Helix Technology Files Form 10-K for 2004

    High-Tech Editors

    MANSFIELD, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 16, 2005--Helix Technology Corporation (Nasdaq: HELX) today announced the filing of its 2004 annual report on Form 10-K and compliance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. This filing includes a one-time net favorable tax benefit of approximately $4.5 million, which resulted from the completion of a previously disclosed IRS audit after the Company's earnings release on January 28, 2005. Although a subsequent event, this favorable tax benefit is required under generally accepted accounting principles to be recorded in the fourth quarter of 2004. A comparison of the reported results in the Form 10-K to the previously announced results is as follows:

Fourth Quarter 2004 Twelve Months 2004 ------------------------------ -------------------------- As Tax As As Tax As previously adjust- reported previously adjust- reported announced ment (unaudited) announced ment (audited) ---------- ------ ---------- ---------- ------- -------- Income before taxes $2,873 $- $2,873 $21,949 $- $21,949 Income tax benefit (3,317) (4,534) (7,851) (1,028) (4,534) (5,562) ---------- ------ ---------- ---------- ------- -------- Net income $6,190 $4,534 $10,724 $22,977 $4,534 $27,511 ========== ====== ========== ========== ======= ========

Net income per weighted average share: Basic $0.24 $0.17 $0.41 $0.88 $0.17 $1.05 Diluted $0.24 $0.17 $0.41 $0.88 $0.17 $1.05

    Helix Technology Corporation is a global leader in the development and application of innovative solutions in the field of vacuum technology. Our CTI-Cryogenics, Granville-Phillips and Polycold product offerings provide a broad range of components and subsystems that are key to the manufacture of semiconductors, flat panel displays and data storage devices. In addition, our highly regarded Global Support activity provides critical ongoing operational support to semiconductor device producers throughout the world.

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CONTACT: Helix Technology Corporation Beverly L. Couturier (508) 337-5111

KEYWORD: MASSACHUSETTS INDUSTRY KEYWORD: CHEMICALS/PLASTICS CONSUMER/HOUSEHOLD FOREST PRODUCTS EARNINGS SOURCE: Helix Technology Corporation

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