Leadis Technology, a mixed-signal semiconductor developer of display driver ICs for small panel color displays, has acquired Mondowave, a privately held analog semiconductor company specializing in low-power consumer audio applications.

Mondowave, headquartered in Mountain View, Calif., has announced sampling of a low-power CODEC and an FM transmitter, targeting portable music players, and expects to start mass production in the second half of 2007.

Mondowave has approximately 10 patents in progress pertaining to its technology, including amplifier technology that facilitates very low power dissipation.

The Mondowave acquisition represents Leadis' continued diversification strategy. In January, Leadis announced its plan to expand its business beyond display driver ICs. The company has launched internal efforts in LED drivers and touch-sensor technology products to capitalize on synergies with its display driver business, as well as its existing engineering talent in analog and mixed-signal applications.

“The addition of Mondowave is a key growth component to supplement our internal expansion efforts beyond display driver ICs,” said Tony Alvarez, president and CEO of Leadis Technology. “With the convergence of mobile devices using video and audio components, this combination will allow Leadis to provide higher silicon content into consumer mobile devices.”

The Mondowave team will join Leadis. Tim Massey, CEO of Mondowave, will serve as Leadis' vice president and general manager of audio products, and Cary Delano, Mondowave's COO and CTO, will serve as Leadis' vice president and COO of audio products.

Under terms of the agreement, Leadis will acquire all of Mondowave's outstanding common stock for $8 million in cash.

For more information, visit www.leadis.com.