In order to resist competition from the side of Taiwan producers, Japanese company NEC plans to substantially reduce prices of USB 3.0 controllers microcircuits first and second generations. This must occur in the fourth quarter. However, in the first quarter next year will be released the following generation models, which will be characterized by the increased productivity and energy effectiveness, and in this case cost cheaper than $2.
Now NEC company, first released USB 3.0 controller and certified it in USB-IF, to NEC belong more than 90% of appropriate market. According to available data, one controller cost $6-8. Reduction in prices is required to hold in control the leading position due to competition from aSMedia technology, VIA technology, Etron technology and Fresco logic companies.
ASMedia company supplies its controllers with wholesale price of $1,7-1,8 per piece.
Before beginning the deliveries of USB 3.0 microcircuits it is necessary to obtain for its production the certificate USB-IF , from the mentioned above companies only Fresco logic got this certificate. Thus, Taiwan producers hardly will begin the deliveries of USB 3.0 controllers earlier than October or November.
To compensate losses from price reduction NEC expects due to the license deductions. In the number of most important licensees OF NEC, who acquired rights for the developments in the USB 3.0 region, were named AMD, Intel and Microsoft.