TM) voltage regulation, simple to use hot-swap battery capabilities, and true Windows 95 Plug and Play compatibility. This next generation Fortress UPS combines these and other significant enhancements with the already outstanding features that make the Fortress a category leader: no-break sinewave output; a comprehensive suite of free, bundled power management software; and a wide range of power ratings and footprints.

The Fortress UPS family has earned a reputation for high reliability in protecting network servers and internetworking connectivity equipment. A recent national, independent user-satisfaction survey showed Fortress scoring highest in reliability among major UPS brands. All users surveyed said they would buy Best Power products again.

"Given that networking applications are continually growing and becoming increasingly essential to computing, the need for a network-focused, comprehensive, cost-effective, and reliable power management tool is now greater than ever," says Gurcharn S. Dang, president of Best Power.

"The special features and enhanced functions of the new Fortress UPS, combined with the free, bundled power management software, make it easy for network managers to manage and control all power-related aspects of the network," emphasizes Dang.

The new Fortress models incorporate the following features to enhance user functionality:

-- Best Power's own PowerSteady(TM) voltage regulation feature permits ride-through of chronic sags and overvoltages, without using the battery, for increased computer uptime and UPS battery life;

-- Simple battery configuration allows for easy and safe end-user hot-swap replacement without powering down protected equipment;

-- Windows 95 Plug and Play compatibility enables simple installation;

-- Front-panel display provides a simple, easy to read, easy to understand digital readout of system and power environment status;

-- Internet protection from backdoor surges through telephone lines is available with the assistance of Best Power's SpikeFree(TM) data-line surge suppressors (sold separately);

-- Convenient access to embedded user-programmable UPS parameters (i.e., battery low-voltage transfer point, set low runtime warning, restart delay, etc.) allows users to configure their Fortress UPS through its software. This provides them with maximum flexibility for their own network power environments.

Every Fortress unit will continue to come bundled with Best Power's CheckUPS(R) II Suite power management software (including connectivity cable) at no additional cost, providing network administrators with all the tools needed to control their network's power environment. CheckUPS II Suite advanced power management software is compatible with NOVELL, UNIX, Windows NT, Windows 95, Windows 3.1, DOS and OS/2 operating systems.

"In the enterprise network marketplace, power management software is really considered part of the UPS," states Joe Granda, low-power UPS product manager for Best Power.

"System administrators use our power management software to make their jobs easier. It allows them to monitor and respond to a power event and to maintain control of the network when power problems strike. Furthermore, if they are not present when an extended blackout occurs, CheckUPS II will automatically initiate a graceful, unattended shutdown of the network -- a crucial step in preventing the loss of irreplaceable data," concludes Granda.

All Fortress units are also compatible with Best Power's SNMP adapters, enabling MIS managers to remotely manage and control distributed Fortress UPSs as well as the connected internetworking equipment.

The streamlined, compact black cabinet of the new Fortress models will fit conveniently on the floor or desktop.

List prices for the new Fortress models, which include Best Power's free, bundled CheckUPS II Suite power management software, are US$509 for the 520VA, US$549 for the 720VA, US$799 for the 1020VA, and US$999 for the 1420VA. Under Best Power's open sourcing commitment, Fortress can be purchased from distributors and resellers of Best Power products, as well as directly from Best Power.

Fortress is covered by Best Power's two-year limited warranty against factory or workmanship defects. In addition, for the U.S. and Canada, Best Power includes a limited "Double Lifetime" warranty that repairs or replaces a user's Fortress if damaged by lightning, and up to US$25,000 for damage to connected equipment.

The new Fortress units have been designed, manufactured and tested to meet the highest global quality standards. Best Power has earned ISO 9001 Quality System Certification, the highest level under published ISO 9000 international quality and management standards.

For more information call us at 1-800-356-5794; or access our fax-on-demand service at 1-800-487-6813, our e-mail at [e-mail], or our Internet site at http://www.bestpower.com.

Best Power is a leading manufacturer of uninterruptible power systems which protect computers, information networks, and other critical systems from power-line disturbances. Best Power is a unit of General Signal Corporation, a leading worldwide manufacturer of products for the process control, electrical control and industrial technology industries.

(Editors please note) Color transparencies and b&w prints are available for overnight delivery. Please call Denise Carpenter at 608-565-7200, Ext. 5146.

NOTE TO EDITORS: The E-mail addresses in this release should

include the "at" symbol after "info" and

"larry.bobrowski", respectively. This symbol

may not appear properly in some systems.

CONTACT: Best Power, Necedah

Larry Bobrowski, 608/565-7200 ext. 5632

Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]