PC TEL INC - Annual Report: 2009 (Form 10-K)

 

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549

 

 

 

 

Form 10-K

 

 

Commission File Number 000-27115

 

PCTEL, Inc.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

 

 

(630) 372-6800

(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

 

 

 

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None.

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes o No  þ

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.  Yes o No  þ

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ     No o

 

Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on the company’s web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T ((§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was acquired to submit and post such files) ).  Yes o     No o

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  þ

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes o No  þ

 

As of June 30, 2009, the last business day of Registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter, there were 18,761,052 shares of Registrant’s common stock outstanding, and the aggregate market value of such shares held by non-affiliates of Registrant (based upon the closing sale price of such shares on the NASDAQ Global Market on June 30, 2009) was approximately $100,371,628. Shares of Registrant’s common stock held by each executive officer and director and by each entity that owns 5% or more of Registrant’s outstanding common stock have been excluded in that such persons may be deemed to be affiliates. This determination of affiliate status is not necessarily a conclusive determination for other purposes.

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

 

Certain sections of Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement relating to its 2010 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting to be held on June 8, 2010 are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The company intends to file its Proxy Statement within 120 days of its fiscal year end.

 

 

PCTEL, Inc.
Form 10-K
For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2009

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements include, among other things, statements concerning the future operations, financial condition and prospects, and business strategies. The words “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate” and other similar expressions generally identify forward-looking statements. Investors in the common stock are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause the future business, financial condition, or results of operations to differ materially from the historical results or currently anticipated results.

 

Overview

 

PCTEL, Inc. is a global leader in propagation and optimization solutions for the wireless industry. The company designs and develops software-based radios for wireless network optimization and develops and distributes innovative antenna solutions. The company’s scanning receivers, receiver-based products and interference management solutions are used to measure, monitor and optimize cellular networks. PCTEL’s antenna solutions address public safety, military, and government applications; Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (“SCADA”), Health Care, Energy, Smart Grid and Agricultural applications; Indoor Wireless, Wireless Backhaul, and cellular applications. Its portfolio includes a broad range of antennas for worldwide interoperability for microwave access (“WiMAX”), land mobile radio (“LMR”) antennas, and global positioning system (“GPS”) antennas that serve innovative applications in telemetry, radio frequency identification (“RFID”), Wi-Fi, fleet management, and mesh networks. PCTEL’s products are sold worldwide through direct and indirect channels.

 

On January 4, 2008, we sold our Mobility Solutions Group (“MSG”) to Smith Micro Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: SMSI) (“Smith Micro”). MSG produced mobility software products for Wi-Fi, cellular, IP Multimedia Subsystem (“IMS”), and wired applications. As required by GAAP, the consolidated financial statements separately reflect the MSG operations as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

 

PCTEL was incorporated in California in 1994 and reincorporated in Delaware in 1998. Our principal executive offices are located at 471 Brighton Drive, Bloomingdale, Illinois 60108. Our telephone number at that address is (630) 372-6800 and our web site is www.pctel.com. The contents of our web site are not incorporated by reference into this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

While we have both scanning receiver and antenna product lines, we operate in one business segment. The product lines share sufficient management and resources that the financial reporting upon which the Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”) relies upon for allocating resources and assessing performance, is based on company-wide data. In the continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively we had a reporting segment that licensed an intellectual property portfolio in the area of analog modem technology. Beginning in 2009, we re-evaluated the internal financial reporting process in which the CODM no longer reviews the financial information for Licensing. As of June 30, 2009, the revenues and cash flows associated with Licensing were substantially complete.

 

Antenna Products

 

PCTEL established its antenna product portfolio with a series of acquisitions starting with MAXRAD, Inc (“MAXRAD”), which was acquired in January 2004. MAXRAD’s antenna solutions consist of antennas designed to enhance the performance of broadband wireless, in-building wireless, wireless Internet service providers and LMR applications. With our October 2004 acquisition of certain antenna product lines from Andrew Corporation (“Andrew”), the product portfolio expanded to include GPS, satellite communications (“Mobile SATCOM”) and on-glass mobile antennas. On March 14, 2008, we acquired the assets of Bluewave Antenna Systems, Ltd (“Bluewave”). The Bluewave product line augments our LMR and private mobile radio (“PMR”) antenna product lines. On January 5, 2009 we acquired Wi-Sys Communications, Inc. (“Wi-Sys”). With the acquisition of Wi-Sys, we expanded our product offering of GPS, terrestrial and satellite communication systems and high performance

antennas for the telematics, mobile radio and precision GPS markets. On January 12, 2010, we acquired Sparco Technologies Inc., (“Sparco”) a San Antonio, Texas based company that specializes in selling value-added wireless local area network (“WLAN”) products and services to the enterprise, education, hospitality, and healthcare markets.

 

In July 2005, we purchased Sigma Wireless Technologies Limited (“Sigma”), located in Dublin, Ireland. Sigma provided universal mobile telecommunications systems (“UMTS”) integrated variable electrical tilt base stations antennas (“iVET”), PMR, and digital private mobile radio (“DPMR”) antenna products. In 2007, we exited operations related to our UMTS iVET antenna product line and on October 9, 2008, we sold the remaining antenna product lines and related assets from the Sigma acquisition to Sigma Wireless Technology Ltd, a Scotland-based company (“SWTS”). Sigma and SWTS are unrelated companies.

 

In addition to the growth through acquisitions, antenna product lines were expanded through the organic development of new antenna product families, such as our WiMAX portfolio, as well as the expansion of existing product lines. Our four dominant antenna product lines at this time are: LMR for public safety and enterprise applications, GPS antennas for network timing and fleet management, WiMAX antennas used in backhaul, last mile, and point to multipoint applications, and finally, our data product family, which includes Wi-Fi, radio frequency identification, and mesh network antennas.

 

Antenna products are sold through dealers, distributors and via direct sales channels to wireless carriers and equipment manufacturers. The products are sold under the MAXRAD^®, Bluewave^tm, and Wi-Sys^® trade names.

 

Revenue growth for antenna products is tied to emerging wireless applications in broadband wireless, in-building wireless, wireless Internet service providers, GPS, public safety applications, and Mobile SATCOM. The LMR, PMR, DPMR, and on-glass mobile antenna applications represent mature markets. Our newest products address WiMAX standards and applications.

 

There are many competitors for antenna products, as the market is highly fragmented. Competitors include such names as Laird (Cushcraft, Centurion, and Antennex brands), Mobile Mark, Radiall/Larsen, Comtelco, Wilson, Commscope (Andrew products), Kathrein, and others. We seek out product applications that command a premium for product performance and customer service, and seek to avoid commodity markets.

 

PCTEL maintains expertise in several technology areas in order to be competitive in the antenna market. These include radio frequency engineering, mobile antenna design and manufacturing, mechanical engineering, product quality and testing, and wireless network engineering.

 

Scanning Receivers

 

Our original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) receiver and interference management solutions consist of software-defined radio products (“scanning receivers”) designed to measure and monitor cellular networks. We established our position in this market with the acquisition of certain assets of Dynamic Telecommunications, Inc. (“DTI”) in March 2003. The technology is sold in two forms: as OEM radio frequency receivers or as integrated systems solutions. The SeeGull^® family of OEM receivers collects and measures radio frequency data, such as signal strength and base station identification in order to analyze wireless signals. The CLARIFY^® interference management product is a receiver system solution that uses patent pending technology to identify and measure wireless network interference. On December 9, 2009, we acquired from Wider Networks (“Wider”) their interference management patents as well as the exclusive distribution rights for Wider’s interference management products. On December 30, 2009, we acquired all of the assets related to the scanning receiver business from Ascom Network Testing, Inc (“Ascom”). This business was a small part of Comarco’s Wireless Test Solutions (“WTS”) segment, a business that Ascom acquired in 2009. Under the agreement, we will continue to supply both our scanning receivers and the WTS scanning receivers to the newly formed Ascom Network Testing Division that consolidated the testing businesses for mobile telecom carriers of Ascom.

 

Customers of our OEM receiver and interference management solutions are wireless network operators, wireless infrastructure suppliers, and wireless test and measurement solution providers. Revenue growth for OEM receivers and interference management solutions is tied to the deployment of new wireless technology, such as 3G and Long Term Evolution (“LTE”), and the need for existing wireless networks to be tuned and reconfigured on a

regular basis. Explosive cellular subscriber growth drives demand for these products as well. Competitors for these products are OEM’s such as Agilent Technologies, Rohde and Schwarz, Anritsu, Panasonic, and Berkeley Varitronics. The products compete on the basis of product performance at a price point that is generally lower than the competition.

 

We also have an intellectual property portfolio related to antennas, the mounting of antennas and scanning receivers. These patents are being held for defensive purposes and are not part of an active licensing program. We maintain expertise in several technology areas in order to be competitive in the scanning receiver and interference management marketplace. These include digital signal processing (“DSP”) chipset programming, radio frequency, software engineering, manufacturing, mechanical engineering, product quality and testing, advanced algorithm development, and cellular engineering.

 

Major Customers

 

One customer in our continuing operations has accounted for revenue greater than 10% during two of the last three fiscal years as follows:

 

 

Ascom, from which we acquired scanning receiver assets in December 2009, continues to purchase scanning receiver products from us. Ascom acquired Comarco’s WTS business in January 2009. Comarco’s scanning receiver business (“WTS scanners receivers”) was a small part of Comarco’s WTS segment.

 

International Activities

 

The following table shows the percentage of revenues from domestic and foreign sales of our continuing operations during the last three fiscal years:

 

 

Backlog

 

Sales of our products are generally made pursuant to standard purchase orders, which are officially acknowledged according to standard terms and conditions. The backlog, while useful for scheduling production, is not a meaningful indicator of future revenues as the order to ship cycle is extremely short.

 

Research and Development

 

We recognize that a strong technology base is essential to our long-term success and we have made a substantial investment in engineering and research and development. We will continue to devote substantial resources to product development and patent submissions. The patent submissions are primarily for defensive purposes, rather than for potential license revenue generation. We monitor changing customer needs and work closely with the customers, partners and market research organizations to track changes in the marketplace, including emerging industry standards.

Research and development expenses include costs for hardware and related software development, prototyping, certification and pre-production costs. We spent approximately $10.7, $10.0, and $9.6 million in our continuing operations for the fiscal years 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, in research and development.

 

Sales, Marketing and Support

 

We supply our products to public and private carriers, wireless infrastructure providers, wireless equipment distributors, value added resellers (“VARs”) and OEMs. PCTEL’s direct sales force is technologically sophisticated and sales executives have strong industry domain knowledge. Our direct sales force supports the sales efforts of our distributors and OEM resellers.

