Nordic VLSI ASA and Symmetry Electronics Corp., an emerging electronics company that provides value-added distribution of technology products, solutions and services to industrial and commercial markets, today announced their strategic distribution partnership.

Nordic VLSI has entered into an exclusive agreement with Symmetry Electronics making them the first North American company to distribute Nordic VLSI’s leading RF components for ISM/LPRD bands in the United States and Mexico.

Nordic VLSI ASA is a semiconductor company specializing in design solutions at the microchip level in the area of wireless communication. The company is a world leader in high-speed data converters and short-range radio communication. This strategic partnership with Symmetry Electronics, recently recognized as one of the nation’s top 50 distributors, will allow Nordic VLSI to expand its presence in North America and Mexico.

“Having worked in this industry for more than 20 years, I believe this is the first time I have seen a model for distribution success so clearly expressed,” said Svenn-Tore Larsen, CEO for Nordic VLSI. “After evaluating several potential companies, Symmetry Electronics emerged as the perfect partner for us with its value-added approach to distribution. Teaming up with Symmetry enforces Nordic VLSI’s strong commitment to Independent Sales Organizations.”

The partnership with Symmetry completes Nordic VLSI’s worldwide network of sales partners and distributors, offering the opportunity to realize solid growth in the North American market. The partnership will deliver a strong portfolio of solutions, such as the recent releases of the nRF903 (902-928MHz), and the nRF2401 (2.4GHz) which show promise to meet the needs of the North American markets.

“When Symmetry wanted an RF line from a company that was dedicated in this area and one that we could rely on for continuous development and world leading components, I investigated various RF components suppliers. It became clear that no company could compete with Nordic in terms of their technology and support,” said J. Darren O’Donnell, director of marketing & operations for Symmetry Electronics. “With our strong tradition in technical sales and an account development culture that enhances our product lines, Symmetry Electronics has the focus and business practices in place to partner with world class leaders such as Nordic VLSI.”

Symmetry Electronics is one of the industry’s fastest growing supplier authorized distribution companies. It combines classic distribution disciplines with progressive business solutions and technologies to leverage the desired results for its valued suppliers and customers. Symmetry’s product portfolio is designed to provide its customers with leading edge technology devices along with complementary commodity products and is supported by a host of value-added and customized services.

About Symmetry Electronics

Founded in 1998, Symmetry Electronics is an emerging electronics company that provides value-added distribution of technology products, solutions and services to industrial and commercial markets. The company’s offering includes electronic components, electronic manufacturing, display products and integration services.

The company’s products are available at any level of integration, from components to subsystem assemblies and fully-integrated, tested and certified system solutions. Symmetry Electronics is ISO9002 certified and authorized to sell more than 35 lines of semiconductors, passive products, electromechanical components and display products.

About Nordic VLSI ASA

Nordic VLSI is one of the leading European independent IC design houses developing, producing and delivering state-of-the-art integrated circuits for customers worldwide. The company was founded in 1983, has shown a strong growth and has now locations in Trondheim and Oslo in Norway. The company has special focus on components for wireless communication, mixed signal and complex digital and analogue integrated circuit design. Nordic VLSI is well positioned in the following market segments: RF, data and telecom, industrial, medical, automotive and consumer electronics. The company develops, markets and sells standard off the shelf integrated circuits, as well as integrated circuits based on customers specifications (ASICs).