Siemens Healthcare and National Semiconductor, the Santa Clara, Calif.-based power management technology provider, have formed a strategic alliance for the development of ultrasound imaging systems that will consume less power.

Via the terms of the agreement, National Semiconductor will provide signal path and transducer technologies and power management to Siemens for the creation of ultrasound systems that will offer 3D/4D imaging capabilities, while consuming less power, stated the Malvern, Pa.-based Siemens.