10-K

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

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

For the fiscal year ended March 30, 2014

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 each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.0001 Par Value	New York Stock Exchange, Inc.

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  ☒

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  ☒

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 ☒     No  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its 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 in Part 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    ☒
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  ☒

The aggregate market value of the outstanding voting stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant as of September 27, 2013 was approximately $278.8 million based upon the last price reported in the NYSE-Composite transactions as of the last business day of the Registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter.

The number of shares outstanding of the Registrant’s Common Stock was 47,242,288 as of June 9, 2014.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the Registrant’s 2014 Definitive Proxy Statement to be filed not later than 120 days after the close of the 2014 fiscal year are incorporated by reference into Part III, Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX TO

ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K

FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED MARCH 30, 2014

		Page
	PART I
Item 1.	Business	3
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	14
Item 1B.	Unresolved Staff Comments	29
Item 2.	Properties	29
Item 3.	Legal Proceedings	29
Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	29
	PART II
Item 5.	Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities	30
Item 6.	Selected Financial Data	32
Item 7.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	33
Item 7A.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	48
Item 8.	Financial Statements and Supplementary Data	49
Item 9.	Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure	93
Item 9A.	Controls and Procedures	93
Item 9B.	Other Information	94
	PART III
Item 10.	Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance	95
Item 11.	Executive Compensation	95
Item 12.	Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters	95
Item 13.	Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence	95
Item 14.	Principal Accounting Fees and Services	95
	PART IV
Item 15.	Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules	96
Signatures		97

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PART I

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report on Form 10-K (this “Annual Report”) contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are generally written in the future tense and/or may generally be identified by words such as “will,” “may,” “should,” “would,” “could,” “expect,” “suggest,” “possible,” “potential,” “target,” “commit,” “continue,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “project,” “projected,” “positioned,” “plan,” or other similar words. Forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report include, among others, statements made in Part II, Item 7—“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Executive Summary” and elsewhere regarding: (1) our future strategies and target market; (2) our future revenues, gross profits and margins; (3) our future research and development (“R&D”) efforts and related expenses; (4) our future selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”); (5) our cash and cash equivalents, short-term marketable securities and cash flows from operations being sufficient to satisfy working capital requirements and capital equipment needs for at least the next 12 months; (6) our ability to continue to finance operations with cash flows from operations, existing cash and investment balances, and some combination of long-term debt and/or lease financing and sales of equity securities; (7) the possibility of future acquisitions and investments; (8) our ability to accurately estimate our assumptions used in valuing stock-based compensation; (9) our ability to estimate and reconcile distributors’ reported inventories to their activities; (10) our ability to estimate future cash flows associated with long-lived assets; and (11) the volatile global economic and financial market conditions. Actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those stated herein include, but are not limited to, the factors contained under the captions Part I, Item 1—“Business,” Part I, Item 1A—“Risk Factors” and Part II, Item 7—“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this document. We disclaim any obligation to revise or update information in any forward-looking statement, except as required by law.

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

Overview 

Exar Corporation (“Exar,” “us,” “our” or “we”) designs, develops and markets high performance analog mixed-signal integrated circuits (“ICs”) and advanced sub-system solutions for the Networking & Storage, Industrial & Embedded Systems, and Communications Infrastructure markets. Exar’s product portfolio includes power management and connectivity components, high performance analog and mixed-signal products, communications products, and data compression and storage solutions. Our comprehensive knowledge of end-user markets along with the underlying analog, mixed signal and digital technology has enabled us to provide innovative solutions designed to meet the needs of the evolving connected world. Applying both analog and digital technologies, our products are deployed in a wide array of applications such as industrial, instrumentation and medical equipment, networking and telecommunication systems, servers, enterprise storage systems, set top boxes and digital video recorders. We provide customers with a breadth of component products and sub-system solutions based on advanced silicon integration.

We market our products worldwide with sales offices and personnel located throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia. Our products are sold in the United States through a number of manufacturers’ representatives and distributors. Internationally, our products are sold primarily through various regional and country specific distributors, as well as some manufacturers’ representatives. Globally, these channel partners are assisted and managed by our regional sales teams. In addition to our regional sales teams, we also employ a worldwide team of field application engineers (“FAE”) to work directly with our customers.

Exar was incorporated in California in 1971 and was reincorporated in Delaware in 1991. Our common stock trades on The New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) under the symbol “EXAR”. See the information in Part II, Item 8—“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for information on our financial position as of March 30, 2014, March 31, 2013 and April 1, 2012, and results of operations and cash flows for fiscal years ended March 30, 2014, March 31, 2013 and April 1, 2012.

Core Competencies and Key Initiatives

Analog and Mixed-Signal Design Expertise—We have over 40 years of proven technical competency in developing analog and mixed-signal ICs. As a result, we have developed a deep understanding of the subtleties of analog and mixed-signal design and a comprehensive library of analog core blocks. We leverage this expertise across our broad range of products and in our new product development efforts. From programmable power management chips to advanced telecommunications products, our solutions share a heavy concentration of analog and mixed-signal content to achieve high performance, power efficient solutions for our customers.

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Connectivity Solutions — Our focus on connectivity is a key initiative that drives product strategy and serves as a foundation for our customer engagements. We have added system architecture expertise and extended our portfolio of products to offer new silicon products. Our connectivity solutions serve data and telecommunications, networking and storage, industrial control and embedded applications. Our devices facilitate and optimize the interface between systems and across networks with Serial Transceivers, Multi-Protocol Interface products, Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitters (“UARTs”) and interface Bridges.

Power Management Solutions — Our focus on power management includes traditional linear and switching power management solutions as well as an innovative approach to software programmable power management with the universal PMIC family. We design and develop linear and switching regulators that support the diverse power conversion needs of data and telecommunications, networking and storage, industrial control and embedded applications. We have also introduced a new family of programmable power module solutions that provide programmable power conversion with integrated inductors for the smallest profile solutions on the market.

Signal Path Solutions — Our focus on signal path includes a wide selection of high performance or high precision amplifiers, data converters and reference circuitries. We design and develop amplifiers and data converters that support the diverse signal path and conditioning needs of networking, industrial control and embedded applications. We have also introduced a new family of improved second sources to existing industry’s amplifiers.

Enhanced System Integration — Our effort to provide comprehensive solutions that encompass hardware, software and applications support is fundamental to our initiative in networking and storage applications. The combination of our design expertise, diverse circuit technology and system-level expertise enables us to provide complete solutions that are used in data compression and aggregation, data transmission, acceleration and computer offloading. We believe that by using our solutions, original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”) can develop higher performance systems, better leverage their development resources and reduce their time-to-market.

Data Compression and Storage Solutions —We offer a complete solution set of data compression and cryptographic algorithms. With our solution, customers have the flexibility to successfully address diverse market segments with varying storage, throughput, and security requirements. The comprehensive product portfolio also includes a software architecture that simplifies system integration, reduces time to market and provides a smooth migration path across the entire product portfolio.

Video Processor Solutions —We are one of the leading providers of solutions for the video surveillance industry including state-of-the art video processors, board-level solutions and a sophisticated and market-proven software stack. Our expertise is in image processing, video compression, video analytics and associated networking interface software.

Markets and Products 

Our products are organized into six product lines, which allow product definition based on market opportunities and trends. We define our product lines as Connectivity Components, Power Management Components, Data Compression and Storage Solutions, Communications Products, High Performance Analog Components and Video Processor Solutions.

Connectivity Components

The demand for connectivity is projected to grow significantly during the next decade as the Internet evolves to support machine-to-machine connectivity. The need to connect billions of devices at home, in the office and in factories through the Internet is driving the requirement for smart connectivity solutions. Our connectivity product strategy is to continue to enhance our portfolio with higher speed, lower power and enhanced functionality devices that meet the growing demands of our customers. Growth drivers in our connectivity product business include increased integration and value through the introduction of differentiated bridging products for popular and growing bus interfaces such as Universal Serial Bus (“USB”), Ethernet, Peripheral Interconnect Express (“PCIe”), as well as innovative new UARTs and serial transceiver devices.

We offer a broad line of industry-proven UARTs solutions as well as complementary serial transceiver devices for use in applications in the communications infrastructure, networking and storage, industrial and embedded systems. Typical applications include point-of-sale, process control, and factory automation, as well as servers, embedded systems, routers, network management equipment, remote access servers, wireless base-stations and repeaters.

Our UARTs product portfolio ranges from cost-effective industry-standard devices to high performance multi-channel UARTs with a broad range of first in, first out depths and industry leading performance and features. We support popular central processing unit (“CPU”) bus interfaces such as 8-bit Industry Standard Architecture, 8-bit VLIO, 2-wire Inter-Integrate Circuit , 4-wire Serial Peripheral Interface, Peripheral Component Interconnect, PCIe and USB.

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Our serial transceiver solutions consist of Recommended Standard (“RS”)-232, RS-485, RS-422 and multiprotocol devices that ensure reliable connectivity between computing devices. Our RS-232, RS-485 and RS-422 transceivers comply with international standards in delivering multi-channel digital signals between two systems. Our proprietary multiprotocol transceivers enable network equipment to communicate with a large population of peripherals that use a diverse set of serial protocol standards without the added burden of multiple add-on boards and cables.

Power Management Components

The market for power management components is a large and diverse semiconductor segment covering a wide range of requirements. We have developed solutions for DC/DC voltage conversion and supervision. Our products are designed to meet the needs of various communications infrastructure, networking and storage, industrial and embedded systems.

We provide analog control of DC voltages and deliver regulated power to electronic systems such as data and telecommunication systems, servers and routers, enterprise storage systems, industrial control and process automation equipment, set top boxes, digital video recorders and portable electronic devices. Our Power^XR programmable power management system solutions provide system designers the ability to reconfigure the power management sub-system through a software interface. This proprietary approach enables customers to reduce product development cycles from many months to several weeks and provides a flexible and configurable solution for control of critical attributes of the power management system.

Power ^XR technology combines digital control and monitoring with our high performance analog circuitry, enabling the system architect to design products that significantly reduce wasted energy and are quickly reconfigurable.

Power management product development requires close customer interaction, advanced design skills and world-class process and package development capability and design tools. As a fabless semiconductor manufacturer, we have access to a broad range of wafer fabrication facilities and process technologies. This access to leading process technology and our ongoing investment in analog and mixed-signal design automation tools enables us to compete with the world’s leading manufacturers of analog power management products.

Data Compression and Storage Solutions

We provide highly integrated semiconductors and board level products that enable OEMs to develop high performance computing, storage and networking equipment at significantly lower cost and with lower power consumption.

With the rapid growth of data volume and Input/Output (“I/O”) performance of CPUs far outpacing storage I/O performance improvements, overall computing performance is increasingly limited by storage I/O throughput. Data compression is a more cost-effective way to improve I/O throughput compared to other solutions such as Solid State Disks or distributed parallel systems. Our chips and boards can achieve compression throughput of between 10Gbps to 40Gbps and beyond at a fraction of the cost and power consumption of alternative approaches. We enable storage vendors to improve storage efficiency with much lower cost and lower power as compared to their alternate architecture choice of utilizing general purpose CPUs. Our solution off-loads specific tasks from the general purpose CPU by providing compression and hashing technology in a single pass with low latency to reduce and de-duplicate data at very high throughput. Deployment of our devices can be found in storage appliances such as primary storage, data protection and remote replication.

Networking equipment vendors utilize our products for bandwidth optimization and security. As more companies migrate applications to the Cloud there is an increasing need by cloud service providers to secure and optimize the connection between the Cloud and their customers. Our devices enable networking equipment vendors to supply cloud infrastructure with competitive advantages in cost and power. Our compression technology can be used in wide area network optimization to improve bandwidth, and our high throughput security technology is used in public-key handshakes and symmetric encryptions for secure sockets layer and internet protocol security connections to secure traffic.

Our devices and board level products are supported by our software development kit (“SDK”) and also by an open-source Exalerator solution software kit. These software kits are designed to enable a fast development and integration cycle. Our devices together with SDK and Exalerator software kits have been widely deployed at several leading computing, storage and networking vendors.

Communications Components

We provide high performance communications products for the transmission of digital data through global service provider networks. Conforming to international standards for copper, fiber optic and wireless protocols, our broad portfolio of Plesiochronous Digital Hierarchy (“PDH”), Synchronous Optical NETwork (“SONET”) and Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (“SDH”) products enable the delivery of highly reliable, value added communication services.

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SONET and SDH protocols are the backbone of today’s high capacity, long distance communications networks. Our portfolio of SONET/SDH products process data at speeds from 155Mbps to 40Gbps for the efficient transport of digital data over fiber optic networks. Products include mixed signal clock and data recovery circuits, transceivers, protocol framers and service mappers. Our high density, high integration products offer significant flexibility in line card design while providing cost, area and power savings over alternative solutions.

Service providers have a large investment in their existing copper infrastructure. This infrastructure remains a cost effective means of providing high value leased line and data services for enterprises, mobile backhaul and network interconnection. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of T1 and E1 devices for twisted pair copper connections and DS3 and E3 devices for coaxial copper connections. Our broad range of T1/E1 devices includes short-haul and long-haul Line Interface Units (“LIUs”) and LIU/framer combinations that incorporate reconfigurable, relayless redundancy (Exar R³ Technology™) with integrated termination resistors and jitter attenuation. Used individually or in chip sets, our T1/E1 technologies offer customers key advantages including design flexibility, enhanced system reliability and standards compliance, which are critical components of high-density, low-power system boards and linecards. In addition, our T1/E1/J1 Framer/LIU combination products simplify the design process by saving board space and by reducing complexity as a result of lowering component count. In addition to T1/E1 solutions, we have developed a diverse portfolio of single- and multi-channel T3/E3 physical interface solutions with integrated LIU logic and jitter attenuation that achieve high performance levels while reducing board space and overall power in multi-port applications.

High Performance Analog Components

The demand for signal amplification, conditioning and conversion is a required part of any system given the real world is analog, connecting sight, touch and sound. With our acquisition of Cadeka Microcircuits LLC (“Cadeka”), we have over 250 products that range from amplifiers to data converters with emphasis on either high precision or high speed. Our portfolio of products includes instrumentation, low noise, high speed and hybrid amplifiers, as well as high speed analog-to-digital converters (“ADCs”) and digital-to-analog converters. As a performance leader, we offer the industry’s lowest noise and distortion amplifiers, and the industry’s lowest power consumption high speed ADCs. Our amplifier and data converter products are designed to meet the needs of various industrial, medical, and video applications.

Video Processor Solutions

Our video processor solutions offering is focused on the fast-growing surveillance industry. We offer chip- and board-level solutions for a wide variety of surveillance products including IP Cameras, DVRs, Hybrid NVRs and video streamers. We are also leaders in new methods of video transmission including aCVI, which is a method to transmit high-definition video over legacy coax cables.

The surveillance industry is demanding ever increasing pixel counts growing from standard definition video, to high definition, to 4K (“Ultra HD”) (from 345 thousand to 8 million pixels). Our video processors can be configured to handle multiple standard definition video streams or a single 4K video stream, depending on the application.

The industry is also adopting video analytics and our unique architecture is particularly well suited for the complex computational task of analyzing live video for threats or abnormalities.

Our software stack is optimized for the unique needs of the surveillance industry and has been production proven by the industry's largest manufacturers for over six years.

Strategy

Our goal is to be the leading provider of high performance analog mixed-signal integrated circuits and advanced sub-system solutions for Networking & Storage, Industrial & Embedded Systems, and Communications Infrastructure markets. To achieve our long-term business objectives, we employ the following strategies:

Leverage Analog and Mixed-Signal Design Expertise to Provide Integrated System-Level Solutions—Utilizing our analog and mixed-signal design expertise, we integrate mixed-signal physical interface devices for a broad range of silicon solutions. This capability continues to be the backbone of our integration strategy and enables us to offer optimized solutions to the markets we serve. Our customers depend on analog and mixed-signal integration for power reduction, size optimization and signal integrity.

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Expand Product Portfolio— We have developed a strong presence in the data and telecommunications, networking and storage, industrial control and automation markets where we have industry leading customers and proven technological capabilities. Our design expertise has enabled us to offer a diverse portfolio of both industry standard and proprietary products serving a range of connectivity, power management and signal path needs. Our extensive product portfolio provides the framework for customers to work with many of our products on a single board design. Our ability to serve the various needs of a customer’s system enables us to meet procurement and support demands by providing a single point of contact for applications support and supply chain management while reducing its number of vendors.

Grow Market Share with System Solutions—We create systems solutions by coupling system expertise, software and advanced silicon integration to provide an optimized solution that is designed to be technically compelling and cost effective, resulting in distinctive device and system products like XRP9711 power modules, and Panther I and Panther II-based compression cards. These solutions and others provide platform-level engagements that involve software and hardware integration, resulting in a cohesive bond with customers.

Strengthen and Expand Strategic OEM Relationships—To promote the early adoption of our solutions, we actively seek collaborative relationships with strategic OEMs during product development. We believe that OEMs recognize the value of our early involvement because designing their system products in parallel with our development can accelerate time-to-market for their end products. Collaborative relationships also help us to obtain early design wins and to increase the likelihood of market acceptance of our new products, while giving us the advantage of being the incumbent device provider on future generations of our customers’ platforms.

Use Standard Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (“CMOS”) and Bipolar CMOS-DMOS (“BCD”) Process Technologies to Provide Compelling Price/Performance Solutions — We design our products to be manufactured using standard CMOS, Bipolar and BCD processes. We believe that these processes are proven, stable and predictable and benefit from the extensive semiconductor-manufacturing infrastructure devoted to CMOS, Bipolar and BCD processes. In certain specialized cases, we may use other process technologies to take advantage of their performance characteristics.

Employ Fabless Semiconductor Model—We have long-standing relationships with third-party wafer foundries and assembly and test subcontractors to manufacture our ICs. Our fabless approach allows us to avoid substantial capital spending, obtain competitive pricing, minimize the negative effects of industry cycles, reduce time-to-market, reduce technology and product risks, and facilitate the migration of our products to new CMOS, Bipolar and BCD process technologies. By employing the fabless model, we can focus on our core competencies in product design, development and support, as well as on sales and marketing.

Broaden Sales Coverage with Channel Partners—We have strong relationships with our distributors, catalog firms and sales representatives throughout the world, from which we derive a significant portion of our total revenue. Through our partners, we have access to large market segments that we cannot directly support. Through these relationships, we extend our expertise and product exposure by enabling our partners to discover new demands for our solutions as well as aid us in defining our next generation solutions.

Sales and Customers 

We sell our products globally through both direct and indirect channels. In the United States we have our own direct sales force and are also represented by 21 independent sales representatives, three independent non-exclusive distributors, and three catalog distributors. We currently have domestic presences in Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Texas and California.

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Internationally, we are represented in Canada, Europe and Asia by our wholly-owned foreign subsidiaries and international support offices in Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. In addition to these offices, approximately 27 independent sales representatives and other independent, non-exclusive distributors represent us internationally. The percentage of our net sales represented by certain geographies is as follows:

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
China		35	%		34	%		34	%
United States		29	%		26	%		26	%
Singapore		11	%		11	%		11	%
Germany		9	%		10	%		10	%
Japan		5	%		5	%		5	%
Europe (excluding Germany)		3	%		4	%		4	%
Rest of world		8	%		10	%		10	%
Total net sales		100	%		100	%		100	%

We expect international sales to continue to be a significant portion of our net sales in the future. All of our sales to foreign customers are denominated in U.S. dollars. For a detailed description of our sales by geographic regions, see Part II, Item 7—“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, Net Sales by Geography” and Part II, Item 8—“Notes to Consolidated Financial Statement, Note 19—Segment and Geographic Information.” For a discussion of the risk factors associated with our foreign sales, see Part I, Item 1A—“Risk Factors—‘Our engagement with foreign customers could cause fluctuations in our operating results, which could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations’. ”

We sell our products to OEMs or their designated subcontract manufacturers and distributors (affiliated and unaffiliated) who buy our products and resell to their customers throughout the world. The following distributors accounted for 10% or more of our net sales in the fiscal years indicated below:

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Distributor A		27	%		30	%		31	%
Distributor B		21	%		11	%		11	%
Distributor C		12	%		10	%		*

* Net sales for this distributor for this period were less than 10% of our net sales.

No other distributor or customer accounted for 10% or more of our net sales in fiscal years 2014, 2013 or 2012.

The following distributors accounted for 10% or more of our net accounts receivable as of the dates indicated below:

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Distributor B		17	%		20	%
Distributor A		16	%		21	%
Distributor D		14	%		11	%
Distributor C		12	%		*

* Net accounts receivable for this distributor for this period were less than 10% of our net accounts receivables.

No other distributor or customer accounted for 10% or more of our net accounts receivable as of March 30, 2014 or March 31, 2013.

Manufacturing 

We outsource all of our fabrication and assembly, as well as the majority of our testing operations. This fabless manufacturing model allows us to focus on product design, development and support as well as on sales and marketing.

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Our products are manufactured using standard CMOS, bipolar, bipolar CMOS (“BiCMOS”) and BCD process technologies. We use wafer foundries located in the United States, Europe, and Asia to manufacture our semiconductor wafers.

Most of our semiconductor wafers are shipped directly from our foundry partners to our subcontractors in Asia for wafer test and assembly where the wafers are cut into individual dies and packaged. Independent contractors in China, Indonesia, Malaysia and Taiwan perform most of our assembly work. Final test and quality assurance are performed at our subcontractors’ facilities in Asia or at our Fremont, California facility. Most of our board products are manufactured in the United States. All of our primary manufacturing partners are certified to ISO 9001:2008.

Research and Development

We believe that ongoing innovation and introduction of new products in our targeted and adjacent markets is essential to delivering growth. Our ability to compete depends on our ability to offer technologically innovative products on a timely basis. As performance demands and the complexity of ICs have increased, the design and development process has become a multi-disciplinary effort requiring diverse competencies.

Our research and development efforts will continue to focus on developing high performance analog, digital and mixed-signal solutions addressing the high-bandwidth requirements of communications and storage systems OEMs and the high-current, high-voltage, ultra-low voltage, high precision or high speed requirements of interface, power management and signal path OEMs.

We make investments in advanced design tools, design automation and high performance intellectual property libraries while taking advantage of readily available specialty intellectual property through licensing or purchases. We also augment our skill sets and intellectual property through university collaboration, incorporating talent through acquisition and by accessing needed skills with off-campus design centers. We continue to pursue the development of design methodologies that are optimized for reducing design cycle time and increasing the likelihood of first-time success. In addition to the United States, we have a substantive research and development presence in the People’s Republic of China (“PRC”) and have a research and development presence in Toronto, Canada. We invested an aggregate of $27.0 million, $22.4 million and $35.0 million on research and development in fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. For further explanation of our research and development expenses, please see Part II, Item 7—“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

Competition

The semiconductor industry is intensely competitive and is characterized by rapid technological change and a history of price reductions as design improvements and production efficiencies are achieved in successive generations of products. Although the market for analog and mixed-signal ICs is generally characterized by longer product life cycles and less dramatic price reductions than the market for digital ICs, we face substantial competition in each market in which we participate.

We believe that the principal competitive factors in the market segments in which we operate are:

• time-to-market;

• product innovation;

• product performance, quality, reliability, cost and features;

• customer requirements, support, services and engagements;

• price;

• rapid technological change;

• number of design wins released to production;

• lowering total system cost; and

• compliance with and support of industry standards.

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We compete with many other companies and many of our current and potential competitors may have certain advantages over us such as:

• longer presence in key markets;

• greater brand recognition;

• more secure supply chain;

• access to larger customer bases;

• broader product offerings;

• deeper engagement with customers;

• stronger financial position and liquidity; and

• significantly greater sales, marketing, development, and other resources.

Competitors in our Industrial & Embedded Systems and Communications Infrastructure markets include companies such as Analog Devices, Inc., Integrated Device Technology, Inc., Intersil Corporation, Linear Technology Corporation, Maxim Integrated Products, Inc., Micrel Incorporated, Monolithic Power Systems, NXP B.V., Richtek, Silicon Labs, Texas Instruments Incorporated, Vitesse Semiconductor Corporation, Ambarella, Inc. and HiSilicon Technologies Co., Ltd. Our competitors in the Networking & Storage market include companies such as Cavium Networks and Intel. See Part I, Item 1A—“Risk Factors—‘If we are unable to compete effectively with existing or new competitors, we will experience fewer customer orders, reduced revenues, reduced gross margins and lost market share’.”

Backlog 

Our sales are made pursuant to either purchase orders for current delivery of standard items or agreements covering purchases over a period of time, which are frequently subject to revisions and, to a lesser extent, cancellations with little or no penalties. Lead times for the release of purchase orders depend on the scheduling practices of the individual customer, and our rate of bookings varies from month-to-month. Certain distributors’ agreements allow for stock rotations, scrap allowances and volume discounts. Further, we defer recognition of revenue on shipments to certain distributors until the product is sold to end customers. For all of these reasons, we believe backlog as of any particular date should not be used as a predictor of future sales.

Intellectual Property Rights 

To protect our intellectual property, we rely on a combination of patents, mask work registrations, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and employee and third-party nondisclosure agreements. As of March 30, 2014, we have 202 patents issued and 15 patent applications pending in the United States and 40 patents issued and 25 patent applications pending in various foreign countries. Our existing patents will expire between 2014 and 2031, or sooner if we choose not to pay renewal fees. We may also enter into license agreements or other agreements to gain access to externally developed products or technologies. While our intellectual property is critically important, we do not believe that our current or future success is materially dependent upon any one patent or technology.

Despite our protection efforts, we may fail to adequately protect our intellectual property. Others may gain access to our trade secrets or disclose such trade secrets to third parties without our knowledge. Some or all of our pending and future patent applications may not result in issued patents that provide us with a competitive advantage. Even if issued, such patents, as well as our existing patents, may be challenged and later determined to be invalid or unenforceable. Others may develop similar or superior products without access to or without infringing upon our intellectual property, including intellectual property that is protected by trade secrets and patent rights. In addition, the laws of certain territories in which our products are or may be developed, manufactured, used or sold, including Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Latin America, may not protect our products and intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States of America.

We cannot be sure that our products or technologies do not infringe patents that may be granted in the future pursuant to pending patent applications or that our products do not infringe any patents or proprietary rights of third parties. Occasionally, we are informed by third parties of alleged patent infringement. In the event that any relevant claims of third-party patents are found to be valid and enforceable, we may be required to:

• stop selling, incorporating or using our products that use the infringed intellectual property;

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• obtain a license to make, sell or use the relevant technology from the owner of the infringed intellectual property, although such license may not be available on commercially reasonable terms, if at all; or

• redesign our products so as not to use the infringed intellectual property, which may not be technically or commercially feasible or meet customer requirements.

If we are required to take any of the actions described above or defend against any claims from third parties, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be harmed. See Part I, Item 1A—“Risk Factors—‘We may be unable to protect our intellectual property rights, which could harm our competitive position’ and ‘We could be required to pay substantial damages or could be subject to various equitable remedies if it were proven that we infringed the intellectual property rights of others’.”

Acquisitions

On April 26, 2014, we signed a definitive agreement (“Merger Agreement”) to acquire Integrated Memory Logic Limited (“iML”), a leading provider of analog mixed-signal solutions for the flat panel display market. The iML acquisition supports Exar's strategy of building a large scale diversified analog mixed-signal business. Under the terms of the transaction, Exar's subsidiary (“Sub”) has commenced a tender offer to acquire all of the outstanding shares of iML for NT$91.00 (approximately US$3.00) per iML share in cash and acquire any remaining shares at NT$91.00 per share pursuant to a follow-on merger. On May 29, 2014, Sub completed the offer. 68,319,091 shares (the “Accepted Shares”) were validly tendered in the offer, representing approximately 92% of iML’s outstanding shares. The persons from whom the Accepted Shares were acquired were the shareholders of iML. Sub will pay an aggregate purchase price of NT$6.2 billion (approximately US$206.0 million) to iML shareholders for the tendered shares. Pursuant to the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, Sub intends to conduct a second-step merger in which Sub will merge with and into iML and the remaining outstanding shares will be converted into the right to receive NT$91.00 per share in cash. When complete, the gross transaction value is currently estimated to be NT$6.8 billion (approximately US$224.0 million), or NT$2.8 billion (approximately US$92.0 million), net of cash acquired. After the closing, iML will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Exar and iML stock will cease trading on the Taiwan Stock Exchange. Exar financed the acquisition of the shares with a combination of cash on hand and a new $90.0 million senior secured bridge loan facility. Stifel Financial Corp. has provided Exar a commitment letter to provide Exar up to $90.0 million in senior secured bridge loans. The commitment letter is subject to customary conditions to consummation.

Due to the limited time since the date of the acquisition, the initial disclosure for this business combination is incomplete as of the date of this filing. As such, it is impracticable for us to make certain business combination disclosures at this time. We are unable to present the acquisition date fair value of and information related to assets acquired and liabilities assumed. We plan to provide this information in our quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ending June 29, 2014.

On January 14, 2014, we completed the acquisition of Stretch, Inc. (“Stretch”), a provider of software configurable processors supporting the video surveillance market. Stretch’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning January 14, 2014.

On July 5, 2013 we completed the acquisition of Cadeka, a provider of high precision analog ICs for use in industrial and high reliability applications. Cadeka’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning July 5, 2013.

On March 22, 2013, we completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Altior Inc. (“Altior”), a developer of data management solutions in Eatontown, New Jersey. Altior’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning March 23, 2013.

On June 17, 2009, we completed the acquisition of Galazar Networks, Inc. (“Galazar”). Galazar, based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, was a fabless semiconductor and software supplier focused on carrier grade transport over telecom networks. Galazar’s product portfolio addressed transport of a wide range of networking and telecom services including Ethernet, TDM, Fiber Channel and video over SONET/SDH, PDH and Optical Transport networks (“OTN”). On February 1, 2012 we terminated development of OTN products and ceased operations in Ottawa.

Employees 

As of March 30, 2014, we employed 312 full-time employees, with 143 in research and development, 46 in operations, 79 in marketing and sales and 44 in administration. Of the 312 employees, 110 are located in our international offices. See Part I, Item 1A—“Risk Factors—‘We depend in part on the continued service of our key engineering and management personnel and our ability to identify, hire, incentivize and retain qualified personnel. If we lose key employees or fail to identify, hire, incentivize and retain these individuals, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely impacted’. ” None of our employees are represented by a collective bargaining agreement and we have never experienced a work stoppage due to labor issues.

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Available Information

We file electronically with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those Reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Those Reports and statements: (1) may be read and copied at the SEC’s public reference room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, DC 20549; (2) are available at the SEC’s Internet site (http://www.sec.gov), which contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC; and (3) are available free of charge through our website (www.exar.com) as soon as reasonably practicable after electronic filing with, or furnishing to, the SEC. Information regarding the operation of the SEC’s public reference room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. Copies of such documents may be requested by contacting our Investor Relations Department at (510) 668-7201 or by sending an e-mail through the Investor Relations page on our website. Information on our website is not incorporated by reference into this Annual Report.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

Our executive officers and their ages as of May 30, 2014, are as follows:

Name	Age	Position
Louis DiNardo	54	President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
Steve Bakos	47	Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales and Marketing
Robert K. Beachler	50	Vice President, Corporate Marketing and Business Development
Ryan A. Benton	43	Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Parviz Ghaffaripour	50	Senior Vice President and General Manager, Component Products
Diane Hill	57	Vice President, Human Resources
Craig Lytle	50	Senior Vice President, Systems Solution Products
Thomas R. Melendrez	60	General Counsel, Secretary and Senior Vice President
Todd Smathers	65	Senior Vice President, Worldwide Operations

Louis DiNardo was appointed President, Chief Executive Officer and Director as of January 3, 2012. Prior to joining us, he was a Partner at Crosslink Capital, a stage-independent venture capital and growth equity firm based in San Francisco, which he joined in January of 2008, and focused on semiconductor and alternative energy technology investment in private companies. Mr. DiNardo was a partner at VantagePoint Venture Partners from January of 2007 through January of 2008. Mr. DiNardo was President and Chief Operating Officer at Intersil Corporation from January 2006 through October 2006 and prior to his promotion, Mr. DiNardo held the position of Executive Vice President of the Power Management Business. He held the position of President and CEO as well as Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors at Xicor Corporation (“Xicor”), a public company, from 2000 until Intersil acquired the company in July of 2004. Mr. DiNardo spent thirteen years at Linear Technology where he was Vice President of Worldwide Marketing and General Manager of the Mixed-Signal Business Unit. He began his career in the semiconductor industry at Analog Devices Incorporated where he served for eight years in a variety of technical and management roles. Mr. DiNardo holds a B.A. from Ursinus College, 1981. Mr. DiNardo has held executive leadership positions with and served on the Board of Directors of a variety of privately held and public technology companies.

Steve Bakos was appointed Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales and Marketing in July of 2012. Mr. Bakos has nearly 25 years of experience in analog and mixed signal sales and marketing, including over 10 years of executive management experience. Mr. Bakos began his sales career at National Semiconductor. Mr. Bakos spent the next 11 years at Linear Technology where he held various sales and marketing management positions. In 2002, he joined Xicor as Vice President of Worldwide Sales until the company was acquired by Intersil in July of 2004. At Intersil, he was appointed Vice President of Sales for the Americas and Global Distribution 2004 until 2006. Mr. Bakos served as Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales for Active-Semi from 2008 to 2010 and Vice President of Sales with SiTime from 2010 to 2011. Prior to joining Exar, Mr. Bakos served as Vice President of Worldwide Sales at Conexant Systems from 2011 to 2012. Mr. Bakos holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Cornell University, Ithaca, NY.

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Robert K. Beachler was appointed Vice President, Corporate Marketing and Business Development in April 2014. He was appointed as Vice President of Marketing and Systems Design of Processor Products in January 2014 following the Stretch Inc. acquisition. A long-time veteran of the semiconductor industry, he has broad experience across all facets of marketing and corporate business development disciplines in both start-up and public company environments. Mr. Beachler joined Stretch in May 2006 as Vice President of Marketing, and prior to joining Stretch he was with Altera Corporation for over 15 years. While at Altera, he led successful worldwide product launches that broke awareness records for FPGA products and software; led new product architecture development for the industry's best-selling programmable logic family and design automation tools; and held titles including Senior Director of the Intellectual Property Business Unit, Senior Director of Business Development, Senior Director of Software Tools Marketing, and Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications. Early in his Altera career he led product planning and applications engineering teams. Mr. Beachler received a Bachelor's of Science in Electrical Engineering from The Ohio State University (Columbus), has served on the board of directors for the Virtual Socket Initiative Alliance and has been a board observer for a number of start-up semiconductor and electronic design automation (“EDA”) companies.

