EL SEGUNDO, Calif. March 2004 - International Rectifier Corporation (IR) (NYSE:IRF), a world leader in power management technology, today announced the opening of a new analog IC design center in the Research Triangle Park area of North Carolina.

The IR Carolina Design Center will concentrate on the development of integrated power management solutions for portable computing and communications applications under the direction of industry veteran Jeffrey G. Mansmann. The Carolina Design Center is one of five design centers directed by Mansmann.

"The Research Triangle Park area of North Carolina is a great fit for International Rectifier. There is a well-developed base of highly skilled engineers with analog and mixed-signal design expertise here that enjoy working at the leading edge. International Rectifier's proprietary products occupy leading positions across a broad range of next-generation platforms. We intend to continue to lead the way and believe there are many engineers in the region that would like to be part of it," said Mansmann. Mike Walters, a renowned analog technologist in portable, server and desktop power architectures, will join Mansmann in leading the design team.

The thirteen design centers worldwide focus on the development of semiconductor materials, packaging and IC advancements for high performance power management technology.

About International Rectifier

International Rectifier (NYSE:IRF), a world leader in power management technology, employs about 5500 people with operations in 20 countries throughout North America, Europe, Japan and Asia. The company's headquarters are located in El Segundo, California. Its mixed-signal analog ICs, advanced circuit devices, integrated power systems, and components are relied upon by the world's leading makers of next generation laptops, desktops, energy-efficient appliances, automobiles, lighting, aircraft, satellites and advanced defense systems. The company's Web site is located at www.irf.com.