Fort Collins, COLO.—Imagine designing a rugged case that completely seals a device, such as a Smartphone, from water, dust and dirt. Now add the challenge of providing sound transmission through the microphone and speaker openings without compromising protection. Impossible?

Several months ago, OtterBox engineers faced this very dilemma. Donaldson Acoustic Vents proved the ideal solution for ensuring optimal sound quality while increasing the device protection offered by OtterBox.

Donaldson’s acoustically transparent filtration vents seal microphone and speaker openings on OtterBox Smartphone cases from everyday elements. The vents serve as effective barriers to contaminants such as hairspray, oils, perspiration and water. They also reduce wind noise and minimize frequency transmission loss. The vents’ ability to withstand temperature fluctuations makes them perfect for OtterBox customers who operate in harsh work environments like construction, engineering and military.

“Donaldson Acoustic Vents are superior in quality, and their acoustical properties are great for sound transmission throughout the OtterBoxes,” said Jason Thompson, Mechanical Engineer. “They also provide an IP54 rating for water protection, which safeguards devices from splash and heavy rain.”

So how do they work? Donaldson Acoustic Vents adhere over sound openings at the top of the case for the speaker and at the base of the microphone. Through a pressure-sensitive adhesive ring, the vent securely fastens to the inside of the opening to withstand extreme environments.

“The competitive price point and quality of the Donaldson vents made our selection decision an easy one,” said Thompson.

“Donaldson engineers have been creating solutions to contamination issues for more than 90 years, and we’re excited to partner with innovative companies like OtterBox in increasing the value of their products through effective contamination control,” commented Peggy Herrmann, VP of Disk Drive, Semiconductor, Fuel Cell, and Venting Solutions at Donaldson Company, Inc.

OtterBox also uses standard Donaldson Filtration Vents for OtterBox Rugged Laptop Carrying Cases, which provide an IP67 rating for complete water protection.

About Donaldson Company, Inc.

Donaldson is a leading worldwide provider of air and liquid filtration systems and replacement parts that improve people's lives, enhance our Customers' equipment performance and protect our environment. We are a technology-driven company committed to satisfying our Customers' needs for diesel engine equipment and industrial filtration solutions through innovative research and development, superior technology, and global presence.

Our 12,000 employees contribute to the company's success by supporting our Customers at more than 100 sales, manufacturing, and distribution locations around the world.

Donaldson is a member of the S&P MidCap 400 Index, and Donaldson shares are traded on the NYSE under the symbol DCI. Additional company information is available at http://www.donaldson.com.

About Otter Products, LLC.:

Founded in 1996, Otter Products, LLC, is respected in the design and production of rugged cases to safeguard technology and other valuables. With a complete line of waterproof, drop-resistant, interactive cases, Otter provides ideal solutions for any adventure.

Rugged cases include protection for Apple iPods®, Treo™, BlackBerry®, iPAQs, Laptops, Tablet PCs, GPS, cigars, Zippo lighters and more. Built upon fundamentals of hard work, creativity, and perseverance, Otter Products is a powerhouse of innovation, manufacturing quality cases with a 100 percent lifetime guarantee.

Visit http://www.otterbox.com or call 888-695-8820 for more information.