Qualcomm Buys DesignArt Networks

Qualcomm has accuired DesignArt Networks, an Israel based developer of small cell modem and system design for cellular base stations and wireless backhaul infrastructure. The company did not disclose how much it is paying, although it is speculated to be in the region of US$120-140 million.

DesignArt offers system-on-chip (SoC) and software products that enable the design of indoor and outdoor small cell base stations and remote radio heads. DesignArt’s technology also offers integrated line-of-sight and non-line-of-sight wireless backhaul to reduce the cost of outdoor small cell deployments.

Qualcomm Atheros president Craig Baratt said “DesignArt and its products will both enhance and accelerate our initiatives to drive increased capacity and coverage in mobile networks.”

With this acquisition, Qualcomm adds the DesignArt LTE and backhaul solutions to its existing portfolio of small cell base station technologies and Wi-Fi, Ethernet and passive optical networking (PON) connectivity solutions.

DesignArt was founded in 2006 and has raised $30 million from Carmel Ventures, Magma Venture Partners and Motorola Ventures. The company also received a loan from the Plenus Venture Lending Fund.