PR Newswire
Jan 25, 2006 11:01 ET

Optelecom-NKF Unveils Keystone C-40 MPEG-4 Video Codec

GERMANTOWN, Md., Jan. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Optelecom-NKF, Inc. (NASDAQ:OPTC) , a leading global provider of advanced IP video network solutions for security, surveillance, and remote monitoring applications, today unveiled its new MPEG-4 video codec, the C-40.

The C-40 features low bandwidth, DVD-quality video, a wide ambient operating temperature range and superior reliability, making Optelecom-NKF's advanced MPEG-4 codec well-suited for use across wide ranging traffic & transportation, industrial environments, and safety & security applications.

Based on a unique architecture, the C-40 encoder and decoder combine DSP (digital signal processing) and FPGA (field-programmable gate array) technology. This combination optimizes the interaction between software and hardware, resulting in the best possible performance over a wide operating temperature range.

"This codec is a keystone technology that facilitates the migration from traditional CCTV systems to comprehensive IP network-based video solutions," commented Edmund Ludwig, Optelecom-NKF's president and CEO. "The C-40's versatile encoders and decoders combine multi-stream MPEG-4 video with two-way stereo audio, serial data -- RS232, RS422, RS485 -- and two-way contact closures, allowing users to send mutiple defined video streams that are optimized for viewing, recording, or for video content analysis."

Optelecom-NKF's new MPEG-4 codec is supported with the Company's MX(TM) Software Suite and Operator Office(TM) to ensure interoperabilty. Audio, data and contact closures are compatible with all C-series codecs. Configuration and control are accessible through a password protected web interface and the MX(TM) Configuration Tool Kit.

About Optelecom-NKF, Inc.

Optelecom-NKF, Inc., is a global supplier of network video equipment, including video servers, Ethernet switches, fiber optic systems and video management software. We deliver complete solutions for traffic management and security in airports, seaports, public transport, public space, industry parks and buildings.

Founded in 1972, its R&D centers have accumulated extensive knowledge of fiber optic and IP/Ethernet network technologies. Optelecom-NKF supplies top- quality equipment and is committed to providing its customers with expert technical advice and support. All products are developed and tested for LAN and WAN applications.

Optelecom-NKF has offices in the US, the Netherlands, France, Spain, the UK, and Singapore, and expertise centers in the US and Europe.

Forward Looking Statements

The statements contained in this release, which are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in or implied by forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among others: the ability of Optelecom-NKF to integrate operations with NKF Electronics; the ability of the Company to develop and market products and communication solutions for the video surveillance, transportation, and business video markets; lack of reliable vendors, service providers, and outside products; unforeseen changes in competing technologies and products; worldwide economic variances; poor or delayed research and development results; and disparities between forecast and realized sales results. Other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are included but are not limited to those listed in Optelecom-NKF's periodic reports and registration statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Optelecom-NKF does not assume any obligation to update information concerning its expectations.

Source: Optelecom-NKF, Inc.

Web site: http://www.optelecom.com/