Firecomms Provides Key Components for Renault In-Vehicle Proof of Concept Fiber Optic Network

CORK, Ireland, Feb. 21, 2005 -- Firecomms, an Ireland-based compound semiconductor company, has unveiled the use of the company's new high-speed fiber optic devices in a revolutionary new in-car entertainment system developed as a proof of concept for a demonstration vehicle designed by Renault RSA of France.

One of the first of its kind, the in-vehicle entertainment system utilizes a plastic optical fiber (POF) network to enable individual passengers to choose from entertainment or information provided by multiple sources. Because this POF network can transport up to four simultaneous video streams to touch-screen displays located in the front console and rear seats, each passenger is able to choose independently from DVDs, digital TV, and video games.

Consumer Convenience Ports (CCP) are another unique feature supported by the POF network. Located throughout the vehicle, each CCP provides plug-and-play access via FireWire to many portable electronic devices, such as laptops, DVD/camcorders, MP3/CD players, iPods, or video game players. Output from a connected portable device can be directed to a single passenger, or shared by all passengers in the vehicles.

The proof of concept network, demonstrated in the Renault Espace, also includes an embedded navigation system, and a camera for rear parking assistance. This proof of concept network can be seen in a short video produced by Renault on the 1394 Trade Association web site at www.1394ta.org/Technology/About/AutoNetworking.htm.

"Firecomms leads the development of devices to create next generation in-vehicle networks using POF, a low-cost optical alternative to traditional copper cabling," says Firecomms CEO. "Its high bandwidth and ease of use, coupled with its high tolerance to vibrations and external influences make POF ideal for in-vehicle embedded multimedia networks."

IDB-1394 is designed for high-speed multimedia applications that require large amounts of information to be moved quickly around a vehicle. IDB-1394 is built on IEEE-1394 (FireWire) technology that has already gained wide acceptance in the consumer electronics community.

About Firecomms Ltd.

Firecomms, a compound semiconductor company, develops high-speed light sources in visible range wavelengths. Firecomms' lasers and LEDs provide the groundwork that will revolutionize optical data communications for small area networks, such as in-car networks and home networks. Firecomms' low power visible lasers unleash the potential for advances in medical devices, barcode scanners, and optical storage devices.

The Ireland-based company leverages its ten years of photonics research experience, optical expertise, and extensive IP portfolio to develop cost-effective solutions for applications in which the use of glass fiber optics is prohibitively expensive. Additional information about Firecomms is available at www.firecomms.com.