Ryan A. Bentonwas appointed Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in December of 2012. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Benton was Chief Financial Officer of SynapSense located in Folsom, California, a private venture backed company serving the Data Center Infrastructure Management market. Prior to SynapSense, from February 2007 until May 2012, Mr. Benton was Chief Financial Officer of SoloPower Inc, a manufacturer of thin-film solar cells and flexible solar modules, located in San Jose, California. From November 2004 until February 2007, Mr. Benton served as a financial consultant for the United States subsidiary of ASM International NV in Phoenix, Arizona, a semiconductor capital equipment company, where he supported acquisitions and integration process. He also served as Chief Financial Officer for PB Unlimited, an advertising specialty manufacturer located in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, from April 2002 through November 2004. Mr. Benton served as corporate controller for eFunds, which was a public company located in Scottsdale, Arizona that provides information technology solutions for the financial service industry, where he was employed from September 2000 until March 2002.Mr. Benton received his B.A. from the University of Texas.

Parviz Ghaffaripour was appointed Senior Vice President and General Manager, Component Products in May of 2013. He brings to Exar over 29 years of analog mixed-signal experience during which time he built and grew leading profitable businesses. Mr. Ghaffaripour most recently served as CEO of Akros Silicon from 2008 to 2013, a privately funded power management company located in Sunnyvale, California. Prior to Akros, he was Chief Operating Officer at Advanced Analogic Technologies (now Skyworks). Mr. Ghaffaripour has held executive management and technical roles at Maxim Integrated Products and National Semiconductor. Mr. Ghaffaripour began his career at Exar in 1984 as an analog IC designer. He earned his B.S.E.E. at the University of California, Berkeley, his M.S.E.E. at Santa Clara University, executive degrees in Business Administration at Stanford University and Western Ontario, and he holds four patents.

Diane Hill was appointed Vice President, Human Resources in April of 2010. With over 30 years of human resources experience, including 20 in the semiconductor industry, Ms. Hill is responsible for developing and implementing all global and regional human resources policies and programs at Exar. Since joining us in September 2000, Ms. Hill has held various senior Human Resources positions prior to her current role, including Division Vice President, Director and Senior Manager. Previously, Ms. Hill held various management positions at Daisy Systems Corporation, a manufacturer of computer hardware and EDA, from October 1987 to April 1990 and Teledyne MEC, a subsidiary of Teledyne Technologies, Inc., from August 1979 to October 1987. Ms. Hill holds a BA in Psychology from the University of California at Santa Barbara.

Craig Lytle was appointed Senior Vice President, Systems Solutions Products in January of 2014 following the Stretch Inc. acquisition, where he had served as Chief Executive Officer since 2006. Mr. Lytle brings over 20 years of experience in the semiconductor market with expertise in the FPGA, processors, communications, and video market segments. Prior to Stretch, he was Vice President System Engineering at Altera Corporation. Mr. Lytle joined Altera as an Applications Engineer in 1986. From there he became Altera's first FAE and then rose through the sales, engineering, product planning, marketing and executive ranks. Mr. Lytle holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University and a BA in Management Engineering from Claremont McKenna College.   

Thomas R. Melendrez joined us in April of 1986 as our Corporate Attorney. He was promoted to Director, Legal Affairs in July 1991, and again to Corporate Vice President, Legal Affairs in March 1993. In March 1996, he was promoted to Corporate Vice President, General Counsel and in June 2001, he was appointed Secretary. In April 2003, he was promoted to General Counsel, Secretary and Vice President of Business Development and in July 2005, he was promoted to Senior Vice President, Business Development. In April 2007, he was promoted to his current position as General Counsel, Secretary and Senior Vice President. Mr. Melendrez has over 25 years of legal experience in the semiconductor and related industries and he received a BA from the University of Notre Dame, a JD from University of San Francisco and an MBA from Pepperdine University.

Todd Smathers was appointed Senior Vice President, Worldwide Operations in March of 2012. Mr. Smathers has over 40 years of experience in analog and mixed-signal technology and product development. He served as Vice President of Operations at Intersil and Xicor, which was acquired by Intersil in 2004. Prior to joining Xicor, Mr. Smathers was General Manager of the Mixed Signal Business Unit at Linear Technology Corporation where he had previously served in a variety of management and executive roles since the company's founding in 1981. Mr. Smathers holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering degree from Clemson University.

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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

The following factors describe risks and uncertainties that could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, and the market price of our common stock. The risks and uncertainties described below should not be considered to be a complete statement of all potential risks and uncertainties that we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we do not currently consider material may also harm our business, financial condition, results of operations or the market price of our common stock. Past financial performance should not be considered to be a reliable indicator of future performance, and investors should not use historical trends to anticipate results or trends in future periods.

Our financial results may fluctuate significantly because of a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control.

Our financial results may fluctuate significantly as a result of a number of factors, many of which are difficult or impossible to control or predict, which include:

• the continuing effects of economic uncertainty;

• the cyclical nature of the general economy and the semiconductor industry;

• difficulty in predicting revenues and ordering the correct mix of components from suppliers due to limited visibility into customers and channel partners;

• changes in the mix of product sales as our margins vary by product;

• fluctuations in the capitalization and amortization of unabsorbed manufacturing costs;

• the impact of our revenue recognition policies on reported results;

• warranty costs related to our product sales;

• the reduction, rescheduling, cancellation or timing of orders by our customers, distributors and channel partners; 

• management of customer, subcontractor, logistic provider and/or channel inventory;

• delays in shipments from our foundries and subcontractors causing supply shortages;

• inability of our foundries and subcontractors to provide quality products, in adequate quantities and in a timely manner;

• dependency on products with few customers and/or distributors;

• volatility of demand for equipment sold by our large customers, which in turn, introduces demand volatility for our products;

• demand disruption if customers change or modify their complex subcontract manufacturing supply chain;

• demand disruption in customer demand due to technical or quality issues with our devices or components in their system;

• the inability of our customers to obtain components from their other suppliers;

• disruption in sales or distribution channels;

• our ability to maintain and expand distributor relationships;

• changes in sales and implementation cycles for our products;

• the ability of our suppliers and customers to remain solvent, obtain financing or fund capital expenditures as a result of the recent global economic slowdown;

• risks associated with entering new markets;

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• the announcement or introduction of products by our existing competitors or new competitors;

• loss of market share by us or by our customers;

• competitive pressures on selling prices or product availability;

• pressures on selling prices overseas due to foreign currency exchange fluctuations;

• erosion of average selling prices coupled with the inability to sell newer products with higher average selling prices, resulting in lower overall revenue and margins;

• delays in product releases;

• market and/or customer acceptance of our products;

• consolidation among our competitors, our customers and/or our customers’ customers;

• changes in our customers’ end user concentration or requirements;

• loss of one or more major customers;

• significant changes in ordering pattern by major customers;

• our or our channel partners’ or logistic providers’ ability to maintain and manage appropriate inventory levels;

• the availability and cost of materials, services or processing capabilities, including foundry, assembly and test capacity, needed by us from our foundries and other manufacturing suppliers;

• disruptions in our or our customers’ supply chain due to natural disasters, fire, outbreak of communicable diseases, labor disputes, civil unrest or other reasons;

• delays in successful transfer of products or manufacturing processes to or between our subcontractors;

• fluctuations in the product quality or manufacturing output, yields, and capacity of our suppliers;

• fluctuation in suppliers’ capacity due to reorganization, relocation or shift in business focus, financial constraints, or other reasons;

• problems, costs, or delays that we may face in shifting our products to smaller geometry process technologies and in achieving higher levels of design and device integration;

• our ability to successfully introduce and transfer into production new products and/or integrate new technologies;

• excess inventory levels or unanticipated inventory write-downs if expected orders fail to materialize or inventory becomes obsolete;

• increased manufacturing costs;

• higher mask tooling costs associated with advanced technologies;

• the amount and timing of our investment in research and development;

• costs and business disruptions associated with stockholder or regulatory issues;

• the timing and amount of employer payroll tax to be paid on our employees’ gains on exercise of stock options;

• an inability to generate profits to utilize net operating losses (“NOLs”) prior to their statutory expiration;

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• increased costs and time associated with compliance with new accounting rules or new regulatory requirements;

• changes in accounting or other regulatory rules, such as the requirement to record assets and liabilities at fair value;

• write-off of some or all of our goodwill and other intangible assets;

• fluctuations in interest rates and/or market values of our marketable securities;

• litigation costs associated with the defense of suits brought or complaints made against us or enforcement of our rights;

• change in fair value of contingent consideration; and/or

• changes in or continuation of certain tax provisions.

If we are unable to grow or secure and convert a significant portion of our design wins into revenue, our business, financial condition and results of operations would be materially and adversely impacted.

We continue to secure design wins for new and existing products. Such design wins are necessary for revenue growth. However, many of our design wins may never generate revenues if end-customer projects are unsuccessful in the market place, the end-customer terminates the project, which may occur for a variety of reasons or the end-customer selects a competitive solution. Mergers, consolidations, changing market requirements and cost reduction activities among our customers may lead to termination of certain projects before the associated design win generates revenue. If design wins do generate revenue, the time lag between the design win and meaningful revenue is typically between six months to longer than 18 months. If we fail to grow and convert a significant portion of our design wins into substantial revenue, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely impacted. Under continued uncertain global economic conditions, our design wins could be delayed even longer than the typical lag period and our eventual revenue could be less than anticipated from products that were introduced within the last eighteen to thirty-six months, which would likely materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Global capital, credit market, employment, and general economic and political conditions, and resulting declines in consumer confidence and spending, could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition.

Because our customers, suppliers and other business partners are in many countries around the world, we must monitor general global conditions for impact on our business. Economies throughout global regions continue to be volatile and, in many countries, inconsistent with trends in the U.S. or other stable economies. In Europe uncertainty continues regarding the ability of certain countries to service their level of debt. In recent quarters in China and certain other Asian countries growth has continued but at a slower pace than earlier in the recovery. Unstable political conditions in individual countries or across regions can also impact our business.

We cannot predict the timing, severity or duration of any economic slowdown or pace of recovery or the impact of any such events on our vendors, customers or us. If the economy or markets in which we operate deteriorate from current levels, many related factors could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results, and financial condition, including the following:

• slower spending by our target markets and economic fluctuations may result in reduced demand for our products, reduced orders for our products, order cancellations, lower revenues, increased inventories, and lower gross margins;

• if recent restructuring activities insufficiently lower our operating expense or we fail to execute on our growth strategy, our restructuring efforts may not be successful and we may not be able to realize the cost savings and other anticipated benefits; 

• if we further reduce our workforce or curtail or redirect research and development efforts, it may adversely impact our ability to respond rapidly to product development or growth opportunities;

• we may be unable to predict the strength or duration of market conditions or the effects of consolidation of our customers or competitors in their industries, which may result in project delays or cancellations;

• we may be unable to find suitable investments that are safe or liquid, or that provide a reasonable return resulting in lower interest income or longer investment horizons, and disruptions to capital markets or the banking system may also impair the value of investments or bank deposits we currently consider safe or liquid;

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• the failure of financial institution counterparties to honor their obligations to us under credit instruments could jeopardize our ability to rely on and benefit from those instruments, and our ability to replace those instruments on the same or similar terms may be limited under poor market conditions;

• continued volatility in the markets and prices for commodities, such as gold, and raw materials we use in our products and in our supply chain, could have a material adverse effect on our costs, gross margins, and profitability;

• if distributors of our products experience declining revenues, experience difficulty obtaining financing in the capital and credit markets to purchase our products or experience severe financial difficulty, it could result in insolvency, reduced orders for our products, order cancellations, inability to timely meet payment obligations to us, extended payment terms, higher accounts receivable, reduced cash flows, greater expenses associated with collection efforts and increased bad debt expenses;

• if contract manufacturers or foundries of our products or other participants in our supply chain experience difficulty obtaining financing in the capital and credit markets to purchase raw materials or to finance general working capital needs, it may result in delays or non-delivery of shipments of our products;

• potential shutdowns on a temporary or permanent basis or over capacity constraints by our third-party foundry, assembly and test subcontractors could result in longer lead-times, higher buffer inventory levels and degraded on-time delivery performance; and/or

• the current macroeconomic environment also limits our visibility into future purchases by our customers and renewals of existing agreements, which may necessitate changes to our business model.

If we fail to develop, introduce or enhance products that meet evolving needs or which are necessitated by technological advances, or we are unable to grow revenue in our served markets, then our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely impacted.

The markets for our products are characterized by a number of factors, some of which are listed below:

• changing or disruptive technologies;

• evolving and competing industry standards;

• changing customer requirements;

• increasing price pressure from lower priced solutions;

• increasing product development costs;

• finite market windows for product introductions;

• design-to-production cycles;

• increasing functional integration;

• competitive solutions, stronger customer engagement or broader product offering;

• fluctuations in capital equipment spending levels and/or deployment;

• rapid adjustments in customer demand and inventory;

• moderate to slow growth;

• frequent product introductions and enhancements; and/or

• changing competitive landscape (due to consolidation, financial viability, etc.).

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Our growth depends in large part on our continued development and timely release of new products for our core markets. We must: (1) anticipate customer and market requirements and changes in technology and industry standards; (2) properly define, develop and introduce new products on a timely basis; (3) gain access to and use technologies in a cost-effective manner; (4) have suppliers produce quality products consistent with our requirements; (5) continue to expand and retain our technical and design expertise; (6) introduce and cost-effectively deliver new products in line with our customer product introduction requirements; (7) differentiate our products from our competitors’ offerings; and (8) gain customer acceptance of our products. In addition, we must continue to have our products designed into our customers’ future products and maintain close working relationships with key customers to define and develop new products that meet their evolving needs. Moreover, we must respond in a rapid and cost-effective manner to shifts in market demands to increased functional integration and other changes. Migration from older products to newer products may result in earnings volatility as revenues from older products decline and revenues from newer products begin to grow.

Products for our customers’ applications are subject to continually evolving industry standards and new technologies. Our ability to compete will depend in part on our ability to identify and ensure compliance with these industry standards. The emergence of new standards could render our products incompatible with other products that meet those standards. We could be required to invest significant time, effort and expense to develop and qualify new products to ensure compliance with industry standards.

The process of developing and supporting new products is complex, expensive and uncertain, and if we fail to accurately predict, understand and execute to our customers’ changing needs and emerging technological trends, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be harmed. In addition, we may make significant investments to define new products according to input from our customers who may choose a competitor’s or an internal solution or cancel their projects. We may not be able to identify new product opportunities successfully, develop and bring to market new products, achieve design wins, ensure when and which design wins actually get released to production, or respond effectively to technological changes or product announcements by our competitors. In addition, we may not be successful in developing or using new technologies or may incorrectly anticipate market demand and develop products that achieve little or no market acceptance. Our pursuit of technological advances may require substantial time and expense and may ultimately prove unsuccessful. Failure in any of these areas may materially and adversely harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We derive a substantial portion of our revenues from distributors, especially from our two primary distributors, Future Electronics Inc. (“Future”), a related party, and Arrow Electronics, Inc. (“Arrow”). Our revenues would likely decline significantly if our primary distributors elected not to or we were unable to effectively promote or sell our products or if they elected to cancel, reduce or defer purchases of our products.

Future and Arrow have historically accounted for a significant portion of our revenues and they are our two primary distributors worldwide. We anticipate that sales of our products to these distributors will continue to account for a significant portion of our revenues. The loss of either Future or Arrow as a distributor, for any reason, or a significant reduction in orders from either of them would materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Sales to Future and Arrow are made under agreements that provide protection against price reduction for their inventory of our products. As such, we could be exposed to significant liability if the inventory value of the products held by Future and Arrow declined dramatically. Our distributor agreements with Future and Arrow do not contain minimum purchase commitments. As a result, Future and Arrow could cease purchasing our products with short notice or cease distributing our products. In addition, they may defer or cancel orders without penalty, which would likely cause our revenues to decline and materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We have made, and in the future may make, acquisitions and significant strategic equity investments, which may involve a number of risks. If we are unable to address these risks successfully, such acquisitions and investments could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We have undertaken a number of strategic acquisitions, have made strategic investments in the past, and may make further strategic acquisitions and investments from time to time in the future. The risks involved with these acquisitions and investments include:

• the possibility that we may not receive a favorable return on our investment or incur losses from our investment or the original investment may become impaired;

• revenues or synergies could fall below projections or fail to materialize as assumed;

• failure to satisfy or set effective strategic objectives;

• the possibility of litigation arising from or in connection with these acquisitions;

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• our assumption of known or unknown liabilities or other unanticipated events or circumstances;

• the possibility of planned acquisitions failing to materialize and not realizing anticipated benefits; and/or

• the diversion of management’s attention from day-to-day operations of the business and the resulting potential disruptions to the ongoing business.

Additional risks involved with acquisitions include:

• exposure to foreign exchange risk associated with acquisition consideration denominated in foreign currencies;

• difficulties in integrating and managing various functional areas such as sales, engineering, marketing, and operations;

• difficulties in incorporating or leveraging acquired technologies and intellectual property rights in new products;

• difficulties or delays in the transfer of product manufacturing flows and supply chains of acquired businesses;

• failure to retain and integrate key personnel;

• failure to retain and maintain relationships with existing customers, distributors, channel partners and other parties;

• failure to manage and operate multiple geographic locations both effectively and efficiently;

• failure to coordinate research and development activities to enhance and develop new products and services in a timely manner that optimize the assets and resources of the combined company;

• difficulties in creating uniform standards, controls (including internal control over financial reporting), procedures, policies and information systems;

• unexpected capital equipment outlays and continuing expenses related to technical and operational integration;

• difficulties in entering markets or retaining current markets in which we have limited or no direct prior experience or where competitors in such markets may have stronger market positions;

• insufficient revenues to offset increased expenses associated with acquisitions;

• under-performance problems with an acquired company;

• issuance of common stock that would dilute our current stockholders’ percentage ownership;

• reduction in liquidity and interest income on lower cash balances;

• recording of goodwill and intangible assets that will be subject to periodic impairment testing and potential impairment charges against our future earnings;

• incurring amortization expenses related to certain intangible assets; and/or

• incurring large and immediate write-offs of assets.

Strategic equity investments also involve risks associated with third parties managing the funds and the risk of poor strategic choices or execution of strategic or operating plans.

We may not address these risks successfully without substantial expense, delay or other operational or financial problems, or at all. Any delays or other such operations or financial problems could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

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Our business may be materially and adversely impacted if we fail to effectively utilize and incorporate acquired technologies.

We have acquired and may in the future acquire intellectual property in order to expand our serviceable markets, accelerate our time to market, and to gain market share for new and existing products. Acquisitions of intellectual property may involve risks relating to, among other things, valuation of innovative capabilities, successful technical integration into new products, loss of key technical personnel, compliance with contractual obligations, market acceptance of new product features or capabilities, and achievement of planned return on investment. Successful technical integration in particular requires a variety of capabilities that we may not currently have, such as available technical staff with sufficient time to devote to integration, the requisite skills to understand the acquired technology and the necessary support tools to effectively utilize the technology. The timely and efficient integration of acquired technology may be adversely impacted by inherent design deficiencies or application requirements. The potential failure of or delay in product introduction utilizing acquired intellectual property could lead to an impairment of capitalized intellectual property acquisition costs, which could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We depend on third-party subcontractors to manufacture our products. We utilize wafer foundries for processing our wafers and assembly and test subcontractors for manufacturing and testing our integrated circuit products and board assembly subcontractors for our board-level products. Any disruption in or loss of our subcontractors’ capacity to manufacture and test our products subjects us to a number of risks, including the potential for an inadequate supply of products and higher materials costs. These risks may lead to delayed product delivery or increased costs, which could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We do not own or operate a semiconductor fabrication facility or a foundry. We utilize various foundries for different processes. Our products are based on CMOS processes, bipolar processes, BiCMOS and BCD processes. Our foundries produce semiconductors for many other companies (many of which have greater volume requirements than us), and therefore, we may not have access on a timely basis to sufficient capacity or certain process technologies and we have from time to time, experienced extended lead times on some products. In addition, we rely on our foundries’ continued financial health and ability to continue to invest in smaller geometry manufacturing processes and additional wafer processing capacity.

Many of our new products are designed to take advantage of smaller geometry manufacturing processes. Due to the complexity and increased cost of migrating to smaller geometries, as well as process changes, we could experience interruptions in production or significantly reduced yields causing product introduction or delivery delays. If such delays occur, our products may have delayed market acceptance or customers may select our competitors’ products during the design process.

New and current process technologies or products can be subject to wide variations in manufacturing yields and efficiency. Our foundries or the foundries of our suppliers may experience unfavorable yield variances or other manufacturing problems that result in product introduction or delivery delays. Further, if the products manufactured by our foundries contain production defects, reliability issues or quality or compatibility problems that are significant to our customers, our reputation may be damaged and customers may cancel orders, assert product warranty or damage claims, or be reluctant to continue to buy our products, which could adversely affect our ability to retain and attract new customers. In addition, these errors and defects could interrupt or delay sales of affected products, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our foundries and test and assembly subcontractors manufacture our products on a purchase order basis. We provide our foundries with rolling forecasts of our production requirements; however, the ability of our foundries to provide wafers is limited by the foundries’ available capacity. Our third-party foundries may not allocate sufficient capacity to satisfy our requirements. In addition, we may not continue to do business with our foundries on terms as favorable as our current terms.

Furthermore, any reduction or discontinuance, either on a permanent or temporary basis, of any primary source or sources of fully processed wafers could result in a material delay in the shipment of our products, lost sales opportunities, and increased costs. Any delays or shortages would likely materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. In particular, the products produced from the wafers manufactured by our supplier in Hangzhou, China currently constitute a significant part of our total revenue, and so any delay, reduction or elimination of our ability to obtain wafers from this supplier could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our reliance on our wafer foundries, assembly and test subcontractors and board assembly subcontractors involves the following risks, among others:

• a manufacturing disruption or reduction or elimination of any existing source(s) of semiconductor manufacturing materials or processes, which might include the potential temporary or permanent closure, product and /or process discontinuation, change of ownership, change in business conditions or relationships, change of management or consolidation by one of our foundries;

• disruption of manufacturing or assembly or test services due to vendor transition, relocation or limited capacity of the foundries or subcontractors;

• inability to obtain, develop or ensure the continuation of technologies needed to manufacture our products;

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• extended time required to identify, qualify and transfer to alternative manufacturing sources for existing or new products or the possible inability to obtain an adequate alternative;

• failure of our foundries or subcontractors to obtain raw materials and equipment;

• increasing cost of commodities, such as gold, raw materials and energy resulting in higher wafer or package costs;

• long-term financial and operating stability of the foundries or their suppliers or subcontractors and their ability to invest in new capabilities and expand capacity to meet increasing demand, to remain solvent or to obtain financing in tight credit markets;

• continuing measures taken by our suppliers such as reductions in force, pay reductions, forced time off or shut down of production for extended periods of time to reduce and/or control operating expenses in response to weakened customer demand;

• subcontractors’ inability to transition to smaller package types or new package compositions;

• a sudden, sharp increase in demand for semiconductor devices, which could strain the foundries’ or subcontractors’ manufacturing resources and cause delays in manufacturing and shipment of our products;

• manufacturing quality control or process control issues, including reduced control over manufacturing yields, production schedules and product quality;

• potential misappropriation of our intellectual property;

• disruption of transportation to and from Asia where most of our foundries and subcontractors are located;

• political, civil, labor or economic instability;

• embargoes or other regulatory limitations affecting the availability of raw materials or equipment, or changes in tax laws, tariffs, services and freight rates; and/or

• compliance with U.S., local or international regulatory requirements.

Other additional risks associated with subcontractors include:

• subcontractors imposing higher minimum order quantities for substrates;

• potential increase in assembly and test costs;

• our board level product volume may not be attractive to preferred manufacturing partners, which could result in higher pricing, extended lead times or having to qualify an alternative vendor;

• difficulties in selecting, qualifying and integrating new subcontractors;

• inventory and delivery management issues relating to hub arrangements;

• entry into “take-or-pay” agreements subjecting us to high fixed costs; and/or

• limited warranties from our subcontractors for products assembled and tested for us.

If we are unable to accurately forecast demand for our products, we may be unable to efficiently manage our inventory.

Due to the absence of substantial non-cancelable backlog, we typically plan our production and inventory levels based on customer forecasts, internal evaluation of customer demand and current backlog, which can fluctuate substantially. Due to a number of factors such as customer changes in delivery schedules and quantities actually purchased, cancellation of orders, distributor returns or price reductions, our backlog at any particular date is not necessarily indicative of actual sales for any succeeding period. The still unsettled, uncertain and weak economy may increase the risk of purchase order cancellations or delays, product returns and price reductions. We may not be able to meet our expected revenue levels or results of operations if there is a reduction in our order backlog for any particular period and we are unable to replace those anticipated sales during the same period. Our forecast accuracy can be adversely affected by a number of factors, including inaccurate forecasting by our customers, changes in market conditions, new part introductions by our competitors, loss of previous design wins, adverse changes in our scheduled product order mix and demand for our customers’ products or models. As a consequence of these factors and other inaccuracies inherent in forecasting, inventory imbalances periodically occur that result in surplus amounts of some of our products and shortages of others. Such shortages can adversely impact customer relations and surpluses can result in larger-than-desired inventory levels, either of which can materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. Due to the unpredictability of global economic conditions and increased difficulty in forecasting demand for our products, we could experience an increase in inventory levels.

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In instances where we have hub agreements with certain vendors, the inability of our partners to provide accurate and timely information regarding inventory and related shipments of the inventory may impact our ability to maintain the proper amount of inventory at the hubs, forecast usage of the inventory and record accurate revenue recognition which could materially and adversely impact our business, financial conditions and the results of operations.

If our distributors or sales representatives stop selling or fail to successfully promote our products, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely impacted.

We sell many of our products through sales representatives and distributors, many of which sell directly to OEMs, contract manufacturers and end customers. Our non-exclusive distributors and sales representatives may carry our competitors’ products, which could adversely impact or limit sales of our products. Additionally, they could reduce or discontinue sales of our products or may not devote the resources necessary to sell our products in the volumes and within the time frames that we expect. Our agreements with distributors contain limited provisions for return of our products, including stock rotations whereby distributors may return a percentage of their purchases from us based upon a percentage of their most recent three or six months of shipments. In addition, in certain circumstances upon termination of the distributor relationship, distributors may return some portion of their prior purchases. The loss of business from any of our significant distributors or the delay of significant orders from any of them, even if only temporary, could materially and adversely impact our business, financial conditions and results of operations.

Moreover, we depend on the continued viability and financial resources of these distributors and sales representatives, some of which are small organizations with limited working capital. In turn, these distributors and sales representatives are subject to general economic and semiconductor industry conditions. We believe that our success will continue to depend on these distributors and sales representatives. If some or all of our distributors and sales representatives experience financial difficulties, or otherwise become unable or unwilling to promote and sell our products, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely impacted.

Certain of our distributors may rely heavily on the availability of short-term capital at reasonable rates to fund their ongoing operations. If this capital is not available, or is only available on onerous terms, certain distributors may not be able to pay for inventory received or we may experience a reduction in orders from these distributors, which would likely cause our revenue to decline and materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We depend in part on the continued service of our key engineering and executive management personnel and our ability to identify, hire, incentivize and retain qualified personnel. If we lose key employees or fail to identify, hire, incentivize and retain these individuals, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely impacted.

Our future success depends on the continued service of our key design, engineering, technical, sales, marketing and executive personnel and our ability to identify, hire, motivate and retain such qualified personnel, as well as effectively and quickly replace key personnel with qualified successors with competitive incentive compensation packages.

Under certain circumstances, including a company acquisition, significant restructuring or business downturn, current and prospective employees may experience uncertainty about their future roles with us. Volatility or lack of positive performance in our stock price and the ability or willingness to offer meaningful competitive equity compensation and incentive plans or in amounts consistent with market practices may also adversely affect our ability to retain and incentivize key employees. In addition, competitors may recruit our employees, as is common in the high tech sector. If we are unable to retain personnel that are critical to our future operations, we could face disruptions in operations, loss of existing customers, loss of key information, expertise or know-how, unanticipated additional recruiting and training costs, and potentially higher compensation costs.

Competition for skilled employees having specialized technical capabilities and industry-specific expertise is intense and continues to be a considerable risk inherent in the markets in which we compete. At times, competition for such employees has been particularly notable in California and the PRC. Further, the PRC historically has different managing principles from Western style management and financial reporting concepts and practices, as well as different banking, computer and other control systems, making the successful identification and employment of qualified personnel particularly important, and hiring and retaining a sufficient number of such qualified employees may be difficult. As a result of these factors, we may experience difficulty in establishing and maintaining management, legal and financial controls, collecting financial data, books of account and records and instituting business practices that meet Western standards and regulations, which could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

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Our employees are employed “at-will”, which means that they can terminate their employment at any time. Our international locations are subject to local labor laws, which are often significantly different from U.S. labor laws and which may under certain conditions, result in large separation costs upon termination. Further, employing individuals in international locations is subject to other risks inherent in international operations, such as those discussed with respect to international sales below, among others. The failure to recruit and retain, as necessary, key design engineers and technical, sales, marketing and executive personnel could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Stock-based awards are critical to our ability to recruit, retain and motivate highly skilled talent. In making employment decisions, particularly in the semiconductor industry and the geographies where our employees are located, a key consideration of current and potential employees is the value of the equity awards they receive in connection with their employment. If we are unable to offer employment packages with a competitive equity award component, our ability to attract highly skilled employees would be harmed. In addition, volatility in our stock price could result in a stock option’s exercise price exceeding the market value of our common stock or a deterioration in the value of restricted stock units granted, thus lessening the effectiveness of stock-based awards for retaining and motivating employees. Similarly, decreases in the number of unvested in-the-money stock options held by existing employees, whether because our stock price has declined, options have vested, or because the size of follow-on option grants has decreased, may make it more difficult to retain and motivate employees. Because of the number of shares available under our 2006 Equity Incentive Plan is inadequate to provide for future equity awards and incentives, we intend to seek stockholder approval of the 2014 Equity Incentive Plan. Stockholder approval is necessary to our continued success. Consequently, we may not continue to successfully attract and retain key employees, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Because a significant portion of our total assets were, and may again be with future potential acquisitions, represented by goodwill and other intangible assets, which are subject to mandatory annual impairment evaluations, we could be required to write-off some or all of our goodwill and other intangible assets, which could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

A significant portion of the purchase price for any business combination may be allocated to identifiable tangible and intangible assets and assumed liabilities based on estimated fair values at the date of consummation. As required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, the excess purchase price, if any, over the fair value of these assets less liabilities typically would be allocated to goodwill. 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 conduct our annual analysis of our goodwill at the reporting unit level in the fourth quarter of our fiscal year.

The assessment of goodwill and other intangible assets impairment is a subjective process. Estimations and assumptions regarding the number of reporting units, future performance, results of our operations and comparability of our market capitalization and net book value will be used. Changes in estimates and assumptions could impact fair value resulting in an impairment, which could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Because some of our integrated circuit and board level products have lengthy sales cycles, we may experience substantial delays between incurring expenses related to product development and the revenue derived from these products.

A portion of our revenue is derived from selling integrated circuits and board level products to end customer equipment vendors. Due to their product development cycle, we have typically experienced at least an eighteen-month time lapse between our initial contact with a customer and realizing volume shipments. In such instances, we first work with customers to achieve a design win, which may take six months or longer. Our customers then complete their design, test and evaluation process and begin to ramp-up production, a period which typically lasts an additional six months. The customers of equipment manufacturers may also require a period of time for testing and evaluation, which may cause further delays. As a result, a significant period of time may elapse between our research and development efforts and realization of revenue, if any, from volume purchasing of our products by our customers. Due to the length of the end customer equipment vendors’ product development cycle, the risks of project cancellation by our customers, price erosion or volume reduction are common aspects of such engagements.

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The complexity of our products may lead to errors and defects, which could subject us to significant costs or damages and adversely affect market acceptance of our products.

Although we, our customers and our suppliers rigorously test our products, they may contain undetected errors, performance weaknesses or errors or defects when first introduced, or as new versions are released when manufacturing or process changes are made. If any of our products contain design or production defects, reliability issues or quality or compatibility problems that are significant to our customers, our reputation may be damaged and customers may be reluctant to continue to design in or buy our products, which could adversely affect our ability to retain and attract new customers. In addition, these errors or defects could interrupt or delay sales of affected products, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

If errors or defects are discovered after commencement of commercial production, we may be required to make significant expenditures of capital and other resources to resolve the problems. This could result in significant additional development costs and the diversion of technical and other resources from our other business development efforts. We could also incur significant costs to repair or replace defective products or may agree to be liable for certain damages incurred. These costs or damages could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

If we are unable to compete effectively with existing or new competitors, we will experience fewer customer orders, reduced revenues, reduced gross margins and lost market share.

We compete in markets that are intensely competitive, and which are subject to both rapid technological change, continued price erosion and changing business terms with regard to risk allocation. Our competitors include many large domestic and foreign companies that may have substantially greater financial, market share, technical and management resources, name recognition and leverage than we have. As a result, they may be able to adapt more quickly to new or emerging technologies and changes in customer requirements or to devote greater resources to promote the sale of their products.

We have experienced increased competition at the design stage, where customers evaluate alternative solutions based on a number of factors, including price, performance, product features, technologies, and availability of long-term product supply and/or roadmap guarantee. Additionally, we experience, and may in the future experience, in some cases, severe pressure on pricing from competitors or on-going cost reduction expectations from customers. Such circumstances may make some of our products unattractive due to price or performance measures and result in the loss of our design opportunities or a decrease in our revenue and margins.

Also, competition from new companies, including those from emerging economy countries, with significantly lower costs could affect our selling price and gross margins. In addition, if competitors in Asia continue to reduce prices on commodity products, it would adversely affect our ability to compete effectively in that region. Specifically, we have licensed rights to a supplier in China to market our commodity connectivity products, which could reduce our sales in the future should they become a meaningful competitor. Loss of competitive position could result in price reductions, fewer customer orders, reduced revenues, reduced gross margins and loss of market share, any of which would adversely affect our operating results and financial condition.

