FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALPHA EXPANDS ALPHACELL BATTERY FAMILY

Bellingham, Wash., October 8, 2001 - Power system manufacturer Alpha Technologies has expanded its AlphaCell battery family to include the new 85GXL battery. This new battery is designed specifically for low power, deep fiber communication applications.

"Alpha has developed the 85GXL in response to customer demand for a smaller, shorter runtime battery," commented officials at Alpha. "Alpha continually strives to provide customers with quality product solutions that fit their unique powering needs."

The new AlphaCell 85GXL combines a new battery gel with Alpha GXL technology for superior float service life. It also incorporates new copper alloy threaded inserted terminals to decrease installation and preventative maintenance costs. The 85GXL provides up to 85 minutes of runtime in a significantly smaller case size.

The AlphaCell 85GXL includes several features that make it an efficient, cost effective solution. Long-life positive grid design and exclusive alloy provide for superior performance and enable Alpha to offer a four-year warranty. The 85GXL's compact size increases the available room in the battery enclosure making battery maintenance easier.

Alpha Technologies Inc. develops power conversion, protection and standby products for telecommunications and cable television industries, including custom, application-specific power solutions. In addition to product development, Alpha Technologies provides a comprehensive range of installation and maintenance services to support its global customer base. Alpha Technologies is a member of The Alpha Group of companies.

The Alpha Group represents a global alliance of independent companies that share a common philosophy - create world-class powering solutions for communication, commercial, industrial and renewable energy markets.

For this and/or additional information in electronic form, go to www.alpha.com.