Altera Corporation · San Jose, CA United States ·(NASDAQ (GS): ALTR)

Altera can't just take one byte out of a chip. The fabless semiconductor company specializes in research and development of high-density programmable logic devices (PLDs) -- integrated circuits, or chips, that OEMs program to perform logic functions in electronic systems. PLDs are an alternative to custom-designed chips, and offer a quick, reduced cost solution. Altera outsources fabrication of the devices to semiconductor foundry TSMC. Altera PLDs are used in communications network gear, consumer electronics, and industrial equipment. PLD sales rely heavily on a network of distributors; Arrow accounts for over 45% of sales. End users outside North America drive about three-quarters of Altera's sales. To read the full description, subscribe now.