Exar (EXAR) 10-K/A 2011 FY Annual report (amended)

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K/A

(Amendment No. 1)

x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended March 27, 2011

OR

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from             to            

Commission File No. 0-14225

EXAR CORPORATION

(Exact Name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware	94-1741481
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)

48720 Kato Road, Fremont, CA 94538

(Address of principal executive offices, Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (510) 668-7000

SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OF THE ACT:

Title of each class	Name of exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.0001 Par Value	The NASDAQ Global Market

SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(g) OF THE ACT: NONE

Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 the Securities Act. Yes  ¨     No  x

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

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  x     No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on it corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulations S-T (§229.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).     Yes  ¨     No  ¨

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 inPart III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.    ¨

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.

Large accelerated filer    ¨             Accelerated filer    x
Non-accelerated filer    ¨  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)	Smaller reporting company    ¨

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

The aggregate market value of the outstanding voting stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant as of September 26, 2010 was approximately $118.4 million based upon the closing price reported on The NASDAQ Global Market as of the last business day of the Registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter. Approximately 23.7 million shares of common stock held by officers, directors and persons known to the Registrant to hold 5% or more of the 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.

The number of shares outstanding of the Registrant’s Common Stock was 44,590,821 as of May 27, 2011, net of 19,924,369 treasury shares.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the Registrant’s 2011 Definitive Proxy Statement to be filed not later than 120 days after the close of the 2011 fiscal year are incorporated by reference intoPart III, Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and14 of this Report.

EXPLANATORY NOTE

This Amendment No. 1 on Form 10-K/A (this “Amendment”) amends Exar Corporation’s (the “Company”) Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 27, 2011, originally filed on June 10, 2011 (the “Original Filing”). The Company is filing this Amendment solely to correct an administrative error on the Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on page 60 of the Original Filing. Although the Company had received an executed copy of the Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm prior to the filing date, the Original Filing inadvertently excluded the signature of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP on the Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. Items 8, 9A and 15 of the Original Report, which have been revised solely to add the conformed signature of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP in the Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, have been included in this filing to correct the inadvertent exclusion. In addition, we are also including Exhibits 31.1, 31.2, 32.1 and 32.2 required by the filing of this amendment.

Except as described above, no other changes have been made to the Original Filing. This Amendment should be read in conjunction with the Original Filing and our filings made with the SEC subsequent to the Original Filing.

PART II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

	Page
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm		60
Consolidated Balance Sheets		61
Consolidated Statements of Operations		62
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Income (Loss)		63
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows		64
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements		65

59

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Exar Corporation:

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and comprehensive income (loss), and of cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Exar Corporation and its subsidiaries at March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 27, 2011 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of March 27, 2011, 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 these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated 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 and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

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 (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) 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 (iii) 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.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

San Jose, California

June 10, 2011

60

EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except share amounts)

	March 27, 2011			March 28, 2010
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	15,039		$	25,486
Short-term marketable securities		185,960			186,598
Accounts receivable (net of allowances of $1,165 and $831)		9,776			13,461
Accounts receivable, related party (net of allowances of $358 and $605)		3,194			4,323
Inventories		21,962			15,000
Other current assets		3,562			5,106
Total current assets		239,493			249,974
Property, plant and equipment, net		38,009			42,941
Goodwill		3,184			3,085
Intangible assets, net		15,390			31,957
Other non-current assets		2,139			5,357
Total assets	$	298,215		$	333,314
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	8,794		$	9,828
Accrued compensation and related benefits		6,069			6,619
Deferred income and allowances on sales to distributors		4,632			4,227
Deferred income and allowances on sales to distributor, related party		10,680			10,650
Short-term lease financing obligations		1,681			3,540
Other accrued expenses		5,381			7,058
Total current liabilities		37,237			41,922
Long-term lease financing obligations		12,558			13,454
Other non-current obligations		3,841			3,806
Total liabilities		53,636			59,182
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 16 and 17)
Stockholders’ equity:
Preferred stock, $.0001 par value; 2,250,000 shares authorized; no shares outstanding		—			—
Common stock, $.0001 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; 44,519,663 and 43,839,514 shares outstanding at March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010, respectively		4			4
Additional paid-in capital		728,139			720,455
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		(287	)		1,282
Treasury stock at cost, 19,924,369 shares at March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010		(248,983	)		(248,983	)
Accumulated deficit		(234,294	)		(198,626	)
Total stockholders’ equity		244,579			274,132
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	298,215		$	333,314

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

61

EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 27, 2011			March 28, 2010			March 29, 2009
Sales:
Net sales	$	101,721		$	97,676		$	74,620
Net sales, related party		44,284			37,202			40,498
Total net sales		146,005			134,878			115,118
Cost of sales:
Cost of sales		54,992			48,728			41,811
Cost of sales, related party		20,972			17,581			19,933
Amortization of purchased intangible assets		6,044			5,187			3,129
Total cost of sales		82,008			71,496			64,873
Gross profit		63,997			63,382			50,245
Operating expenses:
Research and development		51,098			48,511			31,829
Selling, general and administrative		45,432			48,861			38,962
Impairment of intangible assets and goodwill		7,485			—			59,676
Total operating expenses		104,015			97,372			130,467
Loss from operations		(40,018	)		(33,990	)		(80,222	)
Other income and expense, net:
Interest income and other, net		5,925			7,030			9,693
Interest expense		(1,258	)		(1,296	)		(1,253	)
Impairment charges on investments		(62	)		(317	)		(1,789	)
Total other income and expense, net		4,605			5,417			6,651
Loss before income taxes		(35,413	)		(28,573	)		(73,571	)
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes		255			(463	)		(535	)
Net loss	$	(35,668	)	$	(28,110	)	$	(73,036	)
Loss per share:
Basic and diluted loss per share	$	(0.81	)	$	(0.64	)	$	(1.70	)
Shares used in the computation of loss per share:
Basic and diluted		44,218			43,584			42,887

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

62

EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(In thousands, except share amounts)

	Common Stock					Treasury Stock						Additional Paid–in- Capital			Accumulated Deficit			Accumulated Other Compre- hensive Income (Loss)			Total Stockholders’ Equity
	Shares			Amount		Shares			Amount
Balance, March 30, 2008		62,216,783		$	4		(18,288,021	)	$	(235,538	)	$	702,218		$	(97,480	)	$	1,873		$	371,077
Comprehensive loss:
Net loss																(73,036	)					(73,036	)
Other comprehensive income:
Change in unrealized gains on marketable securities, including tax of $485																			(1,071	)		(1,071	)
Total comprehensive loss																					$	(74,107	)
Reclassification of deferred compensation liability													210									210
Issuance of common stock through employee stock plans		635,959											3,518									3,518
Issuance of common stock for vested restricted stock units		117,437
Withholding of common shares for tax obligations on vested restricted stock units		(9,539	)										(60	)								(60	)
Stock-based compensation													4,901									4,901
Acquisition of treasury stock							(1,636,348	)		(13,445	)											(13,445	)
Balance, March 29, 2009		62,960,640		$	4		(19,924,369	)	$	(248,983	)	$	710,787		$	(170,516	)	$	802		$	292,094
Comprehensive loss:
Net loss																(28,110	)					(28,110	)
Other comprehensive income:
Change in unrealized gains on marketable securities, including tax of $289																			480			480
Total comprehensive loss																					$	(27,630	)
Issuance of common stock through employee stock plans		83,553											538									538
Issuance of common stock in connection with Hifn acquisition		418,026											2,709									2,709
Deferred salary option adjustment, net		1,325											20									20
Issuance of common stock for vested restricted stock units		349,409											3									3
Withholding of common shares for tax obligations on vested restricted stock units		(49,070	)										(347	)								(347	)
Tax benefit from stock plans													780									780
Stock-based compensation													5,965									5,965
Balance, March 28, 2010		63,763,883		$	4		(19,924,369	)	$	(248,983	)	$	720,455		$	(198,626	)	$	1,282		$	274,132
Comprehensive loss:
Net loss																(35,668	)					(35,668	)
Other comprehensive loss:
Change in unrealized gains on marketable securities, including tax of $0																			(1,569	)		(1,569	)
Total comprehensive loss																					$	(37,237	)
Issuance of common stock through employee stock plans		195,087											1,208									1,208
Issuance of common stock in connection with Hifn acquisition		4,196											27									27
Issuance of common stock for vested restricted stock units		619,561
Withholding of common shares for tax obligations on vested restricted stock units		(138,695	)										(969	)								(969	)
Tax benefit from stock plans													37									37
Stock-based compensation													7,381									7,381
Balance, March 27, 2011		64,444,032		$	4		(19,924,369	)	$	(248,983	)	$	728,139		$	(234,294	)	$	(287	)	$	244,579

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

63

EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 27, 2011			March 28, 2010			March 29, 2009
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss	$	(35,668	)	$	(28,110	)	$	(73,036	)
Reconciliation of net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Intangible assets impairment and goodwill		7,485			—			59,676
Depreciation and amortization		19,414			20,825			14,446
Stock-based compensation expense		7,381			5,965			4,934
Other than temporary loss on investments		62			317			1,789
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable and accounts receivable, related party		4,814			(5,121	)		4,407
Inventories		(6,962	)		6,256			(1,510	)
Other current and non-current assets		2,756			(204	)		819
Accounts payable		(1,202	)		2,473			(3,410	)
Accrued compensation and related benefits		(1,495	)		(925	)		(1,032	)
Other accrued expenses		(245	)		(2,030	)		(2,205	)
Income taxes payable		263			—			94
Deferred income and allowance on sales to distributors and related party distributor		435			4,195			(1,704	)
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities		(2,962	)		3,641			3,268
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property, plant and equipment and intellectual property, net		(3,656	)		(5,830	)		(2,255	)
Purchases of short-term marketable securities		(157,609	)		(166,229	)		(264,087	)
Proceeds from maturities of short-term marketable securities		74,459			114,414			199,064
Proceeds from sales of short-term marketable securities		82,294			46,426			42,467
Other investment activities		(219	)		(42	)		(227	)
Acquisition of Neterion, net of cash acquired		—			(8,544	)		—
Acquisition of Galazar, net of cash acquired		—			(4,445	)		—
Acquisition of Hifn, net of cash acquired		—			(40,344	)		—
Net cash used in investing activities		(4,731	)		(64,594	)		(25,038	)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repurchase of common stock		—			—			(13,445	)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock		1,208			541			3,518
Repayment of lease financing obligations		(3,962	)		(3,104	)		(1,317	)
Net cash used in financing activities		(2,754	)		(2,563	)		(11,244	)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents		(10,447	)		(63,516	)		(33,014	)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of period		25,486			89,002			122,016
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of period	$	15,039		$	25,486		$	89,002
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities:
Issuance of common stock in connection with Hifn acquisition		27			2,709			—
Cash paid for income taxes		179			185			164
Cash received from income taxes refund		3,078			—			—
Cash paid for interest		1,289			1,327			1,200
Property, plant and equipment acquired under capital lease		1,808			2,012			2,571

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

64

EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

NOTE 1.    DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

Exar Corporation was incorporated in California in 1971 and reincorporated in Delaware in 1991. Exar Corporation and its subsidiaries (“Exar” or “we”) is a fabless semiconductor company that designs, sub-contracts manufacturing and sells highly differentiated silicon, software and subsystem solutions for industrial, telecom, networking and storage applications.

On March 16, 2010, we completed the acquisition of Neterion, Inc. (“Neterion”), a supplier of 10 Gigabit Ethernet (“GbE”) controller silicon and card solutions optimized for virtualized data centers located in Sunnyvale, California.

On June 17, 2009, we completed the acquisition of Galazar Networks, Inc. (“Galazar”), a fabless semiconductor company focused on carrier grade transport over telecom networks based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Galazar’s product portfolio addressed transport of a wide range of datacom and telecom services including Ethernet, SAN, TDM and video over SONET/SDH, PDH and OTN networks.

On April 3, 2009, we completed the acquisition of hi/fn, inc. (“Hifn”), a provider of network-and storage-security and data reduction products located in Los Gatos, California.

Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior year consolidated financial statements to conform to the current year’s presentation. Such reclassification had no effect on previously reported results of operations or stockholders’ equity.

NOTE 2.    ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation—Our fiscal years consist of 52 or 53 weeks. In a 52-week year, each fiscal quarter consists of 13 weeks. The three fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009 are each comprised of 52-weeks. Fiscal year 2012 will consist of 53 weeks.

Principles of Consolidation—The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Exar Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

Use of Management Estimates—The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States requires management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates, including (1) revenue recognition; (2) valuation of inventories; (3) income taxes; (4) stock-based compensation; (5) goodwill; and (6) long-lived assets. Actual results could differ from these estimates and material effects on operating results and financial position may result.

Business Combinations—The estimated fair value of acquired assets and assumed liabilities and the results of operations of acquired businesses are included in our consolidated financial statements from the effective date of the purchase. The total purchase price is allocated to the estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. (See Note 3—“Business Combinations.”)

Cash and Cash Equivalents—We consider all highly liquid debt securities and investments with maturities of 90 days or less from the date of purchase to be cash and cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents also consist of cash on deposit with banks and money market funds.

