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HOUSTON -- Tidel Technologies today introduced Chameleon, an Internet-savvy, interactive multimedia kiosk that combines the security of traditional banking networks with the limitless e-commerce options of the Internet.

For example, an ATM user could make a cash withdrawal, and then buy airline tickets and book a hotel reservation, all while receiving high-impact advertising messages in broadcast-quality video and audio.

"With a direct hot link to the Internet via web-enabled screens, the Chameleon ATM will allow consumers to process a variety of convenience-based transactions never before possible at their local ATM," said Mark K. Levenick, Chief Executive Officer of Tidel.

James T. Rash, Chairman of Tidel, noted, "We are excited about our entry into the interactive kiosk market, which is growing at a rate of 35% per year and is expected to reach approximately $3 billion in sales by 2003."

Chameleon was first demonstrated for the industry at the NACS Show in October 1998, and will be on display throughout the year at various industry trade shows. Chameleon will be available for delivery during the quarter ending June 1999.


KEY FEATURES OF TIDEL'S CHAMELEON ATM

Full Adaptability

Like its namesake, Chameleon can change to fit into any environment. Owner/operators can configure Chameleon as a point-of-information terminal to deliver a wealth of information on specific products or services. Chameleon can also change its colors and be simultaneously configured as a point-of-sale terminal to sell airline, movie and event tickets; stamps; prepaid phone cards; and a host of goods and services directly through the Internet.


PC-Based Operating Technology

At the heart of the Chameleon is a Pentium-powered PC running Microsoft Windows NT. The flexibility of this platform is perfect for
multimedia and e-commerce transactions.


Dual Network Capability

Chameleon is the first ATM with dual network capability that allows users to conduct banking transactions over the secure EFT networks and conduct e-commerce over the Internet.


Multimedia/On-Screen Advertising

Chameleon's 15" color monitor and digital stereo sound bring a whole new multimedia experience to ATM users. On-screen advertising and promotional messages utilizing action-packed video and digital audio may be used to generate additional buying interest while users are waiting for their transactions to process.


Touch-Screen Interface

Chameleon offers a user-friendly touch-screen interface which may be used to simplify complex transactions.


Multi-Item Dispenser

Owner/Operator can offer up to five different products (for example,
cash, coupons, tickets, stamps, and prepaid calling cards) from a
single, five-cassette Chameleon ATM. Optional sidecar designs will
accommodate event and airline ticketing and other options.


Remote Management and Set Up

Chameleon allows for total remote management and state-of-health
monitoring from any location using a single PC.


Modular and Upgradeable

Chameleon may be upgraded to suit different needs, including
hardware upgrades, different cassette configurations, and remote software upgrades. Optional sidecar designs will allow for great flexibility and customization.

The introduction of Chameleon complements the company's newly announced Ignition series ATM product line (the IS-1000 and the IS-6000) which includes all of the features of its popular AnyCard ATM predecessors but with a modern, user-friendly design and greatly enhanced features at a comparable price.