ZyXEL Adds a New V.90 Analog USB Modem to its Omni Line

The Omni 56K USB Lite Provides a Pocket-sized, Plug-and-play, Lightweight Solution for Mobile Users

Hsinchu, Taiwan, January 10, 2002 -- ZyXEL Communications Co. (TAI:2391.TW), the pioneer manufacturer and supplier of Internet access devices, today announced immediate availability of its new Omni 56K USB Lite V.90 analog data/fax/voice modem. ZyXEL Omni 56K USB Lite incorporates ZyDAS 5th generation modem data pump, and provide comprehensive features as well as high-performance, clear, and reliable data/fax transmission.

Designed for dial-up Internet access via the PSTN (Public-Switched Telephone Network) line, ZyXEL's Omni 56K USB Lite supports ITU V.90 protocol and can run a downstream maximum rate of 56Kbps and upstream rate of 33.6Kbps. It is an ideal solution for SOHO and mobile users browsing the Web, accessing corporate Intranet, receiving e-mails, and much more.

The pocket-sized, plug-and-play, and lightweight design makes the Omni 56K USB Lite completely portable to meet the dynamic demands of today's rapidly increasing telecommuters and mobile users. Its convenience of Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection to PC allows users to plug and play USB cables without turning off the computer or plugging in a power adapter, offering true simplicity and energy efficiency.

USB Connectivity for Fast Installation and Easy Configuration
Featuring next generation's USB interface, ZyXEL's Omni 56K USB Lite allows inexperienced users to easily connect this device to their desktops or laptops. As users plug in the USB cables, their computers will automatically detect the Omni 56K USB Lite immediately. A step by step configuration wizard will lead the users to complete the installation and configuration procedure in five minutes from their Microsoft Windows 98/2000/ME/XP.

Intelligent Features Ensure Transmission Quality
The Omni 56K USB Lite provides the best transmission quality with its automatic fall-back and fall-forward technology. The Omni 56K USB Lite will automatically adapt its transmission speed when communicating with slower modems or when encountering unstable line conditions. The modem will resume the maximum speed once the transmission condition returns to normal.

Fax Functionality
In addition to its 56Kbps data transmission, the Omni 56K USB Lite automatically detects data and voice calls on a single telephone line. Supporting built-in Group 3 send and receive fax functions at speeds of up to 14.4Kbps, the Omni 56K USB Lite works as an ideal fax machine, and supports EIA Class 1 Command sets for fax operation.

Availability & Warranty
The Omni 56K USB Plus is currently available and distributed through ZyXEL's global network of authorized distributors. To find ZyXEL resellers in a specific area, check http://www.zyxel.com/where/index.htm. More information on the product, visit http://www.zyxel.com/product/modem/o56kusb_lite.htm. ZyXEL offers a warranty period of up to 2 years covering materials and workmanship.

About ZyXEL Communications
ZyXEL Communications Co. (TAI:2391.TW), located in Hsinchu, Taiwan, is world's third largest DSL CPE provider. Products developed by ZyXEL over the years are not only industry leaders, but consistently win acclaim and are selected by worldwide telecommunications companies, ISPs, and other major businesses. ZyXEL now serves Chunghwa Telecom (TAI:2412.TW), Deutsche Telekom, EarthLink (NASDAQ: ELNK), France Telecom (NYSE:FTE), Sprint, Telefonica, Telenor, Verizon (NYSE: VZ) and many others. For more information on ZyXEL Communications, visit company's Website at http://www.zyxel.com.