Furthermore, many of our existing and potential customers internally develop solutions which attempt to perform all or a portion of the functions performed by our products. To remain competitive, we continue to evaluate our manufacturing operations for opportunities for additional cost savings and technological improvements. If we or our contract partners are unable to successfully implement new process technologies and to achieve volume production of new products at acceptable yields, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.

Our stock price is volatile.

The market price of our common stock has fluctuated significantly at times. In the future, the market price of our common stock could be subject to significant fluctuations due to, among other reasons:

• our anticipated or actual operating results;

• announcements or introductions of new products by us or our competitors;

• technological innovations by us or our competitors;

• investor perception of the semiconductor sector;

• loss of or changes to key executives;

• product delays or setbacks by us, our customers or our competitors;

• potential supply disruptions;

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• sales channel interruptions;

• concentration of sales among a small number of customers;

• conditions in our customers’ markets and the semiconductor markets;

• the commencement and/or results of litigation;

• changes in estimates of our performance by securities analysts;

• decreases in the value of our investments or long-lived assets, thereby requiring an asset impairment charge against earnings;

• repurchasing shares of our common stock;

• announcements of merger or acquisition transactions; and/or

• general global economic and capital market conditions.

In the past, securities and class action litigation has been brought against companies following periods of volatility in the market prices of their securities. We may be the target of one or more of these class action suits, which could result in significant costs and divert management’s attention, thereby materially and adversely impacting our business, financial condition and results of operations.

In addition, at times the stock market has experienced extreme price, volume and value fluctuations that affect the market prices of the stock of many high technology companies, including semiconductor companies, that are unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of those companies. Any such fluctuations may harm the market price of our common stock.

Occasionally, we enter into agreements that expose us to potential damages that exceed the value of the agreement.

We have given certain customers increased indemnification protection for product deficiencies or intellectual property infringement that is in excess of our standard limited warranty and indemnification provisions and could result in costs that are in excess of the original contract value. In an attempt to limit this liability, we have purchased insurance coverage to partially offset some of these potential additional costs; however, our insurance coverage could be insufficient in terms of amount and/or coverage to prevent us from suffering material losses if the indemnification amounts are large enough or if there are coverage issues.

As of March 30, 2014, affiliates of Future, Alonim Investments Inc. and two of its affiliates (collectively “Alonim”), beneficially own approximately 16% of our common stock and Soros Fund Management LLC, as principal investment manager for Quantum Partners LP (“Soros”), beneficially owns approximately 10% of our common stock. As such, Alonim and Soros are our largest stockholders. These substantial ownership positions provide the opportunity for Alonim and Soros to significantly influence matters requiring stockholder approval, which may or may not be in our best interests or the interest of our other stockholders. In addition, Alonim is an affiliate of Future and an executive officer of Future is on our board of directors, which could lead to actual or perceived influence from Future.

Alonim and Soros each own a significant percentage of our outstanding shares. Due to such ownership, Alonim and Soros, acting independently or jointly, have not in the past, but may in the future, exert strong influence over actions requiring the approval of our stockholders, including the election of directors, many types of change of control transactions and amendments to our charter documents. Further, if one of these stockholders were to sell or even propose to sell a large number of their shares, the market price of our common stock could decline significantly.

Although we have no reason to believe it to be the case, the interests of these significant stockholders could conflict with our best interests or the interests of the other stockholders. For example, the significant ownership percentages of these two stockholders could have the effect of delaying or preventing a change of control or otherwise discouraging a potential acquirer from obtaining control of us, regardless of whether the change of control is supported by us and our other stockholders. Conversely, by virtue of their percentage ownership of our stock, Alonim and/or Soros could facilitate a takeover transaction that our board of directors and/or other stockholders did not approve.

Further, Future, our largest distributor, is an affiliate of Alonim, and Pierre Guilbault, executive vice president and chief financial officer of Future, is a member of our board of directors. These relationships could also result in actual or perceived attempts to influence management or take actions beneficial to Future which may or may not be beneficial to us or in our best interests. Future could attempt to obtain terms and conditions more favorable than those we would typically provide to other distributors because of its relationship with us. Any such actual or perceived preferential treatment could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

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Earthquakes and other natural disasters, may damage our facilities or those of our suppliers and customers.

The occurrence of natural disasters in certain regions, such as the natural disasters in Asia, could adversely impact our manufacturing and supply chain, our ability to deliver products on a timely basis (or at all) to our customers and the cost of or demand for our products. Our corporate headquarters in Fremont, California is located near major earthquake faults that have experienced seismic activity and is approximately 170 miles from a nuclear power plant. In addition, some of our other offices, customers and suppliers are in locations, which may be subject to similar natural disasters. In the event of a major earthquake or other natural disaster near our offices, our operations could be disrupted. Similarly, a major earthquake or other natural disaster, such as recent earthquakes in Japan or flooding in Thailand, affecting one or more of our major customers or suppliers could adversely impact the operations of those affected, which could disrupt the supply or sales of our products and harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Any error in our sell-through revenue recognition judgment or estimates could lead to inaccurate reporting of our net sales, gross profit, deferred income and allowances on sales to distributors and net income.

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 judgment 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, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

A breach of our security systems may have a material adverse effect on our business.

Our information systems are designed to maintain and protect our customers’, suppliers’ and employees’ confidential and business intelligence data as well as our proprietary information and technology. We may experience cyber-attacks and other security breaches, and as a result, unauthorized parties may obtain access to our information systems. Cyber-attacks and security vulnerabilities could lead to reduced revenue, increased costs, liability claims or harm our or business partner’s competitive position. Any significant system or network disruption, including but not limited to, new system implementations, computer viruses or worms, security breaches or unexpected energy blackouts could have a material adverse impact on our operations, sales and operating results. Maintaining the security integrity of our enterprise network is paramount for us, our customers and our suppliers. We have implemented measures to manage, monitor and detect our risks related to such disruptions, but despite precautionary efforts such disruptions could still occur and negatively impact our operations and financial results. In addition, we may incur additional costs to remedy any damages caused by these disruptions or security breaches.

We may be unable to protect our intellectual property rights, which could harm our competitive position.

Our ability to compete is affected by our ability to protect our intellectual property rights. We rely on a combination of patents, trademarks, copyrights, mask work registrations, trade secrets, confidentiality procedures and non-disclosure and licensing arrangements to protect our intellectual property rights. Despite these efforts, we may be unable to protect our proprietary information. Such intellectual property rights may not be recognized or if recognized, may not be commercially feasible to enforce. Moreover, our competitors may independently develop technology that is substantially similar or superior to our technology.

More specifically, our pending patent applications or any future applications may not be approved, and any issued patents may not provide us with competitive advantages or may be challenged by third parties. If challenged, our patents may be found to be invalid or unenforceable, and the patents of others may have an adverse effect on our ability to do business. Furthermore, others may independently develop similar products or processes, duplicate our products or processes or design around any patents that may be issued to us.

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We could be required to pay substantial damages or could be subject to various equitable remedies if it were proven that we infringed the intellectual property rights of others.

As a general matter, semiconductor companies may from time to time become involved with ongoing litigation regarding patents and other intellectual property rights. If a third party were to prove that our technology infringed its intellectual property rights, we could be required to pay substantial damages for past infringement and could be required to pay license fees or royalties on future sales of our products. If we were required to pay such license fees whenever we sold our products, such fees could exceed our revenue. In addition, if it was proven that we willfully infringed a third party’s proprietary rights, we could be held liable for three times the amount of the damages that we would otherwise have to pay. Such intellectual property litigation could also require us to:

• stop selling, incorporating or using our products that use the infringed intellectual property;

• obtain a license to make, sell or use the relevant technology from the owner of the infringed intellectual property, which license may not be available on commercially reasonable terms, if at all; and/or

• redesign our products so as not to use the infringed intellectual property, which may not be technically or commercially feasible.

The defense of infringement claims and lawsuits, regardless of their outcome, would likely be expensive and could require a significant portion of management’s time. In addition, rather than litigating an infringement matter, we may determine that it is in our best interests to settle the matter. Terms of a settlement may include the payment of damages and our agreement to license technology in exchange for a license fee and ongoing royalties. These fees could be substantial. If we were required to pay damages or otherwise became subject to equitable remedies, our business, financial condition and results of operations would suffer. Similarly, if we were required to pay license fees to third parties based on a successful infringement claim brought against us, such fees could exceed our revenue.

Our results of operations could vary as a result of the methods, estimates and judgments we use in applying our accounting policies.

The methods, estimates and judgments we use in applying our accounting policies have a significant impact on our results of operations. Such methods, estimates and judgments are, by their nature, subject to substantial risks, uncertainties, assumptions and changes in rulemaking by regulatory bodies; and factors may arise over time that lead us to change our methods, estimates, and judgments. Changes in those methods, estimates and judgments could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our revenue reporting 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 judgment 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.

We estimate the fair value of stock options on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. 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 stock-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.

On an on-going basis, we use estimates and judgment to evaluate valuation of inventories, income taxes, intangible assets, goodwill, long-lived assets and contingent consideration liabilities in preparing our consolidated financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates and material effects on operating results and financial position may result.

The final determination of our income tax liability may be materially different from our income tax provision, which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.

Our future effective tax rates may be adversely affected by a number of factors including:

• the jurisdictions in which profits are determined to be earned and taxed;

• the resolution of issues arising from tax audits with various tax authorities;

• changes in the valuation of our deferred tax assets and liabilities;

• adjustments to estimated taxes upon finalization of various tax returns;

• increases in expenses not deductible for tax purposes, including write-offs of acquired in-process research and development and impairment of goodwill in connection with acquisitions;

• changes in available tax credits;

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• changes in stock-based compensation expense;

• changes in tax laws or the interpretation of such tax laws and changes in generally accepted accounting principles; and/or

• the repatriation of non-U.S. earnings for which we have not previously provided for U.S. taxes.

Any significant increase in our future effective tax rates could adversely impact net income for future periods. In addition, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) and other tax authorities regularly examine our income tax returns. Our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely impacted if these assessments or any other assessments resulting from the examination of our income tax returns by the IRS or other taxing authorities are not resolved in our favor.

We have acquired significant NOL carryforwards as a result of our acquisitions. The utilization of acquired NOL carryforwards is subject to the IRS’s complex limitation rules that carry significant burdens of proof. Limitations include certain levels of a change in ownership. As a publicly traded company, such change in ownership may be out of our control. Our eventual ability to utilize our estimated NOL carryforwards is subject to IRS scrutiny and our future results may not benefit as a result of potential unfavorable IRS rulings.

Our engagement with foreign customers could cause fluctuations in our operating results, which could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

International sales have accounted for, and will likely continue to account for a significant portion of our revenues, which subjects us to the following risks, among others:

• changes in or compliance with regulatory requirements;

• tariffs, embargoes, directives and other trade barriers which impact our or our customers’ business operations;

• timing and availability of export or import licenses;

• disruption of services due to political, civil, labor or economic instability;

• disruption of services due to natural disasters outside the United States;

• disruptions to customer operations outside the United States due to the outbreak of communicable diseases;

• difficulties in accounts receivable collections;

• difficulties in staffing and managing foreign subsidiary and branch operations;

• difficulties in managing sales channel partners;

• difficulties in obtaining governmental approvals for our products;

• limited intellectual property protection;

• foreign currency exchange fluctuations;

• the burden of complying with foreign laws and treaties;

• contractual or indemnity issues that are materially different from our standard sales terms; and/or

• potentially adverse tax consequences.

In addition, because sales of our products have been denominated primarily in U.S. dollars, increases in the value of the U.S. dollar as compared with local currencies could make our products more expensive to customers in the local currency of a particular country resulting in pricing pressures on our products. Increased international activity in the future may result in foreign currency denominated sales. Furthermore, because some of our customers’ purchase orders and agreements are governed by foreign laws, we may be limited in our ability, or it may be too costly for us, to enforce our rights under these agreements and to collect damages, if awarded.

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We may be exposed to additional credit risk as a result of concentrated customer revenue.

From time to time one of our customers has contributed more than 10% of our quarterly net sales. A number of our customers are OEMs, or the manufacturing subcontractors of OEMs, which might result in an increase in concentrated credit risk with respect to our trade receivables and therefore, if a large customer were to be unable to pay, it could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Compliance with new regulations regarding the use of conflict minerals could adversely impact the supply and cost of certain metals used in manufacturing our products.

In August 2012, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) issued final rules for compliance with Section 1502 of the Dodd-Frank Act, and outlined what U.S. publicly-traded companies have to disclose regarding their use of conflict minerals in their products. According to the rule, companies that utilize any of the 3TG (tin, tantalum, tungsten and gold) and other listed minerals in their products need to conduct a reasonable country of origin inquiry to determine if the minerals are coming from the conflict zones in and around the Democratic Republic of Congo. The first filings were due June 2, 2014 for calendar year 2013. The implementation of these new regulations may limit the sourcing and availability of some metals used in the manufacture of our products and may affect our ability to obtain products in sufficient quantities or at competitive prices. Our customers, including our OEM customers, may require that our products contain only conflict free 3TG, and our revenues and margins may be harmed if we are unable to meet this requirement at a reasonable price, or at all, or are unable to pass through any increased costs associated with meeting this requirement. Additionally, we may suffer reputational harm with our customers and other stakeholders if our products are not conflict free or if we are unable to sufficiently verify the origins of the 3TG contained in our products through the due diligence procedures that we implement. We could incur significant costs to the extent that we are required to make changes to products, processes or sources of supply due to the foregoing requirements or pressures.

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

Our executive offices and our marketing and sales, research and development, manufacturing, test and engineering operations are located in Fremont, California in two adjacent buildings that we own, which consist of approximately 151,000 square feet. Additionally, we own approximately 4.5 acres of partially developed property adjacent to our headquarters.

We also lease smaller facilities in Canada, China, South Korea, Malaysia, Taiwan and the United States, which are occupied by administrative offices, sales offices, design centers and FAEs.

Based upon our estimates of future hiring and planned expansion including future acquisitions we believe that our current facilities will be adequate to meet our requirements at least through the next fiscal year.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Information required by this item is set forth in Part II, Item 8—“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 17—Legal Proceedings ” of this Annual Report.

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not Applicable.

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PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES 

Market Information

Prior to July 29, 2013, our common stock was listed and traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market (the “NASDAQ”) under the ticker symbol “EXAR”. Our common stock was approved for listing on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”), and on July 29, 2013, we began trading our common stock on the NYSE. Our common stock has continued to trade on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “EXAR.” Our common stock ceased trading on the NASDAQ effective at the close of the market on July 26, 2013.

The following table set forth the range of high and low sales prices of our common stock for the periods indicated, as reported by NASDAQ and NYSE.

	Common Stock Price
	High		Low
Fiscal year 2014
Fourth quarter ended March 30, 2014	$	12.55	$	10.67
Third quarter ended December 29, 2013		13.74		11.38
Second quarter ended September 29, 2013		13.85		10.80
First quarter ended June 30, 2013		11.72		10.00
Fiscal year 2013
Fourth quarter ended March 31, 2013	$	11.97	$	8.59
Third quarter ended December 30, 2012		9.02		7.50
Second quarter ended September 30, 2012		8.46		7.26
First quarter ended July 1, 2012		8.51		7.51

The closing sales price for our common stock on June 9, 2014, was $11.03 per share. As of June 9, 2014, the approximate number of record holders of our common stock was 276 (not including beneficial owners of stock held in street name).

Dividend Policy

We have never declared or paid any cash dividends on our capital stock and we do not currently intend to pay any cash dividends on our common stock for the foreseeable future. We expect to retain future earnings, if any, to fund the development and growth of our business. Any future determination to pay dividends on our common stock will be, subject to applicable law, at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend upon, among other factors, our results of operations, financial condition, capital requirements and contractual restrictions.

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Stock Price Performance (1)

The following table and graph shows a five-year comparison of cumulative total stockholder returns for Exar, The NASDAQ Composite Index, and The NASDAQ Electronic Components Index (SIC code 3670-3679). The table and graph assumed the investment of $100 in our common stock and these indices at market close on March 27, 2009 and that all dividends, if any, were reinvested. The performance shown is not necessarily indicative of future performance.

	Cumulative Total Return as of
	March 29, 2009		March 28, 2010		March 27, 2011		April 1, 2012		March 31, 2013		March 30, 2014
Exar Corporation Stock	$	100.00	$	118.64	$	98.54	$	136.14	$	170.18	$	189.79
NASDAQ/NYSE Composite Index		100.00		158.32		185.39		210.13		226.02		296.17
NASDAQ/NYSE Electronic Components Index		100.00		158.85		184.71		189.24		177.48		239.48

(1) This graph and data are not “soliciting material,” are not deemed “filed” with the SEC and are not to be incorporated by reference in any filing of Exar Corporation under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, unless specifically and expressly incorporated by reference, whether made before or after the date hereof and irrespective of any general incorporation language in any such filing.

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Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer

Stock repurchase activities during the three months ended March 30, 2014 were as follows:

	Total Number of Shares Purchased (1)		Average Price Paid per Share		Total Number of SharesPurchased as Part ofPublicly AnnouncedPrograms		Dollar Value of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Programs (in thousands)
December 30 - January 26		122,070	$	11.61		122,070
January 27 - February 23		324,171		11.05		324,171
Total		446,241				466,241	$	52,811

(1) On August 28, 2007, we announced the approval of a share repurchase plan under which we were authorized to repurchase up to $100.0 million of our common stock. On July 9, 2013, we announced the approval of a share repurchase program under which we were authorized to repurchase an additional $50.0 million of our common stock. There are no expiration dates under the programs. Shares are retired upon repurchase.

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere herein (in thousands, except per share amounts).

	As of and For the Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012			March 27, 2011			March 28, 2010
Consolidated statements of operations data:
Net sales	$	125,322		$	122,026		$	130,566		$	146,005		$	134,878
Gross profit		50,654			55,687			55,924			63,997			63,382
Loss from operations		(3,701	)		(583	)		(30,593	)		(40,018	)		(33,990	)
Net income (loss)		5,801			(2,882	)		(28,056	)		(35,668	)		(28,110	)
Net income (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.12		$	0.06		$	(0.63	)	$	(0.81	)	$	(0.64	)
Diluted	$	0.12		$	0.06		$	(0.63	)	$	(0.81	)	$	(0.64	)
Shares used in computation of net income (loss) per share:
Basic		47,291			45,809			44,796			44,218			43,584
Diluted		48,823			46,476			44,796			44,218			43,584
Consolidated balance sheets data:
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments	$	167,034		$	205,305		$	196,382		$	200,999		$	212,084
Working capital		175,751			203,732			190,878			202,256			208,052
Total assets		302,217			293,168			271,652			298,215			333,314
Long-term obligations		6,696			12,546			9,986			16,399			17,260
Accumulated deficit		(253,667	)		(259,468	)		(262,350	)		(234,294	)		(198,626	)
Stockholders’ equity		253,375			240,454			223,292			244,579			274,132

On January 14, 2014, July 5, 2013, March 22, 2013, March 16, 2010, and June 17, 2009 we acquired the businesses of Stretch, Cadeka, Altior, Neterion, and Galazar, respectively. Accordingly, the results of operations of Stretch, Cadeka and Altior have been included in our consolidated financial statements since January 14, 2014, July 5, 2013 and March 23, 2013, respectively. On March 4, 2011, we decided to exit the data center virtualization market and therefore, the results of operations of Neterion were included in our consolidated financial statements from March 17, 2010 through March 4, 2011. On February 1, 2012, we decided to discontinue development of products for the OTN market. See Part II, Item 8—“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 4—Business Combinations.”

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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, as well as information contained in “Risk Factors” above and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are generally written in the future tense and/or may generally be identified by words such as “will,” “may,” “should,” “would,” “could,” “expect,” “suggest, “possible,” “potential,” “target,” “commit,” “continue,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “project,” “projected,” “positioned,” “plan,” or other similar words. Forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report include, among others, statements made in Part II, Item 7—“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Executive Summary” and elsewhere regarding: (1) our future strategies and target market; (2) our future revenues, gross profits and margins; (3) our future research and development (“R&D”) efforts and related expenses; (4) our future selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”); (5) our cash and cash equivalents, short-term marketable securities and cash flows from operations being sufficient to satisfy working capital requirements and capital equipment needs for at least the next 12 months; (6) our ability to continue to finance operations with cash flows from operations, existing cash and investment balances, and some combination of long-term debt and/or lease financing and sales of equity securities; (7) the possibility of future acquisitions and investments; (8) our ability to accurately estimate our assumptions used in valuing stock-based compensation; (9) our ability to estimate and reconcile distributors’ reported inventories to their activities; (10) our ability to estimate future cash flows associated with long-lived assets; and (11) the volatile global economic and financial market conditions. Actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, among others, those identified above under Part I, Item 1A—“Risk Factors.” You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this document. We disclaim any obligation to revise or update information in any forward-looking statement, except as required by law.

Company Overview

Exar Corporation (“Exar,” “us,” “our” or “we”) designs, develops and markets high performance analog mixed-signal integrated circuits and advanced sub-system solutions for the Networking & Storage, Industrial & Embedded Systems, and Communications Infrastructure markets. Exar’s product portfolio includes power management and connectivity components, high performance analog and mixed-signal products, communications products, and data compression and storage solutions. Our comprehensive knowledge of end-user markets along with the underlying analog, mixed signal and digital technology has enabled us to provide innovative solutions designed to meet the needs of the evolving connected world. Applying both analog and digital technologies, our products are deployed in a wide array of applications such as industrial, instrumentation and medical equipment, networking and telecommunication systems, servers, enterprise storage systems, set top boxes and digital video recorders. We provide customers with a breadth of component products and sub-system solutions based on advanced silicon integration.

We market our products worldwide with sales offices and personnel located throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia. Our products are sold in the United States through a number of manufacturers’ representatives and distributors. Internationally, our products are sold primarily through various regional and country specific distributors, as well as some manufacturers’ representatives. Globally, these channel partners are assisted and managed by our regional sales teams. In addition to our regional sales teams, we also employ a worldwide team of field application engineers (“FAEs”) to work directly with our customers.

Our international sales are denominated in U.S. dollars. Our international related operating expenses expose us to fluctuations in currency exchange rates because our foreign operating expenses are denominated in foreign currencies while our sales are denominated in U.S. dollars. Our operating results are subject to fluctuations as a result of several factors that could materially and adversely affect our future profitability as described in “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors—Our Financial Results May Fluctuate Significantly Because Of A Number Of Factors, Many Of Which Are Beyond Our Control.”

Fourth Quarter of Fiscal Year 2014 Executive Summary

We experienced a sequential quarterly decrease of 9% in our net sales in the fourth quarter as compared to the third fiscal quarter of 2014. The decrease in net sales as compared to the immediately prior quarter was primarily attributed to supply chain inventory exceeding demand in the networking market, as well as timing issues in certain contracts for proprietary high reliability products and technology licenses. Net income of $0.1 million increased $1.8 million from net loss in the third quarter of fiscal year 2014. The increase in net income as compared to the immediately prior quarter was primarily attributed to the change in fair value of contingent considerations related to the Altior and Cadeka acquisitions. Diluted income per share of $0.00 per share in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014 increased $0.03 per share from the basic loss per share in the third quarter of fiscal year 2014. We believe we are effectively managing our operating expenses while continuing to invest an appropriate amount in research and development projects for future products.

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Acquisitions

On April 26, 2014, we signed a definitive agreement (“Merger Agreement”) to acquire Integrated Memory Logic Limited (“iML”), a leading provider of analog mixed-signal solutions for the flat panel display market. The iML acquisition supports Exar's strategy of building a large scale diversified analog mixed-signal business. Under the terms of the transaction, Exar's subsidiary (“Sub”) has commenced a tender offer to acquire all of the outstanding shares of iML for NT$91.00 (approximately US$3.00) per iML share in cash and acquire any remaining shares at NT$91.00 per share pursuant to a follow-on merger. On May 29, 2014, Sub completed the offer. 68,319,091 shares (the “Accepted Shares”) were validly tendered in the offer, representing approximately 92% of iML’s outstanding shares. The persons from whom the Accepted Shares were acquired were the shareholders of iML. Sub will pay an aggregate purchase price of NT$6.2 billion (approximately US$206.0 million) to iML shareholders for the tendered shares. Pursuant to the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, Sub intends to conduct a second-step merger in which Sub will merge with and into iML and the remaining outstanding shares will be converted into the right to receive NT$91.00 per share in cash. When complete, the gross transaction value is currently estimated to be NT$6.8 billion (approximately US$224.0 million), or NT$2.8 billion (approximately US$92.0 million), net of cash acquired. After the closing, iML will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Exar and iML stock will cease trading on the Taiwan Stock Exchange. Exar financed the acquisition of the shares with a combination of cash on hand and a new $90.0 million senior secured bridge loan facility. Stifel Financial Corp. has provided Exar a commitment letter to provide Exar up to $90.0 million in senior secured bridge loans. The commitment letter is subject to customary conditions to consummation.

Due to the limited time since the date of the acquisition, the initial disclosure for this business combination is incomplete as of the date of this filing. As such, it is impracticable for us to make certain business combination disclosures at this time. We are unable to present the acquisition date fair value of and information related to assets acquired and liabilities assumed. We plan to provide this information in our quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ending June 29, 2014.

On January 14, 2014, we completed the acquisition of Stretch, Inc. (“Stretch”), a provider of software configurable processors supporting the video surveillance market. Stretch’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning January 14, 2014.

On July 5, 2013, we completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Cadeka Technologies (Cayman) Holding Ltd., a privately held company organized under the laws of the Cayman Islands and all the outstanding stock of the subsidiaries of Cadeka Technologies (Cayman) Holding Ltd., including the equity of its wholly owned subsidiary Cadeka Microcircuits, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company (“Cadeka”). With locations in Loveland, Colorado, Shenzhen and Wuxi, China, Cadeka designs, develops and markets high precision analog integrated circuits for use in industrial and high reliability applications. Cadeka’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning July 5, 2013.

On March 22, 2013, we completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Altior Inc. (“Altior”), a developer of data management solutions in Eatontown, New Jersey. Altior’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning March 23, 2013.

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 Synchronous Optical NETwork and Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (“SONET/SDH”), Plesiochronous Digital Hierarchy (“PDH”) and optical transport network (“OTN”) networks. After assessing our market position, recent changes in the competitive landscape and future prospects, we announced on February 1, 2012 that we had decided to discontinue development of products for the OTN market. We promptly reduced our resources dedicated to our OTN products.

Our fiscal years consist of 52 or 53 weeks. In a 52-week year, each fiscal quarter consists of 13 weeks. Fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012 consisted of 52, 52 and 53 weeks, respectively. Fiscal year 2015 will consist of 52 weeks. Fiscal years ended March 30, 2014, March 31, 2013 and April 1, 2012 are also referred to as “2014,” “2013,” and “2012,” respectively, unless otherwise indicated.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The preparation of our financial statements and accompanying disclosures in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) requires estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities in the consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has defined a company’s critical accounting policies as policies that are most important to the portrayal of a company’s financial condition and results of operations, and which require a company to make its most difficult and subjective judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates of matters that are inherently uncertain. Based on this definition, we have identified our most critical accounting policies and estimates to be as follows: (1) revenue recognition; (2) valuation of inventories; (3) capitalized mask set tools; (4) income taxes; (5) stock-based compensation; (6) goodwill; (7) long-lived assets; and (8) valuation of business combinations; each of which is addressed below. We also have other key accounting policies that involve the use of estimates, judgments and assumptions that are significant to understanding our results. For additional information, see Part II, Item 8—“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 3—Accounting Policies.” Although we believe that our estimates, assumptions and judgments are reasonable, they are based upon information presently available. Actual results may differ significantly from these estimates if the assumptions, judgments and conditions upon which they are based turn out to be inaccurate.

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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 original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”) or their contract manufacturers. Our delivery terms are primarily free on board shipping point, at which time title and all risks of ownership are transferred to the customer.

To date, software revenue has been an immaterial portion of our net sales.

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. Allowances for sales returns and other reserves are recorded based on historical experience or specific identification of an event necessitating an allowance.

Our history of actual returns from our non-distributors has not been material and, therefore, the allowance for sales returns for non-distributor customers is not significant.

Distributors

Agreements with our two primary distributors permit the return of 5% to 6% of their purchases during the preceding quarter for purposes of stock rotation. For one of these distributors, a scrap allowance of 1% of the preceding quarter’s purchases is permitted. We also provide discounts to certain distributors based on volume of product they sell or purchase for a period not to exceed one year.

We recognize revenue from each of our distributors using either the sell-in basis or sell-through basis, each as described below. 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 discussed above 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).

• 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 allowances 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. 

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The following table summarizes the deferred income balance, primarily consisting of sell-through distributors (in thousands):

	As of March 30, 2014			As of March 31, 2013
Deferred revenue at published list price	$	15,871		$	18,652
Deferred cost of revenue		(4,757	)		(6,778	)
Deferred income	$	11,114		$	11,874

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.

Valuation of Inventories

Our policy is to establish a provision for excess inventories, based on the nature of the specific product, that is greater than twelve months of forecasted demand unless there are other factors indicating that the inventories will be sold at a profit after such periods. Among other factors, management considers known backlog of orders, projected sales and marketing forecasts, shipment activity, inventory-on-hand at our primary distributors, past and current market conditions, anticipated demand for our products, changing lead times in the manufacturing process and other business conditions when determining if a provision for excess inventory is required. Should the assumptions used by management in estimating the provision for excess inventory differ from actual future demand or should market conditions become less favorable than those projected by management, additional inventory write-downs may be required, which would have a negative impact on our gross margins. See Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors—‘Our Financial Results May Fluctuate Significantly Because Of A Number Of Factors, Many Of Which Are Beyond Our Control’.”

Mask Costs

We incur costs for the fabrication of masks to manufacture our products. If we determine the product technological feasibility has been achieved when costs are incurred, the costs will be treated as pre-production costs and capitalized as machinery and equipment under property, plant and equipment. The amount will be amortized to cost of sales over the estimated production period of the product. If product technological feasibility has not been achieved or the mask is not expected to be utilized in production manufacturing, the related mask costs are expensed to R&D when incurred. We will periodically assess capitalized mask costs for impairment. Total mask costs capitalized was $2.3 million and $1.7 million as of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013, respectively. The costs capitalized are amortized over a five year estimated life.

Income Taxes

We determine our deferred tax assets and liabilities based upon the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of our assets and liabilities. We make certain estimates and judgments in determining income tax expense for financial statement purposes. These estimates and judgments occur in the calculation of certain deferred tax assets and liabilities, which arise from timing differences in the recognition of revenue and expense for tax and financial statement purposes. Such deferred income 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 base, operating losses and tax credit carryforwards. Changes in tax rates affect the deferred income tax assets and liabilities and are recognized in the period in which the tax rates or benefits are enacted.

We must determine the probability that we will be able to utilize our deferred tax assets. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. We measure and recognize uncertain tax positions in accordance with GAAP, whereby we only recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the merits of the position. See Part II, Item 8—“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 18—Income Taxes” for more details about our deferred tax assets and liabilities.

Stock-Based Compensation

We measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award. We use the Black-Scholes model to estimate the fair value of our options. The fair value of time-based and performance-based restricted stock units is based on the grant date share price. The fair value of market-based restricted stock units is estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation model. See Part II, Item 8—“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and “Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 14—Stock-Based Compensation” for more details about our assumptions used in calculating the stock-based compensation expenses and equity related transactions during the fiscal year.

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We recognize compensation expense equal to the grant-date fair value for all share-based payment awards that are expected to vest. This expense is recorded on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the entire awards, unless the awards are subject to performance or market conditions, in which case we recognize compensation expense over the requisite service period of each separate vesting tranche. For the performance-based awards, we recognize compensation expense when it becomes probable that the performance criteria specified in the plan will be achieved. For the market-based awards, compensation expense is not reversed if the market condition is not satisfied. The amount of stock-based compensation that we recognize is also based on an expected forfeiture rate. If there is a difference between the forfeiture assumptions used in determining stock-based compensation costs and the actual forfeitures which become known over time, we may change the forfeiture rate, which could have a significant impact on our results of operations.

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 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.

Long-Lived Assets

We review long-lived assets, including property and equipment and intangible assets, for impairment whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets (or asset group) may not be fully recoverable. Whenever events or changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount of long-lived assets may not be recoverable, we estimate the future cash flows expected to be generated by the assets (or asset group) from its use or eventual disposition. If the sum of the expected future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of those assets, we recognize an impairment loss based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets. Significant management judgment is required in the grouping of long-lived assets and forecasts of future operating results that are used in the discounted cash flow method of valuation. If our actual results, or the plans and estimates used in future impairment analyses are lower than the original estimates used to assess the recoverability of these assets, we could incur additional impairment charges.

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. See “Goodwill and Other Intangible Asset Impairment” in the “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” below for more details regarding charges associated with the shortening of useful lives of certain intangible assets.

Valuation of Business Combinations

We periodically evaluate potential strategic acquisitions to broaden our product offering and 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 (1) identifying the acquiree; (2) determining the acquisition date; (3) recognizing and measuring the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interest we have in the acquiree at their acquisition date fair value; and (4) recognizing and measuring goodwill or a gain from a bargain purchase.

Assets acquired and liabilities assumed and/or incurred 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.

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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 we have in the acquiree. To the contrary, if the acquisition date fair value of identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interest we have 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.

In-process research and development (“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 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 asset 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.

Results of Operations

On June 17, 2009, March 22, 2013, July 5, 2013 and January 14, 2014, we acquired Galazar, Altior, Cadeka and Stretch, respectively. On February 1, 2012, we decided to discontinue development of products for the OTN market and therefore, the results of operations of Galazar were included in our consolidated financial statements from June 18, 2009 through February 1, 2012.

Fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012 consist of 52, 52 and 53 weeks, respectively. In the following discussion of the results of operations, the fiscal year 2013 amounts are less than fiscal year 2012 amounts due to the shorter fiscal year length, in addition to the other explanations cited below.