 

Our marketing strategy is focused on building market awareness and acceptance of our new products. The marketing organization also provides a wide range of programs, materials and events to support the sales organization. We spent approximately $7.7 million, $10.5 million, and $10.7 million in our continuing operations for the fiscal years 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively for sales and marketing support.

 

As of December 31, 2009, we employed 37 individuals as employees or consultants in sales and marketing in North America, Europe, Asia, and in Latin America. We employed 40 and 46 individuals as employees or consultants in sales and marketing at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

Manufacturing

 

We do final assembly of most of our antenna products and all of our OEM receiver and interference management product lines. We also have arrangements with several contract manufacturers but are not dependent on any one. If any of our manufacturers are unable to provide satisfactory services for us, other manufacturers are available, although engaging a new manufacturer could cause unwanted delays and additional costs. We have no guaranteed supply or long-term contract agreements with any of our suppliers.

 

Employees

 

As of December 31, 2009, we had 326 full-time equivalent employees, consisting of 180 in operations, 37 in sales and marketing, 75 in research and development, and 34 in general and administrative functions. Total full-time equivalent employees in continuing operations were 348 and 336 at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Headcount decreased by 22 in 2009 from December 31, 2008 primarily because of decreases in employees in operations. None of our employees are represented by a labor union. We consider employee relations to be good.

 

Available Information

 

Our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to such reports, are available free of charge through our website as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Our website is located at the following address: www.pctel.com. The information within, or that can be accessed through our website, is not part of this report. Further, any materials we file with the SEC may be read and copied by the public at the SEC’s Public Reference Room, located at 450 W. Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. Information regarding the operation of the Public Reference Room can be obtained by calling the SEC at 1(800) SEC-0330. The SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding our filings at www.sec.gov.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

 

The following table sets forth information with respect to our executive officers as of March 1, 2010:

 

 

Mr. Martin H. Singer has been our Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board since October 2001. Prior to that, Mr. Singer served as our non-executive Chairman of the Board from February 2001 until October 2001, and he has been a director since August 1999. From October 2000 to May 2001, Mr. Singer was an independent consultant. From December 1997 to August 2000, Mr. Singer served as President and Chief Executive Officer of SAFCO Technologies, a wireless communications company. He left SAFCO in August 2000 after its sale to Agilent Technologies. From September 1994 to December 1997, Mr. Singer served as Vice President and General Manager of the wireless access business development division for Motorola, a communications equipment company. Prior to this period, Mr. Singer held senior management and technical positions in Motorola, Tellabs, AT&T and Bell Labs. Mr. Singer holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the University of Michigan, and a Master of Arts degree and a Ph.D. in experimental psychology from Vanderbilt University. Mr. Singer is a member of the Executive Board of the Midwest council of TechAmerica (formerly AeA). He is also on the advisory board for the Master of Management & Manufacturing program at Northwestern University (Kellogg) and served on the standing advisory group for the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board for two years. In March 2009, Mr. Singer was appointed a member of the Board of Directors of Westell Technologies, Inc., a leading provider of broadband products, gateways and conferencing services. He received the Martin N. Sandler distinguished Achievement Award (2007) from the AICC for his contributions to the development of economic ties between Israel and the U.S. He received the Executive Leadership Award (2008) from the AeA for his contributions to the technology community over several years. Mr. Singer has 8 patents in telecommunications and has written numerous articles on network evolution, immigration and labor policy, and other issues related to technology development

 

Mr. John Schoen has been the Chief Financial Officer and Secretary since November 2001. Prior to that, Mr. Schoen was a Business Development Manager at Agilent Technologies, Inc. from July 2000 to November 2001. From May 1999 to July 2000, Mr. Schoen served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of SAFCO Technologies, Inc. before its acquisition by Agilent Technologies Inc. Prior to this period, Mr. Schoen held various financial positions for over 19 years in Motorola Inc., including Controller of its Wireless Access and Business Development within Motorola’s Cellular Infrastructure Group. Mr. Schoen received a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from DePaul University and is a Certified Public Accountant.

 

Mr. Jeffrey A. Miller has been the Vice President and General Manager of our Antenna Products Group since October 2006. Prior to that, Mr. Miller was Vice President of Global Sales since July 2004. Mr. Miller was Vice President of Business Development and Licensing from January 2003 before taking on his Global Sales role. Prior to that position, in September 2002 Mr. Miller was appointed Vice President of Product Management & New Technology. From November 2001 when he joined PCTEL, until September of 2002, Mr. Miller was Vice President of Engineering. Prior to joining PCTEL, Mr. Miller was Functional Manager of Wireless Optimization Products, Wireless Network Test Division of Agilent Technologies Inc. from July 2000 to November 2001. From January 1998 to July 2000, Mr. Miller served as Vice President of Engineering of SAFCO Technologies, Inc. and led its Test and Measurement Group before its acquisition by Agilent Technologies Inc. From September 1992 to January 1998, Mr. Miller was a Principal Consultant with Malcolm, Miller & Associates providing consulting services to wireless network operators and infrastructure suppliers. From 1978 through September of 1992, Mr. Miller held various technical and management positions at Motorola, Inc.’s Cellular Infrastructure Group. Mr. Miller received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from University of Illinois.

Mr. Luis Rugeles has been the Vice President and General Manager of the RF Solutions Group since April, 2006. After joining the company in 2003, Mr. Rugeles held several other positions at PCTEL including Vice President of International Sales and Director of Product Marketing for the RF Solutions Group. With two decades of continued work in the wireless industry, Mr. Rugeles also brings to PCTEL substantial Sales and Business Development expertise. Previously held positions in this area include responsibilities at Schema, Inc., TTC, SAFCO Technologies, Inc., and Motorola where he was the Director of Sales for the Wireless Infrastructure Group. Mr. Rugeles began his career in the Wireless Industry as an RF engineer at BellSouth International where he was responsible for the design and optimization of several emerging cellular networks. Mr. Rugeles received a BS in Electronics Engineering from Simon Bolivar University in Caracas, Venezuela, a Latin American Business Certificate from the University of Florida and an MBA in International Business from Vanderbilt University.

 

Mr. Robert Suastegui has been the Vice President and General Manager of Global Sales since joining PCTEL in June 2007. Prior to joining PCTEL, Mr. Suastegui enjoyed a successful 22 year career at Motorola. Mr. Suastegui held positions of increasing responsibilities in the accounting and finance organizations until the mid 1990’s. In 1997, Mr. Suastegui transitioned from the finance organization into Motorola’s iDEN business unit. From 1997 to 2005 he led Motorola’s iDEN International Infrastructure Group. In 2005 he assumed the leadership role of Vice President and General Manager N.A. Sales, Motorola Mobile Devices. He received his Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

 

 

Factors That May Affect Our Business, Financial Condition and Future Operations

 

This annual report on Form 10-K, including Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”, contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our future business, financial condition or results of operations to differ materially from our historical results or currently anticipated results, including those set forth below. Investors should carefully review the information contained in this Item 1A.

 

Risks Related to Our Business

 

Recent domestic and worldwide economic conditions have adversely affected and may further adversely affect our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

 

General domestic and global economic conditions have negatively impacted our financial results due to reduced corporate spending, and decreased consumer confidence. We are facing one of the most challenging periods in our history due to these negative economic conditions. In particular, we believe the current economic conditions have reduced spending by consumers and businesses in markets into which we sell our products in response to tighter credit, negative financial news and the continued uncertainty of the global economy. Consequently, the overall demand for our products has also decreased. This decrease in demand is having a negative impact on our revenues, results of operations and overall business. These conditions could also have a number of additional effects on our business, including insolvency of key suppliers or manufacturers resulting in product delays, inability of customers to obtain credit to finance purchases of our products, customer insolvencies, increased product returns, increased pricing pressures, restructuring expenses and associated diversion of management’s attention, excess inventory and increased difficulty in us accurately forecasting product demand and planning future business activities. It is uncertain how long the current economic conditions will last or how quickly any subsequent economic recovery will occur. If the economy or markets into which we sell our products continues to slow or any subsequent economic recovery is slow to occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be further materially and adversely affected.

 

Competition within the wireless product industry is intense and is expected to increase significantly. Our failure to compete successfully could materially harm our prospects and financial results.

 

The antenna market is highly fragmented and is served by many local product providers. We may not be able to displace established competitors from their customer base with our products.

Many of our present and potential competitors have substantially greater financial, marketing, technical and other resources with which to pursue engineering, manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of their products. These competitors may succeed in establishing technology standards or strategic alliances in the connectivity products markets, obtain more rapid market acceptance for their products, or otherwise gain a competitive advantage. We can offer no assurance that we will succeed in developing products or technologies that are more effective than those developed by our competitors. We can offer no assurance that we will be able to compete successfully against existing and new competitors as the connectivity wireless markets evolve and the level of competition increases.

 

Our wireless business is dependent upon the continued growth and evolution of the wireless industry.

 

Our future success is dependent upon the continued growth and evolution of the wireless industry. The growth in demand for wireless products and services may not continue at its current rate or at all. Any decrease in the growth of the wireless industry could have a material adverse effect on the results of our operations.

 

Our future success depends on our ability to develop and successfully introduce new and enhanced products for the wireless market that meet the needs of our customers.

 

Our revenue depends on our ability to anticipate our existing and prospective customers’ needs and develop products that address those needs. Our future success will depend on our ability to introduce new products for the wireless market, anticipate improvements and enhancements in wireless technology and wireless standards, and to develop products that are competitive in the rapidly changing wireless industry. Introduction of new products and product enhancements will require coordination of our efforts with those of our customers, suppliers, and manufacturers to rapidly achieve volume production. If we fail to coordinate these efforts, develop product enhancements or introduce new products that meet the needs of our customers as scheduled, our operating results will be materially and adversely affected and our business and prospects will be harmed. We cannot assure you that product introductions will meet the anticipated release schedules or that our wireless products will be competitive in the market. Furthermore, given the emerging nature of the wireless market, there can be no assurance our products and technology will not be rendered obsolete by alternative or competing technologies.

 

We may experience integration or other problems with potential acquisitions, which could have an adverse effect on our business or results of operations. New acquisitions could dilute the interests of existing stockholders, and the announcement of new acquisitions could result in a decline in the price of our common stock.

