HELIUS RELEASES FIRST LINUX PRODUCT FOR DIRECPC USB SATELLITE MODEM

LINDON, Utah – March 12, 2001 – Helius, Inc., the premier technology developer for satellite data solutions, today announced it has enhanced its Network Edition™ for DirecPC software to support Universal Serial Bus (USB) Satellite Modems used with the DirecPC satellite data service. What’s more, the software is the first that is supported through Linux, a multi-platform, open-sourced, multitasking operating system.

Over the past five years Helius has actively developed enhancements for the DirecPC satellite service. Helius was the first to develop software to make DirecPC usable in a network environment, specifically for Novell LANs. Expanding the offering, Helius also developed versions for Windows NT™ and Linux™. Helius’ new release enables Linux computers to receive satellite data via an external satellite modem. The modem electrically communicates with the computer through a USB connection. The advantage of using an external interface is that users are not required to open their computers and insert a PCI card into one of the bus expansion slots. This means that the workstation will maintain the integrity of a robust system while alleviating the need to attach a satellite receiver to each workstation. Myron Mosbarger, President and CEO of Helius says, "We are pleased to expand our offering by making our product usable on more platforms. Linux is used more widely then ever and offers a very stable and reliable computing environment. We have developed this software to run through a USB connection to free the end user from the conventional PCI card requirements. By offering this software enhancement for DirecPC, we will help grow the satellite data delivery market."

The offering is based on fourth generation Helius Optimized™ software, improving interactive Internet services over satellite conveyances. In addition, the software can be supported by Helius’ Virtual Technician^SM service, which allows setup and configuration through a remote connection. The software runs on the Helius Model 7100 router box. The Model 7100 is a desktop router that is equipped with two USB ports. The software will also be available online to download for trial tests and sales.

Helius will offer the software in a b2b and a b2c sales package.

About Helius
Helius Inc. develops technologies for broadband satellite applications such as IP multicasting, content distribution and interactive Internet. Helius has worked with leading companies like Philips, Fujitsu, Motorola and Telesat Canada to improve the usability and management of satellite for large-scale deployment. Founded in 1995, Helius is based in Lindon, Utah, and is a holding under the Ray Noorda/Canopy Group Investment Company. For more information visit http://www.helius.com or call 801-764-9020.

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Helius and Helius Optimized are trademarks and Virtual Technician is a service mark of Helius Inc.