Cadence to acquire AWR Corp from National Instruments to boost system innovation for 5G

San Jose, California-based software firm Cadence Design Systems is buying virtual instrumentation software provider National Instruments’s subsidiary AWR for about $160 million.

The deal is expected to help Cadence expand its presence in intelligent system design space. 

Under the deal, which is expected to close in the first quarter of 2020, about 110 AWR employees will join Cadence. The deal will be closed after regulatory approvals, according to a joint statement.

Formerly known as Applied Wave Research, California-based AWR Corporation develops, sells and supports engineering software. It provides a computer-based environment for the design of hardware for wireless and high-speed digital products. AWR Corp will bring in its radio frequency (RF) team to Cadence.

AWR was acquired by Texas headquartered NI in 2011 and its core strength lies in RF design automation tools, especially those needed in 5G development. The company claims its technology helps customers accelerate the design and product development cycle of systems used in communications, aerospace and defence, semiconductor, computer, and consumer electronics, by helping reduce the time it takes to go from concept to manufacturing.

“The addition of AWR’s talent and technologies will enable us to provide more integrated and optimized RF design solutions, thereby further accelerating system innovation as we execute our intelligent system design strategy,” said Anirudh Devgan, president, Cadence.

Cadence and NI have also entered into a strategic alliance agreement to expand their relationship to enhance electronic system innovation with a focus on communications, the statement added. 

“Companies designing communication and radar chips, modules and systems face increasing time-to-market pressure in high-growth 5G/wireless applications. Creating differentiated products while reducing cycle time requires a seamless design, simulation and analysis environment,” added Devgan.