IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 29, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Microsemi Corporation (Nasdaq:MSCC), a leading manufacturer of high performance analog/mixed signal integrated circuits and high reliability semiconductors, has announced that the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has awarded $1.6 million on August 3, 2007 to allow Microsemi's Power Products Group (formerly Bend, Oregon-based Advanced Power Technology) to develop technology related to the use of silicon carbide RF power semiconductor components in military avionics applications.
The development of the new silicon carbide technology supports future designs of lighter and more efficient jet fighter avionics, communications and radar systems, and will enable substantial growth of Microsemi's operations in Bend. The AFRL program complements the initial license agreement with Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC), released in February 2006, wherein Microsemi will provide leading edge silicon carbide products to this leading defense contractor.
Silicon carbide brings several advantages in avionics applications, including increased reliability, extended battlespace coverage, point-of-use power conversion, and reduced size and cooling requirements. Silicon carbide plays a key role as battlefields become more networked and the demands for expanded bandwidth and high duty (power) operation increase significantly.
The AFRL contract with Microsemi will establish the company as an independent supplier who will bring forward the products and make them available in the commercial marketplace.
According to James J. Peterson, Microsemi President and CEO, "Microsemi is committed to being a technology innovator in the development of next generation silicon carbide products for defense and commercial applications. This commitment from AFRL is another example of the end customer support that we are receiving in the quest of being a silicon carbide leader."
About Microsemi Corporation
Microsemi, with corporate headquarters in Irvine, California, is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of high performance analog and mixed signal integrated circuits and high reliability semiconductors. The Company's semiconductors manage and control or regulate power, protect against transient voltage spikes and transmit, receive, and amplify signals.
Microsemi's products include individual components as well as integrated circuit solutions that enhance customer designs by improving performance and reliability, optimizing battery performance, reducing size or protecting circuits. The principal markets the company serves include defense, commercial air, satellite, medical, notebook computers, LCD TVs, mobile, and connectivity applications. More information may be obtained by contacting the company directly or by visiting its web site at http://www.microsemi.com.
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Investor Inquiries: David R. Sonksen, Microsemi Corporation, Irvine, CA (949) 221-7101.