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The following table sets forth our financial results as a percentage of total net sales:

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Net Sales		100	%		100	%		100	%
Cost of sales:
Cost of sales		38	%		38	%		38	%
Cost of sales-related party		13	%		14	%		15	%
Amortization of purchased intangible assets and inventory step-up		6	%		3	%		3	%
Warranty Reserve		1	%		—			—
Impairment of intangible assets		1	%		—			—
Restructuring charges and exit costs		—			—			1	%
Total cost of sales		60	%		54	%		57	%
Gross profit		40	%		46	%		43	%
Operating expenses:
Research and development		22	%		18	%		27	%
Selling, general and administrative		26	%		27	%		30	%
Restructuring charges and exit costs		2	%		1	%		10	%
Merger and acquisition costs		2	%		—			—
Net change in fair value of contingent consideration		(8	)%		—			—
Total operating expenses		43	%		46	%		66	%
Loss from operations		(3	)%		—			(23	)%
Interest income and other, net		1	%		2	%		2	%
Income (Loss) before income taxes		(2	)%		1	%		(21	)%
(Benefit from) Provision for income taxes		(7	)%		(1	)%		—
Net income (loss)		5	%		2	%		(21	)%

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The following table sets forth our financial results in dollars and the increase (decrease) over prior periods for the periods indicated (in thousands, except percentages):

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			Change
Net Sales	$	125,322		$	122,026		$	3,296		3	%
Cost of sales:
Cost of sales		48,067			45,943			2,124		5	%
Cost of sales-related party		15,738			16,716			(978	)	(6	)%
Amortization of purchased intangible assets and inventory step-up		7,600			3,379			4,221		125	%
Impairment of intangible assets		1,636			—			1,636		—
Warranty Reserve		1,440			—			1,440		—
Restructuring charges and exit costs		187			301			(114	)	(38	)%
Total cost of sales		74,668			66,339			8,329		13	%
Gross profit		50,654			55,687			(5,033	)	(9	)%
Operating expenses:
Research and development		27,048			22,376			4,672		21	%
Selling, general and administrative		33,055			32,531			524		2	%
Restructuring charges and exit costs		2,827			1,253			1,574		126	%
Merger and acquisition costs		1,880			110			1,770		1,609	%
Net change in fair value of contingent considerations		(10,455	)		—			(10,455	)	—
Total operating expenses		54,355			56,270			(1,915	)	(3	)%
Loss from operations		(3,701	)		(583	)		(3,118	)	535	%
Interest income and other, net		1,503			2,441			(938	)	(38	)%
Interest expense		(156	)		(165	)		9		(5	)%
Impairment of long term investment		(323	)		—			(323	)	—
Income (Loss) before income taxes		(2,677	)		1,693			(4,370	)	(258	)%
Benefit from income taxes		(8,478	)		(1,189	)		(7,289	)	613	%
Net income	$	5,801		$	2,882		$	2,919		101	%

	March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012			Change
Net Sales	$	122,026		$	130,566		$	(8,540	)	(7	)%
Cost of sales:
Cost of sales		45,943			49,839			(3,896	)	(8	)%
Cost of sales-related party		16,716			19,888			(3,172	)	(16	)%
Amortization of purchased intangible assets		3,379			3,603			(224	)	(6	)%
Restructuring charges and exit costs		301			1,312			(1,011	)	(77	)%
Total cost of sales		66,339			74,642			(8,303	)	(11	)%
Gross profit		55,687			55,924			(237	)	—
Operating expenses:
Research and development		22,379			35,006			(12,627	)	(36	)%
Selling, general and administrative		32,638			38,598			(5,960	)	(15	)%
Restructuring charges and exit costs		1,253			12,913			(11,660	)	(90	)%
Total operating expenses		56,270			86,517			(30,247	)	(35	)%
Loss from operations		(583	)		(30,593	)		30,010		(98	)%
Interest income and other, net		2,441			2,803			(362	)	(13	)%
Interest expense		(165	)		(215	)		50		(23	)%
Income (Loss) before income taxes		1,693			(28,005	)		29,698		(106	)%
(Benefit from) Provision for income taxes		(1,189	)		51			(1,240	)	(2,431	)%
Net income (loss)	$	2,882		$	(28,056	)	$	30,938		(110	)%

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Net Sales

The following table shows net sales by end market for the periods indicated (in thousands except percentages):

	March 30, 2014				March 31, 2013				April 1, 2012				2014 vs. 2013 Change			2013 vs. 2012 Change
Net sales:
Industrial and Embedded Systems	$	72,458	58	%	$	63,396	52	%	$	66,602	51	%		14	%		(5	%)
Networking & Storage		30,594	25	%		32,737	27	%		27,005	21	%		(7	%)		21	%
Communications Infrastructure		21,808	17	%		24,965	20	%		35,829	27	%		(13	%)		(30	%)
Other		462	—			928	1	%		1,130	1	%		(50	%)		(18	%)
Total	$	125,322	100	%	$	122,026	100	%	$	130,566	100	%

Geographically, our net sales in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales were as follows for the periods presented (in thousands, except percentages):

	March 30, 2014				March 31, 2013				April 1, 2012				2014 vs. 2013 Change			2013 vs. 2012 Change
Net sales:
Asia	$	71,856	57	%	$	72,610	60	%	$	76,906	59	%		(1	%)		(6	%)
Americas		38,197	31	%		32,959	27	%		34,361	26	%		16	%		(4	%)
EMEA		15,269	12	%		16,457	13	%		19,299	15	%		(7	%)		(15	%)
Total	$	125,322	100	%	$	122,026	100	%	$	130,566	100	%

Fiscal Year 2014 versus Fiscal Year 2013

Net sales for fiscal year 2014 increased by $3.3 million, or 3%, as compared to fiscal year 2013. The increase was primarily due to higher sales volume in our Industrial and Embedded Systems products in the Americas region associated with the acquisition of new product lines which was partially offset by the reduction in average selling price in the rest of the end markets in the Asia and EMEA region.

Fiscal Year 2013 versus Fiscal Year 2012

Net sales for fiscal year 2013 decreased by $8.5 million, or 7%, as compared to fiscal year 2012. The decrease was primarily due to reduction in average selling price and volume across the end markets except that Networking & Storage products sale volume increased.

Gross Profit

Gross profit represents net sales less cost of sales. Cost of sales includes:

• the cost of purchasing finished silicon wafers manufactured by unaffiliated foundries;

• the costs associated with assembly, packaging, test, quality assurance and product yield loss;

• the cost of purchasing finished tested “turnkey” units;

• the cost of personnel and equipment associated with manufacturing, engineering and support;

• the cost of stock-based compensation associated with manufacturing, engineering and support personnel;

• the amortization of purchased intangible assets and acquired intellectual property;

• the provision for excess and obsolete inventory; and

• provisions for restructuring charges and exit costs. 

We believe that gross profit will fluctuate as a percentage of sales and in absolute dollars due to, among other factors, product, manufacturing costs, our ability to leverage fixed operational costs, shipment volumes, competitive pricing pressure on our products, and currency fluctuations. We reduced employee-related costs through restructuring activities in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012. We began to realize the reduction in the underlying costs in fiscal year 2013.

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Fiscal Year 2014 versus Fiscal Year 2013

Gross profit as a percentage of net sales for fiscal year 2014 decreased by approximately 6% compared to fiscal year 2013. The decrease was primarily due to inclusion of amortization expense related to Altior, Cadeka and Stretch purchased intangible assets and impairment charges of intangible and related inventory write down in fiscal year 2014 and unfavorable product mix offset by the successful cost reduction efforts which began in fiscal year 2013.

Fiscal Year 2013 versus Fiscal Year 2012

Gross profit as a percentage of net sales for fiscal year 2013 increased by 3% compared to fiscal year 2012. The increase in gross profit percentage was primarily due to favorable product mix and successful cost reduction efforts.

Stock-based compensation expense recorded in cost of sales was $0.7 million, $0.5 million and $0.3 million for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Other Costs and Expenses 

On February 1, 2012, we decided to discontinue product development for the OTN market and therefore, operating expenses of Galazar were included in our consolidated financial statements from June 18, 2009 through February 1, 2012.

Research and Development Expenses

Our R&D expenses consist primarily of:

• the salaries, stock-based compensation, and related expenses of employees engaged in product research, design and development activities;

• costs related to engineering design tools, expenses related to new mask tool sets, software amortization, test hardware, and engineering supplies and services;

• amortization of acquired intangible assets such as existing technology and patents/core technology; and

• facilities expenses.

We believe that R&D expenses will fluctuate as a percentage of sales and increase in absolute dollars due to, among other factors, increased investment in new products development, software development, incentives, annual merit and benefits cost increases, profit sharing rate changes and fluctuations in reimbursements under a research and development contract.

We have a contractual agreement under which certain of our R&D costs are eligible for reimbursement. Amounts collected under this arrangement are offset against R&D expenses. During fiscal year 2014, 2013 and 2012, we offset $1.5 million, $2.0 million and $4.0 million of R&D expenses in connection with this agreement, respectively.

Fiscal Year 2014 versus Fiscal Year 2013

R&D expenses for fiscal year 2014 increased $4.7 million, or 21%, as compared to fiscal year 2013. The increase was primarily a result of higher payroll and stock compensation expenses due to the inclusion of the acquired Altior, Cadeka and Stretch operations.

Fiscal Year 2013 versus Fiscal Year 2012

R&D expenses for fiscal year 2013 decreased $12.6 million, or 36%, as compared to fiscal year 2012. The decrease was primarily a result of lower labor and facility related expenses resulting from our reduction in force in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012 and lower maintenance costs on our design software.

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Sales, General and Administrative Expenses

SG&A expenses consist primarily of:

• salaries, stock-based compensation and related expenses;

• sales commissions;

• professional and legal fees;

• amortization of acquired intangible assets such as distributor relationships, tradenames/trademarks and customer relationships; and

• facilities expenses;

We believe that SG&A expenses will fluctuate as a percentage of sales and in absolute dollars due to, among other factors, variable commissions, legal costs, incentives and annual merit increases. We reduced employee related costs through restructuring activities in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012. We began to realize the net cost reduction in fiscal year 2013.

Fiscal Year 2014 versus Fiscal Year 2013

SG&A expenses for fiscal year 2014 remained consistent with the same period a year ago. The increase due to inclusion of the acquired companies was offset by our cost reduction effort during the year.

Fiscal Year 2013 versus Fiscal Year 2012

SG&A expenses for fiscal year 2013 decreased $6.0 million, or 15%, as compared to the same period a year ago. The decrease was primarily a result of lower labor-related costs, incentives and professional fees, offset by an accrual for a dispute resolution of $1.4 million.

Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs

Restructuring expenses result from the execution of management approved restructuring plans that were generally developed to improve our cost structure and/or operations, often in conjunction with our acquisition integration strategies. Restructuring expenses consist of employee severance costs and may also include contract termination costs to improve our cost structure prospectively. See “Note 8 – Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs.”

Fiscal Year 2014 versus Fiscal Year 2013

Restructuring charges and exit costs for fiscal year 2014 increased $1.5 million, or 94%, as compared to the same period a year ago. The increase was due to our effort to reduce our operating expenses across all functions.

Fiscal Year 2013 versus Fiscal Year 2012

Restructuring charges and exit costs of $14.2 million in fiscal year 2012 were primarily related to the reduction in force we implemented and completed in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012. We eliminated 173 positions across all company functions. In fiscal year 2013, we incurred restructuring charges and exit costs of $1.6 million due to our continued efforts to align our cost structure with revenue by reducing spending.

Merger and Acquisition Costs

Merger and acquisition costs for fiscal year 2014 increased $1.8 million as compared to fiscal year 2013. The increase was primarily due to the occurrence of acquisition activities in each of the fiscal years. In fiscal year 2014, we acquired Cadeka and Stretch. In fiscal year 2013, we acquired Altior. See “Note 4 – Business Combinations.”

Net change in Fair Value of Contingent Considerations

In fiscal year 2014, the fair value of the contingent considerations for Altior and Cadeka were decreased by $10.5 million due to changes in the probability of achieving revenue targets and the change in the present value of the amount payable due to passage of time. See “Note 6 –Fair Value.”

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Goodwill and Other Intangible Asset Impairment

Fiscal Year 2014

In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014, we conducted our annual impairment review comparing the fair value of our single 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 goodwill impairment was recorded for fiscal year 2014.

Due to the decline in forecasted revenue related to certain acquired intangible assets, we conducted an intangible impairment review to evaluate the recoverability of our long-lived assets in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year 2014. As a result, we recorded a $1.6 million impairment charge.

Fiscal Year 2013 and Fiscal Year 2012

In the fourth quarter of fiscal years 2013 and 2012, we conducted our annual impairment review comparing the fair value of our single 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 2013 or fiscal year 2012.

Other Income and Expenses

Interest Income and Other, Net

Interest income and other, net primarily consists of:

• interest income;

• foreign exchange gains or losses; and

• realized gains or losses on marketable securities.

Fiscal Year 2014 versus Fiscal Year 2013

The decrease in other income and expenses during fiscal year 2014 as compared to fiscal year 2013 was primarily attributable to a decrease in interest income as a result of the decline in interest rates related to our cash and short-term investments.

Fiscal Year 2013 versus Fiscal Year 2012

The decrease in other income and expenses during fiscal year 2013 as compared to fiscal year 2012 was primarily attributable to a decrease in interest income as a result of lower yield related to our cash and short-term investments.

Interest Expense

Interest expenses result from the engineering design tools we licensed under capital lease. See “Note 15—Lease Financing Obligation.”    

Impairment Charges on Investments

We periodically review and determine whether our investments with unrealized loss positions are other-than-temporarily impaired. 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. 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. Declines in value of our investments both marketable and non-marketable, judged to be other-than-temporary, are reported in the impairment of long term investment line in the consolidated statements of operations. We assessed the fair value of the underlying investments of Skypoint Fund and as a result, $0.3 million, $0 and $0 of impairment charges were recorded for fiscal year 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The decline in the value of our non-marketable investments is reported in the impairment of long term investment line in the consolidated statements of operations.

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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 invested primarily in private companies in the telecommunications and/or networking industries. We account for this non-marketable equity investment under the cost method. We evaluate our long-term investment for impairment on an annual basis or whenever events and changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. We conduct our annual impairment analysis in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year by comparing the carrying amount to the fair value of the underlying investments.

Provision for Income Taxes

Fiscal Year 2014

Our effective tax rate for fiscal year 2014 was (317)% primarily due to (1) the release of the $6.8 million valuation allowance related to the Cadeka acquisition in July 2013 since the deferred tax liabilities acquired were available as a source of taxable income; and (2) the $1.3 million release of a reserve for uncertain tax positions related to an NOL carryback refund in the third quarter of 2014.

Fiscal Year 2013

Our effective tax rate for fiscal year 2013 was (70%) due to release of a $1.3 million reserve for uncertain tax positions related to an NOL carryback refund in the third quarter of 2013.

Fiscal Year 2012

Our effective tax rate for fiscal year 2012 was (0.2%). The provision for fiscal year 2012 differs from the amount computed by applying the statutory federal rate of 35%. This difference is principally due to our not benefitting from deferred tax assets as a result of increases in valuation allowances during fiscal year 2012.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
	(dollars in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents	$	14,614		$	14,718		$	8,714
Short-term investments		152,420			190,587			187,668
Total cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments	$	167,034		$	205,305		$	196,382
Percentage of total assets		55	%		70	%		72	%
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	$	851		$	7,366		$	(2,332	)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		12,786			(4,828	)		(3,577	)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		(13,741	)		3,466			(416	)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	$	(104	)	$	6,004		$	(6,325	)

Fiscal Year 2014

Operating Activities—Our net income was $5.8 million in fiscal year 2014. After adjustments for non-cash items and changes in working capital, we generated $0.9 million of cash from operating activities.

Significant non-cash charges included:

• Depreciation and amortization expenses of $12.9 million;

• Change in fair value of contingent consideration of $10.5 million;

• Release of deferred tax valuation allowance of $6.9 million; and

• Stock-based compensation expense of $8.9 million.

Working capital changes included:

• a $5.9 million increase in inventory due to expected increase in future shipments;

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• a $5.5 million increase in accounts payable primarily due to change in inventory level; and

• a $8.6 million decrease in accrued liabilities primarily due to $3.0 million settlement payment related to Hillview litigation and $3.9 million restructuring payments made.

In fiscal year 2014, net cash provided by investing activities was $12.8 million. Proceeds of $296.0 million from sales and maturities of investments and $0.1 million from the sale of certain patents were offset by $258.0 million in purchases of investments, $22.8 million for the Cadeka and Stretch acquisitions and $2.7 million used for purchases of property, plant and equipment and intellectual property.

In fiscal year 2014, net cash used in financing activities reflects $9.0 million used for repurchases of our common stock, $6.2 million to pay off loan balance assumed from Stretch acquisition, $3.3 million repayment of lease financing obligations partially offset by $4.7 million of proceeds associated with our employee stock plans.

Fiscal Year 2013

Operating Activities—Our net income was $2.9 million in fiscal year 2013. After adjustments for non-cash items and changes in working capital, we generated $7.4 million of cash from operating activities.

Significant non-cash charges included:

• Depreciation and amortization expenses of $10.8 million; and

• Stock-based compensation expense of $4.8 million.

Working capital changes included:

• a $4.6 million increase in accounts receivable primarily due to the timing of shipments;

• a $0.9 million increase in inventory due to expected increase in future shipments; and

• a $3.7 million decrease in accrued restructuring charges and exit costs– current portion, primarily due to payments made.

In fiscal year 2013, net cash used in investing activities was $4.8 million. Proceeds of $197.6 million from sales and maturities of investments and $0.4 million from the sale of certain patents were offset by $200.7 million in purchases of investments, $1.4 million used for purchases of property, plant and equipment and intellectual property and $0.8 million for the acquisition of Altior.

In fiscal year 2013, net cash provided by financing activities reflects $6.3 million of proceeds associated with our employee stock plans partially offset by the $2.8 million repayment of lease financing obligations.

Fiscal Year 2012 

Operating Activities—Our net loss was $28.1 million in fiscal year 2012. After adjustments for non-cash items and changes in working capital, we used $2.3 million of cash from operating activities.

 Significant non-cash charges included:

• Depreciation and amortization expenses of $14.9 million; and

• Stock-based compensation expense of $3.8 million.

Working capital changes included:

• a $1.6 million decrease in accounts receivable primarily due to lower shipments;

• a $3.6 million decrease in inventory primarily due to reduced purchases in response to lower demand; and

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• a $5.4 million increase in other accrued restructuring charges – current portion due to the reduction in force in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012.

Investment Activities—In fiscal year 2012, net cash used in investing activities reflects net purchase of short-term marketable securities of $1.4 million and $2.5 million in purchases of property, plant and equipment and intellectual property.

Financing Activities—In fiscal year 2012, net cash used in financing activities reflects the $3.6 million repayment of lease financing obligations partially offset by $3.1 million of proceeds associated with our employee stock plans.

To date, inflation has not had a significant impact on our operating results.

We anticipate that we will continue to finance our operations with cash flows from operations, existing cash and investment balances.

We believe that our cash and cash equivalents, short-term marketable securities and expected cash flows from operations will be sufficient to satisfy working capital requirements, capital equipment and intellectual property needs for at least the next 12 months. However, should the demand for our products decrease in the future, the availability of cash flows from operations may be limited, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. From time to time, we evaluate potential acquisitions, strategic arrangements and equity investments that we believe are complementary to our design expertise and market strategy. To the extent that we pursue or position ourselves to pursue these transactions, we could consume a significant portion of our capital resources or choose to seek additional equity or debt financing. Additional financing may not be available on terms acceptable to us or at all. The sale of additional equity or convertible debt could result in dilution to our stockholders.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

As of March 30, 2014, we had not utilized special purpose entities to facilitate off-balance sheet financing arrangements. However, we have, in the normal course of business, entered into agreements which impose warranty obligations with respect to our products or which obligate us to provide indemnification of varying scope and terms to customers, vendors, lessors and business partners, our directors and executive officers, purchasers of assets or subsidiaries, and other parties with respect to certain matters. These arrangements may constitute “off-balance sheet transactions” as defined in Section 303(a)(4) of Regulation S-K. Please see “Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 16—Commitments and Contingencies” for further discussion of our product warranty liabilities and indemnification obligations.

As discussed in “Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 16—Commitments and Contingencies,” during the normal course of business, we make certain indemnities and commitments under which we may be required to make payments in relation to certain transactions. These indemnities include non-infringement of patents and intellectual property, indemnities to our customers in connection with the delivery, design, performance, manufacture and sale of our products, indemnities to our directors and officers in connection with legal proceedings, indemnities to various lessors in connection with facility leases for certain claims arising from such facility or lease, and indemnities to other parties to certain acquisition agreements. The duration of these indemnities and commitments varies, and in certain cases, is indefinite. We believe that substantially all of our indemnities and commitments provide for limitations on the maximum potential future payments we could be obligated to make. However, we are unable to estimate the maximum amount of liability related to our indemnities and commitments because such liabilities are contingent upon the occurrence of events which are not reasonably determinable. Management believes that any liability for these indemnities and commitments would not be material to our accompanying consolidated financial statements.

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Contractual Obligations and Commitments

The following is a summary of fixed payments related to certain off-balance sheet contractual obligations as of March 30, 2014 (in thousands):

	Payments due by period
Contractual Obligations	Total		Less than 1 year		1-3 years		3-5 years		More than 5 years
Purchase commitments (1)	$	24,920	$	21,874	$	700	$	718	$	1,628
Operating lease commitments (2)		1,324		688		615		21		—
Total	$	26,244	$	22,562	$	1,315	$	739	$	1,628

(1) Our contracts with our suppliers generally require us to provide purchase order commitments that are generally binding and cannot be canceled.

(2) We lease many of our office facilities for various terms under operating lease agreements. The leases expire at various dates from fiscal year 2015 through fiscal year 2018.

Other Commitments

As of March 30, 2014, our unrecognized tax benefits were $14.2 million, of which $0.8 million was classified as other non-current obligations. We believe that it is reasonably possible that the amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits related to the resolution of income tax matters could be reduced by approximately $0.1 million during the next 12 months as the statute of limitations expires. See “Note 18 – Income Taxes.”

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Please refer to Part II, Item 8—“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 3—Accounting Policies.”

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Foreign Currency Fluctuations. We are exposed to foreign currency fluctuations primarily through our foreign operations. This exposure is the result of foreign operating expenses being denominated in foreign currency. Operational currency requirements are typically forecasted for a one-month period. If there is a need to hedge this risk, we may enter into transactions to purchase currency in the open market or enter into forward currency exchange contracts.

If our foreign operations forecasts are overstated or understated during periods of currency volatility, we could experience unanticipated currency gains or losses. For fiscal years 2014 and 2013, we did not have significant foreign currency denominated net assets or net liabilities positions, and had no foreign currency contracts outstanding.

Investment Risk and Interest Rate Sensitivity. We maintain investment portfolio holdings of various issuers, types, and maturity dates with two professional management institutions. The fair value of these investments on any given day during the investment term may vary as a result of market interest rate fluctuations. Our investment portfolio consisted of cash equivalents, money market funds and fixed income securities of $157.1 million as of March 30, 2014 and $195.6 million as of March 31, 2013. These securities, like all fixed income instruments, are subject to interest rate risk and will vary in value as market interest rates fluctuate. If market interest rates were to increase or decline immediately and uniformly by less than 10% from levels as of March 30, 2014, the increase or decline in the fair value of the portfolio would not be material. At March 30, 2014, the difference between the fair value and the underlying cost of the investments portfolio was an unrealized loss of $1.1 million, net of taxes.

Our short-term investments are classified as “available-for-sale” securities and the cost of securities sold is based on the specific identification method. At March 30, 2014, short-term investments consisted of corporate bonds and securities, asset and mortgage-backed securities, U.S. government agency securities, U.S. Treasury securities and state and local government securities of $152.4 million.

48

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

	Page
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm		50
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting		51
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm		52
Consolidated Balance Sheets		53
Consolidated Statements of Operations		54
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)		55
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity		56
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows		57
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements		58

49

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

Exar Corporation

Fremont, California

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Exar Corporation as of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013 and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the years then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

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

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Exar Corporation at March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Exar Corporation's internal control over financial reporting as of March 30, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) and our report dated June 11, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

/s/ BDO USA, LLP

San Jose, California

June 11, 2014

50

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

Exar Corporation

Fremont, California

We have audited Exar Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 30, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). Exar Corporation’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying “Item 9A, Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting”. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

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

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

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

In our opinion, Exar Corporation maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of March 30, 2014, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Exar Corporation as of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013 and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the years then ended and our report dated June 11, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

/s/ BDO USA, LLP

San Jose, California

June 11, 2014

51

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Exar Corporation:

In our opinion, the consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), stockholders' equity and cash flows for the year ended April 1, 2012 presents fairly, in all material respects, the results of operations and cash flows of Exar Corporation and its subsidiaries (the "Company") for the year ended April 1, 2012, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit of these statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

San Jose, California

June 13, 2012

52

EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except share amounts)

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	14,614		$	14,718
Short-term marketable securities		152,420			190,587
Accounts receivable (net of allowances of $1,178 and $944)		15,023			12,614
Accounts receivable, related party (net of allowances of $608 and $346)		3,309			3,374
Inventories		28,982			19,430
Other current assets		3,549			3,177
Total current assets		217,897			243,900
Property, plant and equipment, net		21,280			24,100
Goodwill		30,410			10,356
Intangible assets, net		31,390			13,338
Other non-current assets		1,240			1,474
Total assets	$	302,217		$	293,168
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	15,488		$	9,455
Accrued compensation and related benefits		4,174			3,624
Deferred income and allowances on sales to distributors		1,765			2,399
Deferred income and allowances on sales to distributors, related party		9,349			9,475
Other current liabilities		11,370			15,215
Total current liabilities		42,146			40,168
Long-term lease financing obligations		70			1,342
Other non-current obligations		6,626			11,204
Total liabilities		48,842			52,714
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 15, 16 and 17)
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock, $.0001 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; 47,336,005 and 46,607,246 shares outstanding (net of treasury shares)		5			5
Additional paid-in capital		508,116			749,426
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(1,079	)		(526	)
Treasury stock at cost, 0 and 19,924,369 shares		—			(248,983	)
Accumulated deficit		(253,667	)		(259,468	)
Total stockholders’ equity		253,375			240,454
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	302,217		$	293,168

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

53

EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Sales:
Net sales	$	89,595		$	85,856		$	89,988
Net sales, related party		35,727			36,170			40,578
Total net sales		125,322			122,026			130,566
Cost of sales:
Cost of sales		48,067			45,943			49,839
Cost of sales, related party		15,738			16,716			19,888
Amortization of purchased intangible assets and inventory step-up cost		7,600			3,379			3,603
Impairment of intangible assets		1,636			—			—
Warranty reserve		1,440			—			—
Restructuring charges and exit costs		187			301			1,312
Total cost of sales		74,668			66,339			74,642
Gross profit		50,654			55,687			55,924
Operating expenses:
Research and development		27,048			22,376			35,006
Selling, general and administrative		33,055			32,531			38,598
Restructuring charges and exit costs, net		2,827			1,253			12,913
Merger and acquisition costs		1,880			110			—
Net change in fair value of contingent consideration		(10,455	)		—			—
Total operating expenses, net		54,355			56,270			86,517
Loss from operations		(3,701	)		(583	)		(30,593	)
Other income and expense, net:
Interest income and other, net		1,503			2,441			2,803
Interest expense		(156	)		(165	)		(215	)
Impairment of long term investment		(323	)		—			—
Total other income and expense, net		1,024			2,276			2,588
Income (loss) before income taxes		(2,677	)		1,693			(28,005	)
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes		(8,478	)		(1,189	)		51
Net income (loss)	$	5,801		$	2,882		$	(28,056	)
Net income (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.12		$	0.06		$	(0.63	)
Diluted	$	0.12		$	0.06		$	(0.63	)
Shares used in the computation of net income (loss) per share:
Basic		47,291			45,809			44,796
Diluted		48,823			46,476			44,796

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

54

EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(In thousands)

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Net income (loss)	$	5,801		$	2,882		$	(28,056	)
Changes in market value of investments, net of tax:
Changes in unrealized gain (loss) on investments		(754	)		(243	)		385
Reclassification adjustment for net realized gains (losses)		201			(82	)		(299	)
Net change in market value of investments		(553	)		(325	)		86
Comprehensive income (loss)	$	5,248		$	2,557		$	(27,970	)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

55

EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(In thousands, except share amounts)

	Common Stock					Treasury Stock						Additional Paid–in-			Accumulated			Accum- ulated Other Compre- hensive Income			Total Stockholders’
	Shares			Amount		Shares			Amount			Capital			Deficit			(Loss)			Equity
Balance, March 27, 2011		64,444,032		$	4		(19,924,369	)	$	(248,983	)	$	728,139		$	(234,294	)	$	(287	)	$	244,579
Net loss		—			—		—			—			—			(28,056	)		—			(28,056	)
Change in unrealized gains on marketable securities		—			—		—			—			—			—			86			86
Shares issued through employee stock plans		485,210			1		—			—			3,144			—			—			3,145
Shares issued in connection with Hifn acquisition		3,358			—		—			—			24			—			—			24
Shares issued for vested restricted stock units		278,080			—		—			—			16			—			—			16
Withholding of shares for tax obligations on vested restricted stock units		(41,078	)		—		—			—			(252	)		—			—			(252	)
Stock-based compensation		—			—		—			—			3,750			—			—			3,750
Balance, April 1, 2012		65,169,602		$	5		(19,924,369	)	$	(248,983	)	$	734,821		$	(262,350	)	$	(201	)	$	223,292
Net loss		—			—		—			—			—			2,882			—			2,882
Change in unrealized gains on marketable securities		—			—		—			—			—			—			(325	)		(325	)
Shares issued through employee stock plans		903,772			—		—			—			6,296			—			—			6,296
Shares issued in connection with Altior Inc. acquisition		357,873			—		—			—			3,740			—			—			3,740
Shares issued for vested restricted stock units		125,095			—		—			—			—			—			—			—
Withholding of shares for tax obligations on vested restricted stock units		(24,727	)		—		—			—			(219	)		—			—			(219	)
Stock-based compensation		—			—		—			—			4,788			—			—			4,788
Balance, March 31, 2013		66,531,615		$	5		(19,924,369	)	$	(248,983	)	$	749,426		$	(259,468	)	$	(526	)	$	240,454
Net income		—			—		—			—			—			5,801			—			5,801
Change in unrealized gains on marketable securities		—			—		—			—			—			—			(553	)		(553	)
Shares issued through employee stock plans		805,527			—		—			—			5,833			—			—			5,833
Shares issued in connection with Cadeka Technologies (Cayman) Holding Ltd. acquisition		438,995			—		—			—			5,005			—			—			5,005
Shares issued for vested restricted stock units		346,407			—		—			—			12			—			—			12
Withholding of shares for tax obligations on vested restricted stock units		(106,865	)		—		—			—			(1,149	)		—			—			(1,149	)
Retirement of treasury shares		(19,924,369	)		—		19,924,369			248,983			(248,983	)		—			—			—
Repurchase of common stock		(755,305	)		—		—			—			(9,000	)		—			—			(9,000	)
Stock-based compensation		—			—		—			—			6,972			—			—			6,972
Balance, March 30, 2014		47,336,005		$	5		—		$	—		$	508,116		$	(253,667	)	$	(1,079	)	$	253,375

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

56

EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$	5,801		$	2,882		$	(28,056	)
Reconciliation of net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Impairment charges		2,224			—			—
Depreciation and amortization		12,947			10,809			14,898
Gain on sale of intangible asset		—			(223	)		—
Stock-based compensation expense		8,852			4,788			3,750
Release of deferred tax valuation allowance		(6,940	)		—			—
Net change in fair value of contingent consideration		(10,455	)		—			—
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable and accounts receivable, related party		(1,960	)		(4,616	)		1,598
Inventories		(5,907	)		(930	)		3,588
Other current and non-current assets		(305	)		528			683
Accounts payable		5,505			1,632			(971	)
Accrued compensation and related benefits		412			(513	)		(2,364	)
Other current liabilities		(8,563	)		(5,847	)		6,836
Deferred income and allowance on sales to distributors and related party distributor		(760	)		(1,144	)		(2,294	)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities		851			7,366			(2,332	)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property, plant and equipment and intellectual property, net		(2,658	)		(1,385	)		(2,539	)
Purchases of short-term marketable securities		(257,946	)		(200,654	)		(169,688	)
Proceeds from maturities of short-term marketable securities		31,821			48,687			63,226
Proceeds from sales of short-term marketable securities		264,221			148,914			105,040
Acquisitions, net of cash		(22,777	)		(750	)		—
Other disposal activities		125			360			384
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		12,786			(4,828	)		(3,577	)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of common stock		5,844			6,515			3,145
Shares withheld on RSUs released		(1,149	)		(219	)		—
Repayment of debt assumed from Stretch acquisition		(6,187	)		—			—
Repurchase of common stock		(9,000	)		—			—
Repayment of lease financing obligations		(3,249	)		(2,830	)		(3,561	)
Net cash provided by (used) in financing activities		(13,741	)		3,466			(416	)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		(104	)		6,004			(6,325	)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of year		14,718			8,714			15,039
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year	$	14,614		$	14,718		$	8,714
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow and non-cash information:
Return of Hillview Facility to Lessor	$	—		$	—		$	12,167
Issuance of common stock in connection with Hifn acquisition & others		10			19			24
Issuance of common stock in connection with Altior acquisition		—			3,740			—
Issuance of common stock in connection with Cadeka acquisition		5,005			—			—
Cash paid for income taxes		106			154			122
Cash received from income taxes refund		4			—			19
Cash paid for interest		155			165			193
Property, plant and equipment acquired under capital lease		—			—			8,478

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

57

EXAR CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FISCAL YEARS ENDED MARCH 30, 2014, MARCH 31, 2013 AND APRIL 1, 2012

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,” “us,” “our” or “we”) is a fabless semiconductor company that designs, develops and markets high performance analog mixed-signal integrated circuits and advanced sub-system solutions for the Networking & Storage, Industrial & Embedded, and Communications Infrastructure markets.

