Micronic Ships Pattern Generation Tool to DPI

Micronic Ships Pattern Generation Tool to DPI Micronic Laser Systems AB (publ.) a Swedish-based manufacturer of laser- based pattern generators for the photomask industry, today announced that it has entered into a joint agreement with DuPont Photomask Inc. (Nasdaq:DPMI) more commonly referred to as DPI, where DPI has ordered and taken delivery of a Micronic Omega6000 series tool for evaluation purposes. Omega6000 is a new generation of laser patterning generators targeted for the production of semiconductor photomasks at the 180 nm technology node. The agreement also includes an option for a second system and a warrant package for DPI to subscribe for up to 5% of Micronic stock. "Marshall Turner, interim chairman and chief executive officer of DuPont Photomasks, said, "This evaluation is consistent with DPI's stated strategy of providing to our customers the highest quality photomasks at the lowest possible cost of ownership. To that end, we have consistently emphasized a mix and match strategy, matching appropriate tools with each level in a set. Initial tests of Micronic's technology are sufficiently encouraging to move forward to a full production evaluation." "For the past nine years Micronic has focused its resources in supporting the display market. The agreement with DPI marks our commitment to serve the semiconductor industry with enabling and cost effective solutions," says Bert Jeppsson, President and CEO of Micronic. About Micronic Laser Systems AB (publ.) Micronic Laser Systems is a Swedish high-tech company engaged in the development, manufacturing and marketing of a series of extremely accurate laser writers for the production of photomasks. The technology involved is known as microlithography. Micronic's systems are used by the world's leading electronics companies in the manufacturing of television and computer displays, semiconductor circuits and semiconductor packaging components. Micronic is a fast growing company with 171 employees. Micronic is located in Täby, north of Stockholm, and Micronic has at present four service offices in Japan, Taiwan and the US. About DuPont Photomask Inc. DPI is the world's largest photomask manufacturer operating globally from 11 strategically located facilities in North America, Europe and Asia. The company produces and supplies photomasks as well as photo blanks (photomask substrates) and pellicles (protective covers for photomasks). Headquartered in Round Rock, Texas, DPI posted worldwide sales of over $264 million in fiscal 1999. The company maintains a Web site at http://www.photomask.com. Note: This release includes forward-looking statements based on management's current plans and expectations. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties which may cause future activities and results of operations to differ from those suggested, including risks associated with technology development, product and process development programs, industry trends, pricing pressures and the need to manage growth. For additional information, please refer to DPI's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, specifically Form 10-K dated Sept. 21, 1999 which identifies important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward looking statements. Results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results for the year. Contact: Sven Löfquist, Executive Vice President, phone +46 8 638 52 10 ------------------------------------------------------------ Please visit http://www.bit.se for further information The following files are available for download: http://www.bit.se/bitonline/1999/10/21/20000707BIT00640/bit0001.doc http://www.bit.se/bitonline/1999/10/21/20000707BIT00640/bit0002.pdf