Barco, a world leader in advanced display systems for commercial flight applications, today announced that its SIM 7 simulation projector has become the first high-resolution LCoS projector in the industry to obtain Level D certification. Ê

The Level D certification includes both the Barco SIM 7 LCoS projector and CAE Tropos-6000 visual system, which are at the heart of the CAE-built A320 full-flight simulator for Air France. The Airbus A320 simulator was awarded the Level D certification by DGAC, FranceÕs civil aviation authority. For commercial aircraft, Level D Certification is the highest level attainable and it is based on the evaluation of the performance of a simulator in relation to an actual aircraft. This is the first time an LCoS projector has been awarded this certification. Ê

ÒThis is a significant achievement for CAE and Barco as our systems now set the industry standard for providing high-performance visual training and pilot safety,Ó said Adolfo Klassen, CAEÕs Chief Technology Officer and Vice President of Engineering & Technologies.Ê ÒThis visual solution combines the best of both worlds: our next-generation Tropos system with the latest computer graphics hardware and ultra-realistic simulation database, and BarcoÕs SIM 7 LCoS projector with 3.2 megapixel fidelity and industry-leading smear reduction.Ó Ê

Ê Earlier this year CAE selected Barco as its LCoS projector solutions provider, reflecting BarcoÕs leadership in LCoS technology. Barco has had a long-standing and successful relationship with CAE and, over the years, has provided various simulation projection systems for CAEÕs leading civil and military flight simulation programs. Ê

Designed specifically for flight simulation, BarcoÕs SIM 7 projectors were an obvious choice for CAE.Ê They combine a resolution of 3.2 megapixels, 50% higher than competing HD resolution projectors, with unique smear reduction technology to deliver razor-sharp, artifact-free images. BarcoÕs SIM 7 offers the highest dynamic contrast ratio in the industry (1,000,000:1) and a brightness output of 2,000 lumens for true day- and night-time scenario flight training. The Air France simulator utilizes a multi-channel SIM 7 projection system, and unique Barco-engineered technology ensures consistent brightness output, color levels, and inter-channel blending across the multi-projection system to provide the pilot with one seamless, high-quality image.

ÒTodayÕs visualization needs for flight simulation training are very demandingÓ, says Dr. Al Herman, vice president and general manager for BarcoÕs simulation business. ÒThe Level D certification of our SIM 7 LCoS simulation projectors not only guarantees that we exceed industry standards but more importantly, that we provide pilots with the most realistic and rigorous training technology available today.ÓÊ

LA GUARDIA AIRPORT, NEW YORK - FlightSafety International announced today that its second Sikorsky S-92 full flight simulator has been qualified to the highest standards by the United States Federal Aviation Administration and the Civil Aviation Authority in the United Kingdom. The FAA and JAR Level D qualifications were awarded following a joint evaluation of the simulator conducted at FlightSafetyÕs London Farnborough Training Center. Sikorsky Aircraft is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp.

"This is a clear demonstration of our ability to deliver advanced technology training products and high quality professional training services," said Bruce Whitman, President & CEO, FlightSafety International. "We appreciate the support we have received from Sikorsky and the confidence they have in us to provide professional training that meets and exceeds the needs of S-92 helicopter operators."

"The qualification of this new simulator demonstrates FlightSafetyÕs continued commitment to meet the growing training requirements of our mutual customers and keeping pace with the growing fleet of Sikorsky Aircraft in Europe, Russia, the Middle East and Africa," said Stephen Estill, Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation. Training using this new S-92 helicopter simulator will begin immediately at FlightSafety's London Farnborough Center in the United Kingdom. The Center can accommodate up to 15 full flight simulators and has the capacity to train 3,800 aviation professionals annually. It offers 27 interactive classrooms, facilities for advanced technology training devices, 30 briefing rooms and customer service areas. FlightSafety also offers factory-authorized training for Sikorsky aircraft at its Learning Center in West Palm Beach, Florida. The centerÕs highly qualified instructors provide Sikorsky S-92 helicopter, Sikorsky S-76 helicopter and Sikorsky S-70 helicopter training for pilots, aircraft maintenance technicians and other aviation professionals on a fleet of five FlightSafety built full flight simulators. This new S-92 helicopter simulator is equipped with FlightSafetyÕs industry leading electric motion and control loading system. Simulators equipped with this technology offer the highest level of aircraft fidelity, enhanced performance and increased availability due to a reduction in maintenance requirements and increased reliability. The simulators also offer environmental advantages compared to previous generation devices as they produce less heat, lower levels of ambient noise and provide a safer environment due to the elimination of the risks often associated with hydraulic fluids as well as our dependency on petroleum products. The simulator also features FlightSafetyÕs advanced VITAL visual system offering highly detailed, texture enhanced scenes and excels in its realistic presentation of both routine and critical weather conditions.

