Maxim acquires SensorDynamics, developer and manufacturer of proprietary sensor and MEMS solutions

Citation

(2012), "Maxim acquires SensorDynamics, developer and manufacturer of proprietary sensor and MEMS solutions", Sensor Review, Vol. 32 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2012.08732aaa.005

Maxim acquires SensorDynamics, developer and manufacturer of proprietary sensor and MEMS solutions

Article Type: News From: Sensor Review, Volume 32, Issue 1

“Maxim Integrated Products” has announced it has acquired “SensorDynamics”, a privately held semiconductor company that develops proprietary sensor and microelectromechanical (MEMS) solutions. SensorDynamics is based in Lebring, near Graz, Austria.

SensorDynamics holds numerous original patents for MEMS sensor technology. It has devoted over 800 man-years of research and development to the high-growth fields of MEMS sensors and associated low power interface and wireless connectivity solutions. Consequently, this acquisition enables “Maxim” to accelerate expansion in markets where it already has a strong presence including automotive and high-end consumer.

“‘Maxim’ is a recognized leader in analog integration, and this acquisition extends ‘Maxim’s’ integration strategy by enabling us to fuse many types of sensors with our analog technology. The strategic integration of sensors, analog functions and low power wireless connectivity will allow us to deliver end-to-end mixed-signal solutions that provide our customers with better performance, smaller form factors and lower system costs,” said Tunc Doluca, “Maxim’s” President and Chief Executive Officer. “The result will be a unique combination of technologies that will eventually enable a whole new generation of intelligent machines. We’re thrilled that SensorDynamics is joining us”.

In the near term, this acquisition enables SensorDynamics to focus on its strength in engineering for sensors and MEMS, while utilizing “Maxim’s” considerable manufacturing, distribution and sales infrastructure. This will quickly make the combined company a leading competitor in the inertial sensor, wireless connectivity and sensor interface markets.

The MEMS-based sensor market is expected to grow considerably as new applications for sensors are developed. According to market research firm IHS iSuppli, the total market for MEMS-based sensors is expected to be $7.7 billion in 2011, of which SensorDynamics gyroscope inertial sensor technology addresses about $900 million. IHS iSuppli estimates this specific market will grow at a three-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14 percent from 2011 to 2014. Longer term, “Maxim” will address selected portions of the broader MEMS-based sensor market.