Tokyo, Japan, November 30, 1999 - In an announcement here at the opening of the SEMICON Japan 99, Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM: ASYT) today introduced the VersaPort™ 2200 load port tool for use in semiconductor manufacturing. A modular 200 mm wafer input/output (I/O) interface, the VersaPort 2200 can accommodate both SMIF-Pod and open cassette loading in a single platform and, as a bridge tool, can also support 300 mm wafers on the same platform when chipmakers make this transition.

"The VersaPort system is designed with multiple configurations that address a wide variety of our customers' current and future needs," said Anthony Bonora, Asyst's senior vice president and chief technology officer. "By combining 300 mm bridge capability with the flexibility of SMIF-pod and open cassette loading in a single platform, the VersaPort 2200 reduces the integration and support requirements for original equipment manufacturers (OEM) customers and simplifies the transition to 300 mm for both OEMs and chip manufacturers."

VersaPort 2200 bridge capability is accomplished with optional SEMI-Standard E-63 BOLTS interface hardware and a 300 mm software command set that ensures compatibility with Asyst's 300 mm FrontLoad systems.

The VersaPort 2200 is a key component of Asyst's Plus™ Portal, the turnkey, process tool automation solution that enables integration between OEM production tools and advanced fab automation systems. By outsourcing this critical subsystem, OEMs can focus on their core competencies to develop leading-edge technologies that deliver a competitive edge while ensuring high reliability, functionality and commonality to the fab interface. OEMs also benefit from the Plus Portal's open-architecture, which ensures the design flexibility OEMs require to provide their global integrated circuit manufacturing customers with customized, mission-specific solutions.

Asyst has already shipped 50 beta units of the VersaPort 2200 and is currently accepting orders for the tool. The VersaPort 2200 will debut at the Asyst exhibit at SEMICON Japan, December 1-3, 1999, at the Makuhari Convention Center, booth 6-A801.

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors more fully detailed in the Company's recent S-3 Registration Statement.

About Asyst:
Asyst Technologies, Inc. is the leading provider of Standard Mechanical Interface-based minienvironment and manufacturing automation systems that enable semiconductor manufacturers to protect customers' valued assets throughout the manufacturing process while increasing manufacturing productivity. Asyst offers a broad range of 200 mm and 300 mm products that enable the Company to provide semiconductor manufacturers and Original Equipment Manufacturers automated manufacturing solutions for the transfer of wafers and information between the process equipment and the fab line.