Wifi Revolution

Comarco (News - Alert) has signed a definitive agreement for the sale of its wireless test solutions (WTS) business to Ascom Holding AG, an international solution provider with comprehensive technological know-how in mission-critical communications.

 

Founded in 1985, Comarco's WTS business has been an innovative provider of wireless network testing products that enable operators to optimize quality of service while minimizing capital investments.

 

As per the terms of agreement, Comarco will receive approximately $12.75 million in cash, with a portion of the cash purchase proceeds to be placed in escrow.

 

The closing of the proposed transaction is anticipated to occur in the fourth quarter of Comarco's current fiscal year.

 

"The sale of WTS represents another very important step in Comarco's strategy to focus our resources on expanding our promising ChargeSource business," said Sam Inman, president and chief executive officer of Comarco, in a statement. "In addition, the divestiture should allow us to dramatically reduce our operating costs. We have worked closely with Ascom (News - Alert) since late 2006 on the development and marketing of our recently introduced Symphony Quality of Service (QoS) benchmarking product for cellular networks. This transaction is a natural extension of our close relationship."

 

Based in Lake Forest, California, Comarco is a pioneer in mobile power solutions through its ChargeSource line of multi-function universal mobile power products, which can simultaneously power and charge multiple devices such as notebook computers, mobile phones, BlackBerry (News - Alert) smartphones, iPods, and many other rechargeable mobile devices. Comarco is also a provider of wireless test solutions.

 

In late 2006, Ascom Mobile Test Solutions (MTS (News - Alert)) and Comarco's WTS established a global alliance to develop the next-generation QoS benchmarking product, called Symphony. The product was completed and marketing began in late 2007.

 

With the exchange and integration of technologies through this effort, the two companies view the acquisition as the next logical step in their market and product development plans. Comarco's experience in multiple technology environments, including CDMA systems technology, coupled with its deep in house radio frequency expertise, scanning hardware and extensive knowledge of the U.S. market compliments Ascom's expertise in the European domain.

 

"This acquisition will significantly strengthen Ascom's position in the global market for mobile QoS and stationary network testing," said Dr. Fritz Gantert, general manager, security solutions for Ascom.

"We will be able to leverage the success of the growing Symphony product line, placing engineering and support resources closer to our customers, while offering an extended range of products tailored to the needs of individual markets,” added Dr. Gantert.

 

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