Macroblock up to third position in LED driver ICs market

WELLINGBOROUGH, UK: The LED driver ICs market grew 26 percent in 2010 to reach $1 billion, according to IMS Research. Macroblock Inc. was the only top 5 supplier who exceeded this growth, increasing its revenue share to 6 percent. Ranked 9th in 2006, they have made significant strides within the signage segment and are the third ranked supplier in 2010.

“Even without any significant sales in LCD backlighting, Macroblock’s revenue grew impressively by 44 percent in 2010,” said Mitess Nandha, LED driver IC analyst at IMS Research. Macroblock’s primary focus area is signage (including videowalls).Source: IMS Research, UK.

Texas Instruments Inc (TXN) remained the dominant supplier, with 17 percent of the market in 2010. With the acquisition of National Semiconductor Corp. (NSM) not expected to close until late 2011, they remain separate entities in 2011. “Theoretically, if you combine both TI’s and NSC’s revenues, you would have an entity commanding nearly a quarter of this industry,” commented Mitess.Source: IMS Research, UK.

Advanced Analogic Tech Inc. (AATI) and Maxim Integrated Products Inc. (MXIM) make up the remaining top five suppliers. Both have been diversifying their product offerings to eliminate their dependence on the mobile backlighting area. Maxim seems to have had better success as they have risen while AATI have fallen in the market share rankings. Interestingly, AATI’s mobile expertise is one of the drivers for why they are being acquired by Skyworks Solutions Inc (SWKS).

Suppliers focusing primarily on illumination have shown good growth. Although they have not broken into the top five, they are moving up the rankings.