Press Release

OTTAWA, Canada - 21 May 2002 - Espial, creator of software that powers the world of smart Internet devices, announced today the validation of the Espial Suite for TV on the IBM PowerPC(tm)-based STB03xxx chipset. The Java-based software solution from Espial has been ported to IBM's STB03xxx Evaluation Kit, in combination with WindRiver's VxWorks(tm) real-time operating system and NSIcom's JVM. This solution reduces the development cycle and time-to-market for set-top box manufacturers to provide next-generation functionality for their customers.

Java is a critical requirement for all next-generation set-top boxes. The high performance level and low memory usage of Java makes is a 'must have' for all future successful designs.

"Set-top boxes are evolving into "pervasive computing" devices with capabilities very similar to that of a desktop PC," said John Sixsmith, Program Manager, Pervasive Computing, IBM Microelectronics. "Espial technology can help enable the evolution of the set-top box by adding increased computing capabilities that meet both DVB-MHP and OCAP standards. IBM's set-top box chips are well suited for cost-sensitive boxes and have the CPU performance to handle the new applications that will be deployed as these standards gain momentum in the marketplace."

Integrating Java technologies, JVM and operating systems to meet the needs of complex digital set-top-boxes can pose many development and design issues. By working with technology providers such as IBM Microelectronics, Espial provides a total solution for developers of next-generation devices requiring the functionality of Java.

"The new development platform with the Espial Java browser truly provides a complete package solving multiple issues for today's developers," said Dr. Neale Foster, director of marketing, TV at Espial. "The validation of the Espial solution on the IBM STB03xxx chipset further substantiates Java's role in the set-top-box and Internet appliance market. Espial's validation test suite has become the gold standard for measuring the performance of a platform from an end-user experience since every component is optimized for peak performance."

Espial worked closely with NSIcom to validate and optimize Java for NSIcom's Java Virtual Machine. NSIcom has attained success supplying products targeted and optimized for the Internet Appliance environment. Java enabled set-top boxes with the collaborative technology allow users to complete secure on-line baking, access audio and video on demand, and provides television programmers the ability to provide interactive content.

More information about the Espial platform validation program can be found at www.espial.com.

About Espial
Espial is the first to provide a comprehensive approach to the development of open software for the next generation Internet - The Pervasive Internet. Partners and customers such as Intel, Motorola, NEC, Philips, National Semiconductor and Sun are helping Espial to realize its Pervasive Internet vision, where billions of users access highly personalized information through a variety of smart Internet devices. Completely portable across any platform, Espial software allows customers to quickly create services, deliver devices and manage infrastructure. The technology applies universally, across such sectors as Internet Appliances, TV, wireless, and automotive. Visit www.espial.com.

Espial products are supported on leading device operating systems and Java virtual machines from companies such as Microsoft- WinCE, Linux - Redhat Symbian - EPOC32, Wind River- VxWorks and pSOS, QNX - QNX 4 and Neutrino, Microware- OS9, Be - BEOS, Sun Microsystems- Java platform, Tao Group -- intent™ and Insignia- Jeode.

About IBM Microelectronics
IBM Microelectronics is a key contributor to IBM's role as the world's premier information technology supplier. IBM Microelectronics develops, manufactures and markets state-of-the-art semiconductor and interconnect technologies, products and services. IBM makes chips for a wide range of devices from the world's most powerful computers to the smallest cell phones. Its superior integrated solutions can be found in many of the world's best-known electronic brands. More information about IBM Microelectronics can be found at: www.chips.ibm.com.

About NSIcom
NSIcom develops and markets products that optimize and facilitate the use of Java from Sun Microsystems in Embedded Systems. NSIcom provides Java Virtual Machines for most OS/CPU combinations. Its CrEme product is the Virtual Machine of choice for devices designed with Microsoft's Windows CE Operating System, such as handheld terminals,POSs, palmtop PCs and PDAs. CrEme belongs to a family of Java Virtual Machines based on the JSCP(TM) Software Co-Processor for Java technology.

For further information please contact:

Craig Olson
Media Relations, Espial
+1 515 224 7641
colson@espial.com