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EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

Inventories—Inventories are recorded at the lower of cost or market, determined on a first-in, first-out basis. Cost is computed using the standard cost, which approximates average actual cost. Inventory is written down when conditions indicate that the selling price could be less than cost due to physical deterioration, obsolescence, changes in price levels, or other causes. The write-down of excess inventories is generally based on inventory levels in excess of twelve months of demand, as judged by management, for each specific product.

Property, Plant and Equipment—Property, plant and equipment, including assets held under capital leases and leasehold improvements, are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation for machinery and equipment is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which ranges from three to ten years. Buildings are depreciated using the straight-line method over an estimated useful life of 30 years. Assets held under capital leases and leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the terms of the leases or their estimated useful lives. Land is not depreciated.

Non-Marketable Equity Securities—Non-marketable equity investments are accounted for at historical cost and are presented on our consolidated balance sheets within other non-current assets.

Other-Than-Temporary Impairment—All of our marketable and non-marketable investments are subject to periodic impairment reviews. Investments are considered to be impaired when a decline in fair value is judged to be other-than-temporary, as follows:

Marketable investments—When the resulting fair value is significantly below cost basis and/or the significant decline has lasted for an extended period of time, we perform an evaluation to determine whether the marketable equity security is other than temporarily impaired. The evaluation that we use to determine whether a marketable equity security is other than temporarily impaired is based on the specific facts and circumstances present at the time of assessment, which include significant quantitative and qualitative assessments and estimates regarding credit ratings, collateralized support, the length of time and significance of a security’s loss position and intent and ability to hold a security to maturity or forecasted recovery. Other-than-temporary declines in value of our investments are reported in the impairment charges on investments line in the consolidated statements of operations.

Non-marketable equity investments—When events or circumstances are identified that would likely have a significant adverse effect on the fair value of the investment and the fair value is significantly below cost basis and/or the significant decline has lasted for an extended period of time, we perform an impairment analysis. The indicators that we use to identify those events and circumstances include:

• the investment manager’s evaluation;

• the investee’s revenue and earnings trends relative to predefined milestones and overall business prospects;

• the technological feasibility of the investee’s products and technologies;

• the general market conditions in the investee’s industry; and

• the investee’s liquidity, debt ratios and the rate at which the investee is using cash.

Investments identified as having an indicator of impairment are subject to further analysis to determine if the investment is other than temporarily impaired, and if so, the investment is written down to its impaired value. When an investee is not considered viable from a financial or technological point of view, the entire investment is written down. Impairment of non-marketable equity investments is recorded in the impairment charges on investments line in the consolidated statements of operations.

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EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

Goodwill—Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired in a business combination. We evaluate goodwill for impairment on an annual basis or whenever events and changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Impairment of goodwill is tested at the reporting unit level by comparing the reporting unit’s carrying amount, including goodwill, to the fair value of the reporting unit. The fair values of the reporting units are estimated using a combination of the income, or discounted cash flows, approach and the market approach, which utilize comparable companies’ data. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, goodwill is considered impaired and a second step is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. Because we have one reporting unit, we utilize the entity-wide approach to assess goodwill for impairment. During our annual goodwill impairment analysis in the fourth quarters of fiscal year 2011 and fiscal year 2010, fair value exceeded carrying value and no impairment was recorded.

In the third quarter of fiscal year 2009, the rapid and severe deterioration of worldwide economic conditions affected our industry and led customers to scale down their levels of production. As a result of these impairment indicators, we considered the potential impairment of goodwill. Indicators that required us to perform an interim impairment review consisted of further weakening in new orders from our customers throughout the third quarter and into the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2009, as well as the uncertainty of the magnitude and duration of the recession as evidenced by industry analysts expectations that demand for semiconductors would remain weak until economic conditions improve. In addition, we experienced a significant decline in our stock price that reduced our market capitalization below our net asset carrying value for an extended period of time. We performed an interim goodwill impairment analysis and recorded a $46.2 million impairment loss that was included in the impairment of intangible assets and goodwill line in the consolidated statements of operations. (See “Note 9—Goodwill and Intangible Assets”).

Long-Lived Assets—We assess the impairment of long-lived assets when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the assets or the asset grouping may not be recoverable. Factors that we consider in deciding when to perform an impairment review include significant negative industry or economic trends, and significant changes or planned changes in our use of the assets. These factors can also be referred to as triggering events. We measure the recoverability of assets that will continue to be used in our operations by comparing the carrying value of the asset grouping to our estimate of the related total future undiscounted net cash flows. If an asset grouping’s carrying value is not recoverable through the related undiscounted cash flows, the asset grouping is considered to be impaired. The impairment is measured by comparing the difference between the asset grouping’s carrying value and its fair value. Long-lived assets such as goodwill; intangible assets; and property, plant and equipment are considered non-financial assets, and are recorded at fair value only if an impairment charge is recognized.

Impairments of long-lived assets are determined for groups of assets related to the lowest level of identifiable independent cash flows. We operate with one asset group on an enterprise basis. As a result, we believe the lowest identifiable cash flows reside at the enterprise level.

When we determine that the useful lives of assets are shorter than we had originally estimated, we accelerate the rate of depreciation and/or amortization over the assets’ new, shorter useful lives.

Substantially all of our property, plant and equipment and other long-lived assets are located in the United States.

In-process research and development—In-process research and development (“IPR&D”) assets are considered indefinite-lived intangible assets and are not subject to amortization until their useful life is

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FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

determined. IPR&D assets must be tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. The impairment test consists of a comparison of the fair value of the IPR&D assets with their carrying values. If the carrying amount of the IPR&D asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss must be recognized in an amount equal to that excess. After an impairment loss is recognized, the adjusted carrying amount of the IPR&D assets will be their new accounting basis. Subsequent reversal of a previously recognized impairment loss is prohibited. The initial determination and subsequent evaluation for impairment of the IPR&D asset requires management to make significant judgments and estimates. Once an IPR&D project has been completed, the useful life of the IPR&D asset is determined and amortized accordingly. If the IPR&D asset is abandoned, the remaining carrying value is written off.

Income Taxes—Deferred taxes are recognized using the asset and liability method, whereby 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, operating losses and tax credit carryforwards. Valuation allowances are provided if it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

Revenue Recognition—We recognize revenue in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) authoritative guidance for Revenue Recognition. Four basic criteria must be met before revenue can be recognized: (1) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; (2) delivery has occurred or services have been rendered; (3) the price is fixed or determinable; and (4) collectability is reasonably assured.

We derive revenue principally from the sale of our products to distributors and to OEMs or their contract manufacturers. Our delivery terms are primarily FOB shipping point, at which time title and all risks of ownership are transferred to the customer.

Non-distributors—For non-distributors, revenue is recognized when title to the product is transferred to the customer, which occurs upon shipment or delivery, depending upon the terms of the customer order, provided that persuasive evidence of a sales arrangement exists, the price is fixed or determinable, collection of the resulting receivables is reasonably assured, there are no customer acceptance requirements and there are no remaining significant obligations. Provisions for returns and allowances for non-distributor customers are provided at the time product sales are recognized. An allowance for sales returns and allowances for non-distributor customers are recorded based on historical experience or specific identification of an event necessitating an allowance.

Distributors—Agreements with our two primary distributors permit the return of 3% to 5% of their purchases during the preceding quarter for purposes of stock rotation. For one of these distributors, a scrap allowance of 2% of the preceding quarter’s purchases is permitted. We also provide discounts to certain distributors based on volume of product they sell for a specific product with a specific volume range for a given customer over a period not to exceed one year.

We recognize revenue from each of our distributors using either of the following bases. Once adopted, the basis for revenue recognition for a distributor is maintained unless there is a change in circumstances indicating the basis for revenue recognition for that distributor is no longer appropriate.

• Sell-in Basis—Revenue is recognized upon shipment if we conclude we meet the same criteria as for non-distributors and we can reasonably estimate the credits for returns, pricing allowances and/or other concessions. We record an estimated allowance, at the time of shipment, based upon historical patterns of returns, pricing allowances and other concessions (i.e., “sell-in” basis).

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• Sell-through Basis—Revenue and the related costs of sales are deferred until the resale to the end customer if we grant more than limited rights of return, pricing allowances and/or other concessions or if we cannot reasonably estimate the level of returns and credits issuable (i.e., “sell-through” basis). Under the sell-through basis, accounts receivable are recognized and inventory is relieved upon shipment to the distributor as title to the inventory is transferred upon shipment, at which point we have a legally enforceable right to collection under normal terms. The associated sales and cost of sales are deferred and are included in deferred income and allowance on sales to distributors in the consolidated balance sheet. When the related product is sold by our distributors to their end customers, at which time the ultimate price we receive is known, we recognize previously deferred income as sales and cost of sales.

Sell-through revenue recognition is highly dependent on receiving pertinent and accurate data from our distributors in a timely fashion. Distributors provide us periodic data regarding the product, price, quantity, and end customer when products are resold as well as the quantities of our products they still have in stock. We must use estimates and apply judgments to reconcile distributors’ reported inventories to their activities. Any error in our judgment could lead to inaccurate reporting of our net sales, gross profit, deferred income and allowances on sales to distributors and net income.

Software became an element of our revenue upon the acquisition of Hifn in April 2009. To date, software revenue has been an immaterial portion of our net sales.

Research and Development Expenses—Research and development costs consist primarily of salaries, employee benefits, mask tooling costs, depreciation, amortization, overhead, outside contractors, facility expenses, and non-recurring engineering fees. Expenditures for research and development are charged to expense as incurred. In accordance with FASB authoritative guidance for the costs of computer software to be sold, leased or otherwise marketed, certain software development costs are capitalized after technological feasibility has been established. The period from achievement of technological feasibility, which we define as the establishment of a working model, until the general availability of such software to customers, has been short, and therefore software development costs qualifying for capitalization have been insignificant. Accordingly, we have not capitalized any software development costs in fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009.

In connection with the Hifn acquisition in April 2009, we assumed a contractual agreement under which certain research and development costs are eligible for reimbursement. Amounts collected under this arrangement are offset against research and development expense. During fiscal year 2011 and fiscal year 2010, we received $5.0 million and $4.6 million, respectively, for work performed, which was recorded as an offset to research and development expenses.

Advertising Expenses—We expense advertising costs as incurred. Advertising expenses for fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009 were not material.

Comprehensive Income (Loss)—Comprehensive income (loss) includes charges or credits to equity related to changes in unrealized gains or losses on marketable securities, net of taxes. Comprehensive income (loss) for fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009 has been disclosed within the consolidated statements of stockholders’ equity and comprehensive income (loss).

Foreign Currency—The accounts of foreign subsidiaries are remeasured to U.S. dollars for financial reporting purposes by using the U.S. dollar as the functional currency and exchange gains and losses are reported in income and expenses. These currency gains or losses are reported in interest income and other, net in the

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FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

consolidated statements of operations. Monetary balance sheet accounts are remeasured using the current exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date. For non-monetary items, the accounts are measured at the historical exchange rate. Revenues and expenses are remeasured at the average exchange rates for the period. Foreign currency transaction losses were not material for fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009.

Concentration of Credit Risk and Significant Customers—Financial instruments potentially subjecting us to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash, cash equivalents, short-term marketable securities, accounts receivable and long-term investments. The majority of our sales are derived from distributors and manufacturers in the communications, industrial, storage and computer industries. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and generally do not require collateral for sales on credit. We maintain allowances for potential credit losses, and such losses have been within management’s expectations. Charges to bad debt expense were insignificant for fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009. Our policy is to invest our cash, cash equivalents and short-term marketable securities with high credit quality financial institutions and limit the amounts invested with any one financial institution or in any type of financial instrument. We do not hold or issue financial instruments for trading purposes.

We sell our products to distributors and OEMs throughout the world. Future Electronics, Inc. (“Future”), a related party, was and continues to be our largest distributor. Future, on a worldwide basis, represented 30%, 28% and 35% of net sales in fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. No other OEM customer or distributor accounted for 10% or more of our net sales in fiscal year 2011, 2010 or 2009.

Concentration of Other Risks—The majority of our products are currently fabricated at Globalfoundries Singapore Pte. Ltd. (f.k.a. Chartered Semiconductor Manufacturing Ltd.), Episil Technologies Inc. (“Episil”) in Taiwan, and Hangzhou Silan Microelectronics Co. Ltd. and Hangzhou Silan Integrated Circuit Co. Ltd. (collectively “Silan”) in the People’s Republic of China (“PRC”), and are assembled and tested by other third-party subcontractors located in Asia. A significant disruption in the operations of one or more of these subcontractors would impact the production of our products for a substantial period of time which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments—We estimate the fair value of our financial instruments by using available market information and valuation methodologies considered to be appropriate. However, considerable judgment is required in interpreting market data to develop the estimates of fair value. The use of different market assumptions and/or estimation methodologies could have a material effect on estimated fair value amounts. The estimated fair value of our carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, short-term marketable securities, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities at March 27, 2011, March 28, 2010 and March 29, 2009 was not materially different from the carrying values presented in the consolidated balance sheets due to the relatively short periods to maturity of the instruments.

