Rockwell Automation To Acquire Datasweep, a Leader in Production Management Software

Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE:ROK) today announced it has anagreement to buy Datasweep, Inc., a privately held company that is arecognized leader in manufacturing production management softwaresolutions. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Located in San Jose, Calif., Datasweep currently serves majorcustomers in the pharmaceutical, high-tech electronics, automotive andmedical device industries. ArvinMeritor, Johnson & Johnson, Lucent,and Qualcomm are a few of the world-class companies that useDatasweep's production management software. The Datasweep managementteam and their employees will join the Rockwell Software organization.In addition, Rockwell Automation will integrate and then rebrandDatasweep(R) Advantage(TM) software products into its newly introducedFactoryTalk(TM) integrated production management and performancesuite.

"This strategic acquisition emphasizes our commitment to deliver aworld-class plant-wide information software suite that drivesmanufacturing excellence," said Steve Eisenbrown, senior vicepresident of the company's Automation Control and Information Group."Incorporating Datasweep technology with the FactoryTalk productiondisciplines enables us to help manufacturers convert day-to-dayoperations data into business knowledge for timelydecision-making--and that means lower costs, better quality, higherproductivity, and improved flexibility."

"This acquisition is a key milestone in developing the FactoryTalksuite into a multi-industry, multi-plant capable enterprisemanufacturing software platform," said Kevin Roach, vice president,Rockwell Software. "Datasweep has a demonstrated track record forhelping manufacturers dramatically improve production informationtracking, visibility and control across an entire enterprise."

Vladimir Preysman, founder and CEO, Datasweep, said: "I am veryexcited about this business combination which will bring to market abroad range of solutions based on our joint vision. The combination ofDatasweep enterprise systems with Rockwell Automation's informationsoftware and plant-wide solutions will bring unprecedented value andscale to our existing and future customers."

"The synergies are obvious here, and customers will reap thebenefits," said Greg Gorbach, vice president, ARC Advisory Group."Datasweep's products strategically extend Rockwell Automation'scurrent offering, while Datasweep customers will benefit from RockwellAutomation's market strength."

"The dust is settling on Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)deployments and consolidations, allowing manufacturers to focus on thebasics of production. In addition, the impact of broadening regulatoryoversight in the United States and abroad is fueling increasedspending on manufacturing IT," said Colin Masson, industry analystfrom AMR Research in a June, 2005 report. "Large automation vendorsthat have invested heavily in unifying platforms for theirmanufacturing software offerings are poised to affect a sea change inthis market."

Editor's Note: Link to Rockwell Automation's recent FactoryTalkStrategy announcement:http://www.rockwellautomation.com/go/FactoryTalkStrategy

Datasweep is a recognized leader in enterprise software solutionsthat help global manufacturers achieve predictable and profitableproduct supply through a quality-based approach to manufacturingoperations. Datasweep provides extended manufacturing execution system(MES), quality assurance (QA), Corrective and Preventive Action(CAPA), Complaint Handling, Business Intelligence, and RMA and RepairManufacturing solutions. Additional information can be found atwww.datasweep.com

Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE:ROK), is a leading global providerof industrial automation power, control and information systems andservices that help manufacturers achieve a competitive advantage intheir businesses. The company brings together leading brands inindustrial automation, including Allen-Bradley controls and services,Dodge mechanical power transmission products, Reliance Electric motorsand drives, and Rockwell Software factory management software.Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., the company employs about 21,000people serving customers in more than 80 countries.