 

We may in the future make acquisitions of, or large investments in, businesses that offer products, services, and technologies that we believe would complement our products or services, including wireless products and technology. We may also make acquisitions of or investments in, businesses that we believe could expand our distribution channels. Even if we were to announce an acquisition, we may not be able to complete it. Additionally, any future acquisition or substantial investment would present numerous risks, including:

 

 

We expect that future acquisitions could provide for consideration to be paid in cash, shares of our common stock, or a combination of cash and our common stock. If consideration for a transaction is paid in common stock, this would further dilute our existing stockholders.

 

Our gross profit may vary based on the mix of sales of our products, and these variations may cause our net income to decline.

 

Due in part to the competitive pricing pressures that affect our products and in part to increasing component and manufacturing costs, we expect gross profit from both existing and future products to decrease over time. In addition, depending on the mix of our product sold, our gross profit could vary from quarter to quarter. A variance or decrease of our gross profit could have a negative impact on our financial results and cause our net income to decline.

 

Any delays in our sales cycles could result in customers canceling purchases of our products.

 

Sales cycles for our products with major customers can be lengthy, often lasting nine months or longer. In addition, it can take an additional nine months or more before a customer commences volume production of equipment that incorporates our products. Sales cycles with our major customers are lengthy for a number of reasons, including:

 

 

A significant portion of our operating expenses is relatively fixed and is based in large part on our forecasts of volume and timing of orders. The lengthy sales cycles make forecasting the volume and timing of product orders difficult. In addition, the delays inherent in lengthy sales cycles raise additional risks of customer decisions to cancel or change product phases. If customer cancellations or product changes were to occur, this could result in the loss of anticipated sales without sufficient time for us to reduce our operating expenses.

 

We rely on independent companies to manufacture, assemble and test our products. If these companies do not meet their commitments to us, our ability to sell products to our customers would be impaired.

 

We have limited manufacturing capability. For some product lines we outsource the manufacturing, assembly, and testing of printed circuit board subsystems. For other product lines, we purchase completed hardware platforms and add our proprietary software. While there is no unique capability with these suppliers, any failure by these suppliers to meet delivery commitments would cause us to delay shipments and potentially be unable to accept new orders for product.

 

In addition, in the event that these suppliers discontinued the manufacture of materials used in our products, we would be forced to incur the time and expense of finding a new supplier or to modify our products in such a way that such materials were not necessary. Either of these alternatives could result in increased manufacturing costs and increased prices of our products.

 

We assemble our antenna products in our facilities located in Illinois and China. We may experience delays, disruptions, capacity constraints or quality control problems at our assembly facilities, which could result in lower yields or delays of product shipments to our customers. In addition, we are having a number of our antenna products manufactured in China via contract manufacturers. Any disruption of our own or contract manufacturers’ operations could cause us to delay product shipments, which would negatively impact our sales, competitive reputation and position. In addition, if we do not accurately forecast demand for our products, we will have excess or insufficient parts to build our product, either of which could seriously affect our operating results.

In order for us to operate at a profitable level and continue to introduce and develop new products for emerging markets, we must attract and retain our executive officers and qualified technical, sales, support and other administrative personnel.

 

Our performance is substantially dependent on the performance of our current executive officers and certain key engineering, sales, marketing, financial, technical and customer support personnel. If we lose the services of our executives or key employees, replacements could be difficult to recruit and, as a result, we may not be able to grow our business.

 

Competition for personnel, especially qualified engineering personnel, is intense. We are particularly dependent on our ability to identify, attract, motivate and retain qualified engineers with the requisite education, background and industry experience. As of December 31, 2009, we employed a total of 75 people in our engineering department. If we lose the services of one or more of our key engineering personnel, our ability to continue to develop products and technologies responsive to our markets may be impaired.

 

Failure to manage our technological and product growth could strain our management, financial and administrative resources.

 

Our ability to successfully sell our products and implement our business plan in rapidly evolving markets requires an effective management planning process. Future product expansion efforts could be expensive and put a strain on our management by significantly increasing the scope of their responsibilities and by increasing the demands on their management abilities. To effectively manage our growth in these new technologies, we must enhance our marketing, sales, and research and development areas.

 

We may be subject to litigation regarding intellectual property associated with our wireless business and this could be costly to defend and could prevent us from using or selling the challenged technology.

 

In recent years, there has been significant litigation in the United States involving intellectual property rights. We expect potential claims in the future, including with respect to our wireless business. Intellectual property claims against us, and any resulting lawsuit, may result in our incurring significant expenses and could subject us to significant liability for damages and invalidate what we currently believe are our proprietary rights. These lawsuits, regardless of their merits or success, would likely be time-consuming and expensive to resolve and could divert management’s time and attention. This could have a material and adverse effect on our business, results of operation, financial condition and prospects. Any potential intellectual property litigation against us related to our wireless business could also force us to do one or more of the following:

 

 

If we are subject to a successful claim of infringement related to our wireless intellectual property and we fail to develop non-infringing intellectual property or license the infringed intellectual property on acceptable terms and on a timely basis, operating results could decline and our ability to grow and sustain our wireless business could be materially and adversely affected. As a result, our business, financial condition, results of operation and prospects could be impaired.

 

We may in the future initiate claims or litigation against third parties for infringement of our intellectual property rights or to determine the scope and validity of our proprietary rights or the proprietary rights of our competitors. These claims could also result in significant expense and the diversion of technical and management personnel’s attention.

Undetected failures found in new products may result in a loss of customers or a delay in market acceptance of our products.

 

To date, we have not been made aware of any significant failures in our products. However, despite testing by us and by current and potential customers, errors may be found in new products after commencement of commercial shipments, which could result in loss of revenue, loss of customers or delay in market acceptance, any of which could adversely affect our business, operating results, and financial condition. We cannot assure you that our efforts to monitor, develop, modify and implement appropriate test and manufacturing processes for our products will be sufficient to avoid failures in our products that result in delays in product shipment, replacement costs or potential damage to our reputation, any of which could harm our business, operating results and financial condition.

 

Our financial position and results of operations may be adversely affected if tax authorities challenge us and the tax challenges result in unfavorable outcomes.

 

We currently have international subsidiaries located in China, United Kingdom, Malaysia, India, and Israel as well as international branch offices located in Hong Kong and Sweden. The complexities resulting from operating in several different tax jurisdictions increase our exposure to worldwide tax challenges. In the event a review of our tax filings results in unfavorable adjustments to our tax returns, our operating results, cash flows and financial position could be materially and adversely affected.

 

Conducting business in international markets involves foreign exchange rate exposure that may lead to reduced profitability.

 

We have current operations in United Kingdom, Israel, Hong Kong, and China. Fluctuations in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies may impact our revenues, cost of revenues and operating margins and result in foreign currency translation gains and losses. Our business is subject to and may also be adversely affected by political and economic uncertainties in the countries we operate in.

 

Risks Related to Our Industry

 

Our industry is characterized by rapidly changing technologies. If we are not successful in responding to rapidly changing technologies, our products may become obsolete and we may not be able to compete effectively.

 

The Wi-Fi (802.11, WiMAX) space is rapidly changing and prone to standardization. We must continue to evaluate, develop and introduce technologically advanced products that will position us for possible growth in the wireless data access market. If we are not successful in doing so, our products may not be accepted in the market or may become obsolete and we may not be able to compete effectively.

 

Changes in laws or regulations, in particular, future FCC Regulations affecting the broadband market, internet service providers, or the communications industry, could negatively affect our ability to develop new technologies or sell new products and therefore, reduce our profitability.

 

The jurisdiction of the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) extends to the entire communications industry, including our customers and their products and services that incorporate our products. Future FCC regulations affecting the broadband access services industry, our customers or our products may harm our business. For example, future FCC regulatory policies that affect the availability of data and Internet services may impede our customers’ penetration into their markets or affect the prices that they are able to charge. In addition, FCC regulatory policies that affect the specifications of wireless data devices may impede certain of our customers’ ability to manufacture their products profitably, which could, in turn, reduce demand for our products. Furthermore, international regulatory bodies are beginning to adopt standards for the communications industry. Although our business has not been hurt by any regulations to date, in the future, delays caused by our compliance with regulatory requirements may result in order cancellations or postponements of product purchases by our customers, which would reduce our profitability.

Risks Related to our Common Stock

 

The trading price of our stock price may be volatile based on a number of factors, some of which are not in our control.

 

The trading price of our common stock has been highly volatile. The common stock price fluctuated from a low of $3.83 to a high of $7.19 during 2009. Our stock price could be subject to wide fluctuations in response to a variety of factors, many of which are out of our control, including:

 

 

In addition, the NASDAQ Global Market, where many publicly held telecommunications companies, including PCTEL, are traded, often experiences extreme price and volume fluctuations. These fluctuations often have been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of these companies. In the past, following periods of volatility in the market price of an individual company’s securities, securities class action litigation often has been instituted against that company. This type of litigation, if instituted, could result in substantial costs and a diversion of management’s attention and resources.

 

Provisions in our charter documents may inhibit a change of control or a change of management, which may cause the market price for our common stock to fall and may inhibit a takeover or change in our control that a stockholder may consider favorable.

 

Provisions in our charter documents could discourage potential acquisition proposals and could delay or prevent a change in control transaction that our stockholders may favor. These provisions could have the effect of discouraging others from making tender offers for our shares, and as a result, these provisions may prevent the market price of our common stock from reflecting the effects of actual or rumored takeover attempts and may prevent stockholders from reselling their shares at or above the price at which they purchased their shares. These provisions may also prevent changes in our management that our stockholders may favor. Our charter documents do not permit stockholders to act by written consent, do not permit stockholders to call a stockholders meeting, and provide for a classified board of directors, which means stockholders can only elect, or remove, a limited number of our directors in any given year.

 

Our board of directors has the authority to issue up to 5,000,000 shares of preferred stock in one or more series. The board of directors can fix the price, rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions of this preferred stock without any further vote or action by our stockholders. The rights of the holders of our common stock will be affected by, and may be adversely affected by, the rights of the holders of any preferred stock that may be issued in the future. Further, the issuance of shares of preferred stock may delay or prevent a change in control transaction without further action by our stockholders. As a result, the market price of our common stock may drop.

Under regulations required by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, if we are unable to successfully maintain processes and procedures to achieve and maintain effective internal control over our financial reporting, our ability to provide reliable and timely financial reports could be harmed.

 

We must comply with the rules promulgated under section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Section 404 requires an annual management report assessing the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting and a report by our independent registered public accounting firm addressing this assessment.

