Analog Devices Takes Advantage of Unique Business Environment in Oulu

19-10-2007
Global semiconductor company Analog Devices, Inc., opened a product development center in Oulu, Finland, in spring 2007.

As the world leader in data conversion and signal conditioning technology, Analog Devices (ADI) serves over 60,000 customers representing virtually all types of electronic equipment. The US-based microchip company opened its Oulu development center to specialize in power management chips for the rapidly growing portable electronics market. "ADI management was familiar with Oulu's reputation as a hitech powerhouse and business environment and knew that the product development expertise the company needed was here," says Juha Nikula, site manager at Analog Devices, Finland. Analog Devices employs 14 electronic engineers and support staff in Oulu and, according to Nikula, will triple that figure in the near future. The company also has a sales office located in Espoo, Finland.

Cooperation and engineers

Nikula says that Analog Devices´ decision to locate in Oulu was influenced by the portable electronics industry know-how available in the area, the availability of qualified employees, and the reputation of Oulu's electrical engineers. Semiconductor design requires a wide range of specialized expertise in analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing. "Oulu features an active university, established global companies, and VTT Technical Research Center of Finland, a top research institution - all engaged in unique cooperation,´ adds Nikula. “Oulu also is an affordable place to live. Additionally, ADI employees are committed to their work because semiconductor product development is a rewarding, long-term effort.´ Analog Devices plans to soon move to a state-of-the-art location, which will include a test laboratory and development environment for production test solutions.

Mobile power management

ADI´s product development center in Oulu concentrates on developing microchips for power management in portable electronics, including battery-operated digital cameras, video cameras, mobile phones and laptops. Based on customer specifications, the products are designed and tested in ADI´s Oulu development center. "In portable electronics, the goal is to extend battery life as much as possible by improving energy efficiency,´ says Nikula. And when you finally do have to recharge the battery, your device will do it safely and as quickly as possible," says Nikula. ADI´s power management expertise helps manufacturers bring to market the portable electronics products consumers want.