Maxim Integrated Products has acquired a semiconductor company, SensorDynamics. Located in Lebring, the Austria-based company develops proprietary microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) solutions and sensors and owns several patents for the MEMS based sensor technology.
With Maxim acquiring SensorDynamics, it will increase its presence in the existing markets and expand its market to include high end consumers and automotives.
The CEO and President of Maxim, Tunc Doluca stated that the strategic combination of analog functions, sensors and wireless connectivity will allow Maxim to offer mixed-signal solutions at lesser system costs and enhanced performance.
SensorDynamics will continue focusing on sensor and MEMS development with access to Maxim’s manufacturing, sales and distribution infrastructure and together penetrate the sensor interface, wireless connectivity and inertial sensor markets better.
Based on a market study by IHS iSuppli, there is tremendous growth potential in the MEMS-based sensor market. The total market value is expected to reach $7.7 billion this year. The gyroscope inertial sensor technology developed by SensorDynamics holds about $900 million of the total market. It is anticipated that this particular market will grow at a three-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14% from 2011 to 2014. When considered for an extended term, Maxim would address specific portions of the wider MEMS based sensor market. SensorDynamics and Maxim are keen on focusing on the automotive sector.