Profile: Universal Electronics Inc (UEIC.O)

Universal Electronics Inc., incorporated in 1986, is engaged in developing universal wireless control products and audio-video accessories that are marketed for the home entertainment systems. It also develop software and firmware solutions that can enable devices, such as televisions, set-top boxes, stereos, automotive audio systems, cell phones and other consumer electronic products to wirelessly connect and interact with home networks and interactive services to deliver digital entertainment and information. The markets served by the Company include retail, private label, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), custom installers, automobile, cellular phone, subscription broadcasting, cable and satellite service providers and companies in the computing industry. On February 18, 2009, the Company acquired universal remote control business from Zilog Inc. (Zilog). The purchase included Zilog’s full library and database of infrared codes, and software tools.

The Company provides multiple systems operators (MSOs), namely cable operators and satellite service providers, both domestically and internationally, with its universal remote control devices and integrated circuits, on which its software and infrared (IR) code database is embedded, to support the demand associated with the deployment of digital set-top boxes. It also sells the universal wireless control devices and integrated circuits, on which the software is embedded, to OEMs that manufacture cable converters and satellite receivers for resale with their products. The Company also sells customized chips, which include the software and/or customized software packages. During the year ended December 31, 2008, One For All brand name products accounted for 15.6% of the total sales.

The One For All X-sight is a remote control device that utilizes a touch screen liquid crystal display (LCD) to augment the user experience for both set-up and operation. The Company launched three new products for the custom installer market. It included NevoQ50; NevoConnect NC-50 base station, and NevoStudio Pro programming software. In January 2008, the Company released the NevoS70. The NevoS70 combines all the technology of the Nevo Q50 with access to Web-based services to deliver real-time information, such as news, sports and stock quotes; extended battery life; and the ability to view and control any device that has a compatible embedded Web server, such as many Web-based cameras and media servers.

The Company competes with Philips Consumer Electronics, Thomson, Sony, AMX, RTI, Universal Remote Control, Logitech, Ruwido and Control4.