SigmaTel acquires DDX digital amplifier technology

SigmaTel Inc., a mixed-signal multimedia semiconductor company, has acquired the Direct Digital Amplification (DDX) technology, design team and intellectual property from Apogee Technology Inc. for an undisclosed amount. DDX is a class-D digital amplifier technology that converts digital audio directly into power without the need for a DAC. The technology boasts of an all digital solution with a high efficiency level for small form factor designs and low power dissipation than average analog solutions.

SigmaTel plans to integrate the DDX amplifier technology into its current and future audio codecs for smaller form factors, longer battery life, and lower BOM costs for consumer electronics manufacturers.

The acquisition will give SigmaTel six patents and patent applications, and an engineering and sales team in Boston and in Asia.

"SigmaTel continues to look at opportunities to diversify its business and integrate greater functionality into its product family allowing our customers to offer products they couldn't deliver before at a lower cost," said Ron Edgerton, SigmaTel's president and CEO. "The acquisition of the DDX technology allows SigmaTel to offer its customers a more powerful and robust high definition audio solution that can be designed into future consumer audio products."

Companies that currently use DDX technology include Sony, Fujitsu, Microsoft, Toshiba, Hitachi, RCA, Philips, Sharp, Kenwood, JBL and LG.