Star Micronics, Sarnoff to Cooperate on Products for Cell Phones, Medical Devices, Other Miniature Electronics

Business Wire, Nov 18, 2004

TOKYO -- Companies Sign Licensing and Development Agreement; Expanded Relationship Grows from Cell Phone Microphone Array, Disposable Hearing Aid Projects

Star Micronics of Shizuoka, Japan, and Sarnoff Corporation of Princeton, NJ, USA, today announced the signing of a licensing and development agreement under which they will jointly develop new components and complete products for the mobile phone, video recorder, automotive, and other markets.

The agreement formalizes a relationship that has already produced breakthrough innovations. The companies had developed key components for the world's first disposable hearing aid. They recently announced the availability of a microphone module for cell phones that reduces background noise, provides stereo capability and enables hands-free/speakerphone functions.

"We are very pleased to have an agreement in place that sets the stage for continued cooperation in the future," said Satyam Cherukuri, President and CEO of Sarnoff. "We look forward to creating many more innovative products in partnership with Star Micronics."

"Our expertise in producing precision miniature products is a perfect complement to Sarnoff's long history of developing new technology," said Toshihiro Suzuki, President of Star Micronics. "We are happy to confirm that our two companies will continue to work together."

Under the agreement, Star Micronics and Sarnoff will carry out joint development of new products for a variety of markets and applications. Star Micronics will serve as the manufacturer in these joint projects.

Star Micronics will also be able to license Sarnoff innovations for use in products that are not jointly developed. The licenses will be granted on a royalty basis.

Star Micronics is a leading manufacturer of audio and precision electronic components, printers, and machine tools for markets ranging from retail and entertainment to the medical and automotive fields. Sarnoff is a technology development and innovation services company with expertise in microelectronics, information technology, and biomedical products and technologies.

About Star Micronics

Star Micronics Company Ltd. (www.star-m.jp) of Shizuoka, Japan, is a world-leading producer of small printers, audio components, high-precision machine tools, and precision parts.

About Sarnoff

Sarnoff Corporation (www.sarnoff.com) of Princeton, NJ, USA creates innovations in electronic, biomedical and information technology for government and commercial clients, and commercializes them through licensing and the creation of new ventures.