FlightSafety International is the worldÕs premier aviation training organization. Over 75,000 pilots, technicians and other aviation professionals train at FlightSafety facilities each year. The company designs and manufactures full flight simulators for civil and military aircraft programs and operates the worldÕs largest fleet of advanced full flight simulators at 40 training locations.

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., USA, is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacturing and service. The companyÕs mission statement reflects its long commitment to safety and innovation: ÒWe pioneer flight solutions that bring people home everywhere É every timeª. Ò United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., USA, provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.

LA GUARDIA AIRPORT, NEW YORK - FlightSafety International announces that it has delivered a VITAL X three channel visual system to the Ames Research Center of the United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

"The selection of FlightSafetyÕs VITAL X visual system by NASA highlights our design and engineering capabilities, manufacturing expertise and ability to deliver products that meet or exceed the technical and commercial requirements of our customers," said Jon Hester, General Manager, Visual Systems, FlightSafety International.

The VITAL X visual system is being installed on NASA's Advanced Concepts Flight Simulator used to research new cockpit technologies and associated flight crew behavior. FlightSafety's VITAL visual systems immerse pilots in a realistic environment that allows them to focus on training. This advanced technology PC-based image system features powerful graphics processors that provide high-resolution satellite imagery and physics-based atmospheric and weather effects for continuous anytime-of-day operations. The VITAL X supports NVG modes, FLIR, ColorTV, LLTV/EO, ALLTV and DVO sensors and exceeds FAA Level D and DoD Simcert standards.

FlightSafety Simulation designs and manufactures advanced full flight simulators, training devices and visual systems that can replicate the operating characteristics of virtually any aircraft or ship. The company has produced over 700 visual systems and more than 400 simulators in the past two decades, including simulators for over 50 aircraft types in the past five years alone. The simulators are part of an integrated training system, used throughout the company's network of Learning Centers and by many other leading commercial, government and military organizations worldwide.

"FlightSafety Simulation products incorporate more than 50 years of simulation expertise and the experience gained training thousands of pilots, aircraft technicians and other aviation professionals," said Rick Armstrong, Vice President Simulation, FlightSafety International. FlightSafety International is the worldÕs premier aviation training organization. Over 75,000 pilots, technicians and other aviation professionals train at FlightSafety facilities each year. The company designs and manufactures full flight simulators for civil and military aircraft programs and operates the worldÕs largest fleet of advanced full flight simulators at 40 training locations.

Xenia, OH - Barco, a leading global provider of visual display systems for simulation and training, continued its partnership with the United States Department of Defense through a visualization solution for the U.S. Navy. In collaboration with Kongsberg, Barco deployed a multi-channel visualization system for the Navy's Navigation Seamanship Shiphandling Trainer (NSST) program. The system, composed of Sim 5R DLP projectors and peripherals, will provide ultra-realistic training environments for America's naval forces.

The Navy's NSST program provides seamanship and ship handling training to helmsmen on various platforms. Until recently, the NSST program lacked sufficient simulation technology of its own, and was forced to contract training time from another organization. This proved time consuming and ineffective. In an effort to expedite and improve training in America's home ports, the Navy decided to purchase a set of maritime simulators. Through a strategic partnership with Kongsberg, Barco designed and engineered a 7-channel Sim 5R DLP projection system to match the Navy's simulation objectives. The system was deployed at the naval bases in Mayport, Pearl Harbor, and San Diego, with additional systems slated for deployment in Norfolk.

"We are excited to join in this collaborative effort to enhance naval training," said Al Herman, Vice President and General Manager for Barco Simulation LLC. "Barco's high-definition projection technology will play a significant role in the Navy's NSST program, generating seamless multi-channel visualization for crucial training."