Stock-Based Compensation—The estimated fair value of the equity-based awards, less expected forfeitures, is amortized over the awards’ vesting period on a straight-line basis. Determining the fair value of stock-based awards at the grant date requires considerable judgment, including estimating expected volatility, forfeiture rate, expected term and risk-free interest rate. If factors change and we employ different assumptions, stock-based compensation expense may differ significantly from what we have recorded in the prior years. In addition, we follow the “with-and-without” intra-period allocation approach in our tax attribute calculations.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In December 2010, the FASB issued an update to its existing guidance on goodwill and other intangible assets. This guidance modifies Step 1 of the goodwill impairment test for reporting units with zero or negative

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FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

carrying amounts. For those reporting units, an entity is required to perform Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test if there are qualitative factors indicating that it is more likely than not that a goodwill impairment exists. The qualitative factors are consistent with the existing guidance which requires goodwill of a reporting unit to be tested for impairment between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2010, which is beginning March 28, 2011 for us. We are currently evaluating the impact of implementing this guidance on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

In January 2010, the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force issued new authoritative guidance addressing certain measurements and disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements in Level 3 fair value measurements. We are currently evaluating the impact of implementing the disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements in Level 3 fair value measurements on our financial position and result of operations, which are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010 and for interim periods within those fiscal years. Historically, we have not held investments with Level 3 fair value measurements.

NOTE 3.    BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

We periodically evaluate potential strategic acquisitions to build upon our existing library of intellectual property, human capital and engineering talent, in order to expand our capabilities in the areas in which we operate or to acquire complementary businesses.

We account for each business combination by applying the acquisition method, which requires (i) identifying the acquiree; (ii) determining the acquisition date; (iii) recognizing and measuring the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest of Exar in the acquiree at their acquisition date fair value; and (iv) recognizing and measuring goodwill or a gain from a bargain purchase.

Assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination that arise from contingencies are recognized at fair value on the acquisition date if fair value can be determined during the measurement period. If fair value cannot be determined, we typically account for the acquired contingencies using existing guidance for a reasonable estimate.

To establish fair value, we measure the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an ordinary transaction between market participants. The measurement assumes the highest and best use of the asset by the market participants that would maximize the value of the asset or the group of assets within which the asset would be used at the measurement date, even if the intended use of the asset is different.

Goodwill is measured and recorded as the amount by which the consideration transferred, generally at the acquisition date fair value, exceeds the acquisition date fair value of identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interest of Exar in the acquiree. To the contrary, if the acquisition date fair value of identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interest of Exar in the acquiree exceeds the consideration transferred, it is considered a bargain purchase and we would recognize the resulting gain in earnings on the acquisition date.

IPR&D assets are considered an indefinite-lived intangible asset and are not subject to amortization until its useful life is determined to be no longer indefinite. IPR&D assets must be tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. The impairment

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FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

test consists of a comparison of the fair value of the IPR&D asset with its carrying amount. If the carrying amount of the IPR&D asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss must be recognized in an amount equal to that excess. After an impairment loss is recognized, the adjusted carrying amount of the IPR&D assets will be its new accounting basis. Subsequent reversal of a previously recognized impairment loss is prohibited. The initial determination and subsequent evaluation for impairment of the IPR&D asset requires management to make significant judgments and estimates. Once the IPR&D projects have been completed, the useful life of the IPR&D asset is determined and amortized accordingly. If the IPR&D asset is abandoned, the remaining carrying value is written off.

Acquisition-related costs, including finder’s fees, advisory, legal, accounting, valuation and other professional or consulting fees are accounted for as expenses in the periods in which the costs are incurred and the services are received, with the exception that the costs to issue debt or equity securities are recognized in accordance with other applicable GAAP.

Acquisition of Neterion

On March 16, 2010, we completed the acquisition of Neterion, Inc. (“Neterion”), a supplier of 10 GbE controller silicon and card solutions optimized for virtualized data centers based in Sunnyvale, California. Neterion’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning March 17, 2010.

Consideration

We paid approximately $2.3 million in cash for Neterion, representing the fair value of total consideration transferred.

Acquisition-Related Costs

Acquisition-related costs relating to Neterion, which are included in the selling, general and administrative line on the consolidated statement of operations, were not material in fiscal year 2011. In fiscal year 2010, we recorded $0.5 million in acquisition-related costs relating to Neterion.

Restructuring Costs

For disclosure regarding restructuring costs, see“Note 7—Restructuring & Other” contained herein.

Purchase Price Allocation

The allocation of the purchase price to Neterion’s tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed was based on their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition.

The excess of the purchase price over the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed has been allocated to goodwill. The $464,000 in goodwill resulted primarily from our expected synergies from the integration of Neterion’s technology into our product offerings. Goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.

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FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

The fair value allocated to each of the major classes of tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Neterion acquisition was as follows (in thousands):

	As of March 16, 2010
Identifiable tangible assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	747
Accounts receivable		313
Inventories		617
Other current assets		311
Other assets		651
Accounts payable and accruals		(592	)
Other liabilities		(2,920	)
Debt		(6,963	)
Total identifiable tangible assets, net		(7,836	)
Identifiable intangible assets		9,700
Total identifiable assets, net		1,864
Goodwill		464
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$	2,328

Subsequent to the Neterion acquisition, there were no adjustments to the fair value allocated to each of the major classes of tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed on March 16, 2010.

Identifiable Intangible Assets

The following table sets forth the components of the identifiable intangible assets acquired in the Neterion acquisition, which are being amortized over their estimated useful lives, with a maximum amortization period of six years, on a straight-line basis with no residual value:

	Fair Value		Useful Life
	(in thousands)		(in years)
Existing technology	$	5,600		4.0
Patents/Core technology		900		6.0
In-process research and development		800		—
Customer relationships		2,100		6.0
Tradenames/Trademarks		100		2.0
Non-Compete Agreements		100		1.3
Order backlog		100		0.2
Total acquired identifiable intangible assets	$	9,700

We allocated the purchase price using the established valuation techniques described below.

Inventories—The value allocated to inventories reflects the estimated fair value of the acquired inventory based on the expected sales price of the inventory, less reasonable selling margin. The estimated fair value of raw materials is generally equal to their book value, due to the fact that raw materials have not been used to develop any finished goods or work-in-progress and therefore, there is no value added to the raw materials.

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FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

Intangible assets—The fair values of existing technology, patents/core technology, in-process research and development, customer relationships, tradenames/trademarks, non-compete agreements and order backlog were determined using the income approach, which discounted expected future cash flows to present value, taking into account multiple factors including, but not limited to, the stage of completion, estimated costs to complete, utilization of patents/core technology, the risks related to successful completion, and the markets served. The cash flows were discounted at rates ranging from 4% to 33%. The discount rate used to value the existing intangible assets was 20%.

Acquired In-Process Research and Development—The IPR&D project underway at Neterion at the acquisition date related to the X3500 product series and as of such acquisition date had incurred approximately $2.9 million in expense. This project was abandoned in March 2011 when we exited the 10 GbE market, resulting in a charge of $0.8 million in fiscal year 2011. (See “Note 9—Goodwill and Intangible Assets”).

Acquisition of Galazar

On June 17, 2009, we completed the acquisition of Galazar Networks, Inc. (“Galazar”), a fabless semiconductor company focused on carrier grade transport over telecom networks based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Galazar’s product portfolio addressed transport of a wide range of datacom and telecom services including Ethernet, SAN, TDM and video over SONET/SDH, PDH and OTN networks. Galazar’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning June 18, 2009.

Consideration

We paid approximately $5.0 million in cash for Galazar, representing the fair value of total consideration transferred. This amount included approximately $1.0 million contingent consideration that, for the purposes of valuation, was assigned a 95% probability or a fair value of $0.95 million. This payment was contingent on Galazar achieving a project milestone within a twelve-month period following the close of the transaction. This milestone was met during the three months ended December 27, 2009 and $1.0 million was paid in cash. The additional $50,000 was expensed and included in the research and development line on the consolidated statement of operations for fiscal year 2010.

Acquisition-Related Costs

Acquisition-related costs, or deal costs, relating to Galazar are included in the selling, general and administrative line on the consolidated statement of operations. No acquisition-related costs relating to Galazar were incurred during fiscal year 2011. In fiscal year 2010, we recorded $0.9 million in acquisition-related costs relating to Galazar.

Purchase Price Allocation

The allocation of the purchase price to Galazar’s tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed was based on their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition.

The excess of the purchase price over the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed has been allocated to goodwill. The $372,000 in goodwill resulted primarily from our expected synergies from the integration of Galazar’s technology into our product offerings. Goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.

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FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

The fair value allocated to each of the major classes of tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Galazar acquisition was as follows (in thousands):

	As of June 17, 2009
Identifiable tangible assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	506
Other current assets		909
Other assets		250
Accounts payable and accruals		(93	)
Accrued compensation and related benefits		(230	)
Other obligations		(224	)
Total identifiable tangible assets, net		1,118
Identifiable intangible assets		3,460
Total identifiable assets, net		4,578
Goodwill		372
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$	4,950

Subsequent to the Galazar acquisition, there were no adjustments to the fair value allocated to each of the major classes of tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed on June 17, 2009.

Identifiable Intangible Assets

The following table sets forth the components of the identifiable intangible assets acquired in the Galazar acquisition, which are being amortized over their estimated useful lives, with a maximum amortization period of six years, on a straight-line basis with no residual value:

	Fair Value		Useful Life
	(in thousands)		(in years)
Existing technology	$	2,100		6.0
Patents/Core technology		400		6.0
In-process research and development		300		—
Customer relationships		500		6.0
Tradenames/Trademarks		100		3.0
Order backlog		60		0.3
Total acquired identifiable intangible assets	$	3,460

We allocated the purchase price using the established valuation techniques described below.

Intangible assets—The fair value of existing technology, patents/core technology, in-process research and development, customer relationships, tradenames/trademarks and order backlog were determined using the income approach, which discounted expected future cash flows to present value, taking into account multiple factors including, but not limited to, the stage of completion, estimated costs to complete, utilization of patents and core technology, the risks related to successful completion, and the markets served. The cash flows were discounted at rates ranging from 5% to 35%. The discount rate used to value the existing intangible assets was 28%.

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FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

Acquired In-Process Research and Development—The IPR&D project underway at Galazar at the acquisition date relates to the MXP2 product and as of such acquisition date had incurred approximately $2.3 million in expense. The total research and development expense expected to be incurred to complete the project is estimated at $12.0 million, based on the project development timeline and resource requirements, and is expected to be completed by February 2012. The percentage of completion for the project was estimated at 51% at the acquisition date.

Acquisition of Hifn

On April 3, 2009, we completed the acquisition of hi/fn, inc. (“Hifn”), a provider of network-and storage-security and data reduction products located in Los Gatos, California. Hifn’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning April 4, 2009.

Consideration

The following table summarizes the consideration paid for Hifn, representing the fair value of total consideration transferred (in thousands):

	Amounts
Cash	$	56,825
Equity instruments		2,784
Total consideration paid	$	59,609

The $2.8 million estimated fair value for equity instruments represented approximately 429,600 shares of Exar’s common stock, valued at $6.48 per share, the closing price reported on The NASDAQ Global Market on April 3, 2009 (the acquisition date).

Acquisition-Related Costs

Acquisition-related costs, or deal costs, relating to Hifn are included in the selling, general and administrative line on the consolidated statement of operations. Acquisition-related costs incurred in fiscal year 2011 relating to Hifn were not material. In fiscal year 2010, we incurred $3.8 million of acquisition-related costs relating to Hifn.

Purchase Price Allocation

The allocation of the purchase price to Hifn’s tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed was based on their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. Subsequent to the acquisition, we recorded $1.0 million in restructuring expenses relating to Hifn for fiscal year 2010, relating to severance and a building lease obligation in Los Gatos, California. Severance costs relating to Hifn incurred during fiscal year 2011 were immaterial.

The excess of the purchase price over the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed has been allocated to goodwill. The $2.2 million in goodwill resulted primarily from our expected future product sales synergies from combining Hifn’s products with our product offerings. Goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.

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FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

The fair value allocated to each of the major classes of tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed on April 3, 2009 in the Hifn acquisition was as follows (in thousands):

	As of April 3, 2009
Identifiable tangible assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	16,468
Short-term marketable securities		14,133
Accounts receivable		2,982
Inventories		4,269
Other current assets		1,683
Property, plant and equipment		2,013
Other assets		1,721
Accounts payable and accruals		(586	)
Accrued compensation and related benefits		(1,860	)
Other current liabilities		(2,963	)
Total identifiable tangible assets, net		37,860
Identifiable intangible assets		19,500
Total identifiable assets, net		57,360
Goodwill		2,249
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$	59,609

Subsequent to the Hifn acquisition, there were no adjustments to the fair value allocated to each of the major classes of tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed on April 3, 2009.

Identifiable Intangible Assets

The following table sets forth the components of the identifiable intangible assets acquired in the Hifn acquisition, which are being amortized over their estimated useful lives, with a maximum amortization period of seven years, on a straight-line basis with no residual value:

	Fair Value		Useful Life
	(in thousands)		(in years)
Existing technology	$	9,000		5.0
Patents/Core technology		1,500		5.0
In-process research and development		1,600		—
Customer relationships		1,300		7.0
Tradenames/Trademarks		700		3.0
Order backlog		900		0.5
Research and development reimbursement contract		4,500		1.5
Total acquired identifiable intangible assets	$	19,500

We allocated the purchase price using the established valuation techniques as described below.