 

While we are expending significant resources in maintaining the necessary documentation and testing procedures required by Section 404, we cannot be certain that the actions we are taking to achieve and maintain our internal control over financial reporting will be adequate. If the processes and procedures that we implement for our internal control over financial reporting are inadequate, our ability to provide reliable and timely financial reports, and consequently our business and operating results, could be harmed. This in turn could result in an adverse reaction in the financial markets due to a loss of confidence in the reliability of our financial reports, which could cause the market price of our common stock to decline.

 

 

None

 

 

The following table lists our main facilities:

 

 

In connection with the sale of the MSG division in January 2008, our corporate headquarters moved to our facility in Bloomingdale, Illinois.

 

At December 31, 2009, we had a sales office in Sweden. We terminated our lease on this office in January 2010. In January 2010, we acquired Sparco. Under the terms of this acquisition, we assumed the lease for Sparco’s San Antonio, Texas facility. The term for this facility lease ends in September 2010.

 

All properties are in good condition and are suitable for the purposes for which they are used. We believe that we have adequate space for our current needs.

 

 

Litigation with Wider Networks LLC

 

In March 2009, we filed in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland, Greenbelt Division, a lawsuit against Wider Networks, LLC claiming patent infringement, unfair competition and false advertising, seeking damages as allowed pursuant to federal and Maryland law. In June 2009, Telecom Network Optimization, LLC d/b/a Wider Networks (“Wider”), filed a lawsuit against us for patent infringement. These cases were consolidated by the court. On November 5, 2009, the parties participated in a mandatory settlement conference and signed a binding memorandum of understanding (“MOU”) resolving all disputes. The consolidated cases were dismissed without prejudice on November 6, 2009 and the parties entered into a definitive settlement agreement on December 9, 2009.

 

Under the terms of the settlement agreement, we are the exclusive distributor of the Wider WIND 3G^tm interference management system and the scanning receivers underlying those systems. We obtained these distribution rights and acquired all of the patents relating to Wider’s products for $1.2 million, of which $0.8 million was paid at closing and $0.2 million to be paid on the first and second anniversary dates of the settlement agreement. The settlement leaves Wider Networks in business to continue to develop and manufacture its WIND 3G^tm product and

retain ownership of all of its hardware design know-how and copyrighted software code related intellectual property. The settlement gives us another interference management product, suitable for certain markets, to distribute along side CLARIFY^®.

 

ITAR Disclosure

 

During the quarter ended September 30, 2009, we became aware that certain of our antenna products are subject to the jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of State in accordance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (“ITAR”). We determined that our processes surrounding the design and manufacture of these antennas were not adequate to assure compliance with the ITAR, and that we may have inadvertently violated restrictions on technology transfer in the ITAR.

 

Accordingly, on October 1, 2009 we filed a Voluntary Disclosure with the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (“DTCC”), Department of State, describing the details of the non-compliance. On October 15, 2009, we received a letter from the DTCC requesting that we provide a full disclosure within 60 days of the date of their letter. We provided a full disclosure on December 14, 2009, which included our remediation plan which was implemented during the fourth quarter of 2009. On March 2, 2010 we received a letter from the DTCC that stated their conclusion that violations of the ITAR had occurred, but that the case was being closed without civil penalty. The DTCC reserves the right to reopen the case if through repeated future violations they determine that the circumstances warrant initiation of administrative proceedings in accordance with Part 128 of the ITAR.

 

 

Price Range of Common Stock

 

PCTEL’s common stock has been traded on the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol PCTI since our initial public offering on October 19, 1999. The following table shows the high and low sale prices of our common stock as reported by the NASDAQ Global Market for the periods indicated.

 

 

The closing sale price of our common stock as reported on the NASDAQ Global Market on March 1, 2010 was $6.28 per share. As of that date there were 47 holders of record of the common stock. A substantially greater number of holders of the common stock are in “street name” or beneficial holders, whose shares are held of record by banks, brokers, and other financial institutions.

Five-Year Cumulative Total Return Comparison

 

Notwithstanding any statement to the contrary in any of our previous or future filings with the SEC, this company performance graph shall not be deemed “filed” with the SEC or “soliciting material” under the Exchange Act and shall not be incorporated by reference in any such filings.

 

The graph below compares the annual percentage change in the cumulative return to our stockholders with the cumulative return of the NASDAQ Composite Index and the S&P Information Technology Index for the period beginning December 31, 2004 and ending December 31, 2009. Returns for the indices are weighted based on market capitalization at the beginning of each measurement point. Note that historic stock price performance is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.

 

COMPARISON OF 5 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN *
Among PCTEL, Inc., The NASDAQ Composite Index
And The S&P Information Technology Index

 

* $100 invested on 12/31/04 in stock or index, including reinvestment of dividends. Fiscal year ending December 31.

 

Copyright^© 2010 S&P, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies Inc. All rights reserved.

 

Dividends

 

We paid one cash dividend in our history which was paid in May 2008. This special dividend of $10.3 million was a partial distribution of the proceeds received from the sale of MSG. We do not anticipate the payment of regular dividends in the future.

 

Sales of Unregistered Equity Securities

 

None.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

The following table provides the activity of our repurchase program during the three months ended December 31, 2009 (in thousand, except per share amounts):

 

 

We repurchase shares of our common stock under share repurchase programs authorized by our Board of Directors. All share repurchase programs are announced publicly. On November 21, 2008, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of shares up to a value of $5.0 million. There were no share repurchases in 2008 under this share repurchase program. During the three months ended December 31, 2009, we repurchased 167,162 shares for approximately $1.0 million under this program and in the year ended December 31, 2009, we repurchased a total of 438,413 shares for approximately $2.5 million under this program. At December 31, 2009, we had $2.5 million remaining that could be purchased under this program. During 2008, we repurchased 4,022,616 shares for approximately $34.2 million under previously announced share repurchase programs.

 

The following selected consolidated financial data should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” the Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes and other financial information appearing elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The statement of operations data for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007 and the balance sheet data as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 are derived from audited financial statements included elsewhere in this Form 10-K. The statement of operations data for the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005 and the balance sheet data as of December 31, 2007, 2006, and 2005 are derived from audited financial statements not included in this Form 10-K.

 

 

* EPS numbers not additive due to rounding

 

This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements include, among other things, statements concerning the future operations, financial condition and prospects, and business strategies. The words “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate” and other similar expressions generally identify forward-looking statements. Investors in the common stock are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause the future business, financial condition, or results of operations to differ materially from the historical results or currently anticipated results. Investors should carefully review the information contained in “Item 1A: Risk Factors” and elsewhere in, or incorporated by reference into, this report.

 

Revenues for 2009 decreased by $20.9 million, or 27.2%, to $56.0 million as compared to 2008 primarily due to overall weakness in the global economy and the resulting reduction in spending by our customers. Operating loss for 2009 decreased to $(6.2) million from $(13.9) million in 2008, primarily because 2008 included a goodwill impairment charge of $16.7 million. Net income (loss) for continuing operations decreased to $(4.5) million for 2009 compared to $1.1 million for 2008 primarily because 2008 included a income tax benefit of $9.8 million related to release in our valuation allowance.

 

Introduction

 

PCTEL focuses on wireless broadband technology related to propagation and optimization. We design and develop innovative antennas that extend the reach of broadband and other wireless networks and that simplify the implementation of those networks. We provide highly specialized software-defined radios that facilitate the design and optimization of broadband wireless networks. We supply our products to public and private carriers, wireless infrastructure providers, wireless equipment distributors, VARs and other OEMs. We maintain expertise in several technology areas. These include DSP chipset programming, radio frequency, software engineering, mobile antenna design and manufacture, mechanical engineering, product quality and testing, advanced algorithm development, and cellular engineering.

 

Growth in product revenue is dependent both on gaining further revenue traction in the existing product profile as well as further acquisitions to support the wireless initiatives. Revenue growth for antenna products is correlated to emerging wireless applications in broadband wireless, in-building wireless, wireless Internet service providers, GPS and Mobile SATCOM. LMR, PMR, DPMR, and on-glass mobile antenna applications represent mature markets. Revenue for scanning receivers is tied to the deployment of new wireless technology, such as 3G and Long-Term Evolution (“LTE”), and the need for existing wireless networks to be tuned and reconfigured on a regular basis.

 

We have an intellectual property portfolio related to antennas, the mounting of antennas, and scanning receivers. These patents are being held for defensive purposes and are not part of an active licensing program.

 

In the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed for the year ended December 31, 2008, we reported segment information for the Broadband Technology Group (“BTG”) and Licensing. Beginning in 2009, we re-evaluated our internal financial reporting process in which the CODM no longer reviews the financial information for Licensing. As of June 30, 2009, the financial information for Licensing was substantially complete.

 

On January 4, 2008, we sold MSG to Smith Micro Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: SMSI). MSG produced mobility software products for WiFi, cellular, IMS, and wired applications. As required by GAAP, the consolidated financial statements separately reflect the MSG operations as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

 

Current Economic Environment

 

General domestic and global economic conditions have negatively impacted our financial results due to reduced corporate spending, and decreased consumer confidence. These economic conditions have negatively impacted several elements of our business and have resulted in our facing one of the most challenging periods in our history. It is uncertain how long the current economic conditions will last or how quickly any subsequent economic

recovery will occur. If the economic recovery is slow to occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be further materially and adversely affected.

 

Results of Operations for Continuing Operations

 

Years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 (All amounts in tables, other than percentages, are in thousands)

 

Revenues

 

 

Revenues were approximately $56.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, a decrease of 27.2% from the prior year. In the year ended December 31, 2009 versus the prior year, approximately 17% of the decline is attributable to antennas and approximately 10% of the decline is attributable to scanning receivers. Antenna revenues were lower in both our distribution and OEM channels, reflecting particular softness in land mobile radio systems, continued delays in mobile WiMAX rollout, and defense related antenna sales. Scanning receiver revenues were lower due to reduced capital expenditures levels worldwide and due to delays in carrier spending caused by the transition from Evolution Date Optimized (“EVDO”) to the LTE technology standard for communication networks.

 

Revenues were approximately $76.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, an increase of 10.1% from the prior year. In the year ended December 31, 2008 versus the prior year, scanning receivers contributed approximately 8% of the revenue growth and antennas provided approximately 3% of the revenue growth. The revenue growth for scanning receivers was primarily due to an increase in the number of UMTS deployments and the revenue growth for antennas was primarily due to the acquisition of product lines from Bluewave in March 2008.

 

Gross Profit

 

 

Gross profit as a percentage of total revenue was 46.6% in 2009 compared to 47.5% in 2008 and 45.9% in 2007. The margin decrease in 2009 reflects the cost of lower overall volume over our fixed costs. Scanning receivers contributed approximately 0.5% of the margin percentage decrease and antennas contributed approximately 0.4% of the margin percentage decrease for the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to the year ended December 31, 2008.