Barco's Sim 5R system is designed specifically for simulation. The system boasts a number of advanced features which integrate seamlessly, to ensure the most accurate and immersive training experience possible. To maintain uniform blending at high brightness levels, Barco's Sim 5R comes equipped with both optical and electronic edge blending technology, so that across the various channels, one continuous image is guaranteed all the time. The system also features DynaColor inter-channel color matching and optimal multi-channel geometry correction; these features ensure that imagery is projected evenly across the channels without color flaws or frame delays. Similarly, Barco's linked Constant Light Output keeps brightness and contrast variables at uniform levels.

State-of-the-art peripherals also help to achieve image continuity. Barco's xRACU control system allows users to operate, calibrate, configure and diagnose systems across multiple channels to maintain uniformity, while proprietary Barco software makes alignment simple and intuitive. In addition, the mechanical structures which house the Sim 5R projector and peripherals were custom engineered by Barco, ensuring that the entire system functions smoothly and without discrepancies.

Through the power of Barco's sophisticated visualization technology, the Navy will reap the benefits of high-fidelity maritime simulation. The multi-channel Sim 5R projection system is perfect for advanced, realistic training, while Barco's intelligent peripherals ensure precision and ease of use. American Sailors will have the significant advantage of accurate training in safe harbors, where they can learn navigation techniques and methods which will prepare them for the challenges which beset them at sea.

"Barco is committed to the on-going development of cutting edge simulation technologies for defense applications," said Mr. Herman. "It is truly a privilege to provide for the safety and effectiveness of the men and women who work tirelessly to keep our nations secure."

About Barco
Barco, a global technology company, designs and develops visualization products for a variety of selected professional markets. Barco has its own facilities for Sales & Marketing, Customer Support, R&D and Manufacturing in Europe, North America and Asia Pacific. Barco (Euronext Brussels: BAR) is active in more than 90 countries with about 3800 employees worldwide. Barco posted sales of euro 751 million in 2006.

© Copyright 2007 by Barco - May be reproduced by professional press only.

Scottsdale, Arizona. Attendees at this year's IMAGE conference will get the inside scoop on Barco's new CD Series cross-cockpit collimated display solution designed to serve the commercial airline simulation industry. The CD Series involves close collaboration with industry expert Q4 Services and Barco's new SIM 7Q LCoS projector.

Barco's new CD Series of cross-cockpit collimated displays will incorporate the latest technology and offer improved display performance over the traditional collimated display systems. This solution consists of an advanced collimating mirror design supplied by technology partner Q4 Services, a projector platform, a rear-projection screen, and light-tight enclosures. The new CD Series will be optimized for use with Barco's new line of SIM 7Q LCoS projectors and is engineered to be FAA/JAA Level-D compliant.

Developed specifically for flight simulation, the SIM 7Q is equipped with a number of features for extremely realistic simulation, such as QXGA resolution (2048x1536), high-brightness outputs ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 lumens, smear reduction, and extended contrast ratio. An advanced, exclusive feature set optimizes multi-channel projection by synchronizing the projectors, so that the entire system functions as one. This translates into seamless blending, high contrast and uniform brightness and color levels.

Also at IMAGE, Barco visual system expert, Paul Lyon, will be giving a course on "360-degree Eye-Limited Resolution, Large FOV Collimation" on Tuesday, July 10 @ 6:30 pm. Mr. Lyon is recognized worldwide as an authority in simulation display technology, and is well-known throughout the defense industry. His course is geared towards management and engineering professionals that want to get insight into the challenges and present-day solutions for eye-limited resolution and collimation in large field-of-view visual systems.

About Barco:
Barco, a global technology company headquartered in Kortrijk, Belgium, designs and develops visualization products for a variety of professional markets. Barco has its own facilities for Sales & Marketing, Customer Support, R&D and Manufacturing in Europe, North America and Asia Pacific. For fiscal year 2006, Barco posted net sales of euro 730.0 million. Barco’s ordinary shares are listed on the Brussels/Euronext stock exchange. Share information may be accessed on Bloomberg under the symbol BAR BB and on Reuters under BARBt.BR.
© Copyright 2007 by Barco - May be reproduced by professional press only.