Inventories—Inventories acquired in connection with the Hifn acquisition were finished goods. The value allocated to inventories reflects the estimated fair value of the acquired inventory based on the expected sales price of the inventory, less reasonable selling margin.

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FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

Property, plant and equipment—The basis used for our analysis is the fair value in continued use, which is expressed in terms of the price a willing and informed buyer would pay contemplating continued use as part of the assets in place for the purpose for which they were designed, engineered, installed, fabricated and erected.

Intangible assets—The fair value of existing technology, patents/core technology, in-process research and development, customer relationships, tradenames/trademarks, order backlog and research and development reimbursement contract were determined using the income approach, which discounted expected future cash flows to present value, taking into account multiple factors including, but not limited to, the stage of completion, estimated costs to complete, utilization of patents and core technology, the risks related to successful completion, and the markets served. The cash flows were discounted at rates ranging from 5% to 30%. The discount rate used to value the existing intangible assets was 14%.

Acquired In-Process Research and Development—The IPR&D projects underway at Hifn at the acquisition date were in the security processors and flow through product families, each consisting of one project, and as of such acquisition date Hifn had incurred approximately $2.6 million and $1.1 million in costs related to those projects, respectively. The percentage of completion for these projects, at the date of acquisition, was 90% and 30%, respectively. The total research and development expenditures expected to be incurred to complete the security processors and flow through projects were approximately $2.1 million and $0.7 million, respectively, based on project development timelines and resource requirements. The IPR&D projects for flow through and security processors were completed in January 2010 and July 2010, respectively, and are in production. The fair value, at date of acquisition, for both IPR&D projects, is being amortized over an estimated useful life of five years.

NOTE 4.    BALANCE SHEET DETAILS

Our property, plant and equipment consisted of the following (in thousands) as of the dates indicated:

	March 27, 2011			March 28, 2010
Land	$	11,960		$	11,960
Building		24,398			24,022
Machinery and equipment		46,863			46,040
Software and licenses		37,785			35,543
Property, plant and equipment, total		121,006			117,565
Accumulated depreciation and amortization		(82,997	)		(74,624	)
Total property, plant and equipment, net	$	38,009		$	42,941

Depreciation and amortization expense for fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009 was $9.1 million, $9.5 million and $8.4 million, respectively.

Our inventories consisted of the following (in thousands) as of the dates indicated:

	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010
Work-in-progress and raw materials	$	12,068	$	9,318
Finished goods		9,894		5,682
Total inventories	$	21,962	$	15,000

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

Our other accrued expenses consisted of the following (in thousands) as of the dates indicated:

	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010
Accrued legal and professional services	$	1,630	$	4,063
Accrued sales and marketing expenses		1,036		878
Accrued manufacturing expenses, royalties and licenses		1,873		1,584
Accrued restructuring expenses		288		239
Other		554		294
Total other accrued expenses	$	5,381	$	7,058

NOTE 5.    CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND SHORT-TERM MARKETABLE SECURITIES

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. Valuation techniques used to measure fair value must maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. GAAP describes a fair value hierarchy based on three levels of inputs, of which the first two are considered observable and the last unobservable, that may be used to measure fair value as follows:

Level 1—Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2—Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

Our investment assets, measured at fair value on a recurring basis, as of March 27, 2011 were as follows (in thousands, except for percentages):

	Level 1		Level 2		Total
Assets:
Money market funds	$	7,403	$	—	$	7,403	4	%
U.S. Treasury securities		20,726		—		20,726	10	%
Asset-backed securities		—		24,242		24,242	13	%
Agency mortgage-backed securities		—		35,565		35,565	18	%
Agency pool mortgage-backed securities		—		3,522		3,522	2	%
Corporate bonds and notes		—		78,588		78,588	41	%
Government and agency bonds		—		23,317		23,317	12	%
Total investment assets	$	28,129	$	165,234	$	193,363	100	%

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

Our investment assets, measured at fair value on a recurring basis, as of March 28, 2010 were as follows (in thousands, except for percentages):

	Level 1		Level 2		Total
Assets:
Money market funds	$	19,616	$	—	$	19,616	9	%
U.S. Treasury securities		15,839		—		15,839	8	%
Asset-backed securities		—		17,801		17,801	9	%
Agency mortgage-backed securities		—		42,514		42,514	21	%
Agency pool mortgage-backed securities		—		4,413		4,413	2	%
Corporate bonds and notes		—		62,122		62,122	30	%
Government and agency bonds		—		43,909		43,909	21	%
Total investment assets	$	35,455	$	170,759	$	206,214	100	%

Our cash, cash equivalents and short-term marketable securities as of March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010 were as follows (in thousands):

	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash in financial institutions	$	7,636	$	5,870
Cash equivalents
Money market funds		7,403		19,616
Total cash and cash equivalents	$	15,039	$	25,486
Short-term marketable securities
U.S. government and agency securities	$	44,043	$	59,747
Corporate bonds and commercial paper		78,588		62,122
Asset-backed securities		24,242		17,801
Mortgage-backed securities		39,087		46,928
Total short-term marketable securities	$	185,960	$	186,598

Our marketable securities include municipal securities, commercial paper, asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities, corporate bonds and U.S. government securities. We classify investments as available-for-sale at the time of purchase and re-evaluate such designation as of each balance sheet date. We amortize premiums and accrete discounts to interest income over the life of the investment. Our available-for-sale securities, which we intend to sell as necessary to meet our liquidity requirements, are classified as cash equivalents if the maturity date is 90 days or less from the date of purchase and as short-term marketable securities if the maturity date is greater than 90 days from the date of purchase.

All marketable securities are reported at fair value based on the estimated or quoted market prices as of each balance sheet date, with unrealized gains or losses, net of tax effect, recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity except those unrealized losses that are deemed to be other than temporary which are reflected in the impairment charges on investments line on the consolidated statements of operations.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

Realized gains or losses on the sale of marketable securities are determined by the specific identification method and are reflected in the interest income and other, net line on the consolidated statements of operations.

Our net realized gains (losses) on marketable securities were as follows for the periods indicated (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 27, 2011			March 28, 2010			March 29, 2009
Gross realized gains		1,271			599			783
Gross realized losses		(1,173	)		(550	)		(205	)
Net realized gains	$	98		$	49		$	578

The following table summarizes our investments in cash equivalents and marketable securities as of March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010 (in thousands):

	March 27, 2011
	Amortized Cost		Unrealized								Fair Value
			Gross Gains(1)		Gross Losses(1)			Net Gain (Loss)(1)
Money market funds	$	7,403	$	—	$	—		$	—		$	7,403
U.S. government and agency securities		44,117		145		(219	)		(74	)		44,043
Corporate bonds and commercial paper		77,957		694		(63	)		631			78,588
Asset and mortgage-backed securities		63,370		172		(213	)		(41	)		63,329
Total investments	$	192,847	$	1,011	$	(495	)	$	516		$	193,363

	March 28, 2010
	Amortized Cost		Unrealized							Fair Value
			Gross Gains(1)		Gross Losses(1)			Net Gain (Loss)(1)
Money market funds	$	19,616	$	—	$	—		$	—	$	19,616
U.S. government and agency securities		58,943		835		(31	)		804		59,747
Corporate bonds and commercial paper		61,240		900		(18	)		882		62,122
Asset and mortgage-backed securities		64,329		496		(96	)		400		64,729
Total investments	$	204,128	$	2,231	$	(145	)	$	2,086	$	206,214

(1) Gross of tax impact

The asset-backed securities are comprised primarily of premium tranches of auto loans and credit card receivables, while our mortgage-backed securities are primarily from Federal agencies. We do not own auction rate securities nor do we own securities that are classified as subprime. As of the date of this Annual Report, we have sufficient liquidity and do not intend to sell these securities to fund normal operations nor realize any significant losses in the short term; however, these securities are available for use, if needed, for current operations.

Management determines the appropriate classification of cash equivalents or short-term marketable securities at the time of purchase and reevaluates such classification as of each balance sheet date. The investments are adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity and such accretion/

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

amortization is included in the interest income and other, net line in the consolidated statement of operations. Cash equivalents and short-term marketable securities are reported at fair value with the related unrealized gains and losses included in the accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) line in the consolidated balance sheets. As of March 27, 2011, there was approximately $0.3 million of net unrealized losses including tax expense from our level 1 and level 2 investments.

We periodically review our investments in unrealized loss positions for other-than-temporary impairments. This evaluation includes, but is not limited to, significant quantitative and qualitative assessments and estimates regarding credit ratings, collateralized support, the length of time and significance of a security’s loss position, our intent to not sell the security, and whether it is more likely than not that we will not have to sell the security before recovery of its cost basis. Other-than-temporary declines in value of our investments are reported in the impairment charges on investments line in the consolidated statements of operations.

In fiscal year 2010, an investment in GSAA Home Equity with a cost of $425,000 was downgraded from a AAA rating to a CCC rating. As a result of the reduction in the rating, quantitative analysis showing an increase in the default rate and decrease in prepayment rate of the investment, we recorded an other-than-temporary impairment charge of $91,000 during the second quarter of fiscal year 2010. In the three months ended September 26, 2010, due to further decline in the investment, we recorded an additional other-than-temporary impairment charge of $62,000. In the three months ended December 26, 2010, we sold this investment resulting in an immaterial loss from its adjusted basis.

In September 2008, Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. (“Lehman”) filed a petition under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York. As a result of Lehman’s bankruptcy filing, we recorded an other-than-temporary impairment charge of $0.6 million during fiscal year 2009. In the three months ended March 27, 2011, we sold this investment resulting in an immaterial gain from its adjusted basis.

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of cash equivalents and marketable securities classified as available-for-sale at March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010 by expected maturity were as follows (in thousands):

	March 27, 2011				March 28, 2010
	Amortized Cost		Fair Value		Amortized Cost		Fair Value
Less than 1 year	$	78,378	$	78,684	$	108,812	$	109,562
Due in 1 to 5 years		114,469		114,679		95,316		96,652
Total	$	192,847	$	193,363	$	204,128	$	206,214

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

The following table summarizes the gross unrealized losses and fair values of our investments in an unrealized loss position as of March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position (in thousands):

	March 27, 2011
	Less than 12 months					12 months or greater					Total
	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses
U.S. government and agency securities	$	25,936	$	(219	)	$	325	$	(4	)	$	26,261	$	(223	)
Corporate bonds and commercial paper		16,516		(63	)		1,948		(9	)		18,464		(72	)
Asset and mortgage-backed securities		34,143		(200	)		—		—			34,143		(200	)
Total	$	76,595	$	(482	)	$	2,273	$	(13	)	$	78,868	$	(495	)
	March 28, 2010
	Less than 12 months					12 months or greater					Total
	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses
U.S. government and agency securities	$	5,399	$	(31	)	$	—	$	—		$	5,399	$	(31	)
Corporate bonds and commercial paper		8,851		(18	)		—		—			8,851		(18	)
Asset and mortgage-backed securities		23,802		(69	)		353		(27	)		24,155		(96	)
Total	$	38,052	$	(118	)	$	353	$	(27	)	$	38,405	$	(145	)

NOTE 6.    RELATED PARTY TRANSACTION

Affiliates of Future, Alonim Investments Inc. and two of its affiliates (collectively “Alonim”), own approximately 7.6 million shares, or approximately 17%, of our outstanding common stock as of March 27, 2011. As such, Alonim is our largest stockholder.

Our sales to Future are made under a distribution agreement that provides protection against price reduction for its inventory of our products and other sales allowances. We recognize revenue on sales to Future when Future sells the products to its end customers. Future has historically accounted for a significant portion of our net sales.

Future’s contribution to our total net sales were as follows for the periods indicated:

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 27, 2011			March 28, 2010			March 29, 2009
Future		30	%		28	%		35	%

Future’s expenses for marketing promotional materials reimbursed were as follows for the periods indicated (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010		March 29, 2009
Future	$	28	$	8	$	52

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

NOTE 7.    RESTRUCTURING & OTHER

During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2011, we decided to exit the data center virtualization market, and, in connection therewith, to stop development of our 10GbE network interface cards. We determined that the current economic and market environment did not provide the potential to deliver acceptable returns on the required investments in these products. As a result, in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2011 we abandoned all related in-process research and development. In addition, we began to actively market for sale the related assets of our 10GbE technology, consisting primarily of underlying existing and core technology intangible assets. Charges related to this decision in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2011 totaled approximately $11.1 million and included $7.5 million for the impairment of intangible assets, which is included within the impairment of intangible assets and goodwill line in our consolidated statements of operations, $2.1 million for the write-off of inventory, which is included within the cost of sales line in our consolidated statements of operations, and $1.2 million in severance related costs, which is included primarily within the research and development line in our consolidated statements of operations. The majority of the severance related costs were paid out in fiscal year 2011.

The intangible asset impairment charge of $7.5 million consists of $0.8 million to the write-off abandoned IPR&D acquired in the Neterion acquisition and $6.7 million to write-down the carrying value of intangible assets that are held for sale to $0.2 million at March 27, 2011, which represents their estimated fair value less costs to sell based on third-party bids received to date.