 

The gross margin percentage increase in 2008 compared to 2007 reflected favorable product mix of higher margin scanning receiver products and volume increases. Scanning receivers contributed approximately 1.8% of the margin percentage increase for the year ended December 31, 2008 compared to year ended December 31, 2007.

 

Research and Development

 

 

Research and development expenses increased $0.7 million from 2008 to 2009. Expenses were higher than the prior year because we invested in the development of new scanning receivers and incurred expense for the integration of the antenna product lines acquired from Wi-Sys in January 2009.

Research and development expenses increased $0.4 million from 2007 to 2008. Expenses were higher in 2008 compared to 2007 because we invested in development of new scanning receivers and for an antenna design center in China.

 

We had 75, 67, and 66 full-time equivalent employees from continuing operations in research and development at December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

 

Sales and marketing expenses include costs associated with the sales and marketing employees, sales representatives, product line management, and trade show expenses.

 

Sales and marketing expenses decreased $2.8 million from 2008 to 2009 due to full year impact of headcount reductions and office closures in several unproductive international sales offices and due to lower commissions to sales people and manufacturers representatives. The headcount reductions occurred in the third and fourth quarters of 2008.

 

Sales and marketing expenses decreased $0.2 million from 2007 to 2008 due to cost controls and lower sales commissions. Our sales commissions were lower because we reduced the number of manufacturers’ rep firms in 2008.

 

We had 37, 40, and 46 full-time equivalent employees from continuing operations in sales and marketing at December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively.

 

General and Administrative

 

 

General and administrative expenses include costs associated with the general management, finance, human resources, information technology, legal, public company costs, and other operating expenses to the extent not otherwise allocated to other functions.

 

General and administrative expenses decreased $1.1 million from 2008 to 2009. The expense decrease is due to $0.7 million lower stock compensation expense for employees in general and administrative functions and $0.4 million due to net corporate cost reductions.

 

General and administrative expenses decreased $1.9 million from 2007 to 2008. Approximately $1.4 million of the decrease is due to a reduction in corporate overhead expenses and $0.3 million is due to the full year impact from our exit from the UMTS iVET antenna product line in Ireland in 2007. Corporate overhead expenses declined because we streamlined our corporate overhead structure after the MSG sale and reduced spending on information technology, finance, human resources, and other professional services.

 

We had 34, 36, and 41 full-time equivalent employees from continuing operations in general and administrative functions at December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively.

 

Amortization of Other Intangible Assets

 

The amortization of intangible assets relates to the acquisitions of the assets from DTI in 2003, MAXRAD in 2004, the antenna product lines of Andrew Corporation in 2004, the product lines of Bluewave in 2008 and Wi-Sys in 2009.

 

Amortization increased in 2009 due to the acquisition of the product lines from Bluewave^tm in March 2008 and Wi-Sys in January 2009. With the acquisition of Wi-Sys, we recorded intangible assets of $0.8 million for customer relationships, core technology, and trade names. These assets have an amortization period of three to six years. See Note 4 in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for additional information on the Wi-Sys acquisition.

 

Amortization increased in 2008 due to the acquisition of product lines from Bluewave. With this acquisition, we recorded intangible assets of $3.3 million for customer relationships, core technology, and trade names. These assets have an amortization period of six years. See Note 4 in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for additional information on the acquisition of the product lines from Bluewave.

 

Restructuring Charges

 

 

The 2009 restructuring expense includes $0.3 million for Bloomingdale antenna restructuring and $0.2 million for Wi-Sys restructuring. In order to reduce costs with the antenna operations in the Bloomingdale, Illinois location, we terminated thirteen employees during the three months ended March 31, 2009 and terminated five additional employees during the three months ended June 30, 2009. We recorded $0.3 million in restructuring expense for severance payments for these eighteen employees. During the second quarter 2009, we exited the Ottawa, Canada location related to the Wi-Sys acquisition and integrated those operations in to our Bloomingdale, Illinois location. The restructuring expense of $0.2 million relates to employee severance, lease termination, and other shut down costs.

 

The 2008 restructuring expense includes $0.3 million for corporate overhead restructuring and $0.1 million for international sales office restructuring. In the first quarter of 2008, we incurred restructuring expense of $0.3 million for employee severance costs related to reductions in corporate overhead. In November 2008 we announced the closure of our sales office in New Delhi, India, effective December 2008. We incurred restructuring charges of $0.1 million for severance payouts and lease obligations.

 

The 2007 restructuring expense corresponds to our exit from the UMTS antenna market and shut down of our iVET antenna product line. We closed our research and development facility in Dublin, Ireland as well as a related engineering satellite office in the United Kingdom, and discontinued the UMTS portion of our contract manufacturing, which was located in St. Petersburg, Russia. These actions terminated twelve redundant employee positions in Ireland and three redundant employee positions in the United Kingdom. The facilities and employees affected by the closure decision were originally part of our acquisition of Sigma in July 2005.

 

We recorded net $2.0 million of restructuring costs in 2007 related to the exit of our UMTS iVET antenna product line. The major components of the expense were $2.4 million of gross cash-based restructuring charges plus $0.7 million of asset impairments, offset by $1.1 million for the sale of assets. The cost categories of the $2.4 million of cash-based restructuring costs were: $0.4 million of employee severance; $0.1 million of future lease payments; $0.1 million of office clean up costs; and $1.8 million in contract manufacturing obligations, primarily related to inventory in the supply chain. We recovered $1.1 million through the sale of assets. The major components were the last time purchase of inventory for $0.5 million and the sale of intangible assets for $0.6 million. In 2008, we completed the UMTS restructuring when we paid the final manufacturing purchase obligations.

 

Impairment of goodwill

 

In March 2009, we recorded goodwill impairment of $1.5 million. This amount consists of $0.4 million of goodwill remaining from our Licensing business and the $1.1 million in goodwill recorded with the Wi-Sys acquisition in January 2009. We tested our goodwill for impairment because our market capitalization was below our book value at March 31, 2009. We considered this market capitalization deficit as a triggering event.

 

In 2008, we recorded a goodwill impairment of $16.7 million based on the results from our annual test of goodwill impairment. There was no goodwill impairment recorded in 2007.

 

See discussion of this goodwill impairment within the critical accounting estimates section of part 7 on page 57.

 

Loss on sale of product lines and related note receivable

 

 

In 2009, we reserved for the $0.4 million outstanding receivable balance from SWTS due to uncertainty of collection. The reserve was recorded as a loss on sale of product line and related note receivable in the consolidated statements of operations. The related note was formally written-off and cancelled on March 4, 2010. The net receivable balance from SWTS was $0 and $0.5 million in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively.

 

In the fourth quarter of 2008 we sold certain antenna products and related assets to SWTS. SWTS purchased the intellectual property, dedicated inventory, and certain fixed assets related to four of our antenna product families for $0.7 million, payable in installments at close and over a period of 18 months. The four product families represent the last remaining products acquired by us through our acquisition of Sigma in July 2005. SWTS and Sigma are unrelated. In the year ended December 31, 2008, we recorded a $0.9 million loss on sale of product lines, separately within operating expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. The net loss included the book value of the assets sold to SWTS, impairment charges, and incentive payments due to the new employees of SWTS, net of the proceeds due to us. We sold inventory with a net book value of $0.8 million and wrote off intangible assets including goodwill of $0.5 million. The intangible asset write-off was the net book value and the goodwill write-off was a pro-rata portion of goodwill. We paid incentive payments of $0.1 million and calculated $0.5 million in proceeds based on the principal value of the installment payments excluding imputed interest.

 

Royalties

 

 

In May 2003, we completed the sale of certain of our assets to Conexant Systems, Inc. (“Conexant”). Concurrent with this sale of assets, we entered into a patent licensing agreement with Conexant. We received royalties under this agreement on a quarterly basis through June 30, 2009. The royalty payments under this agreement were completed on June 30, 2009, and we do not expect any additional royalties.

 

Other Income, net

 

 

Other income, net, consists of interest income, investment gains and losses, and foreign exchange gains and losses. Other income, net in the year ended December 31, 2009 increased compared to the year ended December 31, 2008 primarily because 2008 included investment losses from the Columbia Strategic Cash Portfolio fund with Bank of America (“CSCP”). We recorded investment gains from the CSCP of $0.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2009 and investment losses from the CSCP of $2.4 million and $0.5 million in the years ended

December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The CSCP fund was closed to new subscriptions or redemptions in December 2007, resulting in our inability to immediately redeem our investments for cash. The fund was fully liquidated in December 2009.

 

Interest income was $0.6 million, $2.6 million, and $3.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively. Interest income decreased in 2009 compared to 2008 and 2007 due to lower interest rates. We recorded foreign exchange losses of $0.1 million, $0.1 million and $0.3 million in the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

Benefit for Income Taxes

 

 

The effective tax rate differed from the statutory Federal rate of 35% by approximately 20% during 2009 primarily due to foreign taxes, a rate change to our deferred tax assets, and the non-tax deductibility for the Wi-Sys goodwill impairment. These items accounted for 6%, 6%, and 8% of this rate difference, respectively. Our statutory rate is 35% because we paid U.S. taxes in 2008 at the 35% rate, and we will carry back our 2009 tax losses against the 2008 taxes paid.

 

.

 

The effective tax rate differed from the statutory Federal rate of 35% by approximately 73% during 2008 primarily due to the release of our valuation allowance of $9.8 million. The release of the valuation allowance accounted for 71% of this rate difference. We reversed our valuation allowance because our projected income is more than adequate to offset our deferred tax assets remaining after disposition of the Sigma assets in the third quarter 2008.

 

The effective tax rate differed from the statutory Federal rate of 35% by approximately 614% during 2007 principally due to changes with our valuation allowance. The changes with our valuation allowance accounted for 578% of the rate difference. We reversed $7.9 million of the valuation allowance in 2007 due to the taxable income from the gain on the sale of MSG in January 2008.

 

At December 31, 2009, we had gross deferred tax assets of $11.6 million and a valuation allowance of $0.6 million against the deferred tax assets. We maintain the valuation allowance due to uncertainties regarding realizability. The valuation allowance at December 31, 2009 relates to deferred tax assets in tax jurisdictions in which we no longer have significant operations. Significant management judgment is required to assess the likelihood that our deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income, and the carryback available to offset against prior year gains. On a regular basis, management evaluates the recoverability of deferred tax assets and the need for a valuation allowance.

