CommScope to acquire Argus Technologies

BANGALORE, INDIA: CommScope has signed an agreement to acquire Argus Technologies, a leading producer of innovative antenna solutions for wireless applications. The terms of the agreement are not being disclosed. The acquisition is expected to be completed by the end of the third quarter of 2011.

Argus Technologies, headquartered in Bella Vista, New South Wales, Australia, provides a wide array of high performance, high technology antennas for base stations, stadiums and venues, and other wireless applications. The company has become a well-respected global competitor in the wireless network antenna market since its founding in 1994 by Dr. Bevan Jones, John Bonello and Danny Schwotzer.

The acquisition will enable CommScope to broaden its antenna solutions portfolio, deepen its research and development capabilities, strengthen its global market presence and accelerate its growth in the wireless market.

“We are very excited to work with the distinguished team from Argus and look forward to building upon their excellent technology, proven innovation and specialized solutions such as high capacity antennas for large venues,” said Paul Bell, senior vice president and general manager, Base Station Antennas and Microwave Products. “Argus will be a strong fit for us as we continue to support wireless operators globally in their evolution to new technologies and their drive to meet the ever-increasing bandwidth needs of consumers and businesses.”

The demand for bandwidth and growth in network traffic continues to drive wireless carriers, enterprises and broadband service providers to invest in communications infrastructure. Wireless subscriber growth in developing markets, the adoption of 3G and 4G services in more mature markets, and network coverage needs inside buildings, tunnels and other hard-to-reach locations are key growth catalysts for the wireless market. CommScope solutions span the entire radio frequency (RF) landscape, helping wireless carriers manage increasing cell site complexity and optimize network planning, capacity, coverage, and performance.

Argus’ top operating executives—John Bonello, managing director, and Bevan Jones, group technology director—are expected to continue in active roles with the business upon completion of the acquisition.

“We’re pleased to join CommScope, and look forward to pairing our antenna research and technology strengths with a company that already is a respected global leader in RF solutions for wireless network infrastructure,” said Bonello. “We believe that by combining our strong and complementary antenna technologies we can provide even better solutions as wireless customers evolve their networks around the globe.”

CommScope will fund the acquisition from cash on hand and funds available under its revolving credit facility.