WESTFORD, MA -- August 22, 2001 -- GenRad, Inc. [NYSE: GEN], a global leader in electronics testing and manufacturing solutions, today announced two new modules for its GR Versa™ test platform that will reduce GenRad's automotive customers' development costs and time to market.

The two new modules---the Signal Conditioning Module [SCM] and Multi-Channel Amplifier [MCA]---enhance GenRad's capabilities in the automotive applications marketplace by enabling automotive manufacturers to take advantage of GenRadês PXI-based testing technologies, a rugged PC-based platform for instrumentation, which leverages the high-speed PCI Bus.

–These new modules offer the automotive manufacturing industry greater flexibility in a smaller footprint, help minimize the need for custom fixture electronics, shorten test development cycles, and decrease associated fixture development costs,” stated James Ficaro, vice president of GenRadês Functional Solutions group.

–Another tremendous benefit to our customers is our collection of GenRad software libraries, which come standard with the new modules. They allow for rapid deployment of GR Versa test systems to the manufacturing floor, and remove expenditures associated with test software development.”

–As automotive manufacturers continue to add very specialized Electronic Control Units (ECUês) to their products, the need for high performance test capability will expand as well. The SCM and MCA will help provide the required performance and functionality needed to test these complex products,” continued Ficaro. –We are expanding our GR Versa line of automotive test modules to meet the needs of this very dynamic marketplace.”

The Signal Conditioning Module (SCM) addresses the market need for a programmable high voltage measurement instrument, surpassing the capabilities of most PXI-based analog instruments on the market. It provides six independently programmable channels and accommodates inputs from 1.0 Volt to 500 Volts with the ability to capture multiple analog signals simultaneously.

Additional features of the SCM include overvoltage protection, 3MHz bandwidth and compatibility with digitizers from National Instruments, Analogic and other vendors.

The Multi-Channel Amplifier (MCA) provides the ability to amplify analog instrument output signals up to +/- 24 volts. Its 16 output channels can simultaneously generate multiple analog signals and makes it ideal for applications such as testing of antilock brake systems (ABS) and engine management units. Each channel features programmable amplification, bandwidth up to 1 MHz and inputs compatible with most CompactPCI™/PXI™ function generators and arbitrary waveform generators.

Both the SCM and MCA are delivered with National Instruments LabWindows/CVIÂ software drivers and libraries. This GUI-based software simplifies program development and accelerates the test program deployment for both modules.

GR Versa

The GR Versa platform features a 21 slot, 6U height, and PXI/CompactPCI backplane that provides the space needed for signal switching and instrumentation, all within one compact mainframe. Maximum flexibility is achieved with the GPX621 by accommodating CompactPCI, PXI, 3U, or 6U size modules. Software Options include GenRadês TestManager and National Instruments LabWindows/CVI™. GR Versa can address a variety of functional test applications including consumer, automotive, and communication electronics and is designed specifically for the manufacturing environment. GR Versa uses a standardized platform for global deployment. This modular approach to functional test supports chassis-only configurations to application specific, full turnkey solutions for automotive, communications, or PC products.

About GenRad, Inc.

GenRad Inc. [NYSE: GEN] a global leader in electronics testing and production solutions serving the worldês leading original equipment [OEM] and electronics manufacturing services [EMS] markets. GenRadês customers manufacture a wide range of advanced technology products ranging from computer, telecommunications and broadband networking devices to wireless products and enterprise hardware. With 37 offices in 22 countries, GenRad is comprised of four business units, each providing integrated hardware, software and service solutions

• Process Solutions develops products that enhance and optimize manufacturing processes. The unit's hardware products focus on in-circuit testing, x-ray imaging and rework solutions. Its software products address global supply chain collaboration and execution including Design-to-Build (D2B) software tools.
• Functional Solutions focuses on functional test platforms for manufacturers of telecommunications, computers and automotive electronics.
• Diagnostic Solutions Diagnostic Solutions focuses on service bay and manufacturing solutions for transportation OEMs and independent service providers.
• Support and Services Support and Services focuses on maintenance programs, on-site and remote support, and training to help customers optimize their hardware and software solutions

Founded in 1915, GenRad employs about 1,300 people with worldwide headquarters in Westford, MA, USA. Listed on the New York Stock Exchange since 1978, GenRadês Web address is www.GenRad.com.