 

Net Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax Provision

 

 

In January 2008, we completed the sale of our MSG division to Smith Micro in accordance with an Asset Purchase Agreement (the “Smith Micro APA”) entered into between Smith Micro and PCTEL and publicly announced on December 10, 2007. Under the terms of the Smith Micro APA, Smith Micro purchased substantially all of the assets of the MSG division for total consideration of $59.7 million in cash. In the transaction, we retained the accounts receivable, non customer-related accrued expenses and accounts payable of the division. Substantially all of the employees of MSG continued as employees of Smith Micro in connection with the completion of the acquisition. The results of operations of MSG have been classified as discontinued operations.

 

The sale of MSG in January 2008 qualified as a discontinued operation for the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007. The results of MSG have been excluded from our continuing operations and reported separately as

discontinued operations. See also Note 3 in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for additional information on discontinued operations.

 

Discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2008 included the gain on the sale of MSG of $60.3 million in addition to net loss from operations of $0.3 million and income tax expense of $22.8 million. The loss of $82 from discontinued operations in 2007 included the full year of revenues and expenses. The expenses included $0.8 million in costs for professional services in the fourth quarter 2007 associated with the sale of MSG. There was no activity related to discontinued operations in 2009.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources Overview

 

At December 31, 2009, our cash and investments were approximately $75.6 million, of which $12.1 million are classified as long term assets as they have maturities from 13 to 24 months, and we had working capital of approximately $78.9 million. Our primary source of liquidity is cash provided by operations, with short term swings in liquidity supported by a significant balance of cash and short-term investments. The balance has fluctuated with cash from operations, acquisitions and divestitures, and the repurchase of our common shares.

 

Within operating activities, we are historically a net generator of operating funds from our income statement activities and a net user of operating funds for balance sheet expansion. We expect this historical trend to continue in the future. Fiscal year 2009 was an exception as we generated operating funds from the balance sheet as working capital declined with revenues.

 

Within investing activities, capital spending historically ranges between 3% and 5% of our revenue. The primary use of capital is for manufacturing and development engineering requirements. We historically have significant transfers between investments and cash as we rotate our large cash and short-term investment balances between money market funds, which are accounted for as cash equivalents, and other investment vehicles. We have a history of supplementing our organic revenue growth with acquisitions of product lines or companies, resulting in significant uses of our cash and short-term investment balance from time to time. We expect the historical trend for capital spending and the variability caused by moving money between cash and investments and periodic merger and acquisition activity to continue in the future.

 

Within financing activities, we have historically generated funds from the exercise of stock options and proceeds from the issuance of common stock through our employee stock purchase plan (“ESPP”) and used funds to repurchase shares of our common stock through our share repurchase programs. The result of this activity being a net user of funds versus a net generator of funds is largely dependent on our stock price during any given year.

We believe that the existing sources of liquidity, consisting of cash, short-term investments and cash from operations, will be sufficient to meet the working capital needs for the foreseeable future. We continue to evaluate opportunities for development of new products and potential acquisitions of technologies or businesses that could complement the business. We may use available cash or other sources of funding for such purposes.

 

Operating Activities:

 

We generated $7.9 million of funds from operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2009. The income statement was a net generator of $4.1 million of funds and changes in the balance sheet provided $3.8 million of funds. Despite lower revenues in 2009, we generated cash from operations because we reduced our cash expenditures and working capital requirements. The decline in accounts receivable accounted for a source of $4.6 million in funds primarily because revenues declined $3.5 million in the fourth quarter 2009 compared to the fourth quarter 2008. We used funds of $0.4 million and $2.5 million of cash for accounts payable and accrued liabilities, . Our accounts payable declined due to lower inventory purchases and our accrued liabilities declined in 2009 due to reductions in bonuses and sales commission. We lowered our inventory purchases during 2009 to correspond to the decline in revenues. We had no expense in 2009 for cash bonuses under our Short-Term Incentive Plan and we also had lower sales commissions in 2009 because of lower revenues.

 

We generated $23.0 million of funds from operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2008. The income statement was a net generator of $21.5 million of funds and the balance sheet provided $1.4 million of funds. The net collection of accounts receivables provided cash of $2.1 million and an increase in accounts payable provided cash of $1.5 during 2008. The receivable collections included $1.9 million of MSG accounts receivables from December 31, 2007 that were retained by us. We used cash of $1.3 million on increases in inventories and $1.6 million on decreases in other accrued liabilities. The increase in inventories was due to purchases in the fourth quarter 2008 to meet our customer commitments. The decrease in accrued liabilities is primarily due to payments for professional services incurred in December 2007 for the MSG sale.

 

We generated $0.8 million of funds from operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2007. The income statement was a net generator of $6.0 million of funds through net income, depreciation, amortization, stock based compensation and restructuring. The balance sheet was a net user of $5.2 million of funds due to increases in inventories of $3.4 million and accounts receivable of $2.0 million. The increase in inventories was due to purchases of antenna raw material inventory and scanner receiver sub-assemblies to meet the anticipated customer demand in the first quarter 2008. The increase in accounts receivables was due to the higher fourth quarter 2007 revenues versus the comparable period in the prior year.

 

Investing Activities:

 

Our investing activities used $15.1 million of cash during the year ended December 31, 2009. We used $6.5 million for the acquisitions of Wi-Sys in January 2009 and the scanning receiver assets from Ascom in December 2009. We also used $0.8 million for the settlement with Wider in December 2009.

 

We rotated $31.8 million of cash into short and long-term investments during the year ended December 31, 2009. Redemptions and maturities of short-term investments provided $25.2 million of cash during the year ended December 31, 2009. The redemptions included $8.6 million from our shares in the CSCP and $16.6 million from maturities and redemptions of pre-refunded municipal and U.S. Government Agency bonds.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2009, our capital expenditures were $1.5 million. The rate of capital expenditures in relation to revenues for the year ended December 31, 2009 is at the low end of our historical range.

 

We used $2.3 million for investing activities during the year ended December 31, 2008. Redemptions from the CSCP provided $28.0 million in funds and we rotated $24.5 million to other short-term and long-term investments. We used $3.9 million for the purchase of assets of Bluewave in March 2008 and $2.7 million for capital expenditures during the year ended December 31, 2008. Our 2008 capital expenditures included $0.6 million for a new China design center. The China design center represents expansion of our antenna engineering capacity. Capital expenditures during the year ended December 31, 2008 were 3.5% of revenues, below the historical range of 4% to 6% of revenues. Lower capital expenditures than our historical trend are reflective of our exit from UMTS

antenna operations in 2007 and reduced capital expenditures for information systems. In 2008, we received $0.8 million from the sale and related royalties of our modem business to Conexant in 2003.

 

We used $29.1 million for investing activities in the year ended December 31, 2007. With redemptions of short-term investments, we rotated $11.6 million into cash and cash equivalents. We classified the $38.9 million fair value of our investment in the CSCP as “Short-Term Investments” on our consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2007. Capital expenditures were $2.8 million in 2007, or 4.1% of revenue, which fell within the historical range of 4% to 6% of revenue. We received $1.0 million from the sale and related royalties of our modem business to Conexant in 2003. There were no acquisitions in the year ended December 31, 2007.

 

Financing Activities:

 

Our financing activities used $2.1 million in cash during the year ended December 31, 2009. We used $2.5 million to repurchase our common stock under share repurchase programs and we received $0.4 million from shares purchased through the ESPP.

 

Our financing activities consumed $40.9 million of funds during the year ended December 31, 2008. We used $34.2 million to repurchase our common stock under share repurchase programs and we used $10.3 million for a $0.50 per share special cash dividend. We generated $2.2 million from the proceeds from the sale of common stock related to stock option exercises and shares purchased through the ESPP. Tax benefits from stock compensation and proceeds from the sale of common stock related to stock option exercises and shares purchased through the ESPP generated $1.4 million. In April 2008, we used $0.1 million to repay a short-term loan for our Tianjin, China subsidiary.

 

Our financing activities consumed $5.0 million of funds during the year ended December 31, 2007. We used $5.5 million to repurchase our common stock under share repurchase programs, but we generated $1.3 million from the proceeds from the sale of common stock related to stock option exercises and shares purchased through the ESPP. Repayment of our net borrowing balance in Ireland used $0.8 million of cash in the year ended December 31, 2007.

 

Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

 

The following summarizes the contractual obligations at December 31, 2009 for office and product assembly facility leases, office equipment leases and purchase obligations, and the effect such obligations are expected to have on the liquidity and cash flows in future periods (in thousands):

 

 

 

 

We have a liability related to uncertain positions for Income Taxes of $0.8 million at December 31, 2009. We do not know when this obligation will be paid.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

None.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the period reported. By their nature, these estimates and judgments are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty. Management bases its estimates and judgments on historical experience, market trends, and other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

We recognize revenue when the following criteria are met: persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, price is fixed and determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. We recognize revenue for sales of the antenna products and software defined radio products, when title transfers, which is predominantly upon shipment from the factory. For products shipped on consignment, we recognize revenue upon delivery from the consignment location. Revenue recognition is also based on estimates of product returns, allowances, discounts, and other factors. These estimates are based on historical data. We believe that the estimates used are appropriate, but differences in actual experience or changes in estimates may affect future results.

 

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

 

Accounts receivable are recorded at invoiced amount. We extend credit to our customers based on an evaluation of a company’s financial condition and collateral is generally not required. We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated uncollectible accounts receivable. The allowance is based on our assessment of known delinquent accounts, historical experience, and other currently available evidence of the collectability and the aging of accounts receivable. Although management believes the current allowance is sufficient to cover existing exposures, there can be no assurance against the deterioration of a major customer’s creditworthiness, or against defaults that are higher than what has been experienced historically.

 

Excess and Obsolete Inventory

 

We maintain reserves to reduce the value of inventory to the lower of cost or market, including reserves for excess and obsolete inventory. Reserves for excess inventory are calculated based on our estimate of inventory in excess of normal and planned usage. Obsolete reserves are based on our identification of inventory where carrying value is above net realizable value. These reserves are based on our estimates and judgments regarding sales volumes, utilization, and product mix. We believe that the estimates used are appropriate, but differences in actual experience or changes in estimates may affect future results.

 

Warranty Costs

 

We offer repair and replacement warranties of primarily two years for antenna products and one year for scanners and receivers. Our warranty reserve is based on historical sales and costs of repair and replacement trends. We believe that the estimates used are appropriate, but differences in actual experience or changes in estimates may affect future results.

