Wednesday, January 11, 2006

Microchip Gets Patent Win At BMW

Chandler Arizona-based Microchip Technology (MCHP) has scored a win with German automaker BMW, the company is reporting today. Microchip said that BMW will license its patents covering the use of microcontrollers and microprocessors in battery monitoring sensors. Microchip acquired the technology as part of its acquisition of PowerSmart in 2002. Financial terms were not disclosed. BMW develops battery and power-monitoring sensors in automotive applications. Microchip's patents cover the integration of digital components with analog current sensors.