NOTE 2. REVISION OF PRIOR PERIOD FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

During the first quarter of fiscal 2013, we identified an error in our accounting for stock-based compensation previously recorded in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012. We assessed the materiality of the error on prior periods' financial statements and concluded that the error was not material to any of our prior period annual or interim financial statements. We elected to revise previously issued consolidated financial statements the next time they were filed. As each subsequent filing is made in the future, the previous period consolidated financial statements affected by the errors will be revised. We have revised the April 1, 2012 consolidated balance sheet and the statements of operations for fiscal year 2012 included herein to reflect the correct balances. We reduced the additional paid-in capital and accumulated deficit each by $741,000 as of the end of fiscal year 2012 related to the above mentioned error as shown in the consolidated statements of stockholders’ equity and net loss as reported for fiscal year 2012 was reduced accordingly by $741,000.

NOTE 3.    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. Fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012 consisted of 52, 52 and 53 weeks, respectively. Fiscal year 2015 will consist of 52 weeks. Fiscal years ended March 30, 2014, March 31, 2013 and April 1, 2012 are also referred to as “2014,” “2013,” and “2012,” respectively, unless otherwise indicated.

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.

Principles of Consolidation—The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Exar 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) allowance for doubtful accounts; (3) valuation of inventories; (4) income taxes; (5) stock-based compensation; (6) goodwill; (7) long-lived assets; (8) contingent consideration; and (9) warranty liabilities. 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 4—“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.

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 12 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 10 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.

58

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 of long term investment 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.

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 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. Estimations and assumptions regarding the number of reporting units, future performances, results of our operations and comparability of our market capitalization and net book value will be used. 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.

Long-Lived Assets—We review long-lived assets, including property and equipment and intangible assets, for impairment whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets (or asset group) may not be fully recoverable. Whenever events or changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount of long-lived assets may not be recoverable, we estimate the future cash flows expected to be generated by the assets (or asset group) from its use or eventual disposition. If the sum of the expected future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of those assets, we recognize an impairment loss based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets. Significant management judgment is required in the grouping of long-lived assets and forecasts of future operating results that are used in the discounted cash flow method of valuation. If our actual results, or the plans and estimates used in future impairment analyses are lower than the original estimates used to assess the recoverability of these assets, we could incur additional impairment charges.

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.

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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 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 original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”) or their contract manufacturers. Our delivery terms are primarily free on board shipping point, at which time title and all risks of ownership are transferred to the customer.

To date, software revenue has been an immaterial portion of our net sales.

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. Allowances for sales returns and other reserves 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 5% to 6% of their purchases during the preceding quarter for purposes of stock rotation. For one of these distributors, a scrap allowance of 1% 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 the sell-in basis or sell-through basis, each as described below. 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 discussed above 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).

• 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 allowances 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. 

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The following table summarizes the deferred income balance, primarily consisting of sell-through distributors (in thousands):

	As of March 30, 2014			As of March 31, 2013
Deferred revenue at published list price	$	15,871		$	18,652
Deferred cost of revenue		(4,757	)		(6,778	)
Deferred income	$	11,114		$	11,874

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.

Mask Costs— We incur costs for the fabrication of masks to manufacture our products. If we determine the product technological feasibility has been achieved when costs are incurred, the costs will be treated as pre-production costs and capitalized as machinery and equipment under property, plant and equipment. The amount will be amortized to cost of sales over the estimated production period of the product. If product technological feasibility has not been achieved or the mask is not expected to be utilized in production manufacturing, the related mask costs are expensed to Research and development (“R&D”) when incurred. We periodically assess capitalized mask costs for impairment. Total mask costs capitalized were $2.3 million and $1.7 million as of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013, respectively. The costs capitalized are amortized over five years commencing with the start of commercial production.

Research and Development Expenses—R&D costs consist primarily of salaries, employee benefits, certain types of 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 2014, 2013 and 2012.

We have entered into an agreement under which certain R&D costs are eligible for reimbursement. Amounts reimbursed under this arrangement are offset against R&D expenses. During fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, we offset $1.5 million, $2.0 million and $4.0 million, respectively, of R&D expenses in connection with such agreements.

Advertising Expenses—We expense advertising costs as incurred. Advertising expenses for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012 were immaterial.

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 2014, 2013 and 2012 has been disclosed within the consolidated statements of 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 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 immaterial for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012.

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 2014, 2013 and 2012. 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.

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We sell our products to distributors and OEMs throughout the world. Future Electronics, Inc. (“Future”), a related party, has been and continues to be our largest distributor. See “Note 19 — Segment and Geographic Information,” for distributors who accounted for more than 10% of net sales and accounts receivable.

Concentration of Other Risks—The majority of our products are currently fabricated by our foundry suppliers and are assembled and tested by third-party subcontractors located in Asia. A significant disruption in the operations of one or more of these subcontractors could impact the production of our products for a substantial period of time which could result in 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 cash equivalents, short-term marketable securities, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities presented in the consolidated balance sheets at March 30, 2014, March 31, 2013 and April 1, 2012 was not materially different from the carrying values due to the relatively short periods to maturity of the instruments.

Fair Value of Contingent Consideration—We estimate the fair value of our contingent consideration at the date of acquisition and is re-measured each reporting period and any changes in the fair value of the contingent consideration are recognized as a gain or loss in the consolidated statements of operations. The contingent consideration is valued with level three inputs. As of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013, the fair value of the contingent consideration was $4.3 million and $10.1 million, respectively and is included in current and noncurrent liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet.

Stock-Based Compensation—We measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award. We use the Black-Scholes model to estimate the fair value of our options. The fair value of time-based and performance-based restricted stock units is based on the grant date share price. The fair value of market-based restricted stock units is estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation model. See Part II, Item 8—“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and “Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 14—Stock-Based Compensation” for more details about our assumptions used in calculating the stock-based compensation expenses and equity related transactions during the fiscal year.

We recognize compensation expense equal to the grant-date fair value for all share-based payment awards that are expected to vest. This expense is recorded on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the entire awards, unless the awards are subject to performance or market conditions, in which case we recognize compensation expense over the requisite service period of each separate vesting tranche. For the performance-based awards, we recognize compensation expense when it becomes probable that the performance criteria specified in the plan will be achieved. For the market-based awards, compensation expense is not reversed if the market condition is not satisfied. The amount of stock-based compensation that we recognize is also based on an expected forfeiture rate. If there is a difference between the forfeiture assumptions used in determining stock-based compensation costs and the actual forfeitures which become known over time, we may change the forfeiture rate, which could have a significant impact on its stock-based compensation expense. In addition, we follow the “with-and-without” intra-period allocation approach in our tax attribute calculations

Recent Accounting Pronouncements 

In July 2013, the FASB issued amended standards that provided explicit guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward or a tax credit carryforward exists. Under the amended standards, the unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward or a tax credit carryforward. These amended standard updates will be effective for our interim period beginning after December 15, 2013 and applied prospectively with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this guidance did not have any material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In February 2013, the FASB issued amended standards to improve the reporting of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income by requiring an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income but only if the amount reclassified is required under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) to be reclassified to net income in its entirety in the same reporting period. For other amounts that are not required under U.S. GAAP to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures required under U.S. GAAP that provide additional detail about those amounts. These amended standards are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The adoption of this guidance did not have any material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

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In May 2014, the FASB issued a new standard, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, to clarify the principles for recognizing revenue to develop a common revenue standard for U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) that would (1) provide a more robust framework for addressing revenue recognition; (2) improve comparability of revenue recognition practice across entities, industries, jurisdictions, and capital markets; and (3) provide more useful information to users of financial statements through improved disclosure requirements. This standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Exar is currently evaluating the effect the adoption of this standard will have, if any, on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

NOTE 4.    BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

We periodically evaluate potential strategic acquisitions to, broaden our product offering and 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 (1) identifying the acquiree; (2) determining the acquisition date; (3) recognizing and measuring the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interest we have in the acquiree at their acquisition date fair value; and (4) 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.

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 Stretch

On January 14, 2014, we completed the acquisition of Stretch, Inc. (“Stretch”), a provider of software configurable processors supporting the video surveillance market previously located in Sunnyvale, California. The transaction provides Exar with the technology to deliver an end-to-end high-definition solution for both digital and analog transmission of data from the camera to the DVR or NVR in surveillance applications. Stretch’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning January 14, 2014. The pro forma effects of the portion of the Stretch operations assumed through the transaction on our results of operations during fiscal year 2014 and 2013 were considered immaterial.

Consideration

Stretch was acquired for which the purchase consideration was $10,000 in cash. By acquiring Stretch, Exar acquired all of Stretch’s assets, consisting principally intellectual property, accounts receivable and inventory, as well as assumed all of Stretch’s liabilities and contractual obligations.

In accordance with Accounting Standard Codification (“ASC”) 805, Business Combinations, the acquisition of Stretch was recorded as a purchase business acquisition since Stretch was considered a business. Under the purchase method of accounting, the fair value of the consideration was allocated to net assets acquired at their fair values. The fair value of purchased identifiable intangible assets was determined using discounted cash flow models from operating projections prepared by management using an internal rate of return ranging from 17% to 21%. The excess of the preliminary fair value of consideration paid over the preliminary fair values of net assets acquired and identifiable intangible assets resulted in recognition of goodwill of approximately $0.7 million. The goodwill results largely of expected synergies from combining the operations of Stretch with that of Exar and is deductible over 15 years for tax purposes.

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Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation

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

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

	Amount
Identifiable tangible assets (liabilities)
Cash	$	344
Accounts receivable		143
Inventories		2,154
Other current assets		267
Property, plant and equipment		18
Other assets		11
Debt assumed		(6,186	)
Accounts payable and accruals		(3,408	)
Other short-term liabilities		(1,010	)
Total identifiable tangible assets (liabilities), net		(7,667	)
Identifiable intangible assets		7,010
Total identifiable assets, net		(657	)
Goodwill		667
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$	10

The following table sets forth the components of identifiable intangible assets acquired in connection with the Stretch acquisition (in thousands):

	Fair Value
Developed technologies	$	5,990
Customer relations		1,020
Total identifiable intangible assets	$	7,010

In valuing specific components of the acquisition, that includes deferred taxes, and intangibles required us to make estimates that may be adjusted in the future, if new information is obtained about circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date that, if known, would have resulted in the recognition of those assets and liabilities as of that date. Thus, the purchase price allocation is considered preliminary and dependent upon the finalization of the valuation of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, including income tax effects. Final determination of these estimates could result in an adjustment to the preliminary purchase price allocation, with an offsetting adjustment to goodwill.

Acquisition Related Costs

Acquisition related costs, or deal costs, relating to Stretch are included in the selling, general and administrative line on the consolidated statement of operations for the fiscal year ended March 30, 2014 were approximately $0.5 million.

Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information

The following unaudited pro forma condensed financial information presents the combined revenue of Exar and Stretch as if the acquisition had occurred as of April 1, 2013 (in thousands).

	Year ended March 30, 2014
Net sales	$	134,290

The combined net income and basic and diluted earnings per shares were immaterial. It was impracticable to present the combined financials for fiscal year 2013. The unaudited pro forma financial information is not intended to represent or be indicative of the revenue of Exar that would have been reported had the acquisition been completed as of the beginning of fiscal year 2014, and should not be taken as representative of the future revenue of Exar.

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Acquisition of Cadeka

On July 5, 2013, we completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Cadeka Technologies (Cayman) Holding Ltd., a privately held company organized under the laws of the Cayman Islands and all the outstanding stock of the subsidiaries of Cadeka, including the equity of its wholly owned subsidiary Cadeka Microcircuits, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company (“Cadeka”). With locations in Loveland, Colorado, Shenzhen and Wuxi, China, Cadeka designs, develops and markets high precision analog integrated circuits for use in industrial and high reliability applications. Cadeka’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning July 5, 2013. The pro forma effects of the portion of the Cadeka operations assumed through the transaction on our results of operations during fiscal years 2014 and 2013 were considered immaterial.

Consideration

The purchase consideration includes approximately 454,000 shares of our common stock issued to the shareholders of Cadeka (valued at $5.2 million) and a cash payment of $25.0 million (less an amount of $1.0 million, inclusive of 15,000 shares, held back temporarily to satisfy potential indemnity claims). An additional purchase price consideration earn-out (up to $5.0 million) may be earned over the next two fiscal years contingent upon achieving certain revenue targets, and may be paid in the form of cash, stock or both. The $5.2 million worth of shares issued at closing were valued on the date of the acquisition, and the fair value of contingent earn-outs was derived using a probability-based approach on various revenue assumptions and discounted to a present value. Final determination of the earn-out liability can range from zero to $5.0 million based on the actual achievement of the revenue targets. Fair value of contingent consideration is subject to periodic revaluation and any change in the fair value of contingent consideration from the events after the acquisition date will be recognized in earnings of the period in which the fair value changes. The probability–based approach used to fair value contingent consideration is based on significant inputs not observed in the market and thus represents a Level 3 measurement. The significant unobservable inputs include projected revenues, percentage probability of occurrence and a discount rate to present value the future payments. The summary of the purchase consideration is as follows (in thousands):

	Amount
Cash	$	25,000
Equity instruments		5,177
Estimated fair value of earn-out payments		4,660
Total consideration paid	$	34,837

In accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations, the acquisition of Cadeka was recorded as a purchase business acquisition since Cadeka was considered a business. Under the purchase method of accounting, the fair value of the consideration was allocated to net assets acquired at their fair values. The fair value of purchased identifiable intangible assets and contingent earn-outs were derived from model-based valuations from significant unobservable inputs (“Level 3 inputs”) determined by management. The fair value of purchased identifiable intangible assets was determined using discounted cash flow models from operating projections prepared by management using an internal rate of return ranging from 15% to 23%. The fair value of the contingent earn-out was a probability-based approach that includes significant Level 3 inputs. “See Note 4 — Fair Value,” for additional details of the inputs used to determine the fair value of the contingent earn-out. The excess of the preliminary fair value of consideration paid over the preliminary fair values of net assets acquired and identifiable intangible assets resulted in recognition of goodwill of approximately $12.4 million prior to considering the impact on deferred tax assets and liabilities. The goodwill results largely of expected synergies from combining the operations of Cadeka with that of Exar and is not expected to be tax deductible. After considering the impact of deductible and taxable temporary tax differences on the acquired business, a deferred tax liability of $6.8 million was established primarily related to identified intangible asset basis differences, which resulted in a total goodwill amount recorded as part of the acquisition of $19.2 million. Additionally, in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations, we also evaluated the impact of the acquisition on Exar’s valuation allowance, the impact of which is recorded outside of purchase accounting, resulting in a release of the valuation allowance and an income tax benefit of $6.8 million.Such benefit was trued up by approximately $170,000 in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014 as a result of the filing of Cadeka’s pre-acquisition period federal and state returns.

Purchase Price Allocation

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

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

	Amount
Identifiable tangible assets (liabilities)
Cash	$	1,055
Accounts Receivable		241
Inventories		1,756
Property, plant and equipment		231
Other assets		3
Accounts payable and accruals		(7,400	)
Other short-term liabilities		(520	)
Long-term liabilities		(296	)
Total identifiable tangible assets (liabilities), net		(4,930	)
Identifiable intangible assets		20,380
Total identifiable assets, net		15,450
Goodwill		19,387
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$	34,837

The following table sets forth the components of identifiable intangible assets acquired in connection with the Cadeka acquisition (in thousands):

	Fair Value
Developed technologies	$	15,720
In-process research and development		2,280
Customer relations		2,170
Trade name		210
Total identifiable intangible assets	$	20,380

Acquisition Related Costs

Acquisition related costs, or deal costs, relating to Cadeka are included in the selling, general and administrative line on the consolidated statement of operations for the fiscal year ended March 30, 2014 were approximately $0.4 million.

Acquisition of Altior

On March 22, 2013, we completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Altior Inc. (“Altior”), a developer of data management solutions in Eatontown, New Jersey. Altior’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning March 23, 2013. The pro forma effects of the portion of the Altior operations assumed through the transaction on our results of operations during fiscal years 2013 were considered immaterial.

Consideration

The purchase consideration included approximately 358,000 of our shares issued to the shareholders of Altior, a cash payment of $1.0 million (of which $0.25 million was held back temporarily to satisfy potential indemnity claims), and additional purchase price consideration earn-outs which may be paid in the form of cash, shares or a combination thereof (not to exceed $20.0 million in aggregate) payable over the next three fiscal years contingent upon achieving certain revenue targets. The $3.7 million worth of shares issued as consideration were valued on the date of the acquisition, and the fair value of contingent earn-outs was derived using a probability-based approach on various revenue assumptions. Final determination of the earn-out liability can range from zero to $20.0 million based on the actual achievement of the revenue targets. Fair value of contingent consideration is subject to periodic revaluation and any change in the fair value of contingent consideration from the events after the acquisition date, will be recognized in earnings of the period in which the fair value changes. The probability–based approach used to fair value contingent consideration is based on significant inputs not observed in the market and thus represents a Level 3 measurement. The significant unobservable inputs include projected revenues, percentage probability of occurrence and a discount rate to present value the future payments.

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The summary of the purchase consideration is as follows (in thousands):

	Amount
Cash	$	1,000
Equity instruments		3,740
Estimated fair value of earn-out payments		10,138
Total consideration paid	$	14,878

In accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations, the acquisition of Altior was recorded as a purchase business acquisition since Altior was considered a business. Under the purchase method of accounting, the fair value of the consideration was allocated to assets and liabilities assumed at their fair values. The fair value of purchased identifiable intangible assets and contingent earn-outs were derived from model-based valuations from significant Level 3 inputs determined by management. The fair value of purchased identifiable intangible assets was determined using discounted cash flow models from operating projections prepared by management using an internal rate of return ranging from 12% to 19%. The fair value of the contingent earn-outs was a probability-based approach that includes significant Level 3 inputs. “See Note 4 — Fair Value,” for additional details of the inputs used to determine the fair value of the contingent earn-out. The excess of the fair value of consideration paid over the fair values of net assets and liabilities acquired and identifiable intangible assets resulted in recognition of goodwill of approximately $7.2 million. The goodwill consists largely of expected synergies from combining the operations of Altior with that of Exar and is deductible over 15 years for tax purposes.“

Purchase Price Allocation

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

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

	Amount
Identifiable tangible assets
Inventories	$	126
Property, plant and equipment		140
Other assets		36
Accounts payable and accruals		(24	)
Other short-term liabilities		(51	)
Long-term liabilities		(61	)
Total identifiable tangible assets, net		166
Identifiable intangible assets – existing technology		7,540
Total identifiable assets, net		7,706
Goodwill		7,172
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$	14,878

Acquisition Related Costs

Acquisition related costs, or deal costs, relating to Altior are included in the selling, general and administrative line on the consolidated statement of operations for fiscal year 2013, which were immaterial.

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 Synchronous Optical NETwork and Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (“SONET/SDH”), Plesiochronous Digital Hierarchy (“PDH”) and Optical Transport Network (“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. On February 1, 2012, we terminated our development efforts in connection with our pre-production OTN products. Therefore, the results of operations of Galazar were included in our consolidated financial statements from June 18, 2009 through February 1, 2012.

See “Note 22 — Subsequent Event” for additional information regarding our acquisitions.

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NOTE 5.    BALANCE SHEET DETAILS

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

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Land	$	6,660		$	6,660
Building		16,787			16,224
Machinery and equipment		40,675			42,258
Software and licenses		17,549			17,566
Property, plant and equipment, total		81,671			82,708
Accumulated depreciation and amortization		(60,391	)		(58,608	)
Total property, plant and equipment, net	$	21,280		$	24,100

During fiscal year 2014, we wrote off $4.1 million of fully depreciated assets.

Depreciation and amortization expense pertaining to property, plant and equipment for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $5.6 million, $6.8 million and $8.1 million, respectively.

During fiscal year 2013, we started actively looking for potential buyers for our Fremont campus. In the first quarter of our fiscal year 2014, we reclassified the related property and land as held for sale as of June 30, 2013, however due to our intent to lease back of one of the buildings, we should not have classified these asset as held for sale which resulted in the overstatement of current assets and understatement of long-lived assets by $13.1 million as of June 30, 2013, September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2013, respectively. The impact to our consolidated statement of operations was immaterial. We assessed the materiality of the misclassifications on prior periods' financial statements and concluded that impact was not material to any of our prior period interim financial statements.

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

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Work-in-progress and raw materials	$	13,555	$	9,981
Finished goods		15,427		9,449
Total inventories	$	28,982	$	19,430

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Our other current liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands) as of the dates indicated below:

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Short-term lease financing obligations	$	2,671	$	3,189
Accrued restructuring charges and exit costs		2,214		2,020
Accrued manufacturing expenses, royalties and licenses		1,639		2,370
Accrued legal and professional services		1,453		746
Purchase consideration holdback		1,256		—
Accrued sales and marketing expenses		666		576
Fair value of earn out liability – short-term		490		2,599
Accrual for dispute resolution		—		2,727
Other		981		988
Total other current liabilities	$	11,370	$	15,215

Our other non - current obligations consisted of the following (in thousands) as of the dates indicated:

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Fair value of earn out liability – long-term	$	3,853	$	7,539
Accrued retention bonus		1,181		—
Long-term taxes payable		794		2,225
Deferred tax liability		614		145
Accrued restructuring charges and exit costs		155		1,266
Other		29		29
Total other non-current obligations	$	6,626	$	11,204

NOTE 6.    FAIR VALUE

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 cash and investment instruments are classified within Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted market prices, broker or dealer quotations, or alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency.

The fair value of contingent consideration arising from the acquisition of Altior and Cadeka (See “Note 4—Business Combinations”) is classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy since it is based on a probability-based approach that includes significant unobservable inputs.

There were no transfers between Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 during the year ended March 30, 2014.

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 Our investment assets, measured at fair value on a recurring basis, as of the dates indicated below were as follows (in thousands, except for percentages):

	March 30, 2014
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
Assets:
Money market funds	$	4,636	$	—	$	—	$	4,636
U.S. government and agency securities		9,378		13,134		—		22,512
State and local government securities		—		2,772		—		2,772
Corporate bonds and securities		5		71,248		—		71,253
Asset-backed securities		—		27,635		—		27,635
Mortgage-backed securities		—		28,248		—		28,248
Total investment assets	$	14,019	$	143,037	$	—	$	157,056
Liabilities:
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Altior	$	—	$	—	$	2,973	$	2,973
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Cadeka	$	—	$	—	$	1,370	$	1,370
Total liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	4,343	$	4,343

	March 31, 2013
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
Assets:
Money market funds	$	5,042	$	—	$	—	$	5,042
U.S. government and agency securities		22,460		19,261		—		41,721
State and local government securities		—		2,935		—		2,935
Corporate bonds and securities		274		91,955		—		92,229
Asset-backed securities		—		30,966		—		30,966
Mortgage-backed securities		—		22,736		—		22,736
Total investment assets	$	27,776	$	167,853	$	—	$	195,629
Liabilities:
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Altior	$	—	$	—	$	10,138	$	10,138

The fair value of contingent consideration was determined based on a probability-based approach which includes projected revenues, percentage probability of occurrence and discount rate to present value payments. A significant increase (decrease) in the projected revenue, discount rate or probability of occurrence in isolation could result in a significantly higher (lower) fair value measurement. 

The following table presents quantitative information about the inputs and valuation methodologies used for our fair value measurements classified in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy as of March 30, 2014.

	Fair Value (in thousands)		Valuation Technique	Significant Unobservable Input	Range
As of March 30, 2014
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Altior	$	2,973	Combination of income and market approach	Revenue (in “000’s)	$6,725	-	$20,175
				Probability of Achievement	1%	-	66%
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Cadeka	$	1,370	Combination of income and market approach	Revenue (in “000’s)	$4,800	-	$18,000
				Probability of Achievement	2%	-	50%

We calculate the fair value of the contingent consideration on a quarterly basis based on additional information as it becomes available. Any change in the fair value adjustment is recorded in the earnings of that period.

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The change in the fair value of our Altior purchase consideration liability is as follows (in thousands):

	Amount
As of original recognition in year ended and as of March 31, 2013	$	10,138
Less: Adjustment to purchase consideration		(7,165	)
As of March 30, 2014	$	2,973

The change in the fair value of our Cadeka purchase consideration liability is as follows (in thousands):

	Amount
As of March 31, 2013	$	—
Purchase contingent consideration		4,660
Less: Adjustment to purchase consideration		(3,290	)
As of March 30, 2014	$	1,370

In fiscal year 2014 the fair value of the contingent considerations for Altior and Cadeka acquisitions were decreased by $7.2 million and $3.3 million, respectively, due to changes in probability of achieving revenue targets and impact of change in present value of the amount payable due to passage of time.

Our cash, cash equivalents and short-term marketable securities as of the dates indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash in financial institutions	$	9,978	$	9,676
Money market funds		4,636		5,042
Total cash and cash equivalents	$	14,614	$	14,718
Short-term marketable securities
U.S. government and agency securities	$	22,512	$	41,721
State and local government securities		2,772		2,935
Corporate bonds and securities		71,253		92,229
Asset-backed securities		27,635		30,966
Mortgage-backed securities		28,248		22,736
Total short-term marketable securities	$	152,420	$	190,587

 Our marketable securities include U.S. government and agency securities, state and local government securities, corporate bonds and securities, and asset-backed and mortgage-backed 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 the consolidated statements of other comprehensive income except those unrealized losses that are deemed to be other than temporary which are reflected in the impairment of long term investment line item on the consolidated statements of operations.

Realized gains (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 item on the consolidated statements of operations.

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

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Gross realized gains	$	748		$	871		$	799
Gross realized losses		(547	)		(953	)		(1,098	)
Net realized gains (losses)	$	201		$	(82	)	$	(299	)

The following table summarizes our investments in marketable securities as of the dates indicated below (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014
	Amortized Cost		Unrealized Gross Gains(1)		Unrealized Gross Losses(1)			Fair Value
Money market funds	$	4,636	$	—	$	—		$	4,636
U.S. government and agency securities		22,550		1		(39	)		22,512
State and local government securities		2,762		10		—			2,772
Corporate bonds and securities		71,309		32		(88	)		71,253
Asset-backed securities		27,661		22		(48	)		27,635
Mortgage-backed securities		28,362		24		(138	)		28,248
Total investments	$	157,280	$	89	$	(313	)	$	157,056

	March 31, 2013
	Amortized Cost		Unrealized Gross Gains(1)		Unrealized Gross Losses(1)			Fair Value
Money market funds	$	5,042	$	—	$	—		$	5,042
U.S. government and agency securities		41,694		27		—			41,721
State and local government securities		2,927		10		(2	)		2,935
Corporate bonds and securities		92,059		215		(45	)		92,229
Asset-backed securities		30,932		61		(27	)		30,966
Mortgage-backed securities		22,646		194		(104	)		22,736
Total investments	$	195,300	$	507	$	(178	)	$	195,629

(1) Gross of tax impact of $828 for fiscal years 2014 and 2013

Our asset-backed securities are comprised primarily of premium tranches of vehicle 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 March 30, 2014, we have sufficient liquidity and do not intend to sell these securities to fund normal operations or 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/amortization, which is immaterial for all periods presented, is included in the interest income and other, net line in the consolidated statements 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 losses line in the consolidated balance sheets. As of March 30, 2014, there was approximately $1.1 million of unrealized losses, net of tax 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 not to 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. For fiscal year 2014, there were no investments identified with other-than-temporary declines in value.

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The amortized cost and estimated fair value of cash equivalents and marketable securities classified as available-for-sale by expected maturity as of the dates indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014				March 31, 2013
	Amortized Cost		Fair Value		Amortized Cost		Fair Value
Less than 1 year	$	49,539	$	49,504	$	61,011	$	61,029
Due in 1 to 5 years		107,741		107,552		134,289		134,600
Total	$	157,280	$	157,056	$	195,300	$	195,629

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

	March 30, 2014
	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	$	18,245	$	(39	)	$	—	$	—		$	18,245	$	(39	)
Corporate bonds and securities		48,379		(87	)		596		(1	)		48,975		(88	)
Asset-backed securities		7,118		(12	)		5,478		(36	)		12,596		(48	)
Mortgage-backed securities		19,682		(120	)		983		(18	)		20,665		(138	)
Total	$	93,424	$	(258	)	$	7,057	$	(55	)	$	100,481	$	(313	)

	March 31, 2013
	Less than 12 months					12 months or greater					Total
	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses
State and local government securities	$	—	$	—		$	404	$	(2	)	$	404	$	(2	)
Corporate bonds and securities		29,609		(42	)		497		(3	)		30,106		(45	)
Asset-backed securities		10,008		(17	)		1,241		(10	)		11,249		(27	)
Mortgage-backed securities		2,911		(39	)		3,263		(65	)		6,174		(104	)
Total	$	42,528	$	(98	)	$	5,405	$	(80	)	$	47,933	$	(178	)

NOTE 7.    RELATED PARTY TRANSACTION

Alonim Investments Inc. (“Alonim”) owns approximately 7.6 million shares, or approximately 16%, of our outstanding common stock as of March 30, 2014. As such, Alonim is our largest stockholder and any sales made to Alonim or its affiliates are considered related party transactions and revenue is recognized in accordance to our revenue recognition policy disclosed in “Note 3 – Accounting Policies.”

Related party contributions as a percentage of our total net sales for the periods indicated below were as follows:

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Alonim		29	%		30	%		31	%

Related party receivables as a percentage of our net accounts receivable were as follows as of the dates indicated below:

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Alonim		18	%		21	%

Related party expenses for reimbursement of promotional materials were not significant for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012.

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NOTE 8.    RESTRUCTURING CHARGES AND EXIT COSTS

2014 Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs

Restructuring expenses result from the execution of management approved restructuring plans that were generally developed to improve our cost structure and/or operations, often in conjunction with our acquisition integration strategies. Restructuring expenses consist of employee severance costs and may also include contract termination costs to improve our cost structure prospectively. In fiscal year 2014, we recorded $3.0 million of restructuring charges and exit costs. Of the total restructuring charges and exit costs recorded in fiscal year 2014, $0.2 million was reflected in cost of sales and $2.8 million was reflected in operating expenses within our consolidated statements of operations. 

2013 Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs

In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2013, we recorded $0.3 million of restructuring charges and exit costs and released a $0.5 million liability related to the Industrial Research Assistance Program (“IRAP”) with Canadian governmental agency. In the third, second and first quarters of fiscal year 2013, we recorded restructuring charges and exit costs of $0.6 million, $0.3 million and $0.9 million, respectively. Of the total restructuring charges and exit costs recorded in fiscal year 2013, $0.3 million was reflected in cost of sales and $1.3 million was reflected in operating expenses within our consolidated statements of operations. 

2012 Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs

In fiscal year 2012, we incurred restructuring charges and exit costs totaling $14.2 million, of which $13.9 million was recorded in the fourth quarter and $0.3 million was recorded in the first quarter. Of the total restructuring charges and exit costs, $1.3 million was reflected in cost of sales and $12.9 million was reflected in operating expenses within our consolidated statements of operations.

During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, we implemented and completed reductions in force of approximately 173 positions across of all company functions. This action was intended to align our cost structure with revenues, reduce spending in operations and to cease development of certain products. The reduction in headcount was primarily associated with offices located in Fremont, California; Hangzhou, China; Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Raleigh, North Carolina; and San Diego, California. As part of the reduction activity, we terminated our development efforts in connection with our pre-production OTN and de-duplication products. The market for our OTN product was modest and the outlook to achieve meaningful revenue and a return on this investment was considered unlikely. As a result of the reduction activity in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, we recorded a total charge for restructuring and exit costs of $13.9 million, which included a one-time severance charge of $4.2 million, lease contract termination costs and other costs of $7.0 million, lease abandonment charges of $0.8 million and accelerated amortization and depreciation charges of $1.9 million. We paid $1.4 million of the $4.2 million one-time severance charges in fiscal year 2012.

The lease contract termination costs and other costs of $7.0 million include: (1) costs associated with the termination of certain electronic design automated license agreements consisting of the accrual of future payments of $3.9 million, and the write off of prepaid training, maintenance and license fees of $2.6 million; and (2) costs associated with a Canadian governmental agency related to IRAP tied to continued employment obligations of $0.5 million, which was waived as of March 31, 2013.

The lease abandonment charges of $0.8 million include future lease obligations, net of estimated rental income for vacated facilities in Ottawa, Canada, San Diego, California, Minneapolis, Minnesota and Raleigh, North Carolina, for leases that expire at various dates from June 2012 to January 2015.

The accelerated amortization and depreciation charges of $1.9 million include $1.7 million related to termination of OTN and de-duplication products (See “Note 10 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets”) and $0.2 million related to certain property and equipment.

During the first quarter of fiscal year 2012, we incurred restructuring charges and exit costs of $0.3 million, which included a one-time severance charge of $0.1 million, lease contract termination costs of $0.1 million, and inventory write-off costs of $0.1 million.

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Our restructuring liabilities were included in the accounts payable, other current liabilities and other non-current obligations lines within our consolidated balance sheets. The following table summarizes the activities affecting the liabilities as of the dates indicated below (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014
	Beginning  balance		Additions/ adjustments		Non-cash charges			Payments			Ending balance
Lease termination and other costs	$	2,860	$	570	$	(57	)	$	(1,758	)	$	1,615
Severance		426		2,444		—			(2,116	)		754
Balance at March 30, 2014	$	3,286	$	3,014	$	(57	)	$	(3,874	)	$	2,369

	March 31, 2013
	Beginning balance		Additions/ adjustments		Non-cash charges			Payments			Ending balance
Lease termination costs and others	$	5,235	$	6	$	(56	)	$	(2,325	)	$	2,860
Severance		2,806		1,548		—			(3,928	)		426
Balance at March 31, 2013	$	8,041	$	1,554	$	(56	)	$	(6,253	)	$	3,286

See “Note 5—Balance Sheet Details” for current and long-term portion of restructuring charges and exit costs recorded in the consolidated balance sheets as of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013.

NOTE 9.    LONG-TERM INVESTMENT

In July 2001, Exar became a Limited Partner in the Skypoint Telecom Fund II (US), LP. (“Skypoint Fund”), a venture capital fund focused on investments in communications infrastructure companies. We account for this non-marketable equity investment under the cost method in the other non-current assets in the consolidated balance sheet. The partnership was in the dissolution phase and the fund distributed stock of investee companies to Exar during first fiscal quarter of 2015. 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.

