MALVERN, Pa., 17 Aug. 2008. There may be a shakeup soon in the power integrated circuit (IC) business that could lead to further consolidation in industry. Vishay Intertechnology Inc. has offered to acquire International Rectifier Corp. in El Segundo, Calif., for $1.6 billion.

The International Rectifier board of directors has agreed to consider Vishay's unsolicited proposal, and "make a determination in due course," company officials say. Vishay made its offer to buy International Rectifier late on 15 Aug.

International Rectifier sold its power-control systems business to Vishay in 2006 for $290 million to focus on high-performance semiconductors and other advanced power-management products, company officials say.

Vishay and International Rectifier provide power semiconductors and related products for military, aerospace, industrial, and commercial applications. Vishay provides discrete semiconductors and passive components. International Rectifier provides digital, analog, and mixed-signal integrated circuits, advanced circuit devices, power systems, and components.

Vishay has fueled its recent growth primarily through acquisitions. Among the industry brands that Vishay owns are Dale, Sfernice, Draloric, Sprague, Vitramon, Siliconix, General Semiconductor, BCcomponents, and Beyschlag.

For more information contact Vishay online at www.vishay.com, or International Rectifier at www.irf.com.