Las Vegas, NV AMOA - September 21, 2000 - Quantum3D®, Inc., a pioneer in the design and deployment of embedded PC-based Visual Computing Systems for both the Visual Simulation and Training (VST) and Out-of-Home Entertainment (OHE) Markets, announces today at the Amusement and Music Operators Association (AMOA Booth #100) that the company was granted a patent for key elements of the PC chassis that are widely used in the OHE market and kiosk industries. The patent covers several unique features of the Quicksilver™ II chassis including single-sided access that greatly simplifies integration and service; special cooling provisions; and CPU, add-in-board and cable retention mechanisms that reduce failure due to shock or vibration. These same, patented features have also been incorporated into the Quantum3D Graphite™ and Heavy Metal™ II chassis designs which are specifically crafted to enable the systems to operate continuously in the high shock and vibration environments, high ambient temperature and limited airflow environments in which VST and OHE systems are typically deployed. The granting of the patent underscores Quantum3D's commitment to addressing the needs of the VST and OHE markets by enabling Quantum3D to deliver shock-resistant systems that run more reliably and efficiently than desktop or commercial systems while providing ease of access to external and internal components for service related needs.

Exclusive Chassis Features
The most important feature of the Quantum3D chassis design is its single-sided access that places removable media (CD-ROM or DVD-ROM and Floppy) drives, power connections and switches plus all system I/O connections on one side of the system. This placement allows full-access to all external connections and service aspects of the system from one side-which is imperative when the system is placed in a coin-op cabinet or kiosk that has limited access itself. This approach brings the system elements that have traditionally been positioned at the back of the system to the front greatly simplifies service and software upgrades. The Quantum3D chassis design also features several select mounting options that allow for customization and flexibility within the integrator's environment including simulators, coin-op cabinets, gambling machines and kiosks.

Another key aspect of the chassis design is its special cooling system with multiple high volume intake fans and custom designed cooling vents for the chassis. These components are essential for continuous and reliable operation in the diverse temperature extremes where normal desktop computers can not survive.

A third aspect of the Quantum3D chassis design is its improved immunity to shock and vibration related failures. The Quantum3D chassis incorporates super-rugged 18-gauge steel casings that virtually eliminates the problems associated with chassis flex. The chassis also features adjustable, foam-lined brackets, which keeps add-in-boards in their slots to eliminate system failure due to shock and vibration.

The system also retains Intel Slot 1 CPU's by special brackets mounted underneath the drive carrier preventing the CPU from becoming unseated. To inhibit I/O cables from becoming disconnected during operation as a result of shock or vibration all Quantum3D chassis feature retention arms to which I/O cables may be "tie-wrapped" and thereby solidly attached to the chassis.

These patented design elements, as reflected in the Quicksilver II, Graphite and Heavy Metal II design are featured in several OHE products including the Midway Games® (Booth #1017) Thunder series of big driving games, along with popular amusement products by Arcade Planet (Formally Lazer-Tron, Booth #1033), Global VR (Booth #209), Smart Industries (Booth #951), Tsunami and others.

"The Quicksilver II and our other system chasses reflect the key elements that our customers tell us are essential for their success-in this case, high reliability in an extreme environment with ease of access for serviceability. It is our ability to listen and design accordingly that has helped propel Quantum3D into becoming the leader in both the VST and OHE markets," said Ross Smith, Co-founder and VP of Sales and Marketing for Quantum3D. "Having been granted the patent for this unique capability further establishes Quantum3D as the standard in meeting the needs for integrating visual computing systems in both the OHE and VST markets."

About Quantum3D
Quantum3D, headquartered in San Jose, California, brings innovative new concepts and products to the embedded visual computing industry. From state-of-the art image generation systems for visual simulation and training applications to embedded graphics technology used for cockpit displays to purpose-built systems for the leading coin-op games and internet kiosk applications. Quantum3D designs and manufactures ruggedized, powerful PC-based systems that deliver unparalleled realtime graphics performance and image quality to provide the highest quality and value available in visual computing today.

Quantum3D, Quicksilver, AAlchemy and Graphite are trademarks of Quantum3D, Inc.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.