press release

HP's Linux Solutions Chosen by L-3 for Tightened Airport Security

HP Workstations Increase Speed of Airport Baggage Screening

PALO ALTO, Calif., Aug. 13, 2002

HP (NYSE: HPQ) today announced that L-3 Communications (NYSE:LLL), a leader in aerospace and defense technology, is using HP's Linux-based workstations and HP Services to provide airports with a faster, more accurate technology solution for screening baggage and ensuring tighter airport security.

"As security issues become more intricate, L-3 and HP are providing airports with a sophisticated technological solution," said Joe Perisi, president of Security and Detection Systems, L-3 Communications. "HP's strong graphics and open-source technology are particularly suited to help us cost-effectively provide airports with both sides of the equation -- increased security with fewer disruptions in airport traffic."

HP's Linux-based workstations are now integrated into L-3 Communications' eXaminer 3DX 6000 machines, which are certified by the Federal Aviation Administration for explosive detection. Using HP technology, these Linux-based machines move at speeds faster than their proprietary predecessors, thus providing the capability to increase bag throughput.

L-3's machines also yield increased graphic clarity, ensuring more accurate screening of harmful and illegal objects in luggage checked by passengers. The graphic precision provided by HP technology allows security officers to better view luggage contents, decreasing false alarms and accelerating this complex but critical process.

"Technology is a major enabler for addressing complex security needs," said Martin Fink, general manager, HP Linux Systems Division. "HP's Linux-based solutions continue to be a strategic technology for some of the most demanding industries. We're proud to work with such an innovative leader in aerospace technology to ensure the highest levels of security at our nation's airports."

L-3 Communications' eXaminer 6000 machines scan more than 500 bags per hour for explosives and contraband using an advanced computer tomography image of the entire bag. The scan is automatically analyzed and displayed as either a 2-D or 3-D image on an HP Workstation x4000 running Linux. Security officers review alarmed items in detail to quickly screen for harmful or illegal objects. The eXaminer 6000 machines are already in use at major airports worldwide.

HP Services provided development expertise to rapidly integrate HP's Linux-based workstations into the eXaminer 6000 machines. To minimize the time before shipment, HP Services pre-configures the workstations with software and installs specialized cards and peripherals. HP also provides 24x7 hardware support and on-site system engineers at the airports to ensure maximum uptime.

About HP

HP is a leading global provider of products, technologies, solutions and services to consumers and businesses. The company's offerings span IT infrastructure, personal computing and access devices, global services and imaging and printing. HP completed its merger transaction involving Compaq Computer Corp. on May 3, 2002. The company would have had combined revenue on a pro forma basis with the Compaq transaction of approximately $81.1 billion in fiscal 2001 and has operations in more than 160 countries. More information about HP is available at http://www.hp.com.

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