During the quarter ended December 26, 2010, we vacated our facility in Framingham, Massachusetts and recorded a restructuring reserve of $134,000 for the remaining payments owed on this site. We expect this balance to be paid by November 2011 when the lease expires.

In connection with the Neterion acquisition in March 2010, we assumed a lease obligation for a facility in Sunnyvale, California. We vacated the facility in May 2010 and recorded a restructuring reserve of approximately $234,000, during the quarter ended June 27, 2010, for the remaining payments due on this site. This balance is expected to be paid by August 2011 when the lease expires.

In connection with the acquisition of Sipex Corporation (“Sipex”) in August 2007, our management approved and initiated plans to restructure the operations of the combined company to eliminate certain duplicative activities, reduce costs and better align product and operating expenses with then current economic conditions. These costs were accounted for as liabilities assumed as part of the business combination. The costs remaining as of March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010 relate to office space in Belgium that has been vacated but is under lease until March 2012 and were $81,000 and $209,000, respectively.

Our restructuring liabilities were included in the other accrued expenses line in our consolidated balance sheets, and the activities affecting the liabilities for fiscal year 2011 are summarized as follows (in thousands):

	Facility Costs
Balance at March 28, 2010	$	239
Payments		(318	)
Additional accruals		367
Balance at March 27, 2011	$	288

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

NOTE 8.    LONG-TERM INVESTMENT

Our long-term investment consists of our investment in Skypoint Telecom Fund II (US), L.P. (“Skypoint Fund”). Skypoint Fund is a venture capital fund that invests primarily in private companies in the telecommunications and/or networking industries. We account for this non-marketable equity investment under the cost method. We periodically review and determine whether the investment is other-than-temporarily impaired, in which case the investment is written down to its impaired value.

Our investment in TechFarm Ventures L.P. (“TechFarm Fund”), to which we contributed our total commitment to the fund of $4.0 million in capital since we became a limited partner in May 2001, had a carrying amount of zero as of March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010, reflecting the net of the capital contribution and the cumulative impairment charges.

As of March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010, our long-term investments balances, which are included in the other non-current assets line on the consolidated balance sheet, were as follows (in thousands):

	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010
Skypoint Fund	$	1,563	$	1,440

We have made $4.7 million in capital contributions to Skypoint Fund since we became a limited partner in July 2001. We contributed $186,000 and $41,000 to the fund during fiscal years of 2011 and 2010, respectively. As of March 27, 2011, we have a remaining potential capital commitment of approximately $0.3 million should the general partner decide to request it up to June 30, 2011.

The carrying amount of $1.6 million reflects the net of the capital contributions, cumulative impairment charges and capital distributions. We received capital distributions of $63,000 and $36,000, respectively, during fiscal year 2011 and fiscal year 2010.

Impairment

We analyzed the fair value of the underlying investments of Skypoint Fund and TechFarm Fund and concluded portions of the carrying value were other-than-temporarily impaired and recorded impairments for fiscal years ended March 27, 2011, March 28, 2010 and March 29, 2009 as follows (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010		March 29, 2009
Skypoint Fund	$	—	$	226	$	737
TechFarm Fund(1)		—		—		466

(1) TechFarm Fund has had a carrying amount of zero since March 29, 2009.

NOTE 9.    GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired in a business combination. We evaluate goodwill for impairment on an annual basis or whenever events and changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. We

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

conduct our annual impairment analysis in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year. Impairment of goodwill is tested at the reporting unit level by comparing the reporting unit’s carrying amount, including goodwill, to the fair value of the reporting unit. The fair value of the reporting unit is estimated using a combination of the income approach that uses discounted cash flows and the market approach that utilizes comparable companies’ data. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, goodwill is considered impaired and a second step is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss. Because we have one reporting unit, we utilize an entity-wide approach to assess goodwill for impairment.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2011, we conducted our annual impairment review comparing the fair value of our one reporting unit with its carrying value. As of the test date and as of year-end, and before consideration of a control premium, the fair value, which was estimated as our market capitalization, exceeded the carrying value of our net assets. As a result, no impairment was recorded for fiscal year 2011.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2010, we conducted our annual impairment review comparing the fair value of our one reporting unit with the carrying value. Based on the results at the time of our analysis, the fair value, which was estimated as our market capitalization, exceeded the carrying value of our net assets. As a result, no impairment was recorded for fiscal year 2010.

In the third quarter of fiscal year 2009, the rapid and severe deterioration of worldwide economic conditions affected our industry and led customers to scale down their levels of production. As a result of these impairment indicators, we considered the potential impairment of goodwill. Indicators that required us to perform an interim impairment review consisted of further weakening in new orders from our customers throughout the third quarter and into the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2009, as well as the uncertainty of the magnitude and duration of the recession as evidenced by industry analysts expectations that demand for semiconductors would remain weak until economic conditions improve. In addition, we experienced a significant decline in our stock price that reduced our market capitalization below our net asset carrying value for an extended period of time. We performed an interim goodwill impairment analysis and recorded a $46.2 million impairment loss that was included in the impairment of intangible assets and goodwill line in the consolidated statements of operations.

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for fiscal years 2011 and 2010 were as follows (in thousands):

	Amount
Balance as of March 29, 2009	$	—
Goodwill addition in connection with the Hifn acquisition		2,249
Goodwill addition in connection with the Galazar acquisition		372
Goodwill addition in connection with the Neterion acquisition		464
Balance as of March 28, 2010	$	3,085
Goodwill additions, impairments and adjustments		99
Balance as of March 27, 2011		3,184

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

Intangible Assets

Our purchased intangible assets at March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010 were as follows (in thousands):

	March 27, 2011							March 28, 2010
	Carrying Amount(1)		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Amount		Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Amount
Existing technology	$	33,613	$	(22,095	)	$	11,518	$	35,621	$	(15,734	)	$	19,887
Patents/Core technology		3,906		(2,340	)		1,566		4,492		(1,688	)		2,804
In-process research and development		300		—			300		2,200		—			2,200
Research and development reimbursement contract		4,500		(4,500	)		—		4,500		(2,496	)		2,004
Customer backlog		1,400		(1,400	)		—		1,400		(1,325	)		75
Distributor relationships		1,264		(1,019	)		245		1,264		(919	)		345
Customer relationships		2,905		(1,424	)		1,481		4,670		(777	)		3,893
Non-compete agreement		77		(77	)		—		100		(3	)		97
Tradenames/Trademarks		1,025		(745	)		280		1,077		(425	)		652
Total	$	48,990	$	(33,600	)	$	15,390	$	55,324	$	(23,367	)	$	31,957

(1) The carrying amount as of March 27, 2011 is presented net of intangible asset impairment charges of approximately $7.5 million and $13.5 million recorded during fiscal year 2011 and fiscal year 2009, respectively.

Long-lived assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their respective estimated useful lives. We evaluate the remaining useful life of our long-lived assets that are being amortized each reporting period to determine whether events and circumstances warrant a revision to the remaining period of amortization. If the estimate of an intangible asset’s remaining useful life is changed, the remaining carrying amount of the long-lived asset is amortized prospectively over the remaining useful life. Long-lived assets are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. We compare the carrying value of long-lived assets to our projection of future undiscounted cash flows attributable to such assets and, in the event that the carrying value exceeds the future undiscounted cash flows, we record an impairment charge equal to the excess of the carrying value over the asset’s fair value. Although the assumptions used in projecting future revenues and gross margins are consistent with those used in our annual strategic planning process, intangible asset impairment charges might be required in future periods if our assumptions are not achieved.

IPR&D assets are considered indefinite-lived intangible assets and are not subject to amortization until their useful life is determined. IPR&D assets are evaluated for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired.

During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2011, we decided to exit the data center virtualization market, and, in connection therewith, to stop development of our 10GbE network interface cards. We determined that the current economic and market environment did not provide the potential to deliver acceptable returns on the required investments in these products. As a result, in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2011 we abandoned all related in-process research and development. In addition, we began to actively market for sale the related assets of our 10GbE technology, consisting primarily of underlying existing and core technology intangible assets.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

Charges related to this decision in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2011 included $7.5 million for the impairment of intangible assets, which is included within the impairment of intangible assets and goodwill line in our consolidated statements of operations.

The intangible asset impairment charge of $7.5 million consists of $0.8 million to the write-off abandoned IPR&D acquired in the Neterion acquisition and $6.7 million to write-down the carrying value of intangible assets that are held for sale to $0.2 million at March 27, 2011, which represents their estimated fair value less costs to sell based on third-party bids received to date. In June 2011, we completed the asset sale process and received $0.2 million, net of selling costs.

As noted in the Goodwill discussion above, in the third quarter of fiscal year 2009, there were certain events that gave rise to impairment indicators and as a result we analyzed our long-lived assets for impairment. The analysis determined that the carrying amount of the intangible assets exceeded the implied fair value under the test for impairment and the difference was allocated to the intangible assets of the impacted asset group on a pro-rata basis using the relative carrying amounts of the assets. We recorded an impairment charge of approximately $13.5 million, which is included in the impairment of intangible assets and goodwill line in the consolidated statements of operations of which $9.8 million related to existing technology, $1.4 million to patents/core technology, $1.3 million to distributor relationships, $0.9 million to customer relationships and $0.1 million to tradenames/trademarks.

The aggregate amortization expenses for our purchased intangible assets for fiscal years ended March 27, 2011, March 28, 2010 and March 29, 2009 were as follows (in thousands, except weighted average lives):

	Weighted Average Lives		March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010		March 29, 2009
	(in months)		(in thousands)
Existing technology		65	$	6,361	$	4,936	$	4,281
Patents/Core technology		61		652		499		408
In-process research and development		63		—		—		—
Research and development reimbursement contracts		24		2,004		2,496		—
Customer backlog		6		75		985		—
Distributor relationships		72		100		102		280
Customer relationships		80		647		317		159
Non-compete agreement		15		74		3		—
Tradenames/Trademarks		35		320		275		52
Total			$	10,233	$	9,613	$	5,180

The estimated future amortization expenses for our purchased intangible assets are summarized below (in thousands):

Fiscal Year	Amount
2012	$	5,152
2013		4,468
2014		3,886
2015		1,362
2016		426
2017 and thereafter		96
Total estimated amortization	$	15,390

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

NOTE 10.    EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE

Basic earnings (loss) per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the periods. Diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) reflects the potential dilution that would occur if outstanding stock options or warrants to purchase common stock were exercised for common stock, using the treasury stock method, and the common stock underlying outstanding restricted stock units (“RSUs”) was issued.

A summary of our loss per share for the three fiscal years of 2011, 2010 and 2009 was as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts):

	March 27, 2011			March 28, 2010			March 29, 2009
Net loss	$	(35,668	)	$	(28,110	)	$	(73,036	)
Shares used in computation:
Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding used in computation of basic loss per share		44,218			43,584			42,887
Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock units		—			—			—
Shares used in computation of diluted loss per share		44,218			43,584			42,887
Loss per share—basic and diluted	$	(0.81	)	$	(0.64	)	$	(1.70	)

Options to purchase shares of common stock and unvested restricted stock units for shares of common stock were excluded from our loss per share calculation under the treasury stock method for the periods presented and were as follows (in thousands):

	March 27, 2011(1)		March 28, 2010(1)		March 29, 2009(1)
Options and RSUs		316		337		214

(1) As we incurred a net loss, we did not consider the impact of potentially dilutive instruments in the weighted average number of shares calculation as their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive. Had we had income for these periods, our diluted shares would have increased by the aforementioned amount.

The following shares were not included in the computation of diluted shares outstanding because they were anti-dilutive under the treasury stock method (in thousands, except per share amounts):

	March 27, 2011				March 28, 2010				March 29, 2009
	Shares		Prices		Shares		Prices		Shares		Prices
Options		6,187	$	5.44 - $86.10		4,800	$	7.08 - $86.10		4,500	$	5.44 - $86.10
Warrants		280		9.63		280		9.63		280		9.63
RSUs		—		—		3		7.03		56		7.12
Total		6,467				5,083				4,836

Our application of the treasury stock method in determining the dilutive effect of stock options and RSUs includes assumed cash proceeds from option exercises, the average unamortized stock-based compensation expense for the period, and the estimated deferred tax benefit or detriment associated with stock-based compensation expense.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

NOTE 11.    COMMON STOCK REPURCHASES

From time to time, we acquire outstanding common stock in the open market to partially offset dilution from our equity award programs, to increase our return on our invested capital and to bring our cash to a more appropriate level for our company.

On August 28, 2007, we announced the approval of a share repurchase plan (“2007 SRP”) and authorized the repurchase of up to $100 million of our common stock.

During fiscal years 2011 and 2010, we did not repurchase any shares of our common stock.

As of March 27, 2011, the remaining authorized amount for share repurchases under the 2007 SRP was $11.8 million. The 2007 SRP does not have a termination date. We may continue to utilize our share repurchase plan, which would reduce our cash, cash equivalents and/or short-term marketable securities available to fund future operations and to meet other liquidity requirements.

NOTE 12.    EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Exar Savings Plan

The Exar Savings Plan, as amended and restated, covers our eligible U.S. employees. The Exar Savings Plan provides for voluntary salary reduction contributions in accordance with Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code as well as matching contributions from the company based on the achievement of specified operating results.

