HOTBED INVESTS IN NEXT GENERATION GPS, MOBILE PHONE AND WIRELESS TECHNOLOGY

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HOTBED INVESTS IN NEXT GENERATION GPS, MOBILE PHONE AND WIRELESS TECHNOLOGY
18 November 2003 - Sarantel Limited

Sarantel mobile phone and wi-fi (wireless networking) technology, has received ?500,000 growth capital through Hotbed, the private equity network, which invested alongside mainstream VCs in a ?5million funding round.

Sarantel's antennae can be used in mobile phones, GPS devices and in PCs where in all cases independent testing has shown the products out-perform other currently available technologies. Sarantel has supplied a number of handset manufacturers and Hotbed's investment, alongside the lead investors MTI and VCF Partners together with eTechnology VCT, will support further manufacturing development and marketing activity.

One of the most significant potential drivers for the GPS market is the 'E911' legislation in the US, which requires network operators to be able to locate mobile phone users accurately for emergency services purposes, for which Sarantel could provide a GPS based solution. Demand for GPS tracking devices, for example to trace vehicles, children or service personnel, also has the potential to grow rapidly.

Bernard Dale, Hotbed Director, commented "Sarantel operates in huge markets, in which consumer demand is being further fuelled by legislative requirements. We believe that Sarantel has great upside potential."

He added "It is rare that private individuals get the chance to invest alongside well-respected VCs in high quality companies such as Sarantel. Hotbed gives private investors the chance to do this and take advantage of the generous tax breaks available under the Enterprise Investment Scheme."

Sarantel is based in Wellingborough near Northampton and was set up in 2000 as a spin out from Symmetricom Inc, the US based telecoms manufacturer. It has 31 employees.

http://www.sarantel.com

About: Sarantel Limited
Sarantel is a world-class manufacturer of miniature antennas based on its revolutionary PowerHelix™ filtering antenna technology. From humble beginnings, the company has grown significantly. Founded in 2000 as a VC-funded technology spin-off headquartered in a garage, the company now employs over 100 in locations across the globe. In 2004 the European Tech Tour identified Sarantel as one of the Top 25 high growth technology companies in the UK. In March 2005, Sarantel floated on the London Stock Exchange's AIM market, and in August 2005 Sarantel shipped its one-millionth antenna.

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