Compaq Announces InSite-Inside for Semiconductor TAP and Electronics Manufacturing.

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 1, 1999--

Compaq Offers Camstar's InSite Manufacturing Execution Software 

Pre-Integrated with BusinessBus Middleware and SQL Server Database

Compaq Computer Corporation (NYSE:CPQ) extends its leadership position for the semiconductor test, assembly, packaging (TAP), and electronic manufacturing markets by announcing new open-architecture, hardware/software application packages for semiconductor TAP and electronics plant floor management and connectivity. The new systems are based on Camstar's Windows NT-based InSite(tm) manufacturing execution system (MES) software, using Compaq's BusinessBus applications integration framework and Microsoft's SQL Server database.

The new product offerings are part of Compaq's NonStop(tm) solutions strategy for continuous, real-time computing. They provide semiconductor TAP and electronics manufacturers with a complete solution for managing their plant floor operations with the additional precision, real-time control, and enterprise-wide integration and inter-application communication required to support the emerging e-commerce manufacturing models.

MES software for the new solutions is provided by Camstar's InSite application. InSite tracks and manages product flow through the many stages of complex, cost- and time-critical manufacturing operations. Camstar's scalable and extensible MES offers complete work-in-process tracking, configurable process modeling, and real time parametric and process data to support increased product yields and continuous process improvement.

Compaq Services BusinessBus Application Integration capabilities provides the foundation for flexible and rapid integration of InSite with other business processes and applications, such as ERP and APS. The result is rapid creation and deployment of the software infrastructure required to integrate actual plant operations into the dynamics of real-time e-business supply chain and customer relationship management.

The new systems are offered in three pre-tested, multi-processor ProLiant configurations, scaled for use in entry-level, midrange, and large-scale manufacturing environments. The packages are benchmarked and certified by Compaq for plants requiring real-time support up to 1,200,000 transactions per day. Each factory-integrated and tested system is shipped in space-saving, high-density, industry-standard cabinet configurations, and can be further customized by Compaq to precisely match the load requirements of individual factory environments.

"A primary goal of our NonStop(tm) solutions strategy is to offer reliable, pre-tested packages that combine best of breed industry applications with the hardware, operating system, and middleware that can accommodate the rigorous highly available demands of the new e-business models," said Rich Powers, Compaq's Vice President of Manufacturing Solutions. "Camstar's approach in developing a native Windows NT-based implementation of the idealized MES model makes InSite(tm) a good choice for those semiconductor TAP and electronics manufacturers who want the advantages of the Windows NT environment."

InSite has "some of the most comprehensive multi-industry functionality and configurability ever implemented in a plant systems product," according to AMR's evaluation of the product.

The new system packages will be supported by Camstar's support division and Compaq Professional Services, a global organization within Compaq with focus on NonStop(tm) solutions operations. Using advanced tools and methodologies to deliver a full portfolio of lifecycle services, Compaq Professional Services offers planning, solution design, proof-of-concept pilot, project management, implementation, and rollout across the enterprise as well as on-going support and business critical services to ensure that customers' entire IT infrastructures are operating at maximum availability.

"We're pleased to have been selected by Compaq as part of its NonStop(tm) solution for MES in the semiconductor TAP and electronics markets," said Dave Cone, Camstar's President. "Compaq's reputation for quality, service, and reliability, combined with the exciting new NonStop(tm) solutions we've developed with them, and Compaq's worldwide integration and support capabilities enable our MES technology to be quickly and effectively delivered to semiconductor and electronics manufacturers around the world."

Company Background

Compaq Computer Corporation, a Fortune Global 100 company, is the second largest computer company in the world and the largest global supplier of computer systems. Compaq develops and markets hardware, software, solutions, and services, including industry-leading enterprise computing solutions, fault-tolerant business-critical solutions, enterprise and network storage solutions, commercial desktop and portable products and consumer PCs. The company is an industry leader in environmentally friendly programs and business practices. Compaq products are sold and supported in more than 100 countries through a network of authorized Compaq marketing partners. Customer support and information about Compaq and its products are available at http://www.compaq.com.

Compaq, Registered U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Product names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies.