Analog Devices: Powering Maxtrack's Vehicle Tracking System

ANALOG DEVICES: BLACKFIN FOUND TO BE THE PERFECT FIT FOR MAXTRACK VECHICLE TRACKING SYSTEM

Blackfin Processor provides Maxtrack with core processor, including the
ability to power GPS, GSM/EDGE, and network camera functionality

Analog Devices, Norwood, MA; Analog Devices, Inc. , a global
leader in high-performance semiconductors for signal processing
applications, today announced that Maxtrack, a world leader in vehicle
tracking systems will be shipping their product with Blackfin as the main
system processor.  Maxtrack's tracking solutions enable companies to track
fleets of vehicles using a powerful software and hardware environment,
comprising both standard tracking systems and special systems for bus and
train monitoring and control.  Initial products will begin shipping
September in 2005.

Currently, Blackfin processors are used in Maxtrack's MTC-500 solution and
it is also already being designed in their future generation product, the
MTC-600.  The MTC-500, using Blackfin as the main system processor running
functions such as high sensitivity GPS, GSM/GPRS modem, digital audio and
other functions (with extra performance to spare), can be delivered in an
ultra-compact device with dimensions of 12 cm x 7 cm. The next generation
MTC-600 utilizing Blackfin with an integrated CAN module, will add new
capabilities such as networked camera, dead-reckoning GPS with integrated
ADI gyro, SoundMAX audio codec, spread spectrum integrated transceiver and
much more. Additionally Maxtrack has partnered with Siemens; to use their
GSM/EDGE module MC-75, a design that also uses ADI chipsets that
incorporate Blackfin processors.

“We needed two main functions from our processor, first it needed to drive
GPS, GSM/GPRS, and networked cameras, and secondly it needed to be the
central processor for all other data-driven needs, said Gustavo Travassos,
CEO, Maxtrack. Blackfin not only provided us with this level of
sophistication and power, but it also was more compact and cost less than
leading DSP-only chips.

Blackfin is ideal for Maxtrack because it combines breakthrough
signal-processing performance and power efficiency in a RISC programming
model. The processors allow flexible resource allocation between complex
real-time signal processing tasks and non-real-time control tasks, with
system control tasks often running in parallel to signal-processing tasks.

Added John Croteau, General Manager, Convergent Platforms and Services
Group, Analog Devices, Inc.: Applications, from vehicle tracking to cell
phones, are continuously integrating features, creating an environment of
convergence, requiring a superior processor backbone.  Blackfin provides
companies like Maxtrack with an embedded processor that manage control
processing as well as facets such as GPS or networked cameras. We can do
this while minimizing design space, power dissipation, and costs.

Blackfin in Convergent Processing
Analog Devices; Blackfin® Processors embody a new breed of 16/32-bit
embedded processor with the industry's highest performance and power
efficiency for applications where a convergence of capabilities;
multiformat audio, video, voice and image processing; multi-mode baseband
and packet processing; and real-time security and control processing -- are
critical.  It is this powerful combination of software flexibility and
scalability that has gained Blackfin widespread adoption in convergent
applications such as portable and networked media players; automotive
telematics, infotainment and driver assistance; satellite and terrestrial
radio; and networked security systems.

About Analog Devices
Innovation, performance, and excellence are the cultural pillars on which
Analog Devices has built one of the longest standing, highest growth
companies within the technology sector.  Acknowledged industry-wide as the
world leader in data conversion and signal conditioning technology, Analog
Devices serves over 60,000 customers, representing virtually all types of
electronic equipment.  Celebrating 40 years as a leading global
manufacturer of high-performance integrated circuits used in analog and
digital signal processing applications, Analog Devices is headquartered in
Norwood, Massachusetts, with design and manufacturing facilities throughout
the world. Analog Devices' common stock is listed on the New York Stock
Exchange and is included in the S&P 500 Index.
www.analog.com
Blackfin is a registered trademark of Analog Devices, Inc. All other
trademarks included herein are the property of their respective owners.