 

Stock-based Compensation

 

We recognize stock-based compensation expense for all share based payment awards in accordance with fair value recognition provisions. Under the fair value provisions, we recognize stock-based compensation expense net of an estimated forfeiture rate, recognizing compensation cost only for those awards expected to vest over requisite

service periods of the awards. Stock-based compensation expense and disclosures are dependent on assumptions used in calculating such amounts. These assumptions include risk-free interest rates, expected term of the stock-based compensation instrument granted, volatility of stock and option prices, expected time between grant date and date of exercise, attrition, performance, and other factors. These factors require us to use judgment. Our estimates of these assumptions typically are based on historical experience and currently available market place data. While management believes that the estimates used are appropriate, differences in actual experience or changes in assumptions may affect our future stock-based compensation expense and disclosures.

 

Income Taxes

 

Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

 

Our continuing operations have international subsidiaries located in China, United Kingdom, and Israel as well as an international branch offices located in Hong Kong and Sweden. The complexities brought on by operating in several different tax jurisdictions inevitably lead to an increased exposure to worldwide taxes. Should review of the tax filings result in unfavorable adjustments to our tax returns, the operating results, cash flows, and financial position could be materially and adversely affected.

 

We are subject to the continuous examination of our income tax returns by the Internal Revenue Service and other tax authorities. A change in the assessment of the outcomes of such matters could materially impact our consolidated financial statements. The calculation of tax liabilities involves dealing with uncertainties in the application of complex tax regulations. We recognize liabilities for anticipated tax audit issues based on our estimate of whether, and the extent to which, additional taxes may be required. If we ultimately determine that payment of these amounts is unnecessary, then we reverse the liability and recognize a tax benefit during the period in which we determine that the liability is no longer necessary. We also recognize tax benefits to the extent that it is more likely than not that our positions will be sustained if challenged by the taxing authorities. To the extent we prevail in matters for which liabilities have been established, or are required to pay amounts in excess of our liabilities, our effective tax rate in a given period may be materially affected. An unfavorable tax settlement would require cash payments and may result in an increase in our effective tax rate in the year of resolution. A favorable tax settlement would be recognized as a reduction in our effective tax rate in the year of resolution.

 

Valuation Allowances for Deferred Tax Assets

 

We establish an income tax valuation allowance when available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that all or a portion of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, we consider the amounts and timing of expected future deductions or carryforwards and sources of taxable income that may enable utilization. We maintain an existing valuation allowance until sufficient positive evidence exists to support its reversal. Changes in the amount or timing of expected future deductions or taxable income may have a material impact on the level of income tax valuation allowances. Our assessment of the realizability of the deferred tax assets requires judgment about our future results. Inherent in this estimation is the requirement for us to estimate future book and taxable income and possible tax planning strategies. These estimates require us to exercise judgment about our future results, the prudence and feasibility of possible tax planning strategies, and the economic environment in which we do business. It is possible that the actual results will differ from the assumptions and require adjustments to the allowance. Adjustments to the allowance would affect future net income.

 

Variable Interest Entities

 

We consolidate variable interest entities (“VIE”) when the company is the primary beneficiary. We evaluated the SWTS entity to determine if SWTS is a variable interest entity. Our evaluation of SWTS included assumptions

on revenue and cash flows. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, we concluded that SWTS is a variable interest entity but we are not its primary beneficiary.

 

Impairment Reviews of Goodwill

 

We perform an annual impairment test of goodwill at the end of the first month of our fiscal fourth quarter (October 31st), or at an interim date if an event occurs or if circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value below our carrying value. The process of evaluating the potential impairment of goodwill is subjective because it requires the use of estimates and assumptions. We use both the Income approach and the Market approach for determining the fair value of the reporting unit as “step one” in the test for impairment. For the Income approach, we use the Discounted Cash Flow (“DCF”) method and for the Market approach, we use the Comparable Business (“CB”) method for determining fair value.

 

The DCF method considers the future cash flow projections of the business and the value of those projections discounted to the present day. The DCF method requires us to use estimates and judgments about our future cash flows. Although we base cash flow forecasts on assumptions that are consistent with plans and estimates we use to manage our business, there is considerable judgment in determining the cash flows. Assumptions related to future cash flows and discount rates involve significant management judgment and are subject to significant uncertainty.

 

The CB method is a valuation technique by which the fair value of the equity of a business is estimated by comparing it to publicly-traded companies in similar lines of business. The multiples of key metrics of other similar companies (revenue and/or EBITDA) are applied to the historical and/or projected results of the business being valued to determine its fair value. This method requires us to use estimates and judgments when determining comparable companies. We assess such factors as size, growth, profitability, risk, and return on investment. We believe that the accounting estimates related to valuation of goodwill is a critical accounting estimate because it requires us to make assumptions that are highly uncertain about the future cash flows of our business.

 

The sum of the reporting units’ fair value using the DCF and CB methods plus the fair value of our cash and investments is reconciled to the sum of our total market capitalization plus a control premium (“Adjusted Market Capitalization”). The control premium is based on the discounted cash flows associated with obtaining control of us in an acquisition of the entire company. In the event that Adjusted Market Capitalization is less than the calculated Fair Value, the negative variance is allocated back to the reporting units’ fair value in proportion to their calculated fair values under the methods previously described in order to arrive at an adjusted fair value

 

While the use of historical results and future projections can result in different valuations for a company, it is a generally accepted valuation practice to apply more than one valuation technique to establish a range of values for a business. Since each technique relies on different inputs and assumptions, it is unlikely that each technique would yield the same results. However, it is expected that the different techniques would establish a reasonable range. In determining the fair value, we weigh the two methods equally because we believe both methods have an equal probability of providing an appropriate fair value.

 

2009 Goodwill Analysis

 

With the acquisition of Wi-Sys in January 2009, we booked $1.1 million of goodwill. Since our market capitalization plus a control premium during the first quarter 2009 was significantly below the book value of our net assets, including the full amount of the goodwill from the Wi-Sys acquisition during the first quarter, we considered this market capitalization deficit to be a triggering event at March 31, 2009 for the evaluation of goodwill for impairment. Because we had goodwill for our BTG and Licensing reporting units, we performed the goodwill analysis using these two reporting units.

 

Step One — DCF Method and the CB Method

 

For the cash flow projections of BTG, we projected a pro-forma income statement for BTG for the five calendar years ending December 31, 2013. The cash flow projections reflected the acquisition of Wi-Sys in January 2009. In “step one”, the calculation of our fair value was higher than the carrying value of BTG at March 31, 2009.

However, when applying the market capitalization deficit to the step one fair values, there was a deficit between the fair value of BTG and the carrying value of its assets. We concluded that the goodwill was impaired.

 

Step Two — Reconciliation of Reporting Units Fair Value to PCTEL’s Market Capitalization

 

The market capitalization at March 31, 2009 was $81.0 million to which a $6.5 million control premium (6%) was added based on the DCF of our after tax costs of being a public company to arrive at the market capitalization plus control premium of $87.5 million. Based on the reconciliation between BTG’s fair value and the Adjusted Market Capitalization, a negative Adjusted Market Capitalization variation condition existed at March 31, 2009. We concluded that the full amount of the goodwill was impaired at March 31, 2009. We recorded an impairment charge for $1.1 million.

 

At March 31, 2009, the undiscounted cash flows of the Licensing unit were lower than the carrying amount of the net book value of the Licensing unit. We recorded an impairment for the remaining $0.4 million of goodwill from our Licensing unit.

 

2008 Annual Goodwill Analysis

 

In 2008, we managed our business as two operating segments, BTG and Licensing. We determined these operating segments were our reporting units. We tested each reporting unit for possible goodwill impairment by comparing each reporting unit’s net book value to fair value.

 

Step One — DCF Method and the CB Method

 

For the cash flow projections of BTG, we projected a pro-forma income statement for BTG for the two months ended December 31, 2008 and for the five calendar years ending December 31, 2013. In “step one”, the calculation of our fair value was lower than the carrying value of the assets of BTG at October 31, 2008. We concluded that goodwill impairment was likely.

 

Step Two — Reconciliation of Reporting Units Fair Value to PCTEL’s Market Capitalization

 

The market capitalization at October 31, 2008 was $107.2 million to which a $6.5 million control premium (6%) was added based on the DCF of our after tax costs of being a public company to arrive at the market capitalization plus control premium of $113.7 million. We considered whether the market capitalization at October 31st was appropriate for use in the “step one” calculation as the market capitalization for the six months prior to the annual test date averaged $184.1 million. We concluded that the market had not reflected the economic recession outlook in its stock price prior to October 2008. The average market capitalization for the months of October 2008 through January 2009 averaged $113.7 million, which indicates that the decline in market capitalization in October 2008 is other than temporary. Therefore the October 31st market capitalization was used. Based on the reconciliation between BTG’s fair value and the Adjusted Market Capitalization, a negative Adjusted Market Capitalization variation condition existed in 2008. As a result of our lower market capitalization in 2008, we recorded an impairment charge for $16.7 million. The goodwill impairment of $16.7 million was 100% of the goodwill associated with BTG.

 

For Licensing, we used an undiscounted cash flow model for determining fair value. The reporting unit had stable predictable cash flow and a finite life, as the last of the modem licensing agreements contractually reach paid up status in June 2009. Given the finite life, the difference between undiscounted and discounted cash flow is immaterial. The annual tests of goodwill in the fourth quarter of 2008 did not indicate impairment was likely.

 

2007 Annual Goodwill Analysis

 

In 2007, we managed our business as three operating segments, BTG, MSG, and Licensing. MSG was sold on January 5, 2008 and was accounted for as discontinued operations in 2007.

 

Based on using the DCF and CB methods for determining the fair value of our business units at October 31, 2007, there was not an impairment of goodwill at October 31, 2007. Further, the Adjusted Market Capitalization exceeded the calculated fair value at October 31, 2007. At October 31, 2007, our market capitalization was

$191.2 million to which a $6.2 million control premium (3%) was added based on the DCF of our after tax costs of being a public company to arrive at the Adjusted Market Capitalization plus control premium of $197.4 million.

 

For Licensing, we used an undiscounted cash flow model for determining fair value. The reporting unit had stable predictable cash flow and a finite life, as the last of the modem licensing agreements contractually reach paid up status in June 2009. Given the finite life, the difference between undiscounted and discounted cash flow is immaterial. The annual tests of goodwill in the fourth quarter of 2007, respectively did not indicate impairment was likely.

