ductor business to differentiate its products in as well. The controls and connectors are often developed during research for new semiconductors. TI has expanded its sales in the automotive market by acquiring Sensor Solutions in 1999. Pressure sensors used in the manufacturing of automobiles were the main product of this company and TI technologies helped to improve the performance of these sensors. TI was also able to increase the operating margin within the materials & controls division during 1999 by improving manufacturing efficiency. This has also allowed TI to keep their costs competitive with other companies. This division of TI has also been able to utilize the DSP’s from the semiconductor business to create and develop new digital controls to be used in automobiles and other electrical systems. By using the digital chips to enhance their control systems, TI has effectively utilized investments in technology, R&D and acquisitions to enhance this division as well as the dominant business division. In able to compete in the automotive vendor market, TI had to quickly and effectively meet QS-9000 requirements. This involved developing and maintaining an auditable record of every procedure performed on over 2000 gauges monitored by the company. By utilizing digital technology in portable Kalidor pen computers, TI was able to develop a auditable, paperless calibration data recording and storage system that meets QS-9000 requirements without additional staff or increased cost. This digital technology was developed from some of TI’s own research and developments. (Quality, Jan. 1999)Educational & Productivity SolutionsTexas Instruments utilizes a focused differentiated strategy for their smallest division. This business division of Texas Instruments may be the smallest of the divisions, but it may be the most well known to consumers. Texas Instruments was the first company to produce the handheld calculator ba...
