RVSI Amends Banking Agreement

CANTON, MASSACHUSETTS - September 17, 2001 - Robotic Vision Systems, Inc. (RVSI) (Nasdaq: ROBV) today said it has amended its revolving credit agreement with PNC Bank, National Association (PNC).  The amended agreement provides borrowings available to RVSI of $10 million.  Currently, RVSI has no outstanding borrowings under the credit agreement.

"The semiconductor industry downturn is now nearly a year old," said Pat V. Costa, Chairman and CEO of RVSI.  "We have said consistently that our goal is to get through the slump - whatever its duration - with our technology and market dominance intact.  This banking agreement is an important element in our plan to weather this period and be prepared for the inevitable recovery. We are pleased to continue our relationship with PNC and look forward to a long-term partnership with them."

About RVSI
Robotic Vision Systems, Inc. (RVSI) (Nasdaq: ROBV) has the most comprehensive line of machine vision systems available today. Headquartered in Canton, Massachusetts, with offices worldwide, RVSI is the world leader in vision-based semiconductor inspection and media transfer equipment. Using leading-edge technology, RVSI joins vision-enabled process equipment, high- performance optics, lighting, and advanced hardware and software to assure product quality, identify and track parts, control manufacturing processes, and ultimately enhance profits for companies worldwide. Serving the semiconductor, electronics, aerospace, automotive, pharmaceutical and packaging industries, RVSI holds approximately 100 patents in a broad range of technologies.

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Forward Looking Statement
Except for the historical information herein, certain matters discussed in this release include forward-looking statements that may involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual results may vary significantly based on a number of factors, including, but not limited to: the historical cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry, risks in products and technology development, market acceptance of new products and continuing product demand, the impact of competitive products and pricing, changing economic conditions, both here and abroad, timely development and release of new products, strategic suppliers and customers, the effect of the company's accounting policies and other risk factors detailed in the Company's most recent registration statement, annual report on Form 10-K and 10K/A, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. 

For further information contact:
Neal H. Sanders (781) 302-2439
RVSI
5 Shawmut Road
Canton, MA  02021
Tel: 781-302-2439  Fax: 781-302-2440