ORA Electronics' SNAP to Receive a U.S. Patent

Business Wire, Sept 22, 1998

CHATSWORTH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 22, 1998--ORA Electronics Inc. (OTC BB:ORAE) announced that the U.S. Patent Office has notified it of the issuance of a U.S. patent for the technology used in ORA's SNAP (Subscriber Numeric Assignment Programmer).

SNAP is a programmable module that is used to input data and program cellular and other wireless handsets. The miniature device plugs into the cellular handset data port. SNAP can program a variety of functions such as service-activation programming, Authentication Key (A Key), area-code changes, preferred SID lists and other functions.

Handset programming can be done by a consumer at home, without the need to bring the handset to a central location for programming by a professional.

The compact device (2.5 inches by 1 inch) can be easily mailed to a consumer. The consumer simply plugs the module into the data port of the handset for automatic programming. Programming a handset typically takes 30 to 60 seconds. The consumer can return the module to the carrier for reuse.

Tampa, Fla.-based GTE-TSI has signed a limited exclusive agreement with ORA Electronics to utilize the SNAP in its fraud- prevention and authentication-management programs. Renamed by GTE-TSI as the PalmCoder, it will be mass-distributed to encode A Keys in cellular handsets for subscribers nationwide as part of GTE fraud- management system.

"The idea is to enable mass programming of handsets without the need for the consumer to bring the handset to a service location. Programming can be done by the consumer by just plugging the module into the phone," said Tony Zarella, a GTE-TSI director.

ORA Electronics will not only manufacture PalmCoders for GTE but will also distribute them on behalf of GTE-TSI to subscribers nationwide. The consumer will return the PalmCoder to ORA after use for reprogramming. Incentives will be given to the consumer to encourage the return of PalmCoders to ORA Electronics' fulfillment center so they can be reused.

"We are very pleased with the issuance of the patent and particularly with the GTE-TSI relationship and with deployment of this exciting technology," said Gershon Cooper, president of ORA Electronics.

ORA Electronics has been making site-based programming terminals for years. These terminals, based on ORA's C-TAC patented technology, require consumers to bring their handsets to a site where the programming terminal is located, typically in a carrier service center or retail location.

ORA Electronics is a developer and manufacturer of cellular, PCS (Personal Communication Services) and wireless-communications ancillary devices and enhancement products.