Center Valley, PA, July 17, 2007- The newest member of the high- performance Olympus laboratory analyzer series is the AU680® chemistry-immuno analyzer, which offers open track sampling, accommodating virtually any track system. Designed to meet the testing needs of mid-sized labs, the AU680 is loaded with new features to help streamline laboratory workflow, while retaining all the benefits of the well-known Olympus AU series’ standardization and reliability.

Workflow is enhanced through an updated graphical user interface (GUI) for added convenience and ease of use, increased on-board reagents (up to 63 tests), automated whole blood sampling for HbA1c, expedited sample repeat testing, reduced sample volumes, extended calibration and customized test sequencing. Together with its 125-test menu, fast throughput (up to 1200 tests per hour) and flexible track connectivity, the latest Olympus analyzer is more powerful than ever.

The system delivers pediatric sampling, immediate STAT processing, automated repeat and reflex testing, pre-dilution and operator training videos integrated into the system software. The 125 Olympus methods on its test menu include general chemistries, ISEs, special chemistries, thyroids, and Syva Emit® TDMs and DATs.

“The AU680 analyzer delivers what laboratory professionals have been seeking: a cost- effective, open system that allows them to achieve their automation goals today,” said Michael Argentieri, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the Olympus America Diagnostic Systems Group. “This greatly benefits our clients as they grow and expand in the automation arena.”

In addition, the Olympus Partner Advantage program offers customers a risk-sharing cost-per-reportable option, access to a suite of online features available right at the analyzer, real-time QC analysis, training, reagent order placement and tracking, extensive technical documentation, priority notification of user updates, and Olympus SUPPORTVISION™ for real-time remote monitoring and enhanced technical support.

The AU680 will be available in early 2008. At the current time it is being previewed and is for research use only, not for use in diagnostic procedures.

For more information about the Olympus AU680 chemistry-immuno analyzer system, contact Olympus at 800-223-0125 or visit www.olympusamerica.com/diagnostics.

Olympus Diagnostic Systems provides innovative solutions that meet the high productivity demands of hospitals, integrated healthcare delivery networks, reference labs, blood banks, physician offices and pharmaceutical labs. Olympus offers the broadest standardized line of random access chemistry- immuno analyzers, along with lab automation systems, blood bank analyzers and reagents. Olympus solutions save laboratories time, maximize productivity, and deliver fast, reliable results.

About Olympus

Olympus is a precision technology leader, creating innovative opto-digital solutions in healthcare, life science and consumer electronics products.

Olympus works collaboratively with its customers and its affiliates worldwide to leverage R&D investment in precision technology and manufacturing processes across diverse business lines. These include:

• Gastrointestinal endoscopes, accessories, and minimally invasive surgical
  products;
• Advanced clinical and research microscopes;
• Lab automation systems, chemistry-immuno and blood bank analyzers and
  reagents;
• Digital cameras and voice recorders.

Olympus serves healthcare and commercial laboratory markets with integrated product solutions and financial, educational and consulting services that help customers to efficiently, reliably and more easily achieve exceptional results. Olympus develops breakthrough technologies with revolutionary product design and functionality for the consumer and professional photography markets, and also is the leader in gastrointestinal endoscopy and clinical and educational microscopes. For more information, visit www.olympusamerica.com.