As of the dates indicated below, our long-term investment balance, which is included in the “Other non-current assets” line item on the consolidated balance sheets, consisted of the following (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Beginning balance	$	1,288		$	1,273
Contributions		—			15
Net distributions		(19	)		—
Impairment charges		(323	)		—
Ending balance	$	946		$	1,288

The carrying amount of $0.9 million as of March 30, 2014 reflects the net of the capital contributions, capital distributions and cumulative impairment charges. We have made $4.8 million in capital contributions to Skypoint Fund since we became a limited partner in July 2001. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2013, we contributed $15,000 to the fund. In the third quarter of fiscal year 2014, we received a $19,000 net distribution from one of our portfolio companies. In accordance with the standard related to accounting for cost method investments, we recorded the distribution on the cost basis and reduced the carrying value of our investment in the Skypoint Fund.

Impairment

We evaluate our long-term investment for impairment on an annual basis or whenever events and changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. We conduct our annual impairment analysis in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year by comparing the carrying amount to the fair value of the underlying investments. If the carrying amount exceeds its fair value, the long term-investment is considered impaired and a second step is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss. We analyzed the fair value of the underlying investments of Skypoint Fund and as a result, $0.3 million, $0 and $0 of impairment charges were recorded for fiscal year 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

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NOTE 10.    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 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. Estimations and assumptions regarding the number of reporting units, future performances, results of our operations and comparability of our market capitalization and net book value will be used. 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 single operating segment and one chief operating decision maker, the President and Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), with highly integrated business, we utilize an entity-wide approach to assess goodwill for impairment.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014, we conducted our annual impairment review comparing the fair value of our single reporting unit with its carrying value. As of the test date and as of fiscal 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 goodwill impairment was recorded for fiscal year 2014. However, we recorded an impairment charge for certain purchased technologies due to a decrease in valuation based on decline in our business forecasts related to these technologies.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal years 2013 and 2012, we conducted our annual impairment. 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 years 2013 or 2012.

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for fiscal years 2014 and 2013 were as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Beginning balance	$	10,356	$	3,184
Goodwill additions		20,054		7,172
Ending balance	$	30,410	$	10,356

The goodwill additions during fiscal year 2014 consist of $19.4 million and $0.7 million residual allocation from the Cadeka and Stretch acquisition purchase price accounting, respectively. Goodwill additions during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2013 consisted of $7.2 million residual allocation from the Altior acquisition purchase price accounting.

Intangible Assets

Our purchased intangible assets as of the dates indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014										March 31, 2013
	Carrying Amount		Impair- ment			Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Amount		Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Amount
Amortized intangible assets:
Existing technology	$	64,678	$	(1,635	)	$	(37,510	)	$	25,533	$	42,858	$	(30,668	)	$	12,190
Customer relationships		6,095		—			(2,762	)		3,333		2,905		(2,079	)		826
Patents/Core technology		3,459		—			(3,378	)		81		3,459		(3,182	)		277
Distributor relationships		1,264		—			(1,260	)		4		1,264		(1,219	)		45
Tradenames		210		—			(51	)		159		—		—			—
Total intangible assets subject to amortization		75,706		(1,635	)		(44,961	)		29,110		50,486		(37,148	)		13,338
In-process research and development		2,280		—			—			2,280		—		—			—
Total	$	77,986	$	(1,635	)	$	(44,961	)	$	31,390	$	50,486	$	(37,148	)	$	13,338

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Long-lived assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their respective estimated useful lives. Existing technology is amortized over two to nine years. Patents/core technology is amortized over five to six years. Distributor relationships are amortized over six years. Customer relationships are amortized over five to seven years. Tradenames are amortized over three years. We expect the amortization of IPR&D to start in fiscal year 2015. 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 business circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets (or asset group) may not be fully recoverable. Whenever events or changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount of long-lived assets may not be recoverable, we estimate the future cash flows expected to be generated by the assets (or asset group) from its use or eventual disposition. If the sum of the expected future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of those assets, we recognize an impairment loss based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets. Significant management judgment is required in the grouping of long-lived assets and forecasts of future operating results that are used in the discounted cash flow method of valuation. If our actual results, or the plans and estimates used in future impairment analyses are lower than the original estimates used to assess the recoverability of these assets, we could incur additional impairment charges.

Due to the decline in forecasted revenue related to certain acquired intangible assets, we recorded $1.6 million impairment charges for fiscal year 2014. No impairment charges were recorded for fiscal year 2013 or fiscal year 2012.

During the second quarter of fiscal year 2013, we sold certain patents for $500,000 and recorded a gain of approximately $223,000.

During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012 we exited the OTN market, and, in connection therewith, stopped development of our OTN products. We also ceased development of our de-duplication products. In both instances, we determined that the current economic and market environment did not provide the potential to deliver acceptable returns on the required investments. As a result, in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, we expensed the costs for the related IPR&D and intangible assets. We recorded total charges of $1.7 million in restructuring charges and exit costs line item in our consolidated statements of operations.

The intangible asset charges related to the exiting of the OTN and de-duplication products of $1.7 million consists of $0.3 million write-off of the IPR&D acquired from Galazar, $1.1 million of amortization of purchased intangible assets related to the OTN products acquired from Galazar and $0.3 million amortization of the existing technology acquired from Hifn. See “Note 8—Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs.”

The aggregate amortization expenses for our purchased intangible assets for fiscal years indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Amortization expense	$	7,813	$	4,150	$	6,700

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

Amortization Expense (by fiscal year)
2015	$	6,159
2016		5,578
2017		4,645
2018		4,432
2019		3,231
2020 and thereafter		5,065
Total future amortization excluding IPR&D	$	29,110

NOTE 11.    NET INCOME (LOSS) PER SHARE

Basic net income (loss) per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the applicable period. Diluted earnings per share 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.

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The following table summarizes our net income (loss) per share for the periods indicated below (in thousands, except per share amounts):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Net income (loss)	$	5,801	$	2,882	$	(28,056	)
Shares used in computation of net income (loss) per share:
Basic		47,291		45,809		44,796
Effect of options and awards		1,532		667		—
Diluted		48,823		46,476		44,796
Net income (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.12	$	0.06	$	(0.63	)
Diluted	$	0.12	$	0.06	$	(0.63	)

All outstanding stock options and RSUs are potentially dilutive securities. As of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013, stock options of 1.4 million and 2.2 million, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted net income per share because they were determined to be anti-dilutive. For fiscal years 2012, all shares attributable to outstanding options and RSUs were excluded from the computation of diluted net loss per share, as inclusion of such shares would have had an anti-dilutive effect. Accordingly, basic and diluted net loss per share were the same in each period presented.

NOTE 12.    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 invested capital and to bring our cash to a more appropriate level for our organization.

On August 28, 2007, we announced the approval of a share repurchase plan under which we were authorized to repurchase up to $100.0 million of our common stock.

On July 9, 2013, we announced the approval of a share repurchase program under which we were authorized to repurchase an additional $50.0 million of our common stock. The repurchase program does not have a termination date, and may be modified, extended or terminated at any time. We intend to retire all shares repurchased under the stock repurchase plan. The purchase price for the repurchased shares of Exar is reflected as a reduction of common stock and additional paid-in capital. We may continue to repurchase our common stock under the 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.

In the first fiscal quarter of 2014, we retired all of our 19.9 million treasury shares. 

As of March 30, 2014, we had repurchased shares valued at $97.2 million under the August 2007 repurchase program. During fiscal year 2014, we repurchased $9.0 million of our common stock under the July 2013 repurchase program. The repurchased shares were retired immediately. During fiscal year 2013 and 2012, we did not repurchase any shares. The remaining authorized amount for the stock repurchase under the repurchase programs is $52.8 million.

We repurchased shares valued at $3.0 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015.

Stock repurchase activities during fiscal year 2014 and 2013 were indicated below (in thousands, except per share amounts):

	Total number of Shares Purchased		Average Price Paid Per Share (or Unit)		Amount Paid for Purchase
Balances, April 1, 2012		9,564	$	9.22	$	88,189
Repurchases		—	$	—		—
Balances, March 31, 2013		9,564	$	9.22	$	88,189
Repurchases		755	$	11.92		9,000
Balances, March 30, 2014		10,319	$	9.42	$	97,189

Note: The average price paid per share is based on the total price paid by Exar, which includes applicable broker fees.

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NOTE 13.    EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Exar Savings Plan

The Exar Savings Plan (“Plan”), as amended and restated, covers our eligible U.S. employees. The Plan provides for voluntary salary reduction contributions in accordance with Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code as well as matching contributions from Exar. The Exar matching amount is a percentage of employees’ contributions for fiscal year 2014. Exar matching for fiscal year 2013 and 2012 was based on the achievement of specified operating results.

Our matching contributions to the Plan for the fiscal years indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Matching contributions	$	373	$	267	$	294

Management 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 unpaid incentive compensation for the fiscal years indicated below was as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Unpaid incentive compensation	$	698	$	781	$	—

NOTE 14.    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. Exar’s ESPP qualifies with IRS 423(b) and was approved by our stockholders at our 1989 annual shareholder meeting. 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 per Share
Authorized to issue:		4,500	$	—
Reserved for future issuance:
Fiscal year ending March 30, 2014		1,372		—
Fiscal year ending March 31, 2013		1,392		—
Fiscal year ending April 1, 2012		1,418		—
Issued:
Fiscal year ending March 30, 2014		20		11.38
Fiscal year ending March 31, 2013		26		8.38
Fiscal year ending April 1, 2012		62		6.09

Equity Incentive Plans

We currently have two equity incentive plans, in which shares are available for future issuance, the Exar Corporation 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2006 Plan”) and the Sipex Corporation (“Sipex”) 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Sipex Plan”), the latter of which was assumed in connection with the August 2007 acquisition of Sipex.

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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 Plan 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 30, 2014, there were 1.2 million shares available for future grant under all our equity incentive plans.

The following table summarizes information about our stock options outstanding at March 30, 2014:

			Options Outstanding						Options Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices			Number Outstanding As of March 30, 2014		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms (in years)		Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share		Number Exercisable As of March 30, 2014		Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share
$5.44	–	$6.43		2,010,296		4.00	$	6.27		1,184,735	$	6.25
6.60	–	8.07		1,577,634		4.34		7.62		597,423		7.46
8.16	–	10.80		1,764,751		5.45		9.56		387,376		8.90
11.23	–	13.36		1,451,567		6.39		12.22		136,867		12.32
13.54	–	15.67		409,600		6.02		13.59		62,600		13.84
Total				7,213,848		5.02	$	8.98		2,369,001	$	7.54

Stock Option Activities

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

	Outstanding Options / Quantity			Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands)		In-the-money Options Vested and Exercisable (in thousands)
Balance at March 27, 2011		5,729,464		$	7.61		4.74	$	147		103
Granted		3,100,595			6.33
Exercised		(422,749	)		6.54
Cancelled		(526,574	)		8.15
Forfeited		(1,535,429	)		6.70
Balance at April 1, 2012		6,345,307		$	7.23		4.67	$	9,474		1,193
Granted		2,540,010			8.32
Exercised		(875,459	)		6.92
Cancelled		(903,781	)		9.67
Forfeited		(893,744	)		6.41
Balance at March 31, 2013		6,212,333		$	7.48		5.04	$	19,199		1,481
Granted		2,482,650			11.89
Exercised		(784,864	)		7.14
Cancelled		(10,834	)		10.92
Forfeited		(685,437	)		8.02
Balance at March 30, 2014		7,213,848		$	8.98		5.02	$	21,301		2,170
Vested and expected to vest, March 30, 2014		6,740,358		$	8.88		4.94	$	20,539
Vested and exercisable, March 30, 2014		2,369,001		$	7.54		3.55	$	10,114

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 $11.71, $10.50 and $8.40 as of March 30, 2014, March 21, 2013 and April 1, 2012, respectively. These are the values which would have been received by option holders if all option holders exercised their options on that date.

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In January 2012, we granted 480,000 performance-based stock options to our CEO. The options are scheduled to vest in four equal annual installments at the end of fiscal years 2013 through 2016 if certain predetermined financial measures are met. If the financial measures are not met, each installment will be rolled over to the subsequent fiscal year for vesting except for the last installment. In January 2014, we granted 140,000 performance-based stock options to our CEO. The options are scheduled to vest at the end of fiscal years 2017 if certain predetermined financial measures are met We recorded $260,000, $260,000 and $65,000 of compensation expense for these options in fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Options exercised for the fiscal years indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Intrinsic value of options exercised	$	3,887	$	1,443	$	79
Cash received related to option exercises		9,493		6,059		2,763
Tax benefit recorded		6,669		1,927		1,761

RSUs

We issue RSUs to employees and non-employee directors. RSUs generally vest on the first or third anniversary date from the grant date. 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 (in thousands)
Unvested at March 27, 2011		557,098		$	7.17		1.09	$	3,387
Granted		481,650			7.12
Issued and released		(271,830	)		7.25
Forfeited		(162,263	)		7.25
Unvested at April 1, 2012		604,655		$	7.13		2.38	$	5,079
Granted		331,894			8.40
Issued and released		(125,095	)		7.10
Forfeited		(79,250	)		6.96
Unvested at March 31, 2013		732,204		$	7.73		1.72	$	7,688
Granted		828,995			13.06
Issued and released		(346,407	)		9.38
Forfeited		(37,666	)		9.52
Unvested at March 30, 2014		1,177,126		$	10.94		1.62	$	13,784
Vested and expected to vest, March 30, 2014		1,018,609					1.58	$	11,928

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.

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 (“PRSUs”) 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. In fiscal year 2012, we recognized approximately $19,000 of compensation expense related to these awards, net of forfeitures. The awards were fully vested in fiscal year 2012, and no expense was recorded in fiscal year 2013 or 2014.

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In March 2012, we granted 300,000 PRSUs to our CEO. The PRSUs are scheduled to start vesting in three equal installments at the end of fiscal year 2013 through 2015 with three year vesting periods if certain predetermined financial measures are met. If the financial measures are not met, each installment will be forfeited at the end of its respective fiscal year. In fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, we recorded $732,000, $448,000 and $48,000 compensation expense, respectively for these awards.

In April 2012, we granted 29,000 bonus RSUs to our CEO. The RSUs vest 50% on the date that is six months after the commencement of the fiscal year 2013 and 50% on the last day of fiscal year 2013. In fiscal year 2013, we recorded $250,000, of compensation expense for these awards.

In June 2012, we announced the Fiscal Year 2013 Management Incentive Program (“2013 Incentive Program”). Under this program, each participant’s award is denominated in stock and subject to achievement of certain financial performance goals and the participant’s annual Management by Objective goals. In fiscal year 2013, we recorded $1.2 million of stock compensation expense related to the 2013 Incentive Program as a result of achieving performance targets at various levels.

In July 2013, as part of the acquisition of Cadeka, we agreed to pay retention bonus to certain former Cadeka employees and the bonus will be settled in RSUs subject to fulfillment of the service period. In fiscal year 2014, we recorded $1.2 million of non-cash compensation expense, net of forfeiture for these PRSUs. The expense is reported in the other non-current obligations line in the consolidated balance sheet as the total amount of bonus is to be settled in variable number of RSUs at the completion of the requisite service period. Such non-cash compensation expense is recorded as part of stock compensation expense in the consolidated statement of operations.

In August 2013, we announced the Fiscal Year 2014 Management Incentive Program (“2014 Incentive Program”). Under this program, each participant’s award is denominated in stock and subject to achievement of certain financial performance goals and the participant’s annual Management by Objective goals. In fiscal year 2014, we recorded $0.7 million of stock compensation expense related to the 2014 Incentive Program. The expense is reported in the other current liabilities line in the consolidated balance sheet as the total amount of bonus is to be settled in variable number of RSUs at the completion of the requisite service period. Such non-cash compensation expense is recorded as part of stock compensation expense in the consolidated statement of operations.

In the first quarter of fiscal 2014 we granted 50,000 PRSUs to certain executives. The PRSUs are scheduled to start vesting in three equal installments at the end of fiscal year 2014 with a three-year vesting period if certain performance measures are met. In fiscal year 2014, we recorded $0.3 million of stock compensation expense related to these PRSUs.

In October 2013 we granted 35,000 PRSUs to certain executives. The PRSUs are scheduled to start vesting in three equal installments at the end of fiscal year 2015 with a three-year vesting period if certain performance measures are met. In fiscal year 2014, we recorded $0.1 million of stock compensation expense related to these PRSUs.

In January 2014, we granted 80,000 PRSUs to certain former Stretch employees. The PRSUs are scheduled to start vesting in three equal installments at the end of fiscal year 2015 with a three-year vesting period if certain performance measures are met. In fiscal year 2014, we recorded $0 of stock compensation expense related to these PRSUs as the vesting of such PRSUs was not deemed probable.

Stock-Based Compensation Expenses

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 on the date of grant using 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 NASDAQ Global Select Market (“NASDAQ”) and/or New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (“NYSE”) under the symbol “EXAR” and the expected term of our stock options.

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

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Expected term of options (years)		4.40 – 4.49			4.36			4.30
Risk-free interest rate		0.6 – 1.1	%		0.5 – 0.6	%		0.7 – 1.5	%
Expected volatility		32 - 35	%		37 - 42	%		41 - 43	%
Expected dividend yield		—			—			—
Weighted average grant date fair value	$	3.40		$	2.80		$	2.22

The following table summarizes stock-based compensation expense related to stock options and RSUs during the fiscal years presented below (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Cost of sales	$	714	$	469	$	301
Research and development		1,974		789		1,239
Selling, general and administrative		6,164		3,530		2,210
Total stock-based compensation expense	$	8,852	$	4,788	$	3,750

The amount of stock-based compensation cost capitalized in inventory was immaterial at each of the fiscal years presented.

During fiscal year 2012, we modified stock options and PRSUs held by our then current CEO upon his termination to accelerate the vesting of any portion of each equity award that was scheduled to vest on or within 12 months after November 7, 2011 (the “Severance Date”) and to exercise the vested portion of stock options on or within twelve months after the Severance Date, which is in accordance with the separation agreement. As a result of the modifications in fiscal year 2012, we recorded additional stock-based compensation expense of approximately $114,000.

Unrecognized Stock-based Compensation Expense

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

	March 30, 2014				March 31, 2013				April 1, 2012
	Amount (in thousands)		Weighted Average Remaining Recognition Period (in years)		Amount (in thousands)		Weighted Average Remaining Recognition Period (in years)		Amount (in thousands)		Weighted Average Remaining Recognition Period (in years)
Options	$	9,958		2.7	$	6,269		2.8	$	7,356		2.8
Performance Options		242		2.2		502		2.6		763		3.5
RSUs		5,970		2.2		1,557		2.5		1,185		3.2
PRSUs		3,047		2.5		1,814		3.4		2,352		4.1
Total Stock-based compensation expense	$	19,217			$	10,142			$	11,656

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NOTE 15.    LEASE FINANCING OBLIGATION

We have acquired engineering design tools under capital leases. We acquired design tools of $0.9 million in July 2012 under a three-year license, $4.5 million in December 2011 under a three-year license, $5.8 million in October 2011 under a three-year license, $1.0 million in June 2010 under a three-year license, $1.3 million in December 2009 under a 28-month license, and $1.1 million in July 2009 under a three-year license, all of which were accounted for as capital leases and recorded in the property, plant and equipment, net line item in the consolidated balance sheets. The obligations related to the design tools were included in other current liabilities and long-term lease financing obligations in our consolidated balance sheets as of March 30, 2014 and April 1, 2012, respectively. The effective interest rates for the design tools range from 2.0% to 7.25%.

Amortization expense related to the design tools, which was 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 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Amortization expense	$	3,294	$	3,523	$	3,706

Future minimum lease and sublease income payments for the lease financing obligations as of March 30, 2014, which all expire prior to 2019, are as follows (in thousands):

Lease financing

Fiscal Years	Design tools
2015	$	2,741
2016		59
2017		10
2018		7
Total minimum lease payments		2,817
Less: amount representing interest		76
Present value of future minimum lease payments		2,741
Less: short-term lease financing obligations		2,671
Long-term lease financing obligations	$	70

Interest expense for the design tools lease financing obligations for the periods indicated were as follow (in thousands): 

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Interest expense – design tools	$	155	$	143	$	210

In the course of our business, we enter into arrangements accounted for as operating leases related to the licensing of engineering design software and the rental of office space. Rent expenses for all operating leases for the periods indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Rent expense	$	1,289	$	616	$	2,121

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Our future minimum lease payments for the lease operating obligations, which all expire prior to 2019, as of March 30, 2014 are as follows (in thousands):

Operating lease

Fiscal Years	Facilities
2015	$	688
2016		463
2017		152
2018		21
Total future minimum lease payments	$	1,324

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 and well closure activities. In April 2012, the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (“RWQCB”) approved our application for low-threat closure and rescinded the previous cleanup order. All monitoring well closure activities on the site and adjacent/neighboring sites have been completed. We have finalized and executed access, environmental indemnity and tolling agreements, and deed restriction covenants with the property owner. The required deed restriction has been recorded. We are awaiting final determination from RWQCB.

Outstanding liabilities for remediation activities, net of payments, consisted of the following as of the dates indicated (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Liabilities for remediation activities	$	28	$	76

In early 2012, we received correspondences from the California Department of Toxic Substance Control (“DTSC”) regarding its ongoing investigation of hazardous wastes and hazardous waste constituents at a former regulated treatment facility in San Jose, California. In 1985, MPSI made two separate permitted hazmat deliveries to a licensed and regulated site for treatment. DTSC has requested that former/current property owners and companies, currently in excess of 50, that had hazardous waste treated at the site participate in further site assessment and limited remediation activities. We have entered into various agreements with other named generators, former property owners and DTSC limited to the investigation of the sites’ condition and evaluation, and selection of appropriate remedial measures. The designated environmental consulting firm is moving forward with the agreed preliminary site assessment and periodic status reporting. Given that this matter is in the early stages of investigation and discussions are ongoing, we are unable to ascertain our exposure, if any.

In a letter dated March 27, 2012, Exar was notified by the Alameda County Water District (“ACWD”) of the recent detection of volatile organic compounds at a site adjacent to a facility that was previously owned and occupied by Sipex. The letter was also addressed to prior and current property owners and tenants (collectively “Property Owners”). ACWD requested that the property owners carry out further site investigation activities to determine if the detected compounds are emanating from the site or simply flowing under it. In June 2012, the Property Owners filed with ACWD a report of its investigation/characterization activities and analytical data obtained. Accumulated data suggests that compounds of concern in groundwater appear to be from an offsite source. ACWD is investigating alternative upgradient sites. Given that this investigation is ongoing, we are unable to ascertain our exposure, if any.

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 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, historical warranty costs incurred and customer/product specific circumstances. Our liability is generally limited, at our option, to replacing, repairing, or issuing a credit (if it has been paid for). Our 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 liability related to our product sales as of September 29, 2013 of $1.4 million was established for the return of certain older generation data compression products shipped in prior years. The remaining balance for this warranty was $1.1 million as of March 30, 2014, and warranty liability as of March 31, 2013 was immaterial.

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As of the dates indicated below, our warranty reserve balance, which is included in the “Other current liabilities” line item on the consolidated balance sheets, consisted of the following (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Beginning balance	$	50		$	90
Provisions for warranties issued		1,480		─
Settlements/adjustments		(456	)		(40	)
Ending balance	$	1,074		$	50

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, matters related to our conduct of the business. 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 unique facts and circumstances involved in each particular agreement and claims. 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.

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. Although the ultimate outcome of the matters discussed below and other matters is not presently determinable, management currently believes that the resolution of all such pending matters will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In fiscal year 2014, two former employees of Exar’s French subsidiary asserted claims against that subsidiary for alleged unfair dismissal in the French Labor Courts. We believe that the former employees were terminated in accordance with the requirements of French law and that the former employees’ claims are not supported by evidence. The matters are in the early procedural stages. A court hearing for one of the matters is scheduled for October 10, 2014. We dispute the claims and we intend to vigorously protect our interests. We do not believe an adverse outcome will have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flow.

NOTE 18.    INCOME TAXES

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

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Current:
Federal	$	(1,350	)	$	(1,255	)	$	110
State		(93	)		(73	)		(235	)
Foreign		(81	)		114			218
Total current	$	(1,524	)	$	(1,214	)	$	93
Deferred:
Federal	$	(6,807	)	$	23		$	(39	)
State		(147	)		2			(3	)
Total deferred	$	(6,954	)	$	25		$	(42	)
Total provision for (benefit from) income taxes	$	(8,478	)	$	(1,189	)	$	51

86

Foreign income/(loss) included in consolidated pre-tax income for the periods indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Foreign income/(loss)	$	(307	)	$	—	$	1,243

Undistributed earnings of $5.8 million of our foreign subsidiaries are considered to be indefinitely reinvested and, accordingly, no provision for federal and state income taxes has 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 as of the dates indicated (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Deferred tax assets:
Reserves and expenses not currently deductible	$	7,973		$	8,049
Net operating loss carryforwards		123,826			124,662
Tax credits		27,259			29,109
Losses on investments		1,832			2,110
Unrealized investment gain		80			-
Intangible assets		6,838			6,225
Deferred margin		3,968			4,158
Depreciation		642			604
Total deferred tax assets		172,418			174,917
Deferred tax liabilities:
Unrealized investment loss		—			(116	)
Non-goodwill intangibles		(6,560	)		(930	)
Total deferred tax liabilities		(6,560	)		(1,046	)
Valuation allowance		(165,924	)		(173,927	)
Net deferred tax liabilities	$	(66	)	$	(56	)

The valuation allowance decreased $8.0 million and $6.7 million in fiscal years 2014 and 2013, respectively, and increased $13.9 million in fiscal year 2012. The change in fiscal year 2014 was primarily due to release of $6.8 million valuation allowance related to Cadeka acquisition in July 2013 and release of $1.3 million reserve for uncertain tax positions related to an NOL carryback refund in the third quarter of 2014.

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

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Income tax benefit at statutory rate	$	(937	)	$	593		$	(10,061	)
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit		(1	)		60			(824	)
Deferred tax assets not benefited		(1,972	)		(378	)		11,967
Tax credits		(757	)		(539	)		(1,021	)
Stock-based compensation		(427	)		258			432
Foreign rate differential		156			148			(373	)
Prior year tax expense true-up		(10	)		11			12
Fair value adjustment		(3,732	)		-			-
Other, net		(798	)		(1,342	)		(81	)
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes	$	(8,478	)	$	(1,189	)	$	51

87

As of March 30, 2014, our federal, state and Canada net operating loss carryforwards for income tax purposes were as follow (in thousands):

Federal net operating loss carryforwards	$	325,333
State net operating loss carryforwards	$	118,149
Canada net operating loss carryforwards	$	27,064

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 fiscal year 2015. The Canadian net operating loss carryovers will begin expiring in fiscal year 2022, if not utilized.

As of March 30, 2014, our federal, state and Canada tax credit carryforwards, net of reserves, were as follows (in thousands):

Federal tax credit carryforwards	$	9,618
State tax credit carryforwards	$	19,186
Canada tax credit carryforwards	$	5,135

Federal tax credits will begin to expire in fiscal year 2018. State tax credits are carried forward indefinitely. The Canadian tax credits will begin to expire in fiscal year 2018.

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 $8.3 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.

Uncertain Income Tax Benefits

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of the unrecognized tax benefits during the tax year ended March 30, 2014 is as follows (in thousands):

	Amount
Unrecognized tax benefits as of March 27, 2011	$	16,714
Gross decrease related to prior year tax positions		(289	)
Gross increase related to current year tax positions		578
Lapses in statute of limitation		(183	)
Unrecognized tax benefits as of April 1, 2012		16,820
Gross decrease related to prior year tax positions		(271	)
Gross increase related to current year tax positions		292
Lapses in statute of limitation		(1,376	)
Unrecognized tax benefits as of March 31, 2013		15,465
Gross increase related to prior year tax positions		92
Gross increase related to current year tax positions		487
Lapses in statute of limitation		(1,880	)
Unrecognized tax benefits as of March 30, 2014	$	14,164

Of the total gross unrecognized tax benefits of $14.2 million as of March 30, 2014, $11.6 million, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate before consideration of the valuation allowance.

88

The total unrecognized gross tax benefits were as follows as of the dates indicated (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Unrecognized gross tax benefits	$	14,164	$	15,465
Less: amount used to reduce deferred tax assets		13,370		13,240
Net income tax payable(1)	$	794	$	2,225

 

(1) Included in other non-current obligations line item in consolidated balance sheet.

We believe that it is reasonably possible that the amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits related to the resolution of income tax matters could be reduced by approximately $96,000 during the next 12 months as the statutes of limitations expire, which would decrease the provision for income taxes and increase our net income.

Estimated interest and penalties related to the underpayment of income taxes were classified as a component of the provision for income taxes in the consolidated statement of operations. Accrued interest and penalties consisted of the following as of the dates indicated (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Accrued interest and penalties	$	83	$	228

Our major tax jurisdictions are the United States federal, various states, Canada, China and certain other foreign jurisdictions. The fiscal years 2003 through 2012 remain open and subject to examinations by the appropriate governmental agencies in the United States and certain of our foreign jurisdictions.

On November 6, 2012, California passed Proposition 39, which mandates most taxpayers to apportion their California income by using a single sales factor and requires all taxpayers to use market-based sourcing for sale receipts for tax years beginning or after January 1, 2013. The adoption of this guidance did not have any material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

ASU No. 2013-11 – US GAAP previously did not include explicit guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. On a jurisdictional basis, Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) No. 2013-11 generally requires an unrecognized tax benefit to be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. Exar has properly applied this guidance to its required SEC disclosures. The adoption of this guidance did not have any material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

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 mixed-signal integrated circuits and advanced sub-system solutions for the Industrial & Embedded Systems, Networking & Storage and Communications Infrastructure markets.

Our net sales by end market were summarized as follows as of the dates indicated below (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Industrial & Embedded Systems	$	72,458	$	63,396	$	66,602
Networking & Storage		30,594		32,737		27,005
Communications Infrastructure		21,808		24,965		35,829
Other		462		928		1,130
Total net sales	$	125,322	$	122,026	$	130,566

Our foreign operations are conducted primarily through our wholly-owned subsidiaries in Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, 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 direct sales principally to OEMs, or their designated subcontract manufacturers, and to distributors (affiliated and unaffiliated) who buy our products and resell to their customers.

89

Our net sales by geographic area for the periods indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
China	$	43,537	$	41,118	$	44,035
United States		37,079		32,322		33,585
Singapore		13,397		13,827		13,883
Germany		11,270		11,692		13,671
Japan		6,393		5,685		6,161
Europe (excluding Germany)		3,999		4,765		5,628
Rest of world		9,647		12,617		13,603
Total net sales	$	125,322	$	122,026	$	130,566

Substantially all of our long-lived assets at March 30, 2014 and April 1, 2012 were located in the United States.

The following distributors accounted for 10% or more of our net sales in the fiscal years indicated below:

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Distributor A		27	%		30	%		31	%
Distributor B		21	%		11	%		11	%
Distributor C		12	%		10	%		*	%

* Net sales for this distributor for this period were less than 10% of our net sales.

No other distributor or customer accounted for 10% or more of the net sales in fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

The following distributors accounted for 10% or more of our net accounts receivable as of the dates indicated below:

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Distributor B		17	%		20	%
Distributor A		16	%		21	%
Distributor D		14	%		11	%
Distributor C		12	%		*

* Net accounts receivable for this distributor for this period were less than 10% of our net accounts receivables.

No other distributor or customer accounted for 10% or more of the net accounts receivable as of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013, respectively.

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NOTE 20.   ALLOWANCES FOR SALES RETURNS AND DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS

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

Classification	Balance at Beginning of Year		Additions			Utilizations (1)		Balance at End of Year
Allowance for sales returns:
Year ended March 30, 2014	$	1,084	$	17,004		$	16,414	$	1,674
Year ended March 31, 2013		1,429	$	15,176		$	15,521	$	1,084
Year ended April 1, 2012		1,245		15,701			15,517		1,429
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
Year ended March 30, 2014		206		(25	)		70		111
Year ended March 31, 2013		167		39			—		206
Year ended April 1, 2012		278		69			180		167

   

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

NOTE 21.    SUPPLEMENTARY QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

The following table contains selected unaudited quarterly financial data for fiscal years 2014 and 2013. 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 income (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 2014											Fiscal Year 2013
Classification	Mar. 30, 2014			Dec. 29, 2013			Sep. 29, 2013			Jun. 30, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012			Sep. 30, 2012			Jul. 1, 2012
Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:
Net sales by end market:
Industrial & Embedded Systems	$	19,588		$	18,429		$	17,943		$	16,498	$	15,265	$	16,119		$	15,923		$	16,088
Networking & Storage		3,310			7,104			10,273			9,907		9,346		9,300			7,656			6,435
Communications Infrastructure		5,046			5,089			5,697			5,976		6,231		5,270			6,737			6,728
Other		43			68			105			246		312		310			306			—
Net sales	$	27,987		$	30,690		$	34,018		$	32,627	$	31,154	$	30,999		$	30,622		$	29,251
Gross profit		8,422			12,826			13,929			15,477		15,296		14,192			13,330			12,869
Income (loss) from operations		(311	)		(3,321	)		(616	)		547		1,309		(353	)		(373	)		(1,166	)
Net income (loss)		147			(1,634	)		6,482			806		1,672		1,523			263			(576	)
Net income (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.00		$	(0.03	)	$	0.14		$	0.02	$	0.04	$	0.03		$	0.01		$	(0.01	)
Diluted	$	0.00		$	(0.03	)	$	0.13		$	0.02	$	0.04	$	0.03		$	0.01		$	(0.01	)
Shares used in the computation of net income (loss) per share:
Basic		47,328			47,529			47,496			46,805		46,219		45,925			45,720			45,388
Diluted		48,778			47,529			49,150			48,085		47,379		46,438			46,046			45,388

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NOTE 22.    SUBSEQUENT EVENT

On April 26, 2014, we signed a definitive agreement (“Merger Agreement”) to acquire Integrated Memory Logic Limited (“iML”), a leading provider of analog mixed-signal solutions for the flat panel display market. The iML acquisition supports Exar's strategy of building a large scale diversified analog mixed-signal business. Under the terms of the transaction, Exar's subsidiary (“Sub”) has commenced a tender offer to acquire all of the outstanding shares of iML for NT$91.00 (approximately US$3.00) per iML share in cash and acquire any remaining shares at NT$91.00 per share pursuant to a follow-on merger. On May 29, 2014, Sub completed the offer. 68,319,091 shares (the “Accepted Shares”) were validly tendered in the offer, representing approximately 92% of iML’s outstanding shares. The persons from whom the Accepted Shares were acquired were the shareholders of iML. Sub will pay an aggregate purchase price of NT$6.2 billion (approximately US$206.0 million) to iML shareholders for the tendered shares. Pursuant to the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, Sub intends to conduct a second-step merger in which Sub will merge with and into iML and the remaining outstanding shares will be converted into the right to receive NT$91.00 per share in cash. When complete, the gross transaction value is currently estimated to be NT$6.8 billion (approximately US$224.0 million), or NT$2.8 billion (approximately US$92.0 million), net of cash acquired. After the closing, iML will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Exar and iML stock will cease trading on the Taiwan Stock Exchange. Exar financed the acquisition of the shares with a combination of cash on hand and a new $90.0 million senior secured bridge loan facility. Stifel Financial Corp. has provided Exar a commitment letter to provide Exar up to $90.0 million in senior secured bridge loans. The commitment letter is subject to customary conditions to consummation.

