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Draft:Dolphin Semiconductor

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Overview

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Dolphin Semiconductor is a French-based semiconductor company specializing in low-power, mixed-signal intellectual property (IP) solutions. The company offers a wide range of advanced IP blocks designed for applications across consumer electronics, automotive, industrial IoT, and high-performance computing (HPC). With over 20 years of mixed-signal design expertise and a proven track record in power management and audio processing technologies, Dolphin Semiconductor aims to deliver energy-efficient, high-performance IP to meet the evolving demands of the semiconductor industry.

Formation and Investment by Jolt Capital

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Dolphin Semiconductor was established in 2024 following an acquisition and significant investment by Jolt Capital, a private equity firm focused on deep-tech investments. Jolt Capital acquired the mixed-signal IP activities of Dolphin Design, investing €26 million to create Dolphin Semiconductor as an independent entity. This strategic move is intended to expand Dolphin Semiconductor’s market presence and accelerate innovation in mixed-signal IP.

Products and Technology

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Dolphin Semiconductor’s offerings center around power management and audio IP solutions, designed to enable low-power operation and high-performance capabilities. Major product categories include:

- Power Management IP: Dolphin Semiconductor provides IP solutions such as DC-DC converters, Low Dropout (LDO) regulators, SIMO and other relevant voltage regulators IP, optimized for efficient power usage in a variety of applications.

- Audio Processing IP: The company offers audio solutions, including Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADCs), Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs), audio codecs classA/B+D, Voice Activity Detection (VAD) as well as Neuromorphic Audio front-end technology. These IP blocks are commonly implemented in high-quality audio systems, such as TWS (True Wireless Stereo) devices, hearing aids, and smart speakers.

- Timing Monitors and sensors: Dolphin Semiconductor’s high-resolution timing monitor IP, provides highly accurate, fully-digital in-situ system compensation for optimized efficiency, reliability, and silicon performance. It enables systems to operate at minimal voltage, enhancing power efficiency, while advanced status alarms and immediate feedback signals proactively manage potential issues, enabling preventive action and swift correction. Meerkat’s capabilities extend to aging and process variation management, allowing early detection for product longevity. Complementing this, Dolphin’s low-power Power-On Reset (POR) and Brown-Out Reset (BOR) monitors ensure stable supply operation with programmable thresholds and embedded voltage reference, enhancing overall system resilience and flexibility across a wide range of applications.

- Oscillator IP: Dolphin Semiconductor also develops ultra-low power oscillators capable to support 500ppm accuracy which makes them ideal for any wireless design battery operated and or cost sensitive.

Target Markets

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Dolphin Semiconductor’s IP solutions cater to several high-growth industries:

1. Industrial and IoT: Offering mixed-signal IP for industrial automation, IoT, and connected devices. 2. Consumer Electronics: Power management and audio IP tailored for devices such as smartphones, wearables, and tablets. 3. High-Performance Computing (HPC): Specialized IP solutions for data centers and AI applications, where energy efficiency and performance are critical. 4. Automotive: Providing reliable, energy-efficient IP for automotive infotainment and other systems.

Notable Achievements

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Dolphin Semiconductor is recognized for its innovative approach to energy-efficient IP. Its technology and extensive patent portfolio reflect ongoing advancements in power management and audio processing. Dolphin Semiconductor collaborates with leading semiconductor foundries, including TSMC, GlobalFoundries, and SMIC, ensuring compatibility across a variety of process nodes.

Leadership

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Dolphin Semiconductor is led by CEO Laurent Monge, appointed in 2024 following the acquisition by Jolt Capital. Monge brings significant industry experience, previously serving as President at Metrologic Group, and is focused on scaling Dolphin Semiconductor’s operations to address global semiconductor demands.

Future Plans

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With Jolt Capital’s investment, Dolphin Semiconductor is positioned to expand its research and development capabilities, explore new market opportunities, and further its impact in the semiconductor industry. The company is committed to innovating energy-efficient IP solutions that align with the global shift towards sustainability in electronic systems.

References

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