Broadcom to Acquire Gigle Networks

Broadcom Corp. has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Gigle Networks Inc., a privately-held company that develops system-on-a-chip (SoC) solutions for home networking over power lines.

When combined with Broadcom's world-class portfolio of wired and wireless solutions for the home, Gigle Networks' technology will widen the breadth of Broadcom's intellectual property and enable the design of more highly integrated SoCs that allow whole-home network coverage in a wide variety of global deployment scenarios. By adding powerline to its technology portfolio, Broadcom will be able to provide additional functionality to its customers in broadband home segments including set-top box, broadband carrier access and wireless router.

Powerline networking uses existing electrical wiring to create an in-home network, enabling a cost-effective and efficient method to connect multiple devices and distribute digital content throughout the home. Gigle Networks' powerline networking technology is HomePlug AV certified and is designed to be compliant with the IEEE 1901 standard for high speed powerline communications. Gigle Networks is a member of the HomePlug Powerline Alliance, an organization responsible for establishing standards and testing devices for compliance and interoperability. HomePlug AV and IEEE 1901 solutions complement other networking technologies for the connected home. For example, a combined home network of powerline networking, MoCA and Wi-Fi enhances advanced applications like high definition video streaming, enabling a whole-home connected environment. The acquisition will also accelerate Broadcom's time to market for G.hn, a new draft specification for existing-wire home networking, developed under the International Telecommunication Union.

Broadcom