Due to the limited time since the date of the acquisition, the initial disclosure for this business combination is incomplete as of the date of this filing. As such, it is impracticable for us to make certain business combination disclosures at this time. We are unable to present the acquisition date fair value of and information related to assets acquired and liabilities assumed. We plan to provide this information in our quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ending June 29, 2014.

92

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.

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 President and Chief Executive Officer (our principal executive officer) (the “CEO”) and Chief Financial Officer (our principal financial and accounting 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 were effective as of the end of fiscal year 2014.

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 30, 2014 based on the framework established by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (1992). Based on this assessment, management concluded that, as of March 30, 2014, 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 30, 2014 has been audited by BDO USA, LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report included in this Annual Report.

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 2014 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

93

 ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

None.

94

PART III 

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference from the information set forth under the captions “Election of Directors,” “Corporate Governance and Board Matters,” “Executive Compensation Matters” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in our Definitive Proxy Statement in connection with our 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (“2014 Definitive Proxy Statement”) which will be filed with the SEC Commission no later than 120 days after March 30, 2014.

Executive Officers

A listing of executive officers of Exar and certain other information required by Item 10 with respect to our executive officers is set forth under the caption “Executive Officers of the Registrant” in Part I, Item 1 of this Report and is incorporated herein by reference.

Code of Ethics

We have adopted a Code of Ethics for Principal Executives, Executive Management and Senior Financial Officers, a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics and a Financial Integrity Compliance Policy. These documents can be found on our website: www.exar.com . We will post any amendments to the codes and policy, as well as any waivers that are required to be disclosed by the rules of either the SEC or the NYSE on our website, or by filing a Current Report on Form 8-K. Hard copies can be obtained free of charge by submitting a written request to:

Exar Corporation

48720 Kato Road

Fremont, California 94538

Attn: Investor Relations, M/S 210

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information required by this item is set forth under the captions “Executive Compensation” and “Compensation Committee Report on Executive Compensation” in our 2014 Definitive Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

The information required by this Item is set forth under the captions “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” and “Equity Compensation Plan Information” in our 2014 Definitive Proxy Statement and is hereby incorporated by reference.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

The information required by this Item is set forth under the captions “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions” and “Corporate Governance and Board Matters” in our 2014 Definitive Proxy Statement and is hereby incorporated by reference.

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

The information required by this Item is set forth under the caption “Ratification of Appointment of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” in our 2014 Definitive Proxy Statement and is hereby incorporated by reference.

95

PART IV

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

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

(1) All Financial Statements. The financial statements of Company are included herein as required in Part II, Item 8—“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Annual Report. See Index to Financial Statements on page 48.

(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.

96

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/   Louis DiNardo
	Louis DiNardo
	President, Chief Executive Officer and Director  (Principal Executive Officer)

Date: June 11, 2014

KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Louis DiNardo and Ryan A. Benton, and each of them, as his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and re-substitution, for him and in his name, place, and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this Report, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in connection therewith, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming that all said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or any of them or their or his substitute or substituted, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

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/ LOUIS DINARDO	President, Chief Executive Officer and Director	June 11, 2014
(Louis DiNardo)	(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ RYAN A. BENTON	Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer	June 11, 2014
(Ryan A. Benton)	(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
/s/ RICHARD L. LEZA	Chairman of the Board	June 11, 2014
(Richard L. Leza)
/s/ BEHROOZ ABDI	Director	June 11, 2014
(Behrooz Abdi)
/s/ DR. IZAK BENCUYA	Director	June 11, 2014
(Dr. Izak Bencuya)
/s/ PIERRE GUILBAULT	Director	June 11, 2014
(Pierre Guilbault)
/s/ BRIAN HILTON	Director	June 11, 2014
(Brian Hilton)
/s/ GARY MEYERS	Director	June 11, 2014
(Gary Meyers)

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EXHIBIT INDEX 

		Incorporated by Reference
Exhibit Number	Exhibit	Form	File No.	Exhibit	Filing Date
3.1	Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Exar Corporation	8-K	0-14225	3.3	9/17/2010
3.2	Amended and Restated Bylaws of Exar Corporation	8-K	0-14225	3.1	3/16/2012
10.1*+	Employee Stock Participation Plan, as amended, and related Offering documents	10-K	0-14225	10.1	6/12/2006
10.2*	2000 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended, and related forms of stock option grant and exercise	10-K	0-14225	10.9	6/14/2005
10.3*	2006 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended	8-K	0-14225	10.1	9/17/2010
10.4*	Form of Notice of Grant of Stock Option and Terms and Conditions of Nonqualified Stock Option	8-K	0-14225	10.2	9/13/2006
10.5*	Form of Notice of Grant of Stock Option and Terms and Conditions of Incentive Stock Option	8-K	0-14225	10.3	9/13/2006
10.6*	2006 Equity Incentive Plan Form of Director Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement	8-K	0-14225	10.6	9/13/2006
10.7*	2006 Equity Incentive Plan Form Of Stock Unit Award Agreement	10-Q	0-14225	10.2	2/6/2009
10.8*	2006 Equity Incentive Plan Form Of Performance Stock Unit Award Agreement	10-Q	0-14225	10.1	11/5/2009
10.9*	2006 Equity Incentive Plan Form Of Director Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement	10-Q	0-14225	10.7	11/4/2010
10.10*	New Non-Employee Director Option Agreement	10-Q	001-36012	3.4	11/7/2013
10.11*	New Non-Employee Director RSU Agreement	10-Q	001-36012	3.5	11/7/2013
10.12*	Sipex Corporation 2006 Equity Incentive Plan	S-8	333-145751	4.1	8/28/2007
10.13*	Sipex Corporation Amended and Restated 2002 Nonstatutory Stock Option Plan	S-8	333-145751	4.2	8/28/2007
10.14*	Sipex Corporation 2000 Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan	S-8	333-145751	4.3	8/28/2007
10.15*	Sipex Corporation 1999 Stock Plan	S-8	333-145751	4.4	8/28/2007
10.16*	Sipex Corporation 1997 Stock Option Plan	S-8	333-145751	4.5	8/28/2007
10.17*	Fiscal Year 2013 Executive Management Incentive Program	10-Q	0-14225	10.1	8/10/2012
10.18*	Fiscal Year 2014 Executive Management Incentive Program	10-Q	001-36012	10.3	8/6/2013

98

10.19*	Form of Indemnity Agreement between the Company and each of the Company’s directors and certain of the executive officers	8-K	0-14225	10.1	3/16/2012
10.20*	Letter Agreement Regarding Change of Control for Thomas R. Melendrez	10-K	0-14225	10.11	6/27/2001
10.21*	Executive Officers’ Group II Change of Control Severance Benefit Plan	10-Q	0-14225	10.1	2/6/2009
10.22**	Distributor Agreement, dated July 1, 1997, by and between Exar Corporation and Future Electronics Incorporated.
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. 10, entered June 19, 2012, to that certain Distributor Agreement, dated July 1, 1997, by and between Exar Corporation and Future Electronics Incorporated.
10.25**	Domestic Distributor Agreement, dated December 1, 2001, by and between Exar Corporation and NuHorizons, Inc.
10.26	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
10.27*	Employment Agreement between Exar Corporation and Louis DiNardo	8-K	0-14225	10.1	2/6/2014
10.28*	Amendment to Employment Agreement between the Company and Louis DiNardo, dated December 31, 2013	10-Q	001-36012	3.3	2/6/2014
10.29*	Letter Agreement Regarding Employment between Exar Corporation and Carlos Laber	10-Q	0-14225	10.2	8/10/2012
10.30*	Employment Agreement between the Company and Ryan Benton, dated September 30, 2013	10-Q	001-36012	3.3	11/7/2013
10.31**	Letter Agreement Regarding Employment between the Company and Todd Smathers, dated February 27, 2012
10.32**	Letter Agreement Regarding Employment between the Company and Steve Bakos, dated May 21, 2012
10.33	Purchase and Sale Agreement dated July 9, 2013 between Exar Corporation and Ellis Partners LLC	10-Q	001-36012	10.2	8/6/2013
10.34*	Letter Agreement Regarding Employment between the Company and Parviz Ghaffaripour dated May 15, 2013	10-Q	001-36012	10.1	8/6/2013
21.1**	Subsidiaries of the Company
23.1**	Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, BDO USA, LLP
23.2**	Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

99

24.1**	Power of Attorney. Reference is made to the signature page in this Form 10-K.
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
101.INS**	XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

*	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.

100

EX-10

Exhibit 10.22

EX-10

Exhibit 10.24

TENTH AMENDMENT

OF

DISTRIBUTOR AGREEMENT

THIS TENTH AMENDMENT of the Distributor Agreement (herein “Tenth Amendment”) is made this 19^th day of June, 2012, by and between Exar Corporation, a corporation incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware, having its principal office at 48720 Kato Road, Fremont, California 94538 (herein “Exar”), and Future Electronics Incorporated, a Canadian corporation, having its principal office at 237 Hymus Boulevard, Pointe Claire, Quebec H9R 5C7, Canada (herein “Distributor”). This Tenth Amendment is pursuant to Section 20.7 of that certain Distributor Agreement dated July 1, 1997, (herein “Agreement”), which permits the parties to modify its terms by a written document signed by both parties.

IN CONSIDERATION of the mutual promises exchanged, the parties agree as follows:

1. GENERAL

Except as otherwise provided in this Tenth Amendment, the contractual relationship of the parties will continue to be governed by the terms and conditions of the Agreement. This Tenth Amendment shall not be construed as a modification of any provision of the Agreement or prior amendment unless such provision, or portion thereof, is expressly modified herein.

2. RETURNS

2.1 Section 10.3 of the Agreement and as amended by the Third Amendment shall be deleted and replaced as follows:

"Within forty-five(45) calendar days following each calendar quarter, Distributor may return to Exar for credit, a quantity of Products which equals the value of six (6%) percent of the net sales dollars invoiced by Exar to Distributor for all Products purchased by Distributor during the previous calendar quarter. Credit issued for such returned Products will be based upon the price paid by Distributor less any prior credits granted by Exar on the returned Product and applied against future purchases of Products from Exar. Distributor may make such returns from one or more stocking locations(s), which in the aggregate shall not exceed the limitation set forth above. The foregoing return privilege shall be subject to the following conditions:

a) the Products are returned in merchantable condition;

b) prior to returning any Products, Distributor obtains a Return Material Authorization from Exar;

c) no custom or specially modified Products may be returned.

2.2 Section 10.4 as amended by the Third Amendment shall be deleted and replaced as follows:

"In addition to Section 10.3 above, Exar will credit Distributor a one (1%) percent scrap allowance. The scrap allowance shall be calculated based upon the actual net Products delivered to Distributor by Exar in the immediately preceding calendar quarter. Net delivered Products means delivered Products less any credit for returned Products granted by Exar to Distributor in the immediately preceding calendar quarter. The foregoing scrap allowance shall be conditioned as follows:

a) Only Products with date codes older than one (1) year will qualify for the scrap allowance.

b) All Products that qualify for the scrap allowance will be included in a list (List) prepared by Distributor and submitted to Exar within thirty (30) days following each calendar quarter.

c) Exar will authorize all qualifying Products for scrap within thirty (30) days of receipt of the proposed scrap List from Distributor. Distributor will provide Exar written certification within thirty (30) days of Exar's written authorization above, confirming that the scrap approved on the List has been destroyed, and that all Products approved for scrap have been removed from Distributor's inventory and deleted from Distributor's inventory reports that Distributor provides to Exar on a periodic basis."

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Tenth Amendment as of the day and year first above written, in counterparts, each of which shall be considered an original, but all of which together shall constitute one instrument.

EXAR CORPORATION		FUTURE ELECTRONICS INCORPORATED
By:		By:
Name:	Kevin S. Bauer	Name:
Title:	Sr, Vice President & CFO	Title:
Date:		Date:

EX-10

Exhibit 10.25

EX-10

Exhibit 10.31

EX-10

Exhibit 10.32

EX-21

EXHIBIT 21.1

EXAR CORPORATION

LIST OF SUBSIDIARIES

1.	Exar Canada Corporation (a Canadian corporation).
2.	Exar GMBH (a German corporation).
3.	Exar (Hangzhou) Information Technologies Co., Ltd. (a People’s Republic of China limited liability corporation).
4.	Exar Int’l Corp. (a Cayman Island corporation)
5.	Exar Japan Corporation (a Japanese corporation).
6.	Exar Korea Co. Ltd. (a Korean limited liability corporation).
7.	Exar Ltd. (a United Kingdom limited liability corporation).
8.	Exar Malaysia SDN BHD (a Malaysian limited liability corporation).
9.	Exar SARL (a French limited liability corporation).
10.	Hifn Inc.
11.	Micro Power Systems, Inc.
12.	Sipex Corporation
13.	Cadeka Technologies LLC
14.	Cadeka Technologies (HK) Ltd.
15.	Cadeka Wuxi
16.	Stretch, Inc.
17.	Stretch Europe GmbH
18.	Stretch Japan K. K.

EX-23

EXHIBIT 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Exar Corporation

Fremont, California

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Form S-3 and any amendments thereto (Nos. 333-189271, 333-147154, 333-147153, 033-61495, and 033-59071) and Form S-8 (Nos. 333-179730, 333-170417, 333-145741, 333-138839, 333-96967, 333-55082, 333-48226, 333-31120, 333-69381, 333-37369, 333-37371, and 33-58991) of Exar Corporation of our reports dated June 11, 2014 relating to the consolidated financial statements and the effectiveness of Exar Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting, which appear in this Form 10-K.

/s/ BDO USA, LLP

San Jose, California

June 11, 2014

EX-23

EXHIBIT 23.2

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Form S-3 and any amendments thereto (Nos. 333-189271, 333-147154, 333-147153, 033-61495, and 033-59071) and Form S-8 (Nos. 333-179730, 333-170417, 333-145741, 333-138839, 333-96967, 333-55082, 333-48226, 333-31120, 333-69381, 333-37369, 333-37371, and 033-58991) of Exar Corporation of our report dated June 13, 2012 relating to the financial statements, which appears in this Form 10-K.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

San Jose, California

June 11, 2014

EX-31

EXHIBIT 31.1

PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER CERTIFICATION

I, Louis DiNardo, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Exar Corporation;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The Registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, 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;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The Registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: June 11, 2014

/s/    Louis DiNardo

Louis DiNardo 

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

EX-31

EXHIBIT 31.2

PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER CERTIFICATION

I, Ryan A. Benton, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Exar Corporation;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The Registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, 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;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The Registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: June 11, 2014

/s/    Ryan A. Benton

Ryan A. Benton

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

EX-32

Exhibit 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

I, Louis DiNardo, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to my knowledge, the Annual Report of Exar Corporation on Form 10-K for the period ended March 30, 2014 fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that information contained in such Annual Report on Form 10-K fairly presents in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of Exar Corporation.

Date: June 11, 2014

/s/    Louis DiNardo

Louis DiNardo

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

EX-32

Exhibit 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

I, Ryan A. Benton, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to my knowledge, the Annual Report of Exar Corporation on Form 10-K for the period ended March 30, 2014 fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that information contained in such Annual Report on Form 10-K fairly presents in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of Exar Corporation.

Date: June 11, 2014

/s/    Ryan A. Benton

Ryan A. Benton

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

XML

Note 11 - Net Income (Loss) Per Share (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Net income (loss)	$	5,801	$	2,882	$	(28,056	)
Shares used in computation of net income (loss) per share:
Basic		47,291		45,809		44,796
Effect of options and awards		1,532		667		—
Diluted		48,823		46,476		44,796
Net income (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.12	$	0.06	$	(0.63	)
Diluted	$	0.12	$	0.06	$	(0.63	)

XML

Note 18 - Income Taxes (Details) - Federal, State, and Canada Tax Credit Carryforwards, Net of Reserves (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforwards	$ 9,618
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforwards	19,186
Canada [Member]
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforwards	$ 5,135

XML

Note 4 - Business Combinations (Details) - Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Financial Information (Stretch [Member], USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014
Stretch [Member]
Note 4 - Business Combinations (Details) - Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Financial Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 134,290

XML

Note 21 - Supplementary Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]

	Fiscal Year 2014											Fiscal Year 2013
Classification	Mar. 30, 2014			Dec. 29, 2013			Sep. 29, 2013			Jun. 30, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012			Sep. 30, 2012			Jul. 1, 2012
Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:
Net sales by end market:
Industrial & Embedded Systems	$	19,588		$	18,429		$	17,943		$	16,498	$	15,265	$	16,119		$	15,923		$	16,088
Networking & Storage		3,310			7,104			10,273			9,907		9,346		9,300			7,656			6,435
Communications Infrastructure		5,046			5,089			5,697			5,976		6,231		5,270			6,737			6,728
Other		43			68			105			246		312		310			306			—
Net sales	$	27,987		$	30,690		$	34,018		$	32,627	$	31,154	$	30,999		$	30,622		$	29,251
Gross profit		8,422			12,826			13,929			15,477		15,296		14,192			13,330			12,869
Income (loss) from operations		(311	)		(3,321	)		(616	)		547		1,309		(353	)		(373	)		(1,166	)
Net income (loss)		147			(1,634	)		6,482			806		1,672		1,523			263			(576	)
Net income (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.00		$	(0.03	)	$	0.14		$	0.02	$	0.04	$	0.03		$	0.01		$	(0.01	)
Diluted	$	0.00		$	(0.03	)	$	0.13		$	0.02	$	0.04	$	0.03		$	0.01		$	(0.01	)
Shares used in the computation of net income (loss) per share:
Basic		47,328			47,529			47,496			46,805		46,219		45,925			45,720			45,388
Diluted		48,778			47,529			49,150			48,085		47,379		46,438			46,046			45,388

XML

Note 20 - Allowances for Sales Returns and Doubtful Accounts (Details) - Allowance for Sales Returns and Allowance and for Doubtful Accounts (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2013		Apr. 01, 2012
Allowance for Sales Returns [Member]
Allowance for sales returns:
Beginning Balance	$ 1,084		$ 1,429		$ 1,245
Additions	17,004		15,176		15,701
Utilizations	16,414	[1]	15,521	[1]	15,517	[1]
Ending Balance	1,674		1,084		1,429
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Allowance for sales returns:
Beginning Balance	206		167		278
Additions	(25)		39		69
Utilizations	70	[1]		[1]	180	[1]
Ending Balance	$ 111		$ 206		$ 167

[1] Utilization amounts within allowance for sales returns reflect credits issued to distributors for stock rotations and volume discounts.

XML

Note 7 - Related Party Transaction (Details)	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Note 7 - Related Party Transaction (Details) [Line Items]
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	47,336,005	46,607,246
Alonim Investments Inc. [Member]
Note 7 - Related Party Transaction (Details) [Line Items]
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	7,600,000
Percentage Of Common Stock Shares Outstanding	16.00%

XML

Note 4 - Business Combinations (Details) - Summary of Consideration Paid (USD $)	0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2013 Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 22, 2013 Altior [Member]
Note 4 - Business Combinations (Details) - Summary of Consideration Paid [Line Items]
Cash	$ 25,000,000	$ 1,000,000
Equity instruments	5,177,000	3,740,000
Estimated fair value of earn-out payments	4,660,000	10,138,000
Total consideration paid	$ 34,837,000	$ 14,878,000

XML

Note 10 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details) - Changes in the Carrying Amount of Goodwill (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Changes in the Carrying Amount of Goodwill [Abstract]
Beginning balance	$ 10,356	$ 3,184
Goodwill additions	20,054	7,172
Ending balance	$ 30,410	$ 10,356

XML

Note 16 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details) - Outstanding Liabilities for Remediation Activities, Net of Payments (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Outstanding Liabilities for Remediation Activities, Net of Payments [Abstract]
Liabilities for remediation activities	$ 28	$ 76

XML

Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Industrial & Embedded Systems	$	72,458	$	63,396	$	66,602
Networking & Storage		30,594		32,737		27,005
Communications Infrastructure		21,808		24,965		35,829
Other		462		928		1,130
Total net sales	$	125,322	$	122,026	$	130,566

Schedule of Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries by Geographic Area [Table Text Block]

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
China	$	43,537	$	41,118	$	44,035
United States		37,079		32,322		33,585
Singapore		13,397		13,827		13,883
Germany		11,270		11,692		13,671
Japan		6,393		5,685		6,161
Europe (excluding Germany)		3,999		4,765		5,628
Rest of world		9,647		12,617		13,603
Total net sales	$	125,322	$	122,026	$	130,566

Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers by Reporting Segments [Table Text Block]

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Distributor A		27	%		30	%		31	%
Distributor B		21	%		11	%		11	%
Distributor C		12	%		10	%		*	%

Schedule Of Major Distributors [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Distributor B		17	%		20	%
Distributor A		16	%		21	%
Distributor D		14	%		11	%
Distributor C		12	%		*

XML

Note 5 - Balance Sheet Details (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract]

Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Land	$	6,660		$	6,660
Building		16,787			16,224
Machinery and equipment		40,675			42,258
Software and licenses		17,549			17,566
Property, plant and equipment, total		81,671			82,708
Accumulated depreciation and amortization		(60,391	)		(58,608	)
Total property, plant and equipment, net	$	21,280		$	24,100

Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Work-in-progress and raw materials	$	13,555	$	9,981
Finished goods		15,427		9,449
Total inventories	$	28,982	$	19,430

Other Current Liabilities [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Short-term lease financing obligations	$	2,671	$	3,189
Accrued restructuring charges and exit costs		2,214		2,020
Accrued manufacturing expenses, royalties and licenses		1,639		2,370
Accrued legal and professional services		1,453		746
Purchase consideration holdback		1,256		—
Accrued sales and marketing expenses		666		576
Fair value of earn out liability – short-term		490		2,599
Accrual for dispute resolution		—		2,727
Other		981		988
Total other current liabilities	$	11,370	$	15,215

Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Fair value of earn out liability – long-term	$	3,853	$	7,539
Accrued retention bonus		1,181		—
Long-term taxes payable		794		2,225
Deferred tax liability		614		145
Accrued restructuring charges and exit costs		155		1,266
Other		29		29
Total other non-current obligations	$	6,626	$	11,204

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Note 10 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details) - Purchased Intangible Assets (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2012	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Amortized intangible assets:
Carrying Amount		$ 75,706,000	$ 50,486,000
Impairment	(1,700,000)	(1,635,000)
Accumulated Amoritzation		(44,961,000)	(37,148,000)
Net Carrying Amount		29,110,000	13,338,000
Total		77,986,000	50,486,000
Total		(1,636,000)	0	0
Total		(44,961,000)	(37,148,000)
Total		31,390,000	13,338,000
Technology-Based Intangible Assets [Member]
Amortized intangible assets:
Carrying Amount		64,678,000	42,858,000
Impairment		(1,635,000)
Accumulated Amoritzation		(37,510,000)	(30,668,000)
Net Carrying Amount		25,533,000	12,190,000
Total		(37,510,000)	(30,668,000)
Customer Relationships [Member]
Amortized intangible assets:
Carrying Amount		6,095,000	2,905,000
Accumulated Amoritzation		(2,762,000)	(2,079,000)
Net Carrying Amount		3,333,000	826,000
Total		(2,762,000)	(2,079,000)
Patents [Member]
Amortized intangible assets:
Carrying Amount		3,459,000	3,459,000
Accumulated Amoritzation		(3,378,000)	(3,182,000)
Net Carrying Amount		81,000	277,000
Total		(3,378,000)	(3,182,000)
Distribution Rights [Member]
Amortized intangible assets:
Carrying Amount		1,264,000	1,264,000
Accumulated Amoritzation		(1,260,000)	(1,219,000)
Net Carrying Amount		4,000	45,000
Total		(1,260,000)	(1,219,000)
Trade Names [Member]
Amortized intangible assets:
Carrying Amount		210,000
Accumulated Amoritzation		(51,000)
Net Carrying Amount		159,000
Total		(51,000)
In Process Research and Development [Member]
Amortized intangible assets:
In-process research and development		$ 2,280,000

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Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Net Sales by Geographic Area (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Net Sales by Geographic Area [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 125,322	$ 122,026	$ 130,566
CHINA
Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Net Sales by Geographic Area [Line Items]
Net sales	43,537	41,118	44,035
UNITED STATES
Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Net Sales by Geographic Area [Line Items]
Net sales	37,079	32,322	33,585
SINGAPORE
Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Net Sales by Geographic Area [Line Items]
Net sales	13,397	13,827	13,883
GERMANY
Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Net Sales by Geographic Area [Line Items]
Net sales	11,270	11,692	13,671
JAPAN
Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Net Sales by Geographic Area [Line Items]
Net sales	6,393	5,685	6,161
Europe (excluding Germany) [Member]
Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Net Sales by Geographic Area [Line Items]
Net sales	3,999	4,765	5,628
Rest Of World [Member]
Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Net Sales by Geographic Area [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 9,647	$ 12,617	$ 13,603

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Note 8 - Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended						12 Months Ended								3 Months Ended								15 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jul. 01, 2012	Apr. 01, 2012	Jul. 03, 2011	Mar. 30, 2014	Apr. 01, 2012	Mar. 30, 2014 Cost of Sales [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Cost of Sales [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Cost of Sales [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Operating Expense [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Operating Expense [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Operating Expense [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Termination Of OTN And De-Duplication Products [Member] Accelerated Amortization And Depreciation Charges [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Property And Equipment [Member] Accelerated Amortization And Depreciation Charges [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Lease Contract Termination Costs [Member]	Jul. 03, 2011 Lease Contract Termination Costs [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Lease Abandonment Charges [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Accelerated Amortization And Depreciation Charges [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Termination Of Certain Electronic Design Automated License Agreements [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Write Off Of Prepaid Training, Maintenance And License Fees [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Costs Associated With The Industrial Research Assistance Program [Member]	Jul. 03, 2011 Inventory Write Off Costs [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Industrial Research Assistance Program [Member]
Note 8 - Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs (Details) [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	$ 300,000	$ 600,000	$ 300,000	$ 900,000	$ 13,900,000	$ 300,000	$ 3,000,000	$ 14,200,000	$ 187,000	$ 301,000	$ 1,312,000	$ 2,827,000	$ 1,253,000	$ 12,913,000				$ 100,000						$ 100,000	$ (500,000)
Restructuring and Related Cost, Number of Positions Eliminated					173
Severance Costs					4,200,000	100,000
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost																	7,000,000				3,900,000	2,600,000	500,000
Other Restructuring Costs															1,700,000	200,000			800,000	1,900,000
Payments of Severance Charges								$ 1,400,000

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Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - ESPP Transactions (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
ESPP Transactions [Abstract]
Authorized to issue:	4,500
Reserved for future issuance:
Shares of Common Stock	1,372	1,392	1,418
Issued:
Shares of Common Stock	20	26	62
Weighted Average Price per Share (in Dollars per share)	$ 11.38	$ 8.38	$ 6.09

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Note 5 - Balance Sheet Details (Details) - Property, Plant and Equipment (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Land	$ 6,660	$ 6,660
Building	16,787	16,224
Machinery and equipment	40,675	42,258
Software and licenses	17,549	17,566
Property, plant and equipment, total	81,671	82,708
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(60,391)	(58,608)
Total property, plant and equipment, net	$ 21,280	$ 24,100

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Note 18 - Income Taxes (Details) - Significant Components of Net Deferred Taxes (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Deferred tax assets:
Reserves and expenses not currently deductible	$ 7,973	$ 8,049
Net operating loss carryforwards	123,826	124,662
Tax credits	27,259	29,109
Losses on investments	1,832	2,110
Unrealized investment gain	80
Intangible assets	6,838	6,225
Deferred margin	3,968	4,158
Depreciation	642	604
Total deferred tax assets	172,418	174,917
Deferred tax liabilities:
Unrealized investment loss		(116)
Non-goodwill intangibles	(6,560)	(930)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(6,560)	(1,046)
Valuation allowance	(165,924)	(173,927)
Net deferred tax liabilities	$ (66)	$ (56)

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Note 9 - Long-Term Investment (Details) - Long-Term Investments (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Long-Term Investments [Abstract]
Beginning balance	$ 1,288	$ 1,273
Contributions		15
Net distributions	(19)
Impairment charges	(323)
Ending balance	$ 946	$ 1,288

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Note 13 - Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - Matching Contributions to the Plan (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Matching Contributions to the Plan [Abstract]
Matching contributions	$ 373	$ 267	$ 294

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Note 10 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details) - Estimated Future Amortization Expenses for Purchased Intangible Assets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Amortization Expense (by fiscal year)
2015	$ 6,159
2016	5,578
2017	4,645
2018	4,432
2019	3,231
2020 and thereafter	5,065
Total future amortization excluding IPR&D	$ 29,110	$ 13,338

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Note 13 - Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - Paid and Unpaid Incentive Compensation (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Paid and Unpaid Incentive Compensation [Abstract]
Unpaid incentive compensation	$ 698	$ 781

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Note 10 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended			0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Apr. 01, 2012	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012	Apr. 01, 2012 Write Off Of Abandoned IPR&D [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Amortization of Purchased Intangible Assets [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Amortization of Existing Technology [Member]	Jul. 05, 2013 Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Stretch [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Altior [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Distribution Rights [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Trade Names [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Minimum [Member] Existing Technology [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Minimum [Member] Patented Technology [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Minimum [Member] Customer Relationships [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Maximum [Member] Existing Technology [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Maximum [Member] Patented Technology [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Maximum [Member] Customer Relationships [Member]
Note 10 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details) [Line Items]
Number of Operating Segments			1
Goodwill, Impairment Loss			$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Goodwill, Acquired During Period									19,200,000	19,400,000	700,000	7,200,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life													6 years	3 years	2 years	5 years	5 years	9 years	6 years	7 years
Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)			1,636,000	0	0
Proceeds from Sale of Intangible Assets	500,000
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Intangible Assets	223,000			223,000
Impairment of Intangible Assets, Finite-lived		$ 1,700,000	$ 1,635,000			$ 300,000	$ 1,100,000	$ 300,000

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Note 7 - Related Party Transaction (Details) - Related Party Contributions to Total Net Sales (Total Net Sales [Member], Alonim Investments Inc. [Member], Sales [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Total Net Sales [Member] | Alonim Investments Inc. [Member] | Sales [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Alonim	29.00%	30.00%	31.00%

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Note 18 - Income Taxes

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]

NOTE 18.    INCOME TAXES

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

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Current:
Federal	$	(1,350	)	$	(1,255	)	$	110
State		(93	)		(73	)		(235	)
Foreign		(81	)		114			218
Total current	$	(1,524	)	$	(1,214	)	$	93
Deferred:
Federal	$	(6,807	)	$	23		$	(39	)
State		(147	)		2			(3	)
Total deferred	$	(6,954	)	$	25		$	(42	)
Total provision for (benefit from) income taxes	$	(8,478	)	$	(1,189	)	$	51

Foreign income/(loss) included in consolidated pre-tax income for the periods indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Foreign income/(loss)	$	(307	)	$	—	$	1,243

Undistributed earnings of $5.8 million of our foreign subsidiaries are considered to be indefinitely reinvested and, accordingly, no provision for federal and state income taxes has 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 as of the dates indicated (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Deferred tax assets:
Reserves and expenses not currently deductible	$	7,973		$	8,049
Net operating loss carryforwards		123,826			124,662
Tax credits		27,259			29,109
Losses on investments		1,832			2,110
Unrealized investment gain		80			-
Intangible assets		6,838			6,225
Deferred margin		3,968			4,158
Depreciation		642			604
Total deferred tax assets		172,418			174,917
Deferred tax liabilities:
Unrealized investment loss		—			(116	)
Non-goodwill intangibles		(6,560	)		(930	)
Total deferred tax liabilities		(6,560	)		(1,046	)
Valuation allowance		(165,924	)		(173,927	)
Net deferred tax liabilities	$	(66	)	$	(56	)

The valuation allowance decreased $8.0 million and $6.7 million in fiscal years 2014 and 2013, respectively, and increased $13.9 million in fiscal year 2012. The change in fiscal year 2014 was primarily due to release of $6.8 million valuation allowance related to Cadeka acquisition in July 2013 and release of $1.3 million reserve for uncertain tax positions related to an NOL carryback refund in the third quarter of 2014.

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

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Income tax benefit at statutory rate	$	(937	)	$	593		$	(10,061	)
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit		(1	)		60			(824	)
Deferred tax assets not benefited		(1,972	)		(378	)		11,967
Tax credits		(757	)		(539	)		(1,021	)
Stock-based compensation		(427	)		258			432
Foreign rate differential		156			148			(373	)
Prior year tax expense true-up		(10	)		11			12
Fair value adjustment		(3,732	)		-			-
Other, net		(798	)		(1,342	)		(81	)
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes	$	(8,478	)	$	(1,189	)	$	51

As of March 30, 2014, our federal, state and Canada net operating loss carryforwards for income tax purposes were as follow (in thousands):

Federal net operating loss carryforwards	$	325,333
State net operating loss carryforwards	$	118,149
Canada net operating loss carryforwards	$	27,064

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 fiscal year 2015. The Canadian net operating loss carryovers will begin expiring in fiscal year 2022, if not utilized.

