Semtech Acquires High-Speed Communications and Analog IC Design Firm - Company Business and Marketing

Cambridge Telcom Report, Sept 20, 1999

Semtech Corp., a leader in analog and mixed-signal ICs, has announced that it has acquired Practical Sciences, Inc., a design firm specializing in high-speed communications components and analog ICs, for an undisclosed amount. Practical Sciences is known primarily for design of advanced clock and data recovery devices for transmission speeds of up to 10 Gbit/sec and above.

"The extensive knowledge of high-speed communications and analog design that Practical Sciences brings to Semtech, allows us to take our next step in meeting the quickly expanding needs of the high-performance fiber optic market," said Stewart Kelly, director of Advanced Communications Products at Semtech.

The addition of Practical Sciences brings more than 25 years of collective experience in high-speed analog communications circuit design to Semtech and complements the company's acquisition, last year, of Acapella Limited, an advanced fiber optic modem technology design firm based in the United Kingdom. The company's acquisition of Practical Sciences is not expected to have a material impact on Semtech's near-term operating results.

Practical Sciences, founded in 1990, has provided design and consultancy services for many large semiconductor and communications clients, including recent development of a 2.5 Gbit/sec chipset for one of the world's largest telecommunications equipment manufacturers.

"Our goal, from the founding of Practical Sciences, has been to leverage our collective design expertise to make a difference in the fiber optic market," said Steve Beccue, president of Practical Sciences. "Combining forces with Semtech allows us to make a real impact."

Semtech Corp. is a leading provider of high-quality, analog/mixed-signal ICs for power management, overvoltage and transient protection, automated test equipment, and communications. Publicly traded since 1967, Semtech is listed on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol SMTC. FMI: www.semtech.com.