KDS USA Adds New, Feature-Rich Software to Compact Disc Organizer; Software Update Allows Users to Download Audio CD Tracks From the Internet, Search for Discs by Song Title or File Name

Business Wire, Feb 19, 2003

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

GARDEN GROVE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 19, 2003

KDS USA, a leading provider of monitors and related computer peripherals, today announced it will begin shipping all Compact Disc Organizers (CDO) with an updated version of its software, while providing current users software updates via its Web site (www.cdoarchive.com), at no cost.

The software update increases the CDO's versatility and ability to perform functions desired by consumers looking for a quick, logical and easy way to catalog and search for CDs. Through a step-by-step guide -- included with the software update -- current users may easily merge all existing CDO databases.

Newly incorporated functions include the automatic download of audio CD tract titles from the Internet from www.freedb.org, an online music database, whenever a new music disc is stored in the CDO. Users may conduct searches by entering track titles or through wildcard selections to find specific songs or files on desired discs.

Other feature-rich capabilities include the capability to print or save and export lists of borrowed or overdue discs to a Microsoft(R) Excel(R) document. For consumers utilizing the CDO in a setting where multiple users have access to the database, KDS USA offers users password protection by granting only specified users access to database and discs. Other users may only search and access non-password protected discs.

The software update further allows users to build their own cross-referencing lists containing data and music file information, change column and panel width to match entry space, similar to an Excel spreadsheet. As a safety precaution, the CDO also features a backup database on removable media for off-site storage.

"Customer feedback played a vital role in KDS USA's development of the CDO software update, influencing many of the new features and functions we chose to incorporate, enabling users to search, catalog and manage discs with greater ease," said Erin Rippee, vice president of marketing for Garden Grove, KDS USA.

The CDO easily attaches to a PC and can store and catalog up to 75 discs, including CD-RW or "burned" CDs, games, software and video CDs and DVDs. Users can search their collection by title or disc content (file names and directory names) and retrieve a disc with a click of a mouse.

Through its "Lend" functionality, the CDO allows users to keep track of CDs that have been lent out. This feature schedules on-screen reminders when lent discs are due back. The unit measures 7.7 inches wide, 20.5 inches high and 11 inches deep, consuming less space than many conventional CD racks. Utilizing a USB connection for quick set-up, users may link additional CD Organizer towers for even greater storage capacity.

The product is currently available from national consumer electronics retailers such as MicroCenter and online retailers such as buy.com with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $139.99.

For more information, consumers can contact KDS USA at 800/283-1311 or visit the company's Web site at www.kdsusa.com.

About KDS USA

KDS USA, one of the world's largest providers of monitors and related computer peripherals, was founded in 1995 with headquarters in Garden Grove. By providing affordable, technologically advanced products and comprehensive customer support programs, KDS USA fulfills its mission of offering great value to its target markets including small office/home office, Fortune 500, government and education customers. Its products are sold through, retail, distribution and reseller channels.