CTS Wireless Components Introduces Ultra-Small Ceramic Filter for Worldwide GPS Receiver Applications

    ELKHART, Ind.--July 12, 2001--CTS Corporation , an innovator in wireless handset component technology and a world leader in wireless component manufacturing, today announced the availability of a miniature 4mm x 4mm x 2mm ceramic filter for Global Positioning System (GPS) applications operating in the 1575 MHz frequency range.
    The patented CTS monoblock design and advanced processing technologies have enabled CTS engineers to achieve this ultra-small, state-of-the-art ceramic filter design. The new CTS filter, Model CEROO32A offers handset manufacturers an advanced technology that meets, or exceeds, the industry's exacting performance standards -- in an ultra-small package.
    A new report by market research firm Frost & Sullivan, projects that North American GPS market revenues will reach $4.6 billion by 2006. Supporting these revenues are FCC requirements which specify that carriers choosing a handset-based solution for the E-911 mandate, must be offering GPS-enabled handsets by October 1, 2001, and 25% of all new handsets activated by December 31, 2001, must be ALI (Automatic Location Identification) capable. That requirement increases to 50% on June 30, 2002, and 100% on December 31, 2002.
    According to CTS Wireless Components' vice president and general manager, Jerry Gabbard, "With very low 1.2 dB insertion loss and high rejection of PCS and Cellular band signals at 50 to 60 dB, this filter provides improved handset performance and quiet operation to the user. In addition, this new design provides a smaller filter, which can translate to a smaller handset. Early customer feedback indicates that Model CER0032A will be broadly accepted by leading-edge handset developers."
    GPS uses a constellation of Geo-stationary satellites to pinpoint the location of interest to within a few meters. Next generation cell phones are incorporating the GPS receivers to enable operators to meet the FCC mandated E-911 service specifications which require the capability to globally pinpoint the source location of cellular based 911 Emergency Calls. All new U.S. handset offerings must have the GPS capability by the end of 2002 and similar requirements are expected to be adopted elsewhere around the world. GPS enabled phones will additionally deliver value-added, location-based services to consumers, such as driving directions, nearby restaurant and ATM locations, wireless advertising and promotional offers from nearby businesses.
    Model CER0032A samples and evaluation boards are available for immediate shipment. For complete product specifications, or to request a product sample, contact CTS Wireless Components Design Center, Ceramic Filter Product Manager, 4800 Alameda Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113. Phone: (505) 348-4258, Fax: (505) 348-4385, E-mail: john.hix@ctswireless.com.
    CTS Corporation is a leading designer and manufacturer of electronic components and assemblies for the communications, computer and automotive markets. The Company manufactures products in North America, Europe and Asia. The Company's stock is traded on the NYSE under the ticker symbol "CTS." To find out more, visit the Company's website at www.ctscorp.com.
    Released by: R. L. Ramsby