As of March 30, 2014, our federal, state and Canada tax credit carryforwards, net of reserves, were as follows (in thousands):

Federal tax credit carryforwards	$	9,618
State tax credit carryforwards	$	19,186
Canada tax credit carryforwards	$	5,135

Federal tax credits will begin to expire in fiscal year 2018. State tax credits are carried forward indefinitely. The Canadian tax credits will begin to expire in fiscal year 2018.

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 $8.3 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.

Uncertain Income Tax Benefits

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of the unrecognized tax benefits during the tax year ended March 30, 2014 is as follows (in thousands):

	Amount
Unrecognized tax benefits as of March 27, 2011	$	16,714
Gross decrease related to prior year tax positions		(289	)
Gross increase related to current year tax positions		578
Lapses in statute of limitation		(183	)
Unrecognized tax benefits as of April 1, 2012		16,820
Gross decrease related to prior year tax positions		(271	)
Gross increase related to current year tax positions		292
Lapses in statute of limitation		(1,376	)
Unrecognized tax benefits as of March 31, 2013		15,465
Gross increase related to prior year tax positions		92
Gross increase related to current year tax positions		487
Lapses in statute of limitation		(1,880	)
Unrecognized tax benefits as of March 30, 2014	$	14,164

Of the total gross unrecognized tax benefits of $14.2 million as of March 30, 2014, $11.6 million, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate before consideration of the valuation allowance.

The total unrecognized gross tax benefits were as follows as of the dates indicated (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Unrecognized gross tax benefits	$	14,164	$	15,465
Less: amount used to reduce deferred tax assets		13,370		13,240
Net income tax payable(1)	$	794	$	2,225

(1) Included in other non-current obligations line item in consolidated balance sheet.

We believe that it is reasonably possible that the amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits related to the resolution of income tax matters could be reduced by approximately $96,000 during the next 12 months as the statutes of limitations expire, which would decrease the provision for income taxes and increase our net income.

Estimated interest and penalties related to the underpayment of income taxes were classified as a component of the provision for income taxes in the consolidated statement of operations. Accrued interest and penalties consisted of the following as of the dates indicated (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Accrued interest and penalties	$	83	$	228

Our major tax jurisdictions are the United States federal, various states, Canada, China and certain other foreign jurisdictions. The fiscal years 2003 through 2012 remain open and subject to examinations by the appropriate governmental agencies in the United States and certain of our foreign jurisdictions.

On November 6, 2012, California passed Proposition 39, which mandates most taxpayers to apportion their California income by using a single sales factor and requires all taxpayers to use market-based sourcing for sale receipts for tax years beginning or after January 1, 2013. The adoption of this guidance did not have any material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

ASU No. 2013-11 – US GAAP previously did not include explicit guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. On a jurisdictional basis, Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) No. 2013-11 generally requires an unrecognized tax benefit to be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. Exar has properly applied this guidance to its required SEC disclosures. The adoption of this guidance did not have any material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

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Note 3 - Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Note 3 - Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Number of Reportable Segments	1
Purchase Return Percentage	1.00%
Capitalized Mask Costs	$ 2,300,000	$ 1,700,000
Research and Development Arrangement with Federal Government, Customer Funding to Offset Costs Incurred	1,500,000	2,000,000	4.0
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability	$ 4,300,000	$ 10,100,000
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Note 3 - Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Note 3 - Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	10 years
Building [Member]
Note 3 - Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	30 years
Capitalized Mask Costs [Member]
Note 3 - Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	5 years
Minimum [Member]
Note 3 - Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Purchase Return Percentage	5.00%
Maximum [Member]
Note 3 - Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]
Purchase Return Percentage	6.00%

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Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Tables) [Line Items]

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Activity [Table Text Block]

	Shares of Common Stock		Weighted Average Price per Share
Authorized to issue:		4,500	$	—
Reserved for future issuance:
Fiscal year ending March 30, 2014		1,372		—
Fiscal year ending March 31, 2013		1,392		—
Fiscal year ending April 1, 2012		1,418		—
Issued:
Fiscal year ending March 30, 2014		20		11.38
Fiscal year ending March 31, 2013		26		8.38
Fiscal year ending April 1, 2012		62		6.09

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]

	Outstanding Options / Quantity			Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands)		In-the-money Options Vested and Exercisable (in thousands)
Balance at March 27, 2011		5,729,464		$	7.61		4.74	$	147		103
Granted		3,100,595			6.33
Exercised		(422,749	)		6.54
Cancelled		(526,574	)		8.15
Forfeited		(1,535,429	)		6.70
Balance at April 1, 2012		6,345,307		$	7.23		4.67	$	9,474		1,193
Granted		2,540,010			8.32
Exercised		(875,459	)		6.92
Cancelled		(903,781	)		9.67
Forfeited		(893,744	)		6.41
Balance at March 31, 2013		6,212,333		$	7.48		5.04	$	19,199		1,481
Granted		2,482,650			11.89
Exercised		(784,864	)		7.14
Cancelled		(10,834	)		10.92
Forfeited		(685,437	)		8.02
Balance at March 30, 2014		7,213,848		$	8.98		5.02	$	21,301		2,170
Vested and expected to vest, March 30, 2014		6,740,358		$	8.88		4.94	$	20,539
Vested and exercisable, March 30, 2014		2,369,001		$	7.54		3.55	$	10,114

Schedule of Cash Proceeds Received from Share-based Payment Awards [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Intrinsic value of options exercised	$	3,887	$	1,443	$	79
Cash received related to option exercises		9,493		6,059		2,763
Tax benefit recorded		6,669		1,927		1,761

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block]

	Shares			Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands)
Unvested at March 27, 2011		557,098		$	7.17		1.09	$	3,387
Granted		481,650			7.12
Issued and released		(271,830	)		7.25
Forfeited		(162,263	)		7.25
Unvested at April 1, 2012		604,655		$	7.13		2.38	$	5,079
Granted		331,894			8.40
Issued and released		(125,095	)		7.10
Forfeited		(79,250	)		6.96
Unvested at March 31, 2013		732,204		$	7.73		1.72	$	7,688
Granted		828,995			13.06
Issued and released		(346,407	)		9.38
Forfeited		(37,666	)		9.52
Unvested at March 30, 2014		1,177,126		$	10.94		1.62	$	13,784
Vested and expected to vest, March 30, 2014		1,018,609					1.58	$	11,928

Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Expected term of options (years)		4.40 – 4.49			4.36			4.30
Risk-free interest rate		0.6 – 1.1	%		0.5 – 0.6	%		0.7 – 1.5	%
Expected volatility		32 - 35	%		37 - 42	%		41 - 43	%
Expected dividend yield		—			—			—
Weighted average grant date fair value	$	3.40		$	2.80		$	2.22

Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Cost of sales	$	714	$	469	$	301
Research and development		1,974		789		1,239
Selling, general and administrative		6,164		3,530		2,210
Total stock-based compensation expense	$	8,852	$	4,788	$	3,750

Schedule of Unrecognized Compensation Cost, Nonvested Awards [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014				March 31, 2013				April 1, 2012
	Amount (in thousands)		Weighted Average Remaining Recognition Period (in years)		Amount (in thousands)		Weighted Average Remaining Recognition Period (in years)		Amount (in thousands)		Weighted Average Remaining Recognition Period (in years)
Options	$	9,958		2.7	$	6,269		2.8	$	7,356		2.8
Performance Options		242		2.2		502		2.6		763		3.5
RSUs		5,970		2.2		1,557		2.5		1,185		3.2
PRSUs		3,047		2.5		1,814		3.4		2,352		4.1
Total Stock-based compensation expense	$	19,217			$	10,142			$	11,656

Employee Stock Option [Member]

Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Tables) [Line Items]

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block]

			Options Outstanding						Options Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices			Number Outstanding As of March 30, 2014		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms (in years)		Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share		Number Exercisable As of March 30, 2014		Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share
$5.44	–	$6.43		2,010,296		4.00	$	6.27		1,184,735	$	6.25
6.60	–	8.07		1,577,634		4.34		7.62		597,423		7.46
8.16	–	10.80		1,764,751		5.45		9.56		387,376		8.90
11.23	–	13.36		1,451,567		6.39		12.22		136,867		12.32
13.54	–	15.67		409,600		6.02		13.59		62,600		13.84
Total				7,213,848		5.02	$	8.98		2,369,001	$	7.54

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Note 9 - Long-Term Investment (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Dec. 29, 2013	Jul. 01, 2012	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Note 9 - Long-Term Investment (Details) [Line Items]
Long-term Investments			$ 946,000	$ 1,288,000	$ 1,273,000
Payments to Acquire Long-term Investments				15,000
undefined			19,000
Skypoint Fund [Member]
Note 9 - Long-Term Investment (Details) [Line Items]
Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures			4,800,000
Payments to Acquire Long-term Investments		15,000
undefined	19,000
Cost-method Investments, Other than Temporary Impairment			$ 300,000	$ 0	$ 0

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Note 15 - Lease Financing Obligation (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 31, 2012	Dec. 30, 2011	Oct. 31, 2011	Jun. 30, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009	Jul. 31, 2009	Mar. 30, 2014 Minimum [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Maximum [Member]
Note 15 - Lease Financing Obligation (Details) [Line Items]
Capital Lease Obligations	$ 0.9	$ 4.5	$ 5.8	$ 1.0	$ 1.3	$ 1.1
Capital Lease License Term	3 years	3 years	3 years	3 years	28 months	3 years
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage							2.00%	7.25%

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Note 9 - Long-Term Investment (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Investments Schedule [Abstract]

Investment Holdings, Schedule of Investments [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Beginning balance	$	1,288		$	1,273
Contributions		—			15
Net distributions		(19	)		—
Impairment charges		(323	)		—
Ending balance	$	946		$	1,288

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Note 4 - Business Combinations (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended		1 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 29, 2013	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012	Jan. 14, 2014 Prior to Considering Impact on Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Member] Stretch [Member]	Jul. 05, 2013 Prior to Considering Impact on Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Member] Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 22, 2013 Prior to Considering Impact on Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Member] Altior [Member]	Jul. 05, 2013 Potential Indemnity Claims [Member] Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 22, 2013 Potential Indemnity Claims [Member] Altior [Member]	Jan. 14, 2014 Stretch [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Stretch [Member]	Jul. 05, 2013 Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Cadeka [Member]	Dec. 29, 2013 Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 22, 2013 Altior [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Altior [Member]	Jan. 14, 2014 Minimum [Member] Stretch [Member]	Jul. 05, 2013 Minimum [Member] Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 22, 2013 Minimum [Member] Altior [Member]	Jan. 14, 2014 Maximum [Member] Stretch [Member]	Jul. 05, 2013 Maximum [Member] Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 22, 2013 Maximum [Member] Altior [Member]
Note 4 - Business Combinations (Details) [Line Items]
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross								$ (1,000,000)	$ (250,000)	$ 10,000		$ 25,000,000				$ 1,000,000
Acquired Intangible Assets Discount Rate																		17.00%	15.00%	12.00%	21.00%	23.00%	19.00%
Goodwill, Acquired During Period					700,000	12,400,000	7,200,000				700,000	19,200,000			19,400,000		7,200,000
Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Goodwill Expected Tax Deductible Period (in years)										15 years						15 years
Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs		1,880,000	110,000								500,000				400,000
Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares (in Shares)								(15,000)				454,000				358,000
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued and Issuable												5,200,000
Business Acquisition Potential Cash Payment												5,000,000				20,000,000			0	0		5,000,000	20,000,000
Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Value Assigned												5,177,000				3,740,000
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent												6,800,000
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ (1,300,000)	$ (8,478,000)	$ (1,189,000)	$ 51,000									$ (170,000)	$ (6,800,000)	$ (6,800,000)

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Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) - Summary of Investments in Marketable Securities (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2013
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	$ 157,280		$ 195,300
Unrealized Gross Gains	89	[1]	507	[1]
Unrealized Gross Losses	(313)	[1]	(178)	[1]
Fair Value	157,056		195,629
US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	22,550		41,694
Unrealized Gross Gains	1	[1]	27	[1]
Unrealized Gross Losses	(39)	[1]		[1]
Fair Value	22,512		41,721
US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	2,762		2,927
Unrealized Gross Gains	10	[1]	10	[1]
Unrealized Gross Losses		[1]	(2)	[1]
Fair Value	2,772		2,935
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	71,309		92,059
Unrealized Gross Gains	32	[1]	215	[1]
Unrealized Gross Losses	(88)	[1]	(45)	[1]
Fair Value	71,253		92,229
Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	27,661		30,932
Unrealized Gross Gains	22	[1]	61	[1]
Unrealized Gross Losses	(48)	[1]	(27)	[1]
Fair Value	27,635		30,966
Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	28,362		22,646
Unrealized Gross Gains	24	[1]	194	[1]
Unrealized Gross Losses	(138)	[1]	(104)	[1]
Fair Value	28,248		22,736
Money Market Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	4,636		5,042
Unrealized Gross Gains		[1]		[1]
Unrealized Gross Losses		[1]		[1]
Fair Value	$ 4,636		$ 5,042

[1] Gross of tax impact of $828 for fiscal years 2014 and 2013

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Note 18 - Income Taxes (Details) - Federal, State, and Canada Net Operating Loss Carryforwards for Income Tax Purposes (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Federal net operating loss carryforwards	$ 325,333
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
State net operating loss carryforwards	118,149
Canada [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Canada net operating loss carryforwards	$ 27,064

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Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Tax	$ 828,000	$ 828,000
Available For Sale Securities Unrealized Losses Net Of Tax	1,100,000
Cadeka [Member]
Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) [Line Items]
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Asset	(7,200,000)
Altior [Member]
Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) [Line Items]
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Asset	$ (3,300,000)

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Note 20 - Allowances for Sales Returns and Doubtful Accounts (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Receivables [Abstract]

Allowance for Credit Losses on Financing Receivables [Table Text Block]

Classification	Balance at Beginning of Year		Additions			Utilizations (1)		Balance at End of Year
Allowance for sales returns:
Year ended March 30, 2014	$	1,084	$	17,004		$	16,414	$	1,674
Year ended March 31, 2013		1,429	$	15,176		$	15,521	$	1,084
Year ended April 1, 2012		1,245		15,701			15,517		1,429
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
Year ended March 30, 2014		206		(25	)		70		111
Year ended March 31, 2013		167		39			—		206
Year ended April 1, 2012		278		69			180		167

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Note 2 - Revision of Prior Period Financial Statements

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]

Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Text Block]

NOTE 2. REVISION OF PRIOR PERIOD FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

During the first quarter of fiscal 2013, we identified an error in our accounting for stock-based compensation previously recorded in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012. We assessed the materiality of the error on prior periods' financial statements and concluded that the error was not material to any of our prior period annual or interim financial statements. We elected to revise previously issued consolidated financial statements the next time they were filed. As each subsequent filing is made in the future, the previous period consolidated financial statements affected by the errors will be revised. We have revised the April 1, 2012 consolidated balance sheet and the statements of operations for fiscal year 2012 included herein to reflect the correct balances. We reduced the additional paid-in capital and accumulated deficit each by $741,000 as of the end of fiscal year 2012 related to the above mentioned error as shown in the consolidated statements of stockholders’ equity and net loss as reported for fiscal year 2012 was reduced accordingly by $741,000.

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Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of Reportable Segments	1
Number of Operating Segments	1

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Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) - Investment Assets Measured at Fair Value (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	$ 157,056	$ 195,629
Liabilities:
Acquisition-related contingent consideration fair value	4,343
US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	9,378	22,460
US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	13,134	19,261
US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	22,512	41,721
US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	2,772	2,935
US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	2,772	2,935
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	5	274
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	71,248	91,955
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	71,253	92,229
Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	27,635	30,966
Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	27,635	30,966
Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	28,248	22,736
Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	28,248	22,736
Altior [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Liabilities:
Acquisition-related contingent consideration fair value	2,973	10,138
Altior [Member]
Liabilities:
Acquisition-related contingent consideration fair value	2,973	10,138
Cadeka [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Liabilities:
Acquisition-related contingent consideration fair value	1,370
Cadeka [Member]
Liabilities:
Acquisition-related contingent consideration fair value	1,370
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	14,019	27,776
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Money Market Funds [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	4,636	5,042
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	143,037	167,853
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Liabilities:
Acquisition-related contingent consideration fair value	4,343
Money Market Funds [Member]
Assets:
Investment assets fair value	$ 4,636	$ 5,042

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Note 15 - Lease Financing Obligation (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract]

Schedule Of Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Amortization expense	$	3,294	$	3,523	$	3,706

Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases [Table Text Block]

Fiscal Years	Design tools
2015	$	2,741
2016		59
2017		10
2018		7
Total minimum lease payments		2,817
Less: amount representing interest		76
Present value of future minimum lease payments		2,741
Less: short-term lease financing obligations		2,671
Long-term lease financing obligations	$	70

Schedule of Interest Expense [Table Text Block]

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Interest expense – design tools	$	155	$	143	$	210

Schedule of Rent Expense [Table Text Block]

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Rent expense	$	1,289	$	616	$	2,121

Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]

Fiscal Years	Facilities
2015	$	688
2016		463
2017		152
2018		21
Total future minimum lease payments	$	1,324

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Note 22 - Subsequent Event

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Subsequent Events [Abstract]

Subsequent Events [Text Block]

NOTE 22.    SUBSEQUENT EVENT

On April 26, 2014, we signed a definitive agreement (“Merger Agreement”) to acquire Integrated Memory Logic Limited (“iML”), a leading provider of analog mixed-signal solutions for the flat panel display market. The iML acquisition supports Exar's strategy of building a large scale diversified analog mixed-signal business. Under the terms of the transaction, Exar's subsidiary (“Sub”) has commenced a tender offer to acquire all of the outstanding shares of iML for NT$91.00 (approximately US$3.00) per iML share in cash and acquire any remaining shares at NT$91.00 per share pursuant to a follow-on merger. On May 29, 2014, Sub completed the offer. 68,319,091 shares (the “Accepted Shares”) were validly tendered in the offer, representing approximately 92% of iML’s outstanding shares. The persons from whom the Accepted Shares were acquired were the shareholders of iML. Sub will pay an aggregate purchase price of NT$6.2 billion (approximately US$206.0 million) to iML shareholders for the tendered shares. Pursuant to the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, Sub intends to conduct a second-step merger in which Sub will merge with and into iML and the remaining outstanding shares will be converted into the right to receive NT$91.00 per share in cash. When complete, the gross transaction value is currently estimated to be NT$6.8 billion (approximately US$224.0 million), or NT$2.8 billion (approximately US$92.0 million), net of cash acquired. After the closing, iML will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Exar and iML stock will cease trading on the Taiwan Stock Exchange. Exar financed the acquisition of the shares with a combination of cash on hand and a new $90.0 million senior secured bridge loan facility. Stifel Financial Corp. has provided Exar a commitment letter to provide Exar up to $90.0 million in senior secured bridge loans. The commitment letter is subject to customary conditions to consummation.

Due to the limited time since the date of the acquisition, the initial disclosure for this business combination is incomplete as of the date of this filing. As such, it is impracticable for us to make certain business combination disclosures at this time. We are unable to present the acquisition date fair value of and information related to assets acquired and liabilities assumed. We plan to provide this information in our quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ending June 29, 2014.

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Note 21 - Supplementary Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]

NOTE 21.    SUPPLEMENTARY QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

The following table contains selected unaudited quarterly financial data for fiscal years 2014 and 2013. 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 income (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 2014											Fiscal Year 2013
Classification	Mar. 30, 2014			Dec. 29, 2013			Sep. 29, 2013			Jun. 30, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012			Sep. 30, 2012			Jul. 1, 2012
Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:
Net sales by end market:
Industrial & Embedded Systems	$	19,588		$	18,429		$	17,943		$	16,498	$	15,265	$	16,119		$	15,923		$	16,088
Networking & Storage		3,310			7,104			10,273			9,907		9,346		9,300			7,656			6,435
Communications Infrastructure		5,046			5,089			5,697			5,976		6,231		5,270			6,737			6,728
Other		43			68			105			246		312		310			306			—
Net sales	$	27,987		$	30,690		$	34,018		$	32,627	$	31,154	$	30,999		$	30,622		$	29,251
Gross profit		8,422			12,826			13,929			15,477		15,296		14,192			13,330			12,869
Income (loss) from operations		(311	)		(3,321	)		(616	)		547		1,309		(353	)		(373	)		(1,166	)
Net income (loss)		147			(1,634	)		6,482			806		1,672		1,523			263			(576	)
Net income (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.00		$	(0.03	)	$	0.14		$	0.02	$	0.04	$	0.03		$	0.01		$	(0.01	)
Diluted	$	0.00		$	(0.03	)	$	0.13		$	0.02	$	0.04	$	0.03		$	0.01		$	(0.01	)
Shares used in the computation of net income (loss) per share:
Basic		47,328			47,529			47,496			46,805		46,219		45,925			45,720			45,388
Diluted		48,778			47,529			49,150			48,085		47,379		46,438			46,046			45,388

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Note 15 - Lease Financing Obligation (Details) - Interest Expense (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Note 15 - Lease Financing Obligation (Details) - Interest Expense [Line Items]
Interest expense – design tools	$ 156	$ 165	$ 215
Design Tools [Member]
Note 15 - Lease Financing Obligation (Details) - Interest Expense [Line Items]
Interest expense – design tools	$ 155	$ 143	$ 210

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Note 5 - Balance Sheet Details (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013
Note 5 - Balance Sheet Details (Details) [Line Items]
Write-off Of Fully Depreciated Assets	$ 4,100,000
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization	12,947,000	10,809,000	14,898,000
Overstatement of Current Assets and Understatement of Long-lived Assets				13,100,000	13,100,000	13,100,000
Property, Plant and Equipment [Member]
Note 5 - Balance Sheet Details (Details) [Line Items]
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization	$ 5,600,000	$ 6,800,000	$ 8,100,000

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Note 16 - Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Remediation Liabilities [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Liabilities for remediation activities	$	28	$	76

Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Beginning balance	$	50		$	90
Provisions for warranties issued		1,480		─
Settlements/adjustments		(456	)		(40	)
Ending balance	$	1,074		$	50

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Accounting Policies, by Policy (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Fiscal Period, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Basis of Presentation— Our fiscal years consist of 52 or 53 weeks. In a 52-week year, each fiscal quarter consists of 13 weeks. Fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012 consisted of 52, 52 and 53 weeks, respectively. Fiscal year 2015 will consist of 52 weeks. Fiscal years ended March 30, 2014, March 31, 2013 and April 1, 2012 are also referred to as “2014,” “2013,” and “2012,” respectively, unless otherwise indicated.

Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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.

Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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

Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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) allowance for doubtful accounts; (3) valuation of inventories; (4) income taxes; (5) stock-based compensation; (6) goodwill; (7) long-lived assets; (8) contingent consideration; and (9) warranty liabilities. Actual results could differ from these estimates and material effects on operating results and financial position may result.

Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block]

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 4—“Business Combinations.”)

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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.

Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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 12 months of demand, as judged by management, for each specific product.

Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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 10 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.

Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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.

Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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 of long term investment 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.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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 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. Estimations and assumptions regarding the number of reporting units, future performances, results of our operations and comparability of our market capitalization and net book value will be used. 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.

Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Including Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Long-Lived Assets—We review long-lived assets, including property and equipment and intangible assets, for impairment whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets (or asset group) may not be fully recoverable. Whenever events or changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount of long-lived assets may not be recoverable, we estimate the future cash flows expected to be generated by the assets (or asset group) from its use or eventual disposition. If the sum of the expected future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of those assets, we recognize an impairment loss based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets. Significant management judgment is required in the grouping of long-lived assets and forecasts of future operating results that are used in the discounted cash flow method of valuation. If our actual results, or the plans and estimates used in future impairment analyses are lower than the original estimates used to assess the recoverability of these assets, we could incur additional impairment charges.

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, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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 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 Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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 original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”) or their contract manufacturers. Our delivery terms are primarily free on board shipping point, at which time title and all risks of ownership are transferred to the customer.

To date, software revenue has been an immaterial portion of our net sales.

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. Allowances for sales returns and other reserves 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 5% to 6% of their purchases during the preceding quarter for purposes of stock rotation. For one of these distributors, a scrap allowance of 1% 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 the sell-in basis or sell-through basis, each as described below. 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 discussed above 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).

• 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 allowances 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. 

The following table summarizes the deferred income balance, primarily consisting of sell-through distributors (in thousands):

	As of March 30, 2014			As of March 31, 2013
Deferred revenue at published list price	$	15,871		$	18,652
Deferred cost of revenue		(4,757	)		(6,778	)
Deferred income	$	11,114		$	11,874

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.

Mask Costs Policy [Text Block]

Mask Costs— We incur costs for the fabrication of masks to manufacture our products. If we determine the product technological feasibility has been achieved when costs are incurred, the costs will be treated as pre-production costs and capitalized as machinery and equipment under property, plant and equipment. The amount will be amortized to cost of sales over the estimated production period of the product. If product technological feasibility has not been achieved or the mask is not expected to be utilized in production manufacturing, the related mask costs are expensed to Research and development (“R&D”) when incurred. We periodically assess capitalized mask costs for impairment. Total mask costs capitalized were $2.3 million and $1.7 million as of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013, respectively. The costs capitalized are amortized over five years commencing with the start of commercial production.

Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Research and Development Expenses—R&D costs consist primarily of salaries, employee benefits, certain types of 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 2014, 2013 and 2012.

We have entered into an agreement under which certain R&D costs are eligible for reimbursement. Amounts reimbursed under this arrangement are offset against R&D expenses. During fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, we offset $1.5 million, $2.0 million and $4.0 million, respectively, of R&D expenses in connection with such agreements.

Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Advertising Expenses—We expense advertising costs as incurred. Advertising expenses for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012 were immaterial.

Comprehensive Income, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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 2014, 2013 and 2012 has been disclosed within the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).

Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block]

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 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 immaterial for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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 2014, 2013 and 2012. 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, has been and continues to be our largest distributor. See “Note 19 — Segment and Geographic Information,” for distributors who accounted for more than 10% of net sales and accounts receivable.

Concentration of Other Risks—The majority of our products are currently fabricated by our foundry suppliers and are assembled and tested by third-party subcontractors located in Asia. A significant disruption in the operations of one or more of these subcontractors could impact the production of our products for a substantial period of time which could result in a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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 cash equivalents, short-term marketable securities, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities presented in the consolidated balance sheets at March 30, 2014, March 31, 2013 and April 1, 2012 was not materially different from the carrying values due to the relatively short periods to maturity of the instruments.

Fair Value of Contingent Consideration—We estimate the fair value of our contingent consideration at the date of acquisition and is re-measured each reporting period and any changes in the fair value of the contingent consideration are recognized as a gain or loss in the consolidated statements of operations. The contingent consideration is valued with level three inputs. As of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013, the fair value of the contingent consideration was $4.3 million and $10.1 million, respectively and is included in current and noncurrent liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet.

Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]

Stock-Based Compensation—We measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award. We use the Black-Scholes model to estimate the fair value of our options. The fair value of time-based and performance-based restricted stock units is based on the grant date share price. The fair value of market-based restricted stock units is estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation model. See Part II, Item 8—“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and “Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 14—Stock-Based Compensation” for more details about our assumptions used in calculating the stock-based compensation expenses and equity related transactions during the fiscal year.

We recognize compensation expense equal to the grant-date fair value for all share-based payment awards that are expected to vest. This expense is recorded on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the entire awards, unless the awards are subject to performance or market conditions, in which case we recognize compensation expense over the requisite service period of each separate vesting tranche. For the performance-based awards, we recognize compensation expense when it becomes probable that the performance criteria specified in the plan will be achieved. For the market-based awards, compensation expense is not reversed if the market condition is not satisfied. The amount of stock-based compensation that we recognize is also based on an expected forfeiture rate. If there is a difference between the forfeiture assumptions used in determining stock-based compensation costs and the actual forfeitures which become known over time, we may change the forfeiture rate, which could have a significant impact on its stock-based compensation expense. In addition, we follow the “with-and-without” intra-period allocation approach in our tax attribute calculations

New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Recent Accounting Pronouncements 

In July 2013, the FASB issued amended standards that provided explicit guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward or a tax credit carryforward exists. Under the amended standards, the unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward or a tax credit carryforward. These amended standard updates will be effective for our interim period beginning after December 15, 2013 and applied prospectively with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this guidance did not have any material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In February 2013, the FASB issued amended standards to improve the reporting of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income by requiring an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income but only if the amount reclassified is required under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) to be reclassified to net income in its entirety in the same reporting period. For other amounts that are not required under U.S. GAAP to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures required under U.S. GAAP that provide additional detail about those amounts. These amended standards are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The adoption of this guidance did not have any material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In May 2014, the FASB issued a new standard, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, to clarify the principles for recognizing revenue to develop a common revenue standard for U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) that would (1) provide a more robust framework for addressing revenue recognition; (2) improve comparability of revenue recognition practice across entities, industries, jurisdictions, and capital markets; and (3) provide more useful information to users of financial statements through improved disclosure requirements. This standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Exar is currently evaluating the effect the adoption of this standard will have, if any, on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

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Note 3 - Accounting Policies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Deferred Revenue, by Arrangement, Disclosure [Table Text Block]

	As of March 30, 2014			As of March 31, 2013
Deferred revenue at published list price	$	15,871		$	18,652
Deferred cost of revenue		(4,757	)		(6,778	)
Deferred income	$	11,114		$	11,874

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Note 1 - Description of Business

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Disclosure Text Block [Abstract]

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]

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,” “us,” “our” or “we”) is a fabless semiconductor company that designs, develops and markets high performance analog mixed-signal integrated circuits and advanced sub-system solutions for the Networking & Storage, Industrial & Embedded, and Communications Infrastructure markets.

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Note 4 - Business Combinations (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]

	Amount
Identifiable tangible assets (liabilities)
Cash	$	344
Accounts receivable		143
Inventories		2,154
Other current assets		267
Property, plant and equipment		18
Other assets		11
Debt assumed		(6,186	)
Accounts payable and accruals		(3,408	)
Other short-term liabilities		(1,010	)
Total identifiable tangible assets (liabilities), net		(7,667	)
Identifiable intangible assets		7,010
Total identifiable assets, net		(657	)
Goodwill		667
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$	10

	Fair Value
Developed technologies	$	5,990
Customer relations		1,020
Total identifiable intangible assets	$	7,010

	Amount
Identifiable tangible assets (liabilities)
Cash	$	1,055
Accounts Receivable		241
Inventories		1,756
Property, plant and equipment		231
Other assets		3
Accounts payable and accruals		(7,400	)
Other short-term liabilities		(520	)
Long-term liabilities		(296	)
Total identifiable tangible assets (liabilities), net		(4,930	)
Identifiable intangible assets		20,380
Total identifiable assets, net		15,450
Goodwill		19,387
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$	34,837

	Fair Value
Developed technologies	$	15,720
In-process research and development		2,280
Customer relations		2,170
Trade name		210
Total identifiable intangible assets	$	20,380

	Amount
Identifiable tangible assets
Inventories	$	126
Property, plant and equipment		140
Other assets		36
Accounts payable and accruals		(24	)
Other short-term liabilities		(51	)
Long-term liabilities		(61	)
Total identifiable tangible assets, net		166
Identifiable intangible assets – existing technology		7,540
Total identifiable assets, net		7,706
Goodwill		7,172
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$	14,878

Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]

	Year ended March 30, 2014
Net sales	$	134,290

Schedule Of Consideration Paid [Table Text Block]

	Amount
Cash	$	25,000
Equity instruments		5,177
Estimated fair value of earn-out payments		4,660
Total consideration paid	$	34,837

	Amount
Cash	$	1,000
Equity instruments		3,740
Estimated fair value of earn-out payments		10,138
Total consideration paid	$	14,878

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Note 11 - Net Income (Loss) Per Share (Details) - Summary of Net Income (Loss) per Share (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jul. 01, 2012	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Summary of Net Income (Loss) per Share [Abstract]
Net income (loss) (in Dollars)	$ 147	$ (1,634)	$ 6,482	$ 806	$ 1,672	$ 1,523	$ 263	$ (576)	$ 5,801	$ 2,882	$ (28,056)
Shares used in computation of net income (loss) per share:
Basic									47,291	45,809	44,796
Effect of options and awards									1,532	667
Diluted	48,778	47,529	49,150	48,085	47,379	46,438	46,046	45,388	48,823	46,476	44,796
Net income (loss) per share:
Basic (in Dollars per share)	$ 0.00	$ (0.03)	$ 0.14	$ 0.02	$ 0.04	$ 0.03	$ 0.01	$ (0.01)	$ 0.12	$ 0.06	$ (0.63)
Diluted (in Dollars per share)	$ 0.00	$ (0.03)	$ 0.13	$ 0.02	$ 0.04	$ 0.03	$ 0.01	$ (0.01)	$ 0.12	$ 0.06	$ (0.63)

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Note 18 - Income Taxes (Details) - Total Unrecognized Gross Tax Benefits (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2013		Apr. 01, 2012	Mar. 27, 2011
Total Unrecognized Gross Tax Benefits [Abstract]
Unrecognized gross tax benefits	$ 14,164		$ 15,465		$ 16,820	$ 16,714
Less: amount used to reduce deferred tax assets	13,370		13,240
Net income tax payable(1)	$ 794	[1]	$ 2,225	[1]

[1] Included in other non-current obligations line item in consolidated balance sheet.

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Note 12 - Common Stock Repurchases (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Activity [Table Text Block]

	Total number of Shares Purchased		Average Price Paid Per Share (or Unit)		Amount Paid for Purchase
Balances, April 1, 2012		9,564	$	9.22	$	88,189
Repurchases		—	$	—		—
Balances, March 31, 2013		9,564	$	9.22	$	88,189
Repurchases		755	$	11.92		9,000
Balances, March 30, 2014		10,319	$	9.42	$	97,189

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Note 4 - Business Combinations (Details) - Fair Value Allocated to Tangible and Identifiable Intangible Assets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified						0 Months Ended					0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012	Jan. 14, 2014 Stretch [Member] Developed Technology Rights [Member]	Jan. 14, 2014 Stretch [Member] Customer Relationships [Member]	Jan. 14, 2014 Stretch [Member]	Jul. 05, 2013 Cadeka [Member] Developed Technology Rights [Member]	Jul. 05, 2013 Cadeka [Member] Customer Relationships [Member]	Jul. 05, 2013 Cadeka [Member] In Process Research and Development [Member]	Jul. 05, 2013 Cadeka [Member] Trade Names [Member]	Jul. 05, 