Valor and Orbotech to Develop Reference Data

Interface Between ODB++ and Orbotech AOI Systems

Yavne (Israel), July 13th, 2000 - Valor Computerized Systems and Orbotech today announced that the two companies will collaborate on an initiative to drive automated electronics assembly inspection with high intelligence reference data. 

In this collaboration, a specific data interface, based on the Valor-funded ODB++ format, will be developed between Valor’s Trilogy 5000™ engineering system for assembly and test and Orbotech’s Trion-2000™ Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) systems. The dedicated interface will enable the automatic download of a single, integrated file containing physical design data (including board layout, component identification information and a full parts description) to the Orbotech AOI system for inspection program generation. This optimized, higher intelligence reference data interface will boost operational efficiency by simplifying AOI program setup, and significantly reduce programming time and increase inspection accuracy.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Ronen Zexer, Vice President of Electronics Assembly at Orbotech Ltd., said, “By teaming up with Valor to interface to ODB++, a well-accepted industry data exchange format, we are extending the performance capabilities of our inspection solution and adding real value for our customers in terms of faster machine set-up and increased accuracy.  With AOI continuing to gain industry acceptance as a critical process step, the ability to seamlessly integrate with existing production data and systems is a necessity.”

Mr. Schmil Dolberg, President of Valor Computerized Systems stated, “Valor is fully committed in bringing the embedded value of the ODB++ data intelligence to the maximum number of functions in the electronics manufacturing industry. AOI is a function that has increased importance as the industry moves to ever-greater levels of product miniaturization.  We are pleased that Orbotech, as a leading AOI supplier, has joined our Open Systems Alliance program, designed for establishing maximum value interfaces to the ODB++ data format.”

Delivery of the Valor-Orbotech data interface is currently planned for Q4/2000.

About ODB++

ODB++ is the unique source of PCA physical model data in the industry, replacing the need for multiple low-intelligence files and interactive machine programming. ODB++ can include the physical package models extracted from the Valor Parts Library (VPL), that has now passed the 3 million component count. The VPL is a pay-as-you-go, internet data service that provides a single source for accurate part and package data in an interactive format, allowing engineers to access and find the component package models which fit their (or their customer's) vendor and parts lists.

About Orbotech

Orbotech (NASDAQ: ORBK) is a world leader in providing hi-tech production solutions used by leading electronics manufacturers to ensure the quality production of printed circuit boards, flat-panel displays, integrated circuit packaging and electronics assemblies.  Orbotech’s innovative automated optical inspection (AOI), plotting, direct imaging (DI) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technologies bring their customers the higher yields and increased throughput they need to stay on the forefront of electronics production.  Of Orbotech’s 1500+ employees, more than a third are R&D scientists and engineers merging their knowledge, talents and skills in numerous disciplines to ensure that Orbotech’s hi-tech solutions and technologies meet customers’ long-term needs.  With headquarters in Israel, Orbotech backs its comprehensive solutions with an extensive network of marketing, sales and customer support teams throughout North America, Europe, the Pacific Rim, China and Japan, bringing its knowledge and expertise direct to its customers throughout the world.  For more information, visit www.orbotech.com.

About Valor

Valor is a global leader in providing business productivity tools throughout the design-through-manufacturing electronics supply chain. Valor is a public company listed on the Neuer Markt of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. The company's powerful software tools, based on ODB++, the Valor-funded data format which has quickly become the format of choice for high-level data exchange, ensure the rapid transfer of optimized data from design through manufacturing. Enterprise 3000 DFx system for physical design verification, Trilogy 5000 for assembly and test engineering, and the unique Valor Parts Library on-line data service are utilized by designers and engineers to deliver enhanced productivity, higher yields, shorter cycle times and increased product quality. All Valor products are sold and supported by a worldwide network that includes global subsidiary offices, VARs and OEM channels. More information about the company can be found at www.valor.com.

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