Trident Microsystems acquires parts of Micronas’ Consumer division

“Trident Microsystems is an established player in the consumer electronic semiconductor market. The planned acquisition of parts of Micronas’ Consumer division will strengthen its position in what is a highly competitive market,” explains Dr. Wolfgang Kalsbach, CEO of Micronas. “We are very satisfied that we found a new owner for the business, who will retain a number of employees in Germany, the Netherlands and our overseas locations,” says Dr. Wolfgang Kalsbach. As part of the transaction approximately 80 employees in Germany and approximately 100 employees outside of Germany including overseas are expected to be transferred to Trident. Trident plans to acquire the frame-rate-converter, demodulator, and audio product lines from Micronas. The frame-rate-converter product line – which includes the FRC-Q – enables the latest generation DTVs to display 120Hz or 240Hz video at the highest quality levels. The demodulator product line – which includes DRX-K, DRX-J and DRX-Z – integrates both analog and digital demodulation of television signals into a single device, with pin-compatible versions for Europe (DVB-T, DVB-C), North America (ATSC) and China (DTMB). The audio product line consists of the market-proven MSP, MAP, and UACB product families, which decode and process analog and digital audio signals for televisions, set-top boxes, and PC peripherals. Micronas will receive 7,000,000 shares of Trident’s common stock as well as warrants to acquire up to 3,000,000 shares of Trident’s common stock. Upon closing of the transaction, Micronas will own approximately 10 percent of Trident, without giving effect to the exercise of the warrants or any other dilutive securities. Through its equity ownership Micronas will participate in the potential equity upside that Trident represents as a stronger and more diversified DTV player.