NXP Semiconductors acquires the Catena Group to focus on high performance mixed signal applications

April 05, 2012 // Paul Buckley

NXP Semiconductors N.V. has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Dutch electronic design and IP company Catena Group which will help NXP to continue to innovate in the automotive analog mixed signal solutions business and in wireless car connectivity.

On completion of the deal, NXP will own 100% of the Catena shares, while Catena will continue to operate as a separate design company. The deal gives NXP access to Catena’s patents, IP and proprietary development tools, while enabling Catena to continue serving third party companies on a standalone basis. A supervisory board will be installed consisting of top management from NXP and Catena.

Established in 1986, with offices in the Netherlands, Sweden and Austria, Catena is recognised as a center of excellence in Radio Frequency Communication, Analog, Mixed Signal and Digital Signal Processing. NXP says the acquisition is a logical next step in NXP’s High Performance Mixed Signal strategy of focusing on High Performance Mixed Signal markets.

By securing continuity of Catena’s IP skills and competencies in wireless RF mixed signal technologies, this acquisition will enable NXP to capitalize on the growing demand from car manufacturers for new technologies such as CO2 reduction and Connected Mobility, wirelessly connecting the car to infrastructure, to other cars, as well as connecting the car to the driver.

Rick Clemmer, president and CEO of NXP Semiconductors, said, “This acquisition reinforces the long-standing and very successful technology and business partnership between NXP and Catena. Combining the core competencies of both teams enables us to further strengthen our leadership in wireless connectivity in automotive and other sectors. Catena has already made a significant contribution to NXP becoming the number one chip supplier for the global car entertainment market, and so we look forward to many more years of success to come.”

Rien Geurtsen, President of Catena Group, said, “We’re very pleased with this definitive strengthening of the relationship between our two companies, particularly as NXP already generates up to 60% of our yearly sales. Catena is a profitable and steadily growing company, and is an exciting place for creative and ambitious engineers to work in - by working even more closely, we are certain that the company will continue to expand and innovate with NXP.”

Visit NXP Semiconductors at www.nxp.com

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