Our matching contributions to the plan for the three fiscal years of 2011, 2010 and 2009 were as follows (in thousands):

	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010		March 29, 2009
Matching contributions	$	404	$	442	$	336

Executive and Employee Incentive Compensation Programs

Our incentive compensation programs provide for incentive awards for substantially all employees based on the achievement of personal objectives and our operating performance results. Our incentive compensation programs may be amended or discontinued at the discretion of our board of directors.

Our paid and unpaid incentive compensation for the three fiscal years of 2011, 2010 and 2009 were as follows (in thousands):

	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010		March 29, 2009
Paid incentive compensation	$	—	$	118	$	468
Unpaid incentive compensation		—		118		300

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

NOTE 13.    STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

Employee Stock Participation Plan (“ESPP”)

Our ESPP permits employees to purchase common stock through payroll deductions at a purchase price that is equal to 95% of our common stock price on the last trading day of each three-calendar-month offering period. Our ESPP is non-compensatory.

The following table summarizes our ESPP transactions during the fiscal periods presented (in thousands, except per share amounts):

	Shares of Common Stock		Weighted Average Price
Authorized to issue:		4,500		—
Reserved for future issuance:
Fiscal year ending March 27, 2011		1,480		—
Fiscal year ending March 28, 2010		1,549		—
Issued:
Fiscal year ending March 27, 2011		69	$	6.41
Fiscal year ending March 28, 2010		59		6.64
Fiscal year ending March 29, 2009		56		7.08

Equity Incentive Plans

We currently have three equity incentive plans including the Exar Corporation 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2006 Plan”) and two other equity plans assumed upon our August 2007 acquisition of Sipex: the Sipex Corporation Amended and Restated 2002 Non-Statutory Stock Option Plan and the Sipex Corporation 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (collectively, the “Sipex Plans”). The Sipex Corporation 2000 Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan expired October 31, 2010.

The 2006 Plan authorizes the issuance of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, stock bonuses and other forms of awards granted or denominated in common stock or units of common stock, as well as cash bonus awards. RSUs granted under the 2006 Plan are counted against authorized shares available for future issuance on a basis of two shares for every RSU issued. The 2006 Plan allows for performance-based vesting and partial vesting based upon level of performance. Grants under the Sipex Plans are only available to former Sipex employees or employees of Exar hired after the Sipex acquisition. At our annual meeting on September 15, 2010, our stockholders approved an amendment to the 2006 Plan to increase the aggregate share limit under the 2006 Plan by an additional 5.5 million shares to 8.3 million shares. At March 27, 2011, there were 6.0 million shares available for future grant under all our equity incentive plans.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

The following table summarizes information about our stock options outstanding at March 27, 2011:

	Options Outstanding						Options Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices	Number Outstanding As of March 27, 2011		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms (in years)		Weighted Average Exercise Price		Number Exercisable As of March 27, 2011		Weighted Average Exercise Price
$ 3.60 - $6.16		1,224,948		5.40	$	5.98		171,108	$	5.81
6.22 - 6.97		1,194,542		4.86		6.60		367,666		6.55
7.00 - 7.48		1,281,850		5.37		7.27		252,997		7.33
7.56 - 8.57		1,502,177		4.24		8.25		862,936		8.31
8.81 - 18.00		525,947		2.84		12.70		502,962		12.69
		5,729,464		4.74	$	7.61		2,157,669	$	8.72

Valuation Assumptions

The assumptions used in calculating the fair value of stock-based compensation represent our estimates, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of management judgments which include the expected term of the share-based awards, stock price volatility and forfeiture rates. As a result, if factors change and we use different assumptions, our stock-based compensation expense could be materially different in the future.

Valuation Method—we compute the fair value of stock options utilizing the Black-Scholes option pricing model.

Expected Term—we estimate the expected life of options granted based on historical exercise and post-vest cancellation patterns, which we believe are representative of future behavior.

Volatility—our expected volatility is based on historical data of the market closing price for our common stock as reported by The NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol “EXAR” and the expected term of our stock options.

Risk-Free Interest Rate—the risk-free interest rate assumption is based on the observed interest rate of the U.S. Treasury appropriate for the expected term of the option to be valued.

Dividend Yield—we do not currently pay dividends and have no plans to do so in the future. Therefore, we have assumed a dividend yield of zero.

We have used the following weighted average assumptions to calculate the fair values of options granted during the years presented:

	March 27, 2011			March 28, 2010			March 29, 2009
Expected term of options (years)		4.4			4.7 – 4.9			4.6 – 4.8
Risk-free interest rate		1.3 – 2.0	%		2.1 – 2.5	%		1.7 – 3.2	%
Expected volatility		39 – 40	%		37 – 38	%		30 – 38	%
Expected dividend yield		—			—			—
Weighted average estimated fair value	$	2.28		$	2.43		$	2.56

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

Stock Option Activities

A summary of stock option transactions during the periods indicated for all stock option plans was as follows:

	Outstanding Options / Quantity			Weighted Average Exercise Price		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)		Aggregate Intrinsic Value(1) (in thousands)		In-the-money Options Vested and Exercisable (in millions)
Balance at March 30, 2008		5,086,297		$	13.23		3.85	$	2,383		0.7
Granted		2,152,475			7.92
Exercised		(579,142	)		5.38
Cancelled		(2,526,228	)		16.18
Forfeited		(727,311	)		11.07
Balance at March 29, 2009		3,406,091		$	9.48		5.37	$	129		0.2
Granted		2,687,450			6.81
Exercised		(26,343	)		5.63
Cancelled		(262,629	)		14.22
Forfeited		(459,065	)		8.49
Balance at March 28, 2010		5,345,504		$	8.01		5.38	$	1,882		0.2
Granted		2,113,190			6.60
Exercised		(125,920	)		6.07
Cancelled		(308,595	)		11.02
Forfeited		(1,294,715	)		6.93
Balance at March 27, 2011		5,729,464		$	7.61		4.74	$	147		0.1
Vested and expected to vest at March 27, 2011		5,482,432		$	7.65		4.70	$	138
Vested and exercisable at March 27, 2011		2,157,669		$	8.72		3.79	$	51

(1) The aggregate intrinsic values in the table above represent the total pre-tax intrinsic value, which is based on the closing price of our common stock of $6.08, $7.32 and $6.17 as of March 27, 2011, March 28, 2010 and March 29, 2009, respectively. These were the amounts which would have been received by option holders if all option holders exercised their options as of that date.

Options exercised for the three fiscal years of 2011, 2010 and 2009 were as follows (in thousands):

	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010		March 29, 2009
Intrinsic value of options exercised	$	100	$	29	$	1,302
Cash received related to option exercises		765		148		3,116
Tax benefit recorded		2,300		2,503		1,307

RSUs

We issue RSUs to employees and non-employee directors. RSUs generally vest on the first or third anniversary date from the grant date, although the RSUs issued in exchange for options tendered in our option

93

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

exchange program in the third quarter of fiscal year 2009 vested in two equal annual installments. Prior to vesting, RSUs do not have dividend equivalent rights, do not have voting rights and the shares underlying the RSUs are not considered issued and outstanding. Shares are issued on the date the RSUs vest.

A summary of RSU transactions during the periods indicated for all stock option plans is as follows:

	Shares			Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term in Years		Aggregate Intrinsic Value(1) (in thousands)		Unrecognized Stock-based Compensation Cost(2) (in millions)
Unvested at March 30, 2008		304,933		$	12.20		1.41	$	2,497	$	2.5
Granted		598,409			7.18
Issued and released		(117,437	)		6.90
Cancelled		(55,668	)		9.16
Unvested at March 29, 2009		730,237		$	8.36		1.14	$	4,506	$	2.0
Granted		557,784			7.24
Issued and released		(349,409	)		6.90
Cancelled		(104,408	)		8.54
Unvested at March 28, 2010		834,204		$	8.20		1.04	$	6,106	$	4.2
Granted		399,183			6.76
Issued and released		(618,411	)		6.90
Cancelled		(57,878	)		7.52
Unvested at March 27, 2011		557,098		$	7.17		1.09	$	3,387	$	2.3
Vested and expected to vest at March 27, 2011		531,942		$	7.17		1.06	$	3,234

(1) The aggregate intrinsic value of RSUs represents the closing price per share of our common stock at the end of the periods presented, multiplied by the number of unvested RSUs or the number of vested and expected to vest RSUs, as applicable, at the end of each period.

(2) For RSUs, stock-based compensation expense was calculated based on our stock price on the date of grant, multiplied by the number of RSUs granted. The grant date fair value of RSUs, less estimated forfeitures, was recognized on a straight-line basis, over the vesting period.

In July 2009, we granted performance-based RSUs covering 99,000 shares to certain executives, issuable upon meeting certain performance targets in fiscal year 2010 and vesting annually over a three year period beginning July 1, 2010. The annual vesting requires continued service through each annual vesting date. During fiscal year 2011 and fiscal year 2010, $216,000 and $368,000, respectively, of compensation expense was recorded to reflect the achievement of these performance targets.

In April 2010, we granted performance-based RSUs covering 56,000 shares to our CEO, issuable upon meeting certain performance targets in our fiscal year 2011 and vesting annually over a three year period beginning May 3, 2010. The annual vesting requires continued service through each annual vesting date. During fiscal year 2011, $239,000 of compensation expense was recorded for these awards.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

Stock-Based Compensation Expenses

The following table summarizes stock-based compensation expense related to stock options and RSUs for fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009 (in thousands):

	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010		March 29, 2009
Cost of sales	$	489	$	528	$	595
Research and development		3,241		2,324		1,614
Selling, general and administrative		3,651		3,113		2,725
Total stock-based compensation expense	$	7,381	$	5,965	$	4,934

The amount of stock-based compensation cost capitalized in inventory was not material at each of the fiscal year ends presented.

Unrecognized Stock-based Compensation Expense

The following table summarizes unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to stock options and RSUs for the periods indicated below as follows:

	March 27, 2011				March 28, 2010				March 29, 2009
	Amount (in thousands)		Weighted Average Expected Remaining Period (in years)		Amount (in thousands)		Weighted Average Expected Remaining Period (in years)		Amount (in thousands)		Weighted Average Expected Remaining Period (in years)
Options	$	7,290		2.4	$	8,139		2.9	$	5,998		3.0
RSUs(1)		2,336		1.8		4,168		1.0		2,004		1.1
Total Stock-based compensation expense	$	9,626			$	12,307			$	8,002

(1) For RSUs, stock-based compensation expense was calculated based on our stock price on the date of grant, multiplied by the number of RSUs granted. The grant date fair value of RSUs, less estimated forfeitures, is recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.

Option Exchange Program

On October 23, 2008, we commenced a tender offer (the “Offer”) and filed a Schedule TO with the SEC pursuant to which holders of options with exercise prices equal to or greater than $11.00 per share and an expiration date after March 31, 2009 could tender their options in exchange for RSUs awards. The exchange ratio of shares subject to such eligible options to shares subject to new awards issued was 4-to-1, 5-to-1 or 6-to-1, depending on the exercise price of the option being exchanged. New awards received in exchange for eligible options are subject to a two-year vesting schedule with 50% vesting at each anniversary of the grant date.

Pursuant to the Offer, 242 eligible participants tendered, and we accepted for exchange, options to purchase an aggregate of 1,650,231 shares of our common stock, representing approximately 94% of the 1,755,691 shares subject to options that were eligible to be exchanged in the Offer as of the commencement of the Offer on

95

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

October 23, 2008. On November 24, 2008, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offer to Exchange Certain Outstanding Options for Restricted Stock Units, filed as an exhibit to the Schedule TO, we issued RSU awards covering an aggregate of 344,020 shares of our common stock in exchange for the options surrendered pursuant to the Offer.

The new awards were granted with a price of $6.51 per share, the closing price of our common stock on November 24, 2008 as reported on The NASDAQ Global Select Market. The fair value of the options exchanged was measured as the total of the unrecognized compensation cost of the original options tendered and the incremental compensation cost of the RSUs awarded on November 24, 2008, the date of exchange. The incremental compensation cost of $1.2 million, was measured as the excess of the fair value of the RSUs over the fair value of the options immediately before cancellation based on the share price and other pertinent factors at that date. The amount was amortized over the two years service period. During fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009, we recorded approximately $327,000, $530,000 and $208,000, respectively, of such incremental stock-based compensation expense.

NOTE 14.    WARRANTS

In connection with the Sipex acquisition, we assumed warrants with a fair value of $1.5 million on the date of acquisition, which enable the holders, to purchase a total of approximately 280,000 shares of our common stock. The warrants were exercisable at any time for shares of our common stock at an initial exercise price of $9.63 per share, subject to adjustment upon certain events. The warrants expired unexercised on May 18, 2011.

NOTE 15.    LEASE FINANCING OBLIGATION

In connection with the Sipex acquisition, we assumed a lease financing obligation related to the Hillview facility located in Milpitas, California (the “Hillview Facility”). The lease term expired March 31, 2011 and had average lease payments of approximately $1.4 million per year.

The fair value of the Hillview Facility was estimated at $13.4 million at the time of the acquisition and was included in the property, plant and equipment, net line on the consolidated balance sheet. In accordance with purchase accounting, we have accounted for this sale and leaseback transaction as a financing transaction which was included in the long-term lease financing obligations line on our consolidated balance sheet. The effective interest rate is 8.2%.

