NeoPhotonics announces definitive agreement to acquire semiconductor optical BU of LAPIS

USA: NeoPhotonics Corp., a leading designer and manufacturer of photonic integrated circuit, or PIC, based modules and subsystems for bandwidth-intensive, high speed communications networks, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the semiconductor optical components business unit (OCU) of LAPIS Semiconductor Co. Ltd.

LAPIS Semiconductor is a wholly-owned subsidiary of ROHM Co. Ltd. OCU is to be acquired by NeoPhotonics Semiconductor GK, a Japanese subsidiary of NeoPhotonics.

Today’s rapidly accelerating demand for bandwidth is driving increasing needs for capable, scalable telecommunication networks. These advanced network systems are increasingly relying upon photonic integration technologies based on advanced components and scalable device integration approaches.

This transaction is intended to further accelerate the development of NeoPhotonics Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) technology by coupling complex optical devices and analog semiconductor ICs within the same platform. In addition, the NeoPhotonics technology portfolio would expand to include high speed semiconductor devices for signal generation and amplification, which are designed to enable advanced modulation methodologies, enhanced performance, and reduced power consumption in communications networks.

“We are excited about signing this definitive acquisition agreement as LAPIS Semiconductor OCU is a leading provider of high speed devices for communications,” said Tim Jenks, NeoPhotonics chairman and CEO.

“LAPIS Semiconductor OCU provides a broad range of lasers, drivers, and detectors for high speed 100G applications. We believe the company’s technologies are well-suited for data rates in optical networks beyond 100G as well. We also believe this acquisition can enhance our ability to provide customers with innovative and technologically advanced optical communication products, which can benefit our customers as they strive to accelerate the delivery of scalable high speed and high bandwidth connectivity.

“The transaction is a natural step in the relationship between NeoPhotonics and LAPIS Semiconductor OCU, as the businesses have been collaborating closely on high speed coherent technology development for the past four years. Further we plan to leverage our existing sales channels after the acquisition, as the two businesses serve many common customers. The transaction will provide NeoPhotonics with revenue from OCU’s advanced lasers and drivers used in many of today’s 100G client-side data transmission modules.”