CIE Components in Electronics
This strategic acquisition brings Silicon Labs the technology and software expertise required to enable the low-power mesh sensor networks being deployed today in a wide range of residential, commercial and industrial applications. The demand for low-power, small-footprint wireless technology is accelerating as more and more IP-enabled end points are being connected to the “Internet of Things.”
The Ember portfolio complements Silicon Labs” products and targets a growing market estimated to increase from $100 million in 2012 to $600 million by 2016. The combination of the companies” products will bring together microcontroller (MCU), power and isolation technology, sensors, and both sub-GHz and 2.4 GHz wireless radios into a comprehensive portfolio of highly integrated networking solutions for embedded systems.
“Silicon Labs has consistently demonstrated a successful track record of integrating high-performance, low-power RF and mixed-signal ICs in CMOS and ramping them into high-volume markets,” said Tyson Tuttle, president and CEO of Silicon Laboratories. “This acquisition of a high-calibre team with proven wireless mesh networking know-how accelerates our ability to offer complete system solutions to our customers.”
Ember is a pioneer in the market for 802.15.4 ZigBee solutions. The company”s products integrate high-performance, low-power 2.4 GHz wireless ICs with reliable and scalable networking software into a platform with unmatched performance and flexibility.
“We believe our track record and technology leadership in ZigBee-based systems combined with Silicon Labs” broad portfolio and focus on establishing a market-leading business in embedded wireless will enable our customers and the Internet of Things market to grow faster,” said Bob LeFort, chief executive officer of Ember.
Silicon Labs expects that the addition of Ember”s high-performance system-on-chip (SoC) portfolio, advanced networking software expertise will contribute to the rapid expansion of its Broad-based business. Silicon Labs intends to apply the underlying technology platform and expertise to enable low-power mesh networking in not only home but also industrial and commercial applications.
Ember is expected to contribute approximately $10-$12 million in revenue in the second half of 2012 and to be accretive on a non-GAAP basis in 2013. While the boards of each company have approved the acquisition, the deal still requires to pass certain regulatory requirements and other customary closing conditions.
