Atmel Announces a New Secure Memory Solution for Embedded Applications; Boasting the Industry's Only Family of Secure Memory Devices with Data Encryption

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 22, 2003--Atmel(R) Corporation (Nasdaq:ATML) today announced that its CryptoMemory(R) product line is now available in plastic packages. These integrated circuits are the industry's only low cost, high security memory chips with data encryption utilizing synchronous protocols for embedded applications. The CryptoMemory family of products, available from 1K bit to 256K bits, fills an industry need for affordable, secure devices for customers who require traditional plastic packages. CryptoMemory's secure nonvolatile EEPROM provides the customer with data security through an authentication protocol, data encryption and tamper protection circuits. A common 2-wire serial interface is used for fast data rate exchanges. This innovative technology, which previously was available in physical forms suitable for only the smart card market, opens up new opportunities for customers who need embedded security at an affordable price.

The CryptoMemory family can be used to secure an endless array of embedded applications, including authenticating individual users who need access to sensitive information and securing data on printed circuit boards, networking systems, PDAs and other electronic equipment. The ability to authenticate OEM subassemblies within a system, including removable storage devices, automotive piece parts, and replaceable components such as printer cartridges, is now an affordable option.

"We are pleased with the technology advancements we have made in our secure portfolio over the last few months. We are well positioned to provide leading edge solutions to the security and embedded markets," said Kerry Maletsky, Business Unit Director for Atmel Corporation. "This new technology secures Atmel's position as the only semiconductor manufacturer to provide an affordable, secure solution for embedded applications."

High volume pricing of these new products in package form will range from $.30 to $.85 depending on memory density.

About Atmel

Founded in 1984, Atmel Corporation is headquartered in San Jose, California, with manufacturing facilities in North America and Europe. Atmel designs, manufactures and markets worldwide, advanced logic, mixed-signal, nonvolatile memory and RF semiconductors. Atmel is also a leading provider of system-level integration semiconductor solutions using CMOS, BiCMOS, SiGe, and high-voltage BCDMOS process technologies.

Atmel, the Atmel logo and CryptoMemory are registered trademarks of Atmel Corporation. Other terms and product names may be the trademarks of others.

Information

Atmel's product information may be retrieved at: http://www.atmel.com/products/SecureMem/

CONTACT: Atmel
             Vicki McCann, 719/540-1724
             (Marketing Communications Manager, USA)
             vmccann@cso.atmel.com
             Veronique Sablereau, +33 1 30 60 70 68
             (Corporate Communications Manager, Europe)
             veronique.sablerear@atmel.com