Chipmaker, NetLogic Microsystems, is acquiring privately held fabless semiconductor provider, Optichron, for an initial $77 million in cash, to expand its footprint in the 4G LTE market. NetLogic will also assume about $22 million of restricted stock units for Optichron employees, who will join NetLogic. NetLogic will make payments of nearly an additional $108.5 million in cash to Optichron shareholders by March 31, 2013, and an additional $12.5 million in stock to Optichron employees. The deal, which is expected to complete in the second quarter of this year, is subject to customary closing conditions.

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