Silicon Wave

About Silicon Wave

Founded in 1997, Silicon Wave established itself as a key supplier of radio frequency integrated circuits (RFICs) from its headquarters in San Diego, California. The company specialized in designing and manufacturing RF systems-on-a-chip (SoCs) tailored for the wireless and broadband communication sectors. Its core business involved supplying these advanced semiconductor components to a variety of technology firms.

Silicon Wave's product portfolio was centered on integrated circuits for wireless personal area networks (WPANs), with a significant focus on Bluetooth technology. These components were integral to a range of consumer and business applications, including mobile handsets for tier-one manufacturers, as well as headsets, printers, and PC peripherals. The firm operated by developing and providing these critical RF communication system components to the broader market.

A significant milestone in the company's trajectory occurred in May 2004, when it was acquired by RF Micro Devices (now Qorvo). The acquisition, valued at approximately $10.8 million, involved RFMD purchasing all remaining shares of Silicon Wave. This strategic move was aimed at integrating Silicon Wave's Bluetooth technology and product portfolio into RFMD's newly formed wireless connectivity business unit, enhancing its capabilities in the rapidly expanding Bluetooth market.