WESTFORD, MA, -- April 23, 2001 -- GenRad Inc. [NYSE: GEN] a global leader in electronics testing and manufacturing solutions, today announced divestiture of its North American Test Technology Associates [TTA], an action the company said would allow it to better serve its customers while accelerating its growth.

–The divestiture of TTA is indicative of GenRadês new strategic direction,” said Robert M. Dutkowsky chairman, president and chief executive officer of GEN. –In this one action, we have further narrowed our focus, created a strong solutions partner in the independent TTA, and signaled the programming community that we are ready to partner for mutual benefit. We also demonstrated our commitment to develop business advantage through partnership, not just through acquisition.”

With TTA marketing its own consulting and programming services, GenRad effectively was in competition with other independent programming service vendors and thus the company was prevented from allying with them. Furthermore, ownership of TTA restricted GenRadês ability to leverage the vast array of programming houses that serve electronics manufacturers worldwide. Without ownership of TTA, GenRad now will be able to offer developers an opportunity to leverage GenRadês expertise and global footprint among electronics manufacturers, and will stimulate their ability to serve this important market.

The company sold its TTA unit to a private investor, who will keep the company focused on serving the test and measurement segment of the market. The purchase and sale agreement was concluded today. The contract is expected to close before the end of the week. The company did not release the terms of the transaction.

About GenRad

GenRad Inc. [NYSE: GEN] is a global leader of electronics manufacturing productivity solutions for contract and original equipment manufacturers [CMs and OEMs] 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.

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