Logitech 2005 Annual Report Download - page 64

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SDKs for force feedback joysticks and wheels, mice, keyboards, cameras and headsets. The SDKs are used in
many of the top-selling console games and make it easy for users to leverage the latest features of Logitech’s
gaming peripherals. The Company’s line of advanced universal remote controls is powered by Smart State
Technology®software, that allows one touch control of any home entertainment system.
Database
Logitech’s acquisition, in 2004, of Intrigue Technologies, Inc. brought with it a large and growing database
of information about consumer technology devices. Information contained in the Harmony Remote Database
includes rich sets of characteristics for a large number of consumer devices, ranging from older devices to the
latest offerings. This information used in conjunction with the Smart State Technology software gives users full
control of their devices, even if they are not aware of the capabilities of their home entertainment devices.
Audio
The Company’s audio development resources cover a wide range of audio technologies. In speaker systems,
Logitech uses advanced computer aided design tools for amplifier and PCB design. Sophisticated laser and PC-
based technologies support speaker transducer design. For headsets, in-house engineering and testing technology
ensure high-resolution voice recognition microphones. Computer aided design and in-house rapid prototyping
technology speed the overall process and help ensure that products meet design and performance goals.
Research and Development
Logitech believes that continued investment in product research and development is critical to its success.
The Company believes that its international structure provides advantages and synergies to its overall product
development efforts. Logitech’s product research and development activities are mainly carried out at
engineering centers located in Romanel-sur-Morges, Switzerland; Hsinchu, Taiwan; Fremont, California;
Vancouver, Washington; Mississauga, Canada; and Seefeld, Germany.
Logitech’s Swiss engineering center provides the Company with advanced sensing and cordless
technologies. In addition, the Swiss center is a convenient point for gaining access to leading European
technologies. Logitech has been successful in recruiting and retaining top engineering graduates from leading
Swiss universities because it is one of the few personal computer technology companies with research and
development activities in Switzerland.
Through its Taiwanese subsidiary, the Company has established access to key Asian markets, engineering
resources and high-tech manufacturing. Taiwan is a world leader in manufacturing and engineering. In particular,
Taiwan is a world leader in the design and manufacture of semiconductors, notebook computers, scanners, monitors
and related products, and possesses a concentration of companies that specialize in advanced plastic injection blow
molding and tooling. Moreover, the common language of Taiwan and China facilitates the transfer of products from
the Company’s engineering launch site in Taiwan to its high-volume manufacturing site in China.
The location of the Company’s Fremont, California facility allows Logitech access to Silicon Valley’s talent
pool, particularly important in the development of Internet applications, software and video technologies. In
addition, this location in the midst of the world’s leading technology market enables the Company to compile
market intelligence to define and position products and develop key strategic alliances.
Logitech’s Vancouver, Washington engineering center designs and develops the Company’s audio products.
The facility specializes in acoustic research and development, including model and simulation work. Areas of
development cover cordless audio applications, demanding applications for audio input such as voice
recognition, and audio output for PC speakers. Test capabilities include theoretical environments in an anechoic
chamber, real-world environments for office settings, and pre-compliance testing.
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