NetSilicon Lowers Cost-of-Entry for 32-bit Networking with New NS7520 NET+ARM-R- Processor

WALTHAM, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 18, 2002--NetSilicon, Inc., a leading provider of network-attached processors and software for connected devices, announced the first in a new series of small form factor 32-bit NET+ARM® processors: the NS7520. NetSilicon's NS7520, and NET+Works(TM) development tools, offers electronic products OEMs a low-cost option for network-enabling their products with a 33-55MHz 177 pin BGA processor for under $10. The NS7520 is available immediately for sampling, with volume shipment scheduled for January 2003 from $7.95 in 10,000 unit quantities. NetSilicon is a Digi International company (NASDAQ:DGII). NetSilicon will demo NS7520 at ESC Boston November 18-21, 2002 at the Hynes Convention Center, Booth #621.

"NetSilicon is driving down the cost of network-enabling electronic products to costs comparable to 16-bit processors, but with the advantages of 32-bit performance and programmability," said Bruce Berger, general manager, NetSilicon. "NET+Works, our royalty-free development and run-time environment, enables designers to easily bring IP networking to their products. When used as the core processor in electronic products, the incremental cost of network enablement is less than $5 for the PHY, RJ45 connector, and passives."

"According to our research, the Pervasive Internet - the network of intelligent devices - is one of the fastest-growing segments in embedded electronics, with more than 100 million intelligent devices shipped by 2006," said Ian Barkin, a Senior Research Analyst at Harbor Research. "NetSilicon's highly integrated product offerings and flexible development environment are at the leading edge of the drive toward network connectivity, which is why NetSilicon is a clear leader in this burgeoning market."

The NS7520 provides the means for electronics OEMs to quickly and cost-effectively tap into the market identified by Harbor Research. More than 500 OEMs have selected NetSilicon's NET+ARM processors for products like industrial automation systems, building and access controls, office appliances, point-of-sale systems, industrial printers, medical devices, consumer electronics, and other products with intelligent networking capability.

"We have two products targeted at the NS7520," said Klaus Flesch, CTO, FS Forth-Systeme. "One is a development platform supported by both NetSilicon's NET+Works and our own Linux development tools. Our second is a 48 pin, 600 mil dual in-line supercomponent targeted at the needs of our customers in the medical and industrial automation markets."

The UNC20 sealed module integrates the NET+ARM processor, serial eeprom, RAM, Flash, and a PHY, targeting applications requiring value-added features and where board space is at a premium. FS Forth-Systeme plans production for Q1 2003.

NET+Works for the NS7520, available in January 2003, includes a full suite of development tools and networking software. Developers have a choice of NET+Works with Green Hills Multi-2000 support or MicroCross GNU tools, starting at $1500. Fully supported and royalty free, NET+Works affords design engineers a "solution-on-chip" approach that reduces development time, while simplifying the use of high-performance networking applications.

About NetSilicon

NetSilicon, a Digi International® company, is a leading provider of network-attached processors and device connectivity software. NetSilicon integrates the high performance NET+ARM® 32-bit microprocessor with NetSilicon's NET+Works advanced networking software, including development tools, real-time operating system and connectivity software to accelerate customer development of intelligent, networked devices. This platform approach saves development time and reduces risks associated with discrete component integration.

About Digi International

Digi International, the leader in Connectware, makes device networking easy by manufacturing products and technologies that are cost-effective and easy to use. Digi markets its products through a global network of distributors and resellers, systems integrators and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

For NetSilicon information, visit www.netsilicon.com, or call 800-243-2333 (US) or 781 647 1234 (international). For Digi information, visit www.digi.com, or call 800-344-4273 (U.S.) or 952-912-3444 (international).

NetSilicon and NET+OS are trademarks of NetSilicon, Inc. ARM is a registered trademark of ARM Ltd. NET+ARM is a registered trademark of ARM Ltd. and is exclusively sublicensed to NetSilicon. Digi, Digi International and Connectware are trademarks or registered trademarks of Digi International Inc. in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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     Mike Spinney, 617/926-6665
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     Digi International
     Jan McBride, 952/912-3473
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