Topic: How To Invest

Pat: What is your view on Atmel Corp.? Thank you.

Article Excerpt

Atmel, $12.29, symbol ATML on Nasdaq (Shares outstanding: 461.5 million; Market cap: $5.7 billion; www.atmel.com), designs, develops and makes computer chips and electronics used to transmit and receive wireless signals. The company supplies complete “computer-on-a-chip” microprocessors. Atmel sells its products to clients in a variety of industries, including communications, consumer electronics, security, automotive, military and aerospace. In the three months ended December 31, 2010, the company’s sales rose 33.2%, to $457.8 million from $343.6 million. Earnings per share jumped to $0.18 from $0.02. The company continues to benefit from the rising use of microprocessors in a range of products, including smart meters, battery-powered devices, home and building automation, and point-of-sale terminals. Atmel is also gaining in the expanding touch-screen market. Sales of its maXTouch products to major smartphone makers are rising. As well, large technology companies like Samsung, Nikon and Lexmark are using Atmel’s technology in their tablet computers, netbooks, cameras, printers and automotive electronic systems. The company holds cash of…