When American astronaut Neil Armstrong announced from the moon that he had taken "one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind," he was speaking into a headset manufactured by Plantronics, Inc. Today, nearly 30 years later, the same company continues to improve the performance and reliability of its communications headsets. Most recently, Plantronics has introduced the SES Sound Enhancement System, a tone control that allows individual users to select the sound quality they prefer.

"Since we introduced the first lightweight headset, we have invested heavily in 'human factors' engineering to provide the quality and durability our customers demand," said David Kitano, Plantronics' Vice President of Sales for Asia/Pacific and Latin America.
In response to growing demand from telecommunications and telemarketing companies as well as other users, Plantronics has opened new offices in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and Singapore this year. These installations will strengthen the company's established global distribution network.
As a result of growth into new geographic markets, the company's international revenue increased 22 percent during fiscal 1997 (over fiscal 1996). The company's total sales have also grown steadily, reaching USD 195.3 million in fiscal year 1997 from USD 112.2 million in fiscal year 1993.
Having learned through its extensive research program that no two ears are the same, the company offers headsets in a wide range of styles and configurations. These include over-the-head and over-the-ear models, and models with molded earpieces in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Optional features include noise cancelling microphones that can increase call center productivity by allowing calls to be completed more quickly with fewer errors; and wireless connections between headset and telephone receiver. The company's headsets are compatible with most major business telephone systems.
Plantronics, Inc., is one of the world's leading designers, manufacturers and marketers of headset products. Originally designed for airplane crew members, the company's headsets are now primarily used in call centers (both "help desk" and telemarketing), offices, mobile communications and broadcasting. Newer applications include home offices and multimedia computer users.
SES is a trademark of Plantronics, Inc.

For additional information, contact:
Marcia Healy, Marketing Communications Manager
Plantronics, Inc.
P. O. Box 635
Santa Cruz, CA 95061-0635 USA
Tel: +408-458-4441
Fax: +408-425-8053, http://www.plantronics.com