LONDON, UK: EnSilica (AIM:ENSI), a leading chip maker of mixed signal ASICs (“Application Specific Integrated Circuits”), announced the hiring of an ASIC implementation team, comprising of six skilled engineers, and the purchase of related non-core IP assets from Blu Wireless Technologies Limited (“Blu Wireless”).

The Blu Wireless team will strengthen EnSilica’s presence in advanced node ASIC design and implementation, having developed expertise across various Taiwan Semiconductor manufacturing. Company Ltd (“TSMC”) technologies from 28nm down to 7nm fin-shaped field-effect transistors (“FinFet”).

The Company has acquired the related design flow IP used by the team from Blu Wireless for a non-material cash payment.

The new team will be located in EnSilica’s new Bristol facility, which will give EnSilica the opportunity to take advantage of the excellent engineering talent in the area.

In addition, EnSilica will partner with Blu Wireless to support the deployment of Blu Wireless’ high performance communication processor IP solution called HYDRA.. EnSilica will be acting as the ASIC design and fabless semiconductor supplier.

Blu Wireless is a Bristol based technology company, backed by Arm, Renesas, Calculus Capital and others, specialising in wireless mmWave multi-gigabit applications through high performance, scalable and flexible  equipment, deployed across complex environments in defence, 5G cellular networks, smart cities and high-speed transport.

Ian Lankshear, Chief Executive Officer of EnSilica plc commented: “We are delighted to be welcoming such a skilled and experienced team to EnSilica, which we believe will form a strong platform to attract talent in the Bristol area, alongside strengthening EnSilica’s presence in advanced node ASIC implementation.

Working closely with Blu Wireless, as a quality silicon proven IP provider, enhances EnSilica’s offering in the satellite communication and 5G markets, driven by their multi-gigabit silicon products specialising in low-power consumption.”

Alan Jones, Chief Executive Officer Blu Wireless added: “We look forward to working with EnSilica and the exciting opportunities that this partnership will bring. Blu Wireless already has a strong customer engagement track record, which we believe will be further enhanced by this partnership.”