Phenomenal networks signs up with MultiTech systems

Will be a value added systems partner for the full range of MultiTech products with a primary focus on Voice over IP and VPN technologies?

Edina, Minnesota – Phenomenal Networks Inc. announced today that they have signed a strategic alliance agreement with MultiTech Systems based in Mound, Minnesota. Phenomenal will be incorporating many of MultiTech's products into sophisticated, custom-built systems with a major focus on fast emerging target areas such as Voice over IP and secure remote access products such as Virtual Private Network appliances (VPNs).

"We have been working with MultiTech for a number of years through SPS South Africa and are excited to extend the relationship into our new Minnesotan based company," said Dave Shepherdson, CEO of Phenomenal. " MultiTech has a well accepted set of products in our main target area of secure and cost effective IP communications systems. We use their Voice over IP products for our own company communications worldwide and the quality and convenience is exceptional. We expect their product line to be a major contributor to our aggressive growth plans."

"Phenomenal Networks brings a strong technical background in Voice over IP and VPN technologies to their business," states Chip Harleman, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. "When a company like Phenomenal starts with a strong foundation in the technology they sell, it usually means better service to their customers and a better relationship with their suppliers. We look forward to Phenomenal Networks bringing their technical skills set to our distribution family."

About Phenomenal Networks Inc.

Phenomenal Networks Inc. is the North American subsidiary of Shepherdson Holdings (Pty) Ltd specializing in providing cost effective data, voice and video communication systems for multi-location companies. Using state of the art technologies from leading manufacturers, Phenomenal designs systems allowing companies to minimize communications costs using converged voice, video and data over the Internet while maintaining high Quality of Service (QOS) and security via Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).

In business since 1987, SPS is ranked in the top 20 private companies in South Africa with the reputation as one of the finest data communications systems companies with a wide range of International experience. Phenomenal uses that experience combined with a strong, Minnesota-based team of industry experts to bring a unique Global capability to the US market.

About MultiTech Systems, Inc.

An ISO 9001 certified global manufacturer of award-winning Internet, remote access, and telephony products, Multi-Tech Systems provides end-to-end solutions for small to medium-sized businesses. Multi-Tech's products are available through a worldwide network of business partners (distributors, resellers, system integrators, ISPs, and ISVs), or in embedded solutions from OEMs.

Privately held, Multi-Tech Systems has over 57 U.S. patents and numerous international patents. The company's intellectual property portfolio includes patents covering transmission voice, data and video packets used in technologies such as Internet telephony, PC telephony, voice over IP or frame relay, and DSVD modems. For additional information, contact Multi-Tech at 800/328-9717 or 763/785-3500, via fax at 763/785-9874 or browse the company's World Wide Web home page at www.multitech.com.

February 15, 2003