MAXxess Announces Unauthorized Vehicle Presence Module
for its Environmental Security Systems

Anaheim, CA — Jan 7, 2002 — MAXxess Systems Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Odetics Inc. (Nasdaq:ODETA) (Nasdaq:ODETB) announced the incorporation of an unauthorized vehicle presence module for its environmental security system.

The automated vehicle detector seamlessly integrates with MAXxess security systems. When an unauthorized vehicle is detected, a "detected vehicle alarm" is automatically displayed to the customer's security control center along with the corresponding video display. The module can be used to detect vehicles entering a restricted area or to spot vehicles that are inappropriately positioned.

The module eliminates failed or delayed detection due to human fatigue, inattention, or distraction and can also reduce guard force requirements. The fully automated notification and video display simplifies monitor and control room requirements.

The automated vehicle detector operates over wire or wireless communication links and can operate under solar power for remote applications. The detector differentiates between stopped and moving vehicles and can classify vehicles by length. There are up to 24 detector zones per camera. The system also allows for remote configuration of detection zones.

"Vehicles entering and parking in sensitive areas can pose a serious security threat," said Wes Appleby, president of MAXxess Systems. "Detection of the vehicle must be immediate and certain. We are pleased to be able to offer the first automated, highly reliable solution to this problem."

"The MAXxess Unauthorized Vehicle Presence Module™ is an intelligent processor and camera system that can detect vehicles in all outdoor lighting and weather conditions," continued Appleby.

"It is not just a motion detector. It has been specifically designed to recognize vehicles. This minimizes false calls due to wind, animals, people, and other non-vehicular intrusions. For flexible operation, detection thresholds can be programmed by vehicle length as well as time of presence."

About MAXxess

MAXxess specializes in the design and manufacture of high-level security electronic access control and security management systems. The company provides flexible security systems for a wide variety of facilities. MAXxess is a pioneer in developing the new wide area Ambit Security™ Systems. The company also pioneered the use of 128-bit encryption for commercial access control applications.

For more information, contact MAXxess at 1-800-842-0221 or go to the MAXxess website at www.maxxess-systems.com.

About Odetics

Odetics is engaged in the development of communication and technology companies that may be spun-off to its shareholders. Odetics provides control and security for roadways, facilities, and networks. Odetics headquarters are located in Anaheim, with additional operations in Europe and Asia. For information, contact Odetics at 714-774-5000 or access the Odetics website at www.odetics.com.

Important Notice

This news release contains statements that may be deemed to be forward-looking. These forward-looking statements may include statements about revenue growth, profit margins, the effect of cost reduction measures, and other statements relating to the operating results of Odetics or its subsidiaries. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of risk factors such as: short product lives, technological shifts, current technical issues that cannot be resolved on a timely basis, component availability, competition (including new and directly competitive products from others), pricing pressures, incorrect assumptions regarding market demand, the significant uncertainty of market acceptance of new products by both distributors and end-user customers, unanticipated capital requirements, retention of key personnel, general economic conditions, the inability of the company to execute its strategy including the completion of both private and public equity financings of its subsidiaries, and other factors identified in the Odetics' Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

Investors are strongly encouraged to review the risk factors set forth in the Odetics most recent SEC filings.