Conexant Provides Complete Imaging Solution With New Image Sensor, Reducing Size and Cost of Digital Still and Video Cameras.

Business Editors & High-Tech Writers

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 23, 2000

Conexant Is The First To Enable Full-Motion Video At Megapixel

Resolutions Using Low-Cost Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor 

(CMOS) Technology

Delivering on its promise to enable high-resolution still-image and full-motion video applications, Conexant Systems Inc. (Nasdaq: CNXT) Tuesday introduced the industry's first "front-end" CMOS megapixel image sensor.

Sensors with more than 1 million pixels allow users to create standard-size photographic prints that are indistinguishable from traditional negative film prints.

Building on the company's strategy to provide total system solutions, Conexant also Tuesday announced an agreement to acquire Sierra Imaging Inc., a leading provider of semiconductor and software digital image-processing solutions for digital still cameras.

The combination of Sierra's "back-end" digital image processors and image management software, together with Conexant's "front-end" CMOS image sensors, offers digital camera manufacturers the industry's first complete imaging solution for entry-level 1.3-megapixel digital still cameras and dual-mode PC cameras.

"Our new megapixel sensor, along with our turnkey camera reference platform, enables digital camera OEMs to quickly bring to market $150 megapixel digital still cameras that consume less power, offer higher integration and reduce system costs," said Prasan Pai, division director of marketing for CMOS products in Conexant's Personal Imaging Division.

Conexant's CX20450 image sensor uses the company's proven high- volume, mixed-signal CMOS process that increases sensor sensitivity and reduces noise over competing process technologies. The CX20450 is the first 1.3-megapixel sensor that supports 27 frames-per-second (fps) video operation -- compared with competitive products that only support video frame rates of 9 fps. The sensor uses a 5.6-micron pixel, which allows for the use of industry standard near half-inch optical format lenses.

"CMOS sensors are moving into photo resolution cameras, and Conexant is right at the forefront of this trend," said Alexis Gerard of The Future Image Report. "Companies that offer full-system solutions are well-positioned to take advantage of this explosive digital imaging market."

The CX20450 features an integrated 10-bit analog-to-digital converter, all timing circuitry and operates from a single 3.3-volt power source. The CX20450 also features progressive scan output, standard color filters and microlenses that are preferred for digital still cameras.

Conexant is a leading supplier of end-to-end image communications solutions including single-chip fax modems, facsimile machine engines, multifunction peripheral (MFP) system solutions, complete camera solutions and imaging software. The CX20450 is sampling now, and is available for $42.50 in OEM quantities of 1,000.

About Conexant Systems

With a revenue run-rate of approximately $2 billion per year, Conexant is the world's largest independent company focused exclusively on providing semiconductor solutions for communications electronics. With more than 30 years of experience in developing communications technology, the company draws upon its expertise in mixed-signal processing to deliver integrated systems and semiconductor products for a broad range of communications applications.

These products facilitate communications worldwide through wireline voice and data communications networks, cordless and cellular wireless telephony systems, personal imaging devices and equipment, and emerging cable and wireless broadband communications networks.

The company aligns its business into five product platforms: Network Access, Wireless Communications, Digital Infotainment, Personal Imaging and Personal Computing. Conexant is a member of the S&P 500 and Nasdaq-100 Indices. For more information, visit Conexant at www.conexant.com.

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