Siemens Medical Solutions and National Semiconductor Corporation announced a wide-ranging strategic alliance to advance ultrasound technology, creating ultrasound imaging systems that produce enhanced image quality and advanced 3D/4D imaging capabilities, while consuming less power.

National will provide power management, signal path and transducer solutions while working closely with Siemens. Based on the companies’ collaboration, Siemens’ ultrasound systems will be able to provide better imaging quality and new applications, while, at the same time, be more energy efficient.

Siemens Healthcare employs some 48,000 employees worldwide and operates around the world. In fiscal year 2009 (to September 30), the Sector posted revenue of 11.9 billion euros and profit of around 1.5 billion euros.

Headquartered in Santa Clara, Calif., National reported sales of $1.42 billion for fiscal 2010.