WESTFORD, MA -- January 30, 2001 -- GenRad, Inc. (NYSE: GEN), a leading producer of advanced performance-assurance products for electronics manufacturers, today announced that Cisco Systems, Inc., the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet, has chosen GenRad's GENEVA® functional test platform for their global DSL hardware testing.

GenRad will test the key hardware in Cisco's DSL product line, including DSL line cards and all DSL modems that are so critical to the rapid expansion of the Internet. Many of Cisco's DSL platforms are included in the GenRad deployment, including ADSL, VDSL, and G.SHDSL products. Cisco's network of global electronics manufacturers have installed 24 GENEVA systems to date. In 2001, Cisco is expected to implement an additional 15 systems worldwide.

"GenRad's GENEVA test systems give us the assurance that we are delivering superior quality products to our customers," stated Greg Jordan, Director of Test and Operations for Cisco. "Advanced capability and flexibility were key factors in our test strategy. With GENEVA, we have been able to quickly deploy a comprehensive, standardized test platform around the globe. We are most pleased with the contribution GenRad continues to make to our worldwide manufacturing efforts, and for the high level of service they have provided to us."

Cisco Systems is at the forefront of the explosive growth in the DSL market. The worldwide market is expected to reach $2.9B in 2000, $4.3B in 2001. As the recognized technology leader in networking, Cisco is consistently bringing innovations to market that are helping to drive the new economy.

"We are extremely pleased that Cisco has chosen GenRad's GENEVA platform to test their DSL products," stated Jim Ficaro, Vice President of GenRad's Functional Solutions business unit. "Cisco's selection of our GENEVA systems is a testament to the quality and value-add capabilities that we deliver with our leading-edge solutions."

GenRad's comprehensive performance-assurance technologies have earned them worldwide recognition as a leading force in testing solutions for electronics manufacturers in the telecommunications, information technology, and automotive industries.

About Cisco Systems

Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO) is the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet. News and information are available at www.cisco.com.

About GenRad

GenRad Inc. [NYSE: GEN] is a global leader of electronics manufacturing productivity solutions for contract and original equipment manufacturers [OEM] of handheld and wireless devices, PCs and business servers, DSL and other broadband switching and routing technologies, and other devices integral to emerging Internet e-commerce markets. GenRad also applies its technologies to development of diagnostic solutions for the automotive and general transportation industry.

GenRad is comprised of four lines of business bringing to market integrated hardware, software and service solutions that empower always-on services and un-interruptable business applications:

• Process Solutions focuses on in-circuit test, x-ray test, and re-work solutions as well as plant and line management solutions for electronic product manufacturers.
• Functional Solutions focuses on functional test platforms for manufacturers of telecommunications, computers and automotive electronics.
• Diagnostic Solutions focuses on service bay and manufacturing solutions for transportation OEMs and independent service providers.
• Support and Services focuses on maintenance programs, on-site and remote support, programming services, and training to help customers optimize their hardware and software solutions.

Founded in 1915, GenRad employs approximately 1,400 people and maintains its worldwide headquarters in Westford, MA, USA. The company's Web address is http://www.genrad.com.