Synopsys Speeds Resolution of Customer Support Problems With Real-Time Online Support; Synopsys' ViewConnect Extends Comprehensive SolvNet Online Support Services

Business Wire, July 24, 2002

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 24, 2002

Synopsys, Inc. (Nasdaq:SNPS), the technology leader for complex integrated circuit (IC) design, today announced the availability of ViewConnect online customer support, which enables customers to collaborate with Synopsys to solve tool and methodology issues in real time via a secure Internet connection.

ViewConnect's secure, direct link between the user's desktop and Synopsys support personnel makes it possible to resolve problems in context, using the customer's actual libraries and design environment. Because it allows tool users and Synopsys support staff to simultaneously experience the same real-time desktop design environment, ViewConnect offers numerous advantages over conventional support channels. These benefits include improved response time, the elimination of geographic barriers, access to the broadest range of technical and product support resources, and reduced reliance on test cases to communicate and resolve problems.

"In addition to relying on traditional support methods such as email, test cases and phone calls, ViewConnect enabled us to work in real time with our Synopsys application consultant (AC) to expedite a solution to our tool support issue," said Steve Howard, lead verification engineer at Astute Networks. "Installing and getting up and running on ViewConnect took less than fifteen minutes. Once connected, our AC rapidly determined the optimal switches for obtaining maximum performance using Synopsys' VCS(TM) tool."

Security Ensured

ViewConnect provides a secure environment for information sharing. All information in a ViewConnect session is encrypted from the source machine to the end display point using 128-bit SSH2 encryption. Several layers of authentication and multiple password protection provide further security. The customer controls the session, launching ViewConnect and closing it at any time.

Pricing and Availability

ViewConnect is supported on Solaris, HP-UX and Linux and is available through regional Synopsys Support Centers worldwide. ViewConnect is available at no additional charge to any Synopsys customer with a current maintenance agreement. Synopsys customers can register for and access the ViewConnect software and installation instructions through the company's SolvNet(R) online support website at solvnet.synopsys.com. For more information about ViewConnect visit: viewconnect.synopsys.com.

About Synopsys

Synopsys, Inc. (Nasdaq:SNPS), headquartered in Mountain View, California, creates leading electronic design automation (EDA) tools for the global electronics market. The company delivers advanced design technologies and solutions to developers of complex integrated circuits, electronic systems and systems on a chip. Synopsys also provides consulting and support services to simplify the overall IC design process and accelerate time to market for its customers. Visit Synopsys at http://www.synopsys.com.

Note to Editors: Synopsys and SolvNet are registered trademarks of Synopsys, Inc. VCS is a trademark of Synopsys, Inc. All other trademarks or registered trademarks mentioned in this release are the intellectual property of their respective owners.