National Semiconductor, also known as National Semiconductor Corporation, was a prominent American semiconductor manufacturer and technology company that played a significant role in the development of integrated circuits and analog technologies.
Product Categories
Analog - Amplifiers | Analog - Buffers | Analog - Comparators |
Analog - Data Acquisition | Analog - Display Circuits | Analog - Flat Panel Display |
Analog - Interface | Analog - References | Analog - Temp. Sensors |
Analog - Regulators | Analog - Other | Audio |
Automotive | Micro controllers | Microprocessor |
Microprocessor Support | Military/Aerospace | Networks |
Personal Computing | Telecommunications | Wireless Communications |
Wireless Base Station | ||
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- National Semiconductor became well-known for its analog and mixed-signal integrated circuits (ICs), including operational amplifiers, voltage regulators, analog-to-digital converters, and other analog components.
- The company also developed a variety of digital ICs, microprocessors, and other semiconductor products.
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Notable Achievements:
- National Semiconductor made significant contributions to the semiconductor industry with innovations in analog technologies.
- The company was known for its high-performance analog products and power management solutions.
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Brands and Acquisitions:
- National Semiconductor acquired various companies and brands over the years. Notably, they acquired Fairchild Semiconductor in 1987, a historic semiconductor company.
- The acquisition of Cyrix Corporation in the 1990s also marked National Semiconductor's entry into the x86 microprocessor market.
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Shifts and Restructuring:
- In the early 2000s, National Semiconductor underwent restructuring efforts, divesting certain business units and focusing on its core strengths.
- In 2011, Texas Instruments (TI) acquired National Semiconductor for approximately $6.5 billion. The acquisition strengthened TI's position in the analog semiconductor market.
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Legacy:
- National Semiconductor left a lasting legacy in the semiconductor industry, particularly in analog and mixed-signal technologies.
- Many of the products and innovations developed by National Semiconductor continue to influence the design and development of electronic systems.