Microsemi, a leading semiconductor and system solutions provider, was acquired by Microchip Technology in 2018, becoming a key part of Microchip’s expanded portfolio. With a rich history of innovation, Microsemi specialized in high-reliability semiconductors, aerospace and defense electronics, power management, and secure computing solutions, complementing Microchip’s expertise in embedded control and connectivity.
Founded in 1960, Microsemi grew from a small component supplier to a global leader in mission-critical semiconductor technologies. Over the decades, it expanded through strategic acquisitions, including companies like PMC-Sierra (2016) and Vitesse Semiconductor (2015), strengthening its positions in data center, telecommunications, and industrial markets. By the time of its acquisition by Microchip, Microsemi had established a reputation for producing components that meet stringent standards for reliability, durability, and performance in extreme environments.
Microsemi’s product offerings, now integrated into Microchip’s lineup, include:
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Aerospace & Defense Electronics: Radiation-hardened microprocessors, FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays), and power management devices designed for satellite systems, avionics, and military applications, where failure is not an option.
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Power Management Solutions: AC-DC converters, DC-DC regulators, and energy-efficient ICs for industrial, automotive, and telecom infrastructure, optimizing power usage in complex systems.
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Secure Computing: Cryptographic chips, secure boot solutions, and hardware-based security protocols for data centers, IoT devices, and critical infrastructure, protecting against cyber threats.
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Timing & Synchronization: Precision oscillators and clock generators for telecommunications networks, ensuring accurate data transmission in 5G and fiber-optic systems.
Microsemi’s technologies are integral to industries requiring high performance and reliability:
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Aerospace & Defense: Used in satellites, rockets, military vehicles, and radar systems, where components must withstand radiation, extreme temperatures, and mechanical stress.
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Telecommunications: Powering 5G base stations, network switches, and fiber-optic equipment, enabling high-speed data transfer and network stability.
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Industrial & Automotive: Supporting factory automation, electric vehicles (EVs), and smart grid systems with robust power management and control solutions.
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Data Centers: Enhancing server efficiency, storage systems, and cloud infrastructure with secure, high-performance semiconductors.
Following the 2018 acquisition, Microchip integrated Microsemi’s product lines to create a more comprehensive portfolio, spanning from microcontrollers (MCUs) and analog ICs to FPGAs and security solutions. This integration allowed Microchip to better serve customers in aerospace, defense, industrial, and automotive markets, offering end-to-end solutions for embedded systems and critical infrastructure.
Microsemi’s legacy lies in its focus on “trustworthy technology”—components that deliver consistent performance in life-critical and high-stakes environments. Its emphasis on reliability and security aligns with Microchip’s commitment to long-term product support, making the combined entity a preferred partner for industries where downtime and failure are unacceptable.
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