Depreciation for the Hillview Facility recorded over the straight-line method for the remaining useful life for the periods indicated below was as follows (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010		March 29, 2009
Depreciation expense	$	323	$	352	$	352

The sublease income recorded in the interest income and other, net line in our consolidated statements of operations for the periods indicated below was as follows (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010		March 29, 2009
Sublease income	$	1,427	$	1,396	$	1,396

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

We have also acquired engineering design tools (“design tools”) under capital leases. We acquired $5.2 million of design tools in December 2007 under a four-year license, $3.7 million of design tools in November 2008 under a three-year license, $1.1 million in July 2009 under a 3-year license, $1.3 million in December 2009 under a 28-month license, and $1.0 million in June 2010 under a 3-year license which were accounted for as capital leases and recorded in the property, plant and equipment, net line on the consolidated balance sheets. The related design tool obligations were included in the lease financing obligations line in our consolidated balance sheets.

Amortization of the design tools recorded using the straight-line method over the remaining useful life for the periods indicated below was as follows (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010		March 29, 2009
Amortization expense	$	3,526	$	2,541	$	1,574

Future minimum lease payments for the lease financing obligations as of March 27, 2011 were as follows (in thousands):

Fiscal Years	Hillview Facility(1)		Design Tools			Total
2012	$	12,168	$	1,838		$	14,006
2013		—		390			390
Total minimum lease payments		12,168		2,228			14,396
Less: amount representing interest		—		(157	)		(157	)
Less: amount representing maintenance		—		—			—
Present value of minimum lease payments		12,168		2,071			14,239
Less: current portion of lease financing obligation		—		(1,681	)		(1,681	)
Long-term lease financing obligations	$	12,168	$	390		$	12,558

(1) At the end of the lease term, March 31, 2011, the estimated final lease obligation was approximately $12.2 million, which we settled in a noncash transaction by returning the Hillview Facility to the lessor. As a result, during the first quarter of fiscal year 2012, the property, plant and equipment balance and the long-term lease financing obligations balance on our consolidated balance sheet and will both decline by approximately $12.2 million.

Interest expense for the Hillview Facility lease financing obligation and design tools for the periods indicated below was as follows (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010		March 29, 2009
Interest expense	$	1,252	$	1,285	$	1,311

In the course of our business, we enter into arrangements accounted for as operating leases. Our current arrangements relate to engineering design software licenses and office space. As of March 27, 2011, our future obligations under these arrangements were $5.7 million and $1.5 million, respectively.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

In fiscal year 2011, the lessor for the Hillview Facility made a remediation claim for damages related to our lease. Based on such claim, we submitted a proposal to the lessor to settle the claim and recorded an accrual of $0.4 million in fiscal year 2011.

NOTE 16.    COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

In 1986, Micro Power Systems Inc. (“MPSI”), a subsidiary that we acquired in June 1994, identified low-level groundwater contamination at its principal manufacturing site. The area and extent of the contamination appear to have been defined. MPSI previously reached an agreement with a prior tenant to share in the cost of ongoing site investigations and the operation of remedial systems to remove subsurface chemicals. The frequency and number of wells monitored at the site was reduced with prior regulatory approval for a plume stability analysis as an initial step towards site closure. No significant rebound concentrations have been observed. The groundwater treatment system remains shut down. In July 2008, we evaluated the effectiveness of the plume stability and decided to initiate an alternative treatment program to pursue a no further action order for the site. The program was approved by the state and implementation started in October 2009. As of March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010, the outstanding liabilities for remediation options and future monitoring were $113,000 and $137,000, respectively.

Generally, we warrant all custom products and application specific products, including cards and boards, against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 12 months and occasionally we may provide an extended warranty of up to three years from the delivery date. We warrant all of our standard products against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 90 days from the date of delivery. Reserve requirements are recorded in the period of sale and are based on an assessment of the products sold with warranty and historical warranty costs incurred. Our liability is generally limited to replacing, repairing or issuing credit, at our option, for the product if it has been paid for. The warranty does not cover damage which results from accident, misuse, abuse, improper line voltage, fire, flood, lightning or other damage resulting from modifications, repairs or alterations performed other than by us, or resulting from failure to comply with our written operating and maintenance instructions. Warranty expense has historically been immaterial for our products. The warranty liabilities related to our products as of March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010 were immaterial.

In the ordinary course of business, we may provide for indemnification of varying scope and terms to customers, vendors, lessors, business partners, purchasers of assets or subsidiaries, and other parties with respect to certain matters, including, but not limited to, losses arising out of our breach of agreements or representations and warranties made by us, services to be provided by us, intellectual property infringement claims made by third parties or, with respect to the sale of assets or a subsidiary, matters related to our conduct of the business and tax matters prior to the sale. In addition, we have entered into indemnification agreements with our directors and certain of our executive officers that will require us, among other things, to indemnify them against certain liabilities that may arise by reason of their status or service as directors or executive officers. We maintain director and officer liability insurance, which may cover certain liabilities arising from our obligation to indemnify our directors and officers, and former directors and officers of acquired companies, in certain circumstances. It is not possible to determine the aggregate maximum potential loss under these indemnification agreements due to the limited history of prior indemnification claims and the unique facts and circumstances involved in each particular agreement. Such indemnification agreements might not be subject to maximum loss clauses. Historically, we have not incurred material costs as a result of obligations under these agreements and we have not accrued any liabilities related to such indemnification obligations in our consolidated financial statements.

98

EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

NOTE 17.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

From time to time, we are involved in various claims, legal actions and complaints arising in the normal course of business. We are not a named party to any currently ongoing lawsuit or formal proceeding that, in the opinion of our management, is likely to have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

NOTE 18.    INCOME TAXES

The components of the provision for (benefit from) income taxes are as follows (in thousands) as of the dates indicated:

	March 27, 2011			March 28, 2010			March 29, 2009
Current:
Federal	$	(37	)	$	(181	)	$	(8	)
State		(106	)		(240	)		(234	)
Foreign		388			250			192
Total current	$	245		$	(171	)	$	(50	)
Deferred:
Federal	$	9		$	(270	)	$	(450	)
State		1			(22	)		(35	)
Total deferred	$	10		$	(292	)	$	(485	)
Total provision for (benefit from) income taxes	$	255		$	(463	)	$	(535	)

Consolidated pre-tax income included foreign income of $1.0 million, $2.4 million and $0.2 million for fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Undistributed earnings of $7.0 million of our foreign subsidiaries are considered to be indefinitely reinvested and, accordingly, no provision for federal and state income taxes have been provided thereon. Upon distribution of those earnings in the form of a dividend or otherwise, we would be subject to both United States income taxes (subject to an adjustment for foreign tax credits) and withholding taxes payable to various foreign countries.

Significant components of our net deferred taxes are as follows (in thousands) as of the dates indicated:

	March 27, 2011			March 28, 2010			March 29, 2009
Deferred tax assets:
Reserves and expenses not currently deductible	$	9,596		$	8,119		$	7,701
Net operating loss carryforwards		110,763			101,691			84,528
Tax credits		25,464			20,641			15,960
Losses on investments		2,259			2,251			16,995
Capitalized R&D expenses		13,159			12,521			4,048
Deferred margin		5,693			5,570			3,846
Depreciation		3,756			2,259			197
Total deferred tax assets		170,690			153,052			133,275
Deferred tax liabilities:
Non-goodwill intangibles		(4,026	)		(9,941	)		(1,547	)
Total deferred tax liabilities		(4,026	)		(9,941	)		(1,547	)
Valuation allowance		(166,684	)		(143,122	)		(131,728	)
Net deferred tax liabilities	$	(20	)	$	(11	)	$	—

99

EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

Reconciliations of the income tax provision at the statutory rate to our provision for (benefit from) income tax are as follows (in thousands) as of the dates indicated:

	March 27, 2011			March 28, 2010			March 29, 2009
Income tax provision at statutory rate	$	(12,395	)	$	(9,830	)	$	(25,750	)
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit		(997	)		(763	)		(1,970	)
Deferred tax assets not benefited		14,599			9,910			12,867
Tax credits		(1,605	)		(1,499	)		(1,315	)
Stock-based compensation		751			570			498
Goodwill impairment		—			—			15,491
Acquisition cost		—			2,348			—
Foreign rate differential		(61	)		(730	)		56
Prior year tax expense true-up		(24	)		(150	)		(96	)
Other, net		(13	)		(319	)		(316	)
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes	$	255		$	(463	)	$	(535	)

As of March 27, 2011, our federal and state net operating loss carryforwards for income tax purposes were approximately $285.0 million and $139.0 million, respectively. If not utilized, some of the federal net operating loss carryovers will begin expiring in fiscal year 2019, while the state net operating losses will begin to expire in 2012. As of March 27, 2011, our Canadian net operating loss carryforward for income tax purposes is approximately $3.0 million. If not utilized, some of the Canadian net operating loss carryovers will begin expiring in fiscal year 2012.

As of March 27, 2011, our federal and state tax credit carryforwards were $9.0 million and $11.0 million, respectively. Federal credits will begin to expire in fiscal year 2016. Canadian credits will begin to expire in fiscal year 2015.

Utilization of these federal and state net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards may be subject to a substantial annual limitation due to the ownership change limitations provided by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and similar state provisions.

We have evaluated our deferred tax assets and concluded that a valuation allowance is required for that portion of the total deferred tax assets that are not considered more likely than not to be realized in future periods. To the extent that the deferred tax assets with a valuation allowance become realizable in future periods, we will have the ability, subject to carryforward limitations, to benefit from these amounts. Approximately $13.0 million of these deferred tax assets pertain to certain net operating loss and credit carryforwards that resulted from the exercise of employee stock options. When recognized, the tax benefit of these carryforwards is accounted for as a credit to additional paid-in capital rather than a reduction of the income tax provision.

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EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

Uncertain Income Tax Benefits

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of the unrecognized tax benefits during the tax year ended March 27, 2011 is as follows (in thousands):

	Amount
Unrecognized tax benefits as of March 30, 2008	$	9,410
Gross increase related to prior year tax positions		—
Gross increase related to current year tax positions		592
Lapses in statute of limitation		(70	)
Unrecognized tax benefits as of March 29, 2009		9,932
Gross increase related to prior year tax positions		1,975
Gross increase related to current year tax positions		4,050
Lapses in statute of limitation		(94	)
Unrecognized tax benefits as of March 28, 2010		15,863
Gross increase related to prior year tax positions		179
Gross increase related to current year tax positions		857
Lapses in statute of limitation		(185	)
Unrecognized tax benefits as of March 27, 2011	$	16,714

Of the total unrecognized gross tax benefit of $16.7 million, $3.7 million is presented within income taxes payable, non-current, and $13.0 million is presented as a reduction to deferred tax assets. We do not anticipate a significant increase or decrease to our unrecognized tax benefits within the next twelve months.

Estimated interest and penalties related to the underpayment of income taxes are classified as a component of the provision for income taxes in the consolidated statement of operations. Accrued interest and penalties were $0.3 million and $0.4 million as of March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010, respectively.

Our only major tax jurisdictions are the United States federal and various states. The fiscal years 2001 through 2010 remain open and subject to examinations by the appropriate governmental agencies in the United States and certain of our state jurisdictions.

NOTE 19.    SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

We operate in one reportable segment, which is comprised of one operating segment. We design, develop and market high- performance, analog and mixed-signal silicon solutions and software and subsystem solutions for a variety of markets including communications, datacom and storage, interface and power management. The nature of our products and production processes and the type of customers and distribution methods are consistent among all of our products.

Our net sales by product lines are summarized as follows (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010		March 29, 2009
Communications	$	23,159	$	24,094	$	27,833
Datacom and storage		16,876		25,259		—
Interface		76,937		61,908		63,036
Power Management		29,033		23,617		24,249
Total net sales	$	146,005	$	134,878	$	115,118

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EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

* Incremental revenues from Hifn, Galazar and Neterion have been included in our consolidated financial statements since April 4, 2009, June 18, 2009 and March 17, 2010, respectively.

Our foreign operations are conducted primarily through our wholly-owned subsidiaries in Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Our principal markets include North America, Europe and the Asia Pacific region. Net sales by geographic areas represent sales to unaffiliated customers.

Our net sales by geographic areas are summarized as follows (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 27, 2011		March 28, 2010		March 29, 2009
United States	$	31,678	$	34,291	$	28,517
China		49,738		47,192		27,384
Singapore		14,445		14,393		14,894
Japan		9,098		7,240		7,170
Germany		13,619		1,982		3,535
Europe (excluding Germany)		9,486		17,405		21,558
Rest of world		17,941		12,375		12,060
Total net sales	$	146,005	$	134,878	$	115,118

* Incremental revenues from Hifn, Galazar and Neterion have been included in our consolidated financial statements since April 4, 2009, June 18, 2009 and March 17, 2010, respectively.

Substantially all of our long-lived assets at March 27, 2011 and March 28, 2010 were located in the United States.

