SAN JOSE, Calif., and COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., August 1, 2008 --Programmable solutions leader Cypress Semiconductor Corp. (NYSE: CY) and Simtek Corp. (Nasdaq:SMTK), the world's leading supplier of nonvolatile static random access memory (nvSRAM) integrated circuits, today announced that they have reached an agreement whereby Cypress will acquire Simtek in an all cash transaction for $2.60 per share of Simtek common stock, or an aggregate value of approximately $46 million (including the value of Simtek shares held by Cypress).
The transaction will be structured as a cash tender offer for all of the outstanding shares of Simtek common stock and is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. The transaction is expected to close in or prior to the fourth calendar quarter of 2008.
Simtek's nvSRAMs provide the high-speed memory access of standard SRAMs (15-ns access time), but retain data when power is turned off-a feature critical to applications where secure data storage is essential to system functionality. This combination of features makes the devices ideal for applications requiring critical data retention under almost any operating conditions, such as RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) data storage, industrial controls, military and avionics, medical patient monitoring and automotive systems.
Cypress currently holds approximately four-percent of Simtek's outstanding common stock and has been marketing and licensing Simtek's technology since engaging in a joint product development agreement with Simtek in March 2006.
"Simtek's nvSRAM technology combines with our S8 (0.13-micron) design platform to provide outstanding features and functions for the embedded marketplace," said Ahmad Chatila, executive vice president of Cypress's Memory and Imaging Division. "We are looking to integrate this technology into many of our products, including our PSoC® Programmable System-on-Chip™, providing a highly integrated control and power failure solution for complex analog and digital systems."
Robert Pearson, chairman of the board of Simtek, added: "This is the result of a long and rigorous process of evaluating the Company's strategic alternatives. Cypress's global presence and manufacturing muscle along with its longstanding expertise in SRAMs will accelerate acceptance of Simtek's world-class nvSRAM technology by broader markets and application areas. Simtek's worldwide team of technical and business professionals is excited to become a part of Cypress's globally recognized and respected team."
About Simtek
Simtek Corp. designs and markets "NV + fast SRAM" non-volatile semiconductor memory products for use in a variety of systems including RAID servers, storage arrays, GPS navigational systems, industrial controllers, robotics, copiers, avionics, metering, consumer, UPS, and networking and broadcast equipment. Information on Simtek products can be obtained from its web site: http://app.cypress.com/portal/. The company is headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colo.
About Cypress
Cypress delivers high-performance, mixed-signal, programmable solutions that provide customers with rapid time-to-market and exceptional system value. Cypress offerings include the PSoC® Programmable System-on-Chip™, USB controllers, general-purpose programmable clocks and memories. Cypress also offers wired and wireless connectivity solutions ranging from its WirelessUSB™ radio system-on-chip, to West Bridge™ and EZ-USB® FX2LP controllers that enhance connectivity and performance in multimedia handsets. Cypress serves numerous markets including consumer, computation, data communications, automotive, industrial, and solar power. Cypress trades on the NYSE under the ticker symbol CY. Visit Cypress online at http://www.cypress.com/.