 

Impairment Reviews of Definite-Lived Intangible Assets

 

Management reviews definite-lived intangible assets, investments and other long-lived assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying values may not be fully recoverable. This analysis differs from our goodwill analysis in that a definite-lived intangible asset impairment is only deemed to have occurred if the sum of the forecasted undiscounted future cash flows related to the assets being evaluated is less than the carrying value of the assets. The estimate of long-term cash flows includes long-term forecasts of revenue growth, gross margins, and operating expenses. All of these items require significant judgment and assumptions. An impairment loss may exist when the estimated undiscounted cash flows attributable to the assets are less than the carrying amount. Changes in the estimates of forecasted cash flows may cause additional asset impairments, which could result in charges that are material to our results of operations.

 

2009 Analysis

 

Based on the triggering event related to our market capitalization in the first quarter 2009, we reevaluated the carrying value of the intangible assets. We concluded that there was no impairment of other intangible assets in relation to the test at March 31, 2009. There was no triggering event in the second, third, or fourth quarters of 2009.

 

2008 Analysis

 

We conducted a long-lived asset impairment analysis in the fourth quarter of 2008 because our annual impairment test for goodwill in 2008 yielded an impairment of BTG’s goodwill in the amount of $16.7 million. While there is no direct market price comparison available for BTG’s intangible assets, we believed that the indicated fair value deficit in the calculation beyond the goodwill balance was an indication that there may be a significant market price decline in the intangible assets.

 

We tested the intangible asset balances at October 31, 2008 to determine whether the carrying value of the intangible assets exceeds their “fair value” “Fair value” means the discounted cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset over its life. The BTG intangible assets with remaining book balances subject to amortization at October 31, 2008 were the trademarks, technology, and customer relationships associated with the acquisitions of the Maxrad, Andrew, and Bluewave antenna products. The evaluation was done on the specific assets or asset groups and related cash flows to which the carry values relate. The forecasted future undiscounted cash flows were greater than the carrying value at the asset group level for all three intangible asset groups. The results of the analysis lead us to conclude that no impairment loss shall be recognized at December 31, 2008. Additionally, there is nothing in the analysis and underlying worksheets that would lead management to conclude that there should be a revision of the original amortization period contemplated for the assets. Our assumptions required significant judgment and actual cash flows may differ from those forecasted.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued authoritative guidance under Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”), ASC 805, which retains the fundamental requirements that the acquisition method of accounting (the purchase method) be used for all business combinations and for an acquirer to be identified for each business combination. In general, the statement 1) extends its applicability to all events where one entity obtains control over one or more other businesses, 2) broadens the use of fair value measurements used to recognize the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, 3) changes the accounting for acquisition related fees and restructuring costs incurred in connection with an acquisition, and 4) increases required disclosures. We applied the

provisions of this guidance prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after January 1, 2009. The impact of these provisions did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements since its adoption.

 

In January 2009, we adopted ASC 350-30, which requires companies estimating the useful life of a recognized intangible asset to consider their historical experience in renewing or extending similar arrangements or, in the absence of historical experience, to consider assumptions that market participants would use about renewal or extension. The adoption of ASC 350-30 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

In April 2009, the FASB issued additional guidance that requires that assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination that arise from contingencies be recognized at fair value, only if fair value can be reasonably estimated and eliminates the requirement to disclose an estimate of the range of outcomes of recognized contingencies at the acquisition date. We applied the provisions of this guidance prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after January 1, 2009. The impact of these provisions did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements since its adoption.

 

In June 2009, the FASB issued amendments to the accounting rules for VIEs and for transfers of financial assets. The new guidance for VIEs eliminates the quantitative approach previously required for determining the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity and requires ongoing qualitative reassessments of whether an enterprise is the primary beneficiary. In addition, qualifying special purpose entities (“QSPEs”) are no longer exempt from consolidation under the amended guidance. The amendments also limit the circumstances in which a financial asset, or a portion of a financial asset, should be derecognized when the transferor has not transferred the entire original financial asset to an entity that is not consolidated with the transferor in the financial statements being presented, and/or when the transferor has continuing involvement with the transferred financial asset. The company will adopt these amendments for interim and annual reporting periods beginning on January 1, 2010. We do not expect the adoption of these amendments to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

Effective June 30 2009, we adopted ASC 820-10. ASC 820-10 provides additional guidance for estimating fair value when the volume and level of activity for the asset or liability have significantly decreased. This ASC also includes guidance on identifying circumstances that indicate a transaction is not orderly. This ASC emphasizes that even if there has been a significant decrease in the volume and level of activity for the asset or liability and regardless of the valuation technique(s) used, the objective of a fair value measurement remains the same. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction (that is, not a forced liquidation or distressed sale) between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions. The adoption of ASC 820-10 did not have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.

 

In August 2009, the FASB issued changes to fair value accounting for liabilities. These changes clarify existing guidance that in circumstances in which a quoted price in an active market for the identical liability is not available, an entity is required to measure fair value using either a valuation technique that uses a quoted price of either a similar liability or a quoted price of an identical or similar liability when traded as an asset, or another valuation technique that is consistent with the principles of fair value measurements, such as an income approach (e.g., present value technique). This guidance also states that both a quoted price in an active market for the identical liability and a quoted price for the identical liability when traded as an asset in an active market when no adjustments to the quoted price of the asset are required are Level 1 fair value measurements. The adoption of these changes did not have a material impact on our results.

 

In October 2009, the FASB issued changes to revenue recognition for multiple-deliverable arrangements. These changes require separation of consideration received in such arrangements by establishing a selling price hierarchy (not the same as fair value) for determining the selling price of a deliverable, which will be based on available information in the following order: vendor-specific objective evidence, third-party evidence, or estimated selling price; eliminate the residual method of allocation and require that the consideration be allocated at the inception of the arrangement to all deliverables using the relative selling price method, which allocates any discount in the arrangement to each deliverable on the basis of each deliverable’s selling price; require that a vendor determine its best estimate of selling price in a manner that is consistent with that used to determine the price to sell the deliverable on a standalone basis; and expand the disclosures related to multiple-deliverable revenue arrangements. We will adopt these changes on the effective date of January 1, 2011. The company does not expect the adoption of these changes to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

 

 

We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, credit risk, and investment risk as follows:

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

We manage the sensitivity of our results of operations to interest rate risk on cash equivalents by maintaining a conservative investment portfolio. The primary objective of our investment activities is to preserve principal without significantly increasing risk. To achieve this objective, we maintain our portfolio of cash equivalents, short-term investments, and long-term investments in AAA money market funds, pre-refunded municipal bonds, U.S. government agency bonds or AAA money market funds invested exclusively in government agency bonds, and AA or higher rated corporate bonds. Our cash in U.S. banks is fully insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”). Due to changes in interest rates, our future investment income may fall short of expectations. A hypothetical increase or decrease of 10% in market interest rates would not result in a material decrease in interest income earned through maturity on investments held at December 31, 2009. We do not hold or issue derivatives, derivative commodity instruments or other financial instruments for trading purposes. We have no borrowing as we repaid our short-term loan at our Tianjin, China subsidiary in April 2008.

 

Foreign Currency Risk

 

We are exposed to currency fluctuations due to our foreign operations and because we sell our products internationally. We manage the sensitivity of our international sales by denominating the majority of transactions in U.S. dollars. If the United States dollar uniformly increased or decreased in strength by 10% relative to the currencies in which our sales were denominated, our net loss would not have changed by a material amount for the year ended December 31, 2009. For purposes of this calculation, we have assumed that the exchange rates would change in the same direction relative to the United States dollar. Our exposure to foreign exchange rate fluctuations, however, arises in part from translation of the financial statements of foreign subsidiaries into U.S. dollars in consolidation. As exchange rates vary, these results, when translated, may vary from expectations and adversely impact overall expected profitability.

 

We have $0.9 million of cash in foreign bank accounts at December 31, 2009. As of December 31, 2009, we have no intention of repatriating the cash in our foreign bank accounts to the U.S. If we decide to repatriate the cash in foreign bank accounts, we may experience difficulty in repatriating this cash in a timely manner. We may also be exposed to foreign currency fluctuations and taxes if we repatriate these funds.

 

Credit Risk

 

The financial instruments that potentially subject us to credit risk consist primarily of trade receivables. For trade receivables, credit risk is the potential for a loss due to a customer not meeting its payment obligations. Our customers are concentrated in the wireless industry. Estimates are used in determining an allowance for amounts which we may not be able to collect, based on current trends, the length of time receivables are past due and historical collection experience. Provisions for and recovery of bad debts are recorded as sales and marketing expense in the consolidated statements of operations. We perform ongoing evaluations of customers’ credit limits and financial condition. Generally, we do not require collateral from customers. As of December 31, 2009 no customer accounts receivable balance represented 10% of gross receivables and at December 31, 2008, one customer accounts receivable balance represented 10% of gross receivables. Our allowances for potential credit losses have historically been adequate compared to actual losses.

 

Investment Risk

 

On December 22, 2009, we received the final redemption from our investment in the CSCP. This fund was closed to new subscriptions or redemptions in December 2007, resulting in our inability to immediately redeem our investments for cash. The fair value of our investment in this fund at December 31, 2008 was $8.6 million based on the net asset value of the fund. In the year ending December 31, 2009, we received redemptions of $8.9 million and we realized gains of $0.3 million from the increase in the net asset value of the fund. The gains were recorded in other income, net in our consolidated statements of operations. Starting in December 2007 through December 31, 2009, we recorded cumulative losses on our CSCP investment of $2.6 million.

 

PCTEL, INC.

 

INDEX TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

PCTEL, Inc.:

 

We have audited PCTEL, Inc. (a Delaware Corporation) and Subsidiaries (the “Company”) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009 based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

In our opinion, PCTEL, Inc. and Subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by COSO.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 and the related consolidated statements of income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2009 and our report dated March 16, 2010 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.

 

 

Chicago, Illinois

March 16, 2010

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders

PCTEL, Inc.:

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of PCTEL, Inc. (a Delaware corporation) and Subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009. Our audits of the basic consolidated financial statements included the financial statement schedule listed in the index appearing under Item 15(a)(2). The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements and financial statement schedule. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above presents fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of PCTEL, Inc. and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the results of its operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material aspects, the information set forth therein.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), PCTEL, Inc. and Subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) and our report dated March 16, 2010, expressed an unqualified opinion.

 

 

Chicago, Illinois

March 16, 2010

 

PCTEL, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share data)

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

PCTEL, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except per share data)

 

 

* EPS number not additive due to rounding

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

PCTEL, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(in thousands)

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements

 

PCTEL, INC.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)