NOTE 20.    ALLOWANCES FOR SALES RETURNS AND DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS

We had the following activities for the allowance for sales returns and allowance and for doubtful accounts (in thousands):

Classification	Balance at Beginning of Year		Additions			Write-offs And Recoveries(1)			Balance at End of Year
Allowance for sales returns:
Year ended March 27, 2011	$	1,250	$	14,790		$	14,795		$	1,245
Year ended March 28, 2010		1,213		12,011			11,974			1,250
Year ended March 29, 2009		1,992		7,871			8,650			1,213
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
Year ended March 27, 2011		186		145			53			278
Year ended March 28, 2010		95		85			(6	)		186
Year ended March 29, 2009		143		(47	)		1			95

(1) Write-off and recovery amounts within allowance for sales returns reflect credits issued to distributors for stock rotations and volume discounts.

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EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(CONTINUED)

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 27, 2011, MARCH 28, 2010 AND MARCH 29, 2009

NOTE 21.    SUPPLEMENTARY QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

The following table contains selected unaudited quarterly financial data for fiscal years 2011 and 2010. In the opinion of management, this unaudited information has been prepared on the same basis as the audited information and includes all adjustments, consisting only of normal and recurring adjustments necessary to state fairly the information set forth therein. Results for a given quarter are not necessarily indicative of results for any subsequent quarter (in thousands, except per share data. Net loss per share for the four quarters of each fiscal year may not sum to the total for the fiscal year, because of the different number of shares outstanding during each period).

	Fiscal Year 2011												Fiscal Year 2010
Classification	March 27, 2011(1)			December 26, 2010(2)			September 26, 2010(3)			June 27, 2010(4)			March 28, 2010(5)			December 27, 2009(6)			September 27, 2009(7)			June 28, 2009(8)
Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:
Net revenues	$	33,771		$	35,365		$	37,233		$	39,636		$	38,497		$	33,931		$	31,588		$	30,862
Gross profit		11,807			16,083			17,291			18,816			19,402			17,045			14,090			12,845
Loss from operations		(19,516	)		(6,286	)		(5,632	)		(8,584	)		(4,539	)		(5,317	)		(9,573	)		(14,561	)
Net loss		(18,836	)		(4,959	)		(4,459	)		(7,414	)		(3,310	)		(3,762	)		(8,163	)		(12,875	)
Net loss per share:
Basic and Diluted	$	(0.42	)	$	(0.11	)	$	(0.10	)	$	(0.17	)	$	(0.08	)	$	(0.09	)	$	(0.19	)	$	(0.30	)
Shares used in the computation of net loss per shares:
Basic and Diluted		44,503			44,300			44,173			43,897			43,822			43,648			43,550			43,314

(1) Includes $1.8 million amortization expenses related to purchased assets in connection with the Neterion, Galazar, Hifn and Sipex acquisitions; $7.5 million impairment charges to intangible assets related to the decision to exit the 10 GbE market; and $3.6 million of exit costs related to the decision to exit the 10 GbE market.

(2) Includes $1.9 million amortization expenses related to purchased assets in connection with the Neterion, Galazar, Hifn and Sipex acquisitions.

(3) Includes $2.9 million amortization expenses related to purchased assets in connection with the Neterion, Galazar, Hifn and Sipex acquisitions.

(4) Includes $2.9 million amortization expenses related to purchased assets in connection with the Neterion, Galazar, Hifn and Sipex acquisitions; and $0.3 million in acquisition related costs.

(5) Includes $2.3 million amortization expenses related to purchased assets in connection with the Neterion, Galazar, Hifn and Sipex acquisitions; $0.6 million in acquisition related costs; and $0.1 million fair value adjustment of inventories in connection with Galazar acquisition.

(6) Includes $1.9 million amortization expenses related to purchased assets in connection with the Galazar, Hifn and Sipex acquisitions; $0.4 million in acquisition related costs; and $0.1 million fair value adjustment of inventories in connection with Galazar acquisition.

(7) Includes $2.4 million amortization expenses related to purchased assets in connection with the Galazar, Hifn and Sipex acquisitions; $0.8 million in acquisition related costs; $0.4 million fair value adjustment of inventories in connection with Galazar acquisition; and $0.2 million impairment loss related to the investment in marketable and non-marketable securities.

(8) Includes $2.1 million amortization expenses related to purchased assets in connection with the Galazar, Hifn and Sipex acquisitions; $4.5 million in acquisition related costs; $1.8 million fair value adjustment of inventories in connection with the Hifn and Galazar acquisition; $0.1 million separation expense related to an executive officer; and $0.1 million impairment loss related to the investment in marketable and non-marketable securities.

103

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures (“Disclosure Controls”)

Disclosure Controls, as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), are controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods as specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. In addition, Disclosure Controls are designed to ensure the accumulation and communication of information required to be disclosed in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer (our principal executive officer) (the “CEO”) and Chief Financial Officer (our principal financial officer) (the “CFO”), to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

We evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our Disclosure Controls, as defined by the rules and regulations of the SEC (the “Evaluation”), as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report. This Evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our CEO, as principal executive officer, and CFO, as principal financial officer.

Attached as Exhibits 31.1 and 31.2 of this Annual Report are the certifications of the CEO and the CFO, respectively, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Certifications”). This section of the Annual Report provides information concerning the Evaluation referred to in the Certifications and should be read in conjunction with the Certifications.

Based on the Evaluation, our CEO and CFO have concluded that our Disclosure Controls are effective as of the end of fiscal year 2011.

Inherent Limitations on the Effectiveness of Disclosure Controls

Our management, including the CEO and CFO, does not expect that our Disclosure Controls will prevent all errors and all fraud. Disclosure Controls, no matter how well conceived, managed, utilized and monitored, can provide only reasonable assurance that the objectives of such controls are met. Therefore, because of the inherent limitation of Disclosure Controls, no evaluation of such controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within us have been detected.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Management conducted an assessment of our internal control over financial reporting as of March 27, 2011 based on the framework established by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control—Integrated Framework . Based on this assessment, management concluded that, as of March 27, 2011, our internal control over financial reporting was effective.

Internal control over financial reporting cannot provide absolute assurance of achieving financial reporting objectives because of its inherent limitations. Internal control over financial reporting is a process that involves human diligence and compliance, and is subject to lapses in judgment and breakdowns resulting from human failures. Internal control over financial reporting also can be circumvented by collusion or improper management override. Because of such limitations, there is a risk that material misstatements may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis by internal control over financial reporting. However, these inherent limitations are known features of the financial reporting process. Therefore it is possible to design into the process safeguards to reduce, though not eliminate, this risk.

The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of March 27, 2011 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report included in this Annual Report.

105

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2011 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

106

PART IV

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a) The following documents are filed as part of this Form 10-K:

(1) All Financial Statements. The financial statements of the Company are included herein as required inPart II, Item 8—“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”of this Annual Report. See Index to Financial Statements on page 51.

(2) Financial Statement Schedules. See“Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 20—Allowance for Sales Returns and Doubtful Accounts.” Schedules not listed have been omitted because information required to be set forth therein is not applicable or is shown in the financial statements or notes thereto.

(3) Exhibits. See Part IV, Item 15(b) below.

(b) The exhibits listed in the Exhibit Index, which follows the signature page to this Annual Report, are filed or incorporated by reference into this Annual Report.

108

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

EXAR CORPORATION
By:	/s/    PEDRO (PETE) P. RODRIGUEZ
	Pedro (Pete) P. Rodriguez
	Chief Executive Officer and President (Principal Executive Officer)

Date: July 13, 2011

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/S/    PEDRO (PETE) P. RODRIGUEZ         (Pedro (Pete) P. Rodriguez)	Chief Executive Officer, President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	July 13, 2011
/S/    KEVIN BAUER         (Kevin Bauer)	Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)	July 13, 2011
* (Dr. Izak Bencuya)	Director	July 13, 2011
* (Pierre Guilbault)	Director	July 13, 2011
* (Brian Hilton)	Director	July 13, 2011
* (Richard L. Leza)	Chairman of the Board	July 13, 2011
* (Gary Meyers)	Director	July 13, 2011
(J. Oscar Rodriguez)	Director
* By /S/    KEVIN BAUER         (Kevin Bauer) Attorney-In-Fact	Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)	July 13, 2011

EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit Number			Incorporated by Reference
		Exhibit	Form		File No.	Exhibit		Filing Date
	2.1	Agreement and Plan of Merger by and among Exar Corporation, Sipex Corporation and Side Acquisition Corp., dated as of May 7, 2007		8-K	0-14225		2.1		5/8/2007
	2.2	Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of February 23, 2009, among Exar Corporation, Hybrid Acquisition Corp. and hi/fn, inc.		8-K	0-14225		2.1		2/27/2009
	3.1	Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Exar Corporation		8-K	0-14225		3.3		9/17/2010
	3.2	Bylaws of Exar Corporation		8-K	0-14225		3.1		9/17/2010
	10.1*+	1989 Employee Stock Participation Plan, as amended, and related Offering documents		10-K	0-14225		10.1		6/12/2006
	10.2*+	1996 Non-Employee Directors’ Stock Option Plan, as amended, and related forms of stock option grant and exercise		10-K	0-14225		10.6		6/12/2006
	10.3*	1997 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended, and related forms of stock option grant and exercise		10-K	0-14225		10.7		6/14/2005
	10.4*	2000 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended, and related forms of stock option grant and exercise		10-K	0-14225		10.9		6/14/2005
	10.5*++	2006 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended		8-K	0-14225		10.1		9/17/2010
	10.6*	Sipex Corporation 2006 Equity Incentive Plan		S-8	333-145751		4.1		8/28/2007
	10.7*	Sipex Corporation Amended and Restated 2002 Nonstatutory Stock Option Plan		S-8	333-145751		4.2		8/28/2007
	10.8*	Sipex Corporation 2000 Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan		S-8	333-145751		4.3		8/28/2007
	10.9*	Sipex Corporation 1999 Stock Plan		S-8	333-145751		4.4		8/28/2007
	10.10*	Sipex Corporation 1997 Stock Option Plan		S-8	333-145751		4.5		8/28/2007
	10.11*	Fiscal Year 2010 Executive Incentive Program		10-Q	0-14225		10.4		8/7/2009
	10.12*	Fiscal Year 2011 Executive Incentive Program		10-K	0-14225		10.14		6/10/2010
	10.13*	Form of Indemnity Agreement between the Company and each of the company’s directors and certain of the executive officers		10-Q	0-14225		10.12		11/13/2002
	10.14*	Separation Agreement between Exar Corporation and J. Scott Kamsler, dated as of June 23, 2009		8-K	0-14225		10.1		6/29/2009
	10.15*	Second Amended and Restated Employment Agreement between the Company and Pedro (Pete) P. Rodriguez		8-K	0-14225		10.1		3/25/2010
	10.16*	Letter Agreement between Exar Corporation and Bentley Long		10-Q	0-14225		10.3		8/7/2009
	10.17*	VP Worldwide Sales—FY10 Sales Incentive Plan		10-Q	0-14225		10.2		8/7/2009
	10.18*	Letter Agreement Regarding Change of Control for Thomas R. Melendrez		10-K	0-14225		10.11		6/27/2001

Exhibit Number			Incorporated by Reference
		Exhibit	Form		File No.	Exhibit		Filing Date
	10.19*	Executive Officers’ Group II Change of Control Severance Benefit Plan		10-Q	0-14225		10.1		2/6/2009
	10.20*	Letter Agreement Regarding Change of Control for Paul Pickering		10-Q	0-14225		10.1		8/5/2010
	10.21*	Letter Agreement Regarding Change of Control for George Apostol		10-Q	0-14225		10.2		8/5/2010
	10.22*	Letter Agreement Regarding Change of Control for Kevin Bauer		8-K	0-14225		10.2		9/17/2010
	10.23	Amendment No. 3, entered October 29, 2007, to that certain Distributor Agreement, dated July 1, 1997, by and between Exar Corporation and Future Electronics Incorporated.		10-Q	0-14225		10.1		2/8/2008
	10.24	Amendment No. 4, entered October 29, 2007, to that certain Domestic Distributor Agreement, dated December 1, 2001, by and between Exar Corporation and NuHorizons, Inc.		10-Q	0-14225		10.2		2/8/2008
	21.1	Subsidiaries of the Company		10-K	0-14225		21.1		6/10/2011
	23.1	Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP		10-K	0-14225		23.1		6/10/2011
	24.1	Power of Attorney. Reference is made to the signature page in the Form 10-K.		10-K	0-14225		24.1		6/10/2011
	31.1**	Principal Executive Officer Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
	31.2**	Principal Financial Officer Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
	32.1***	Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
	32.2***	Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

* Indicates management contracts or compensatory plans or arrangements filed pursuant to Item 601(b)(10) of Regulation S-K.

** Filed herewith.

*** Furnished herewith.

+ Related forms of Stock Option Grant and Exercise filed as part of an exhibit to Exar’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal year ended March 31, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference.

++ Related forms of Notice of Grant and Terms and Conditions of Stock Options filed as Exhibits 10.2, 10.3 and 10.6 to Exar’s Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 13, 2006. Related form of Stock Unit Award Agreement filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Exar’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on February 6, 2009. Related form of Performance Stock Unit Award Agreement filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Exar’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on November 5, 2009. Related form of Director Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement filed as Exhibit 10.7 to Exar’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on November 4, 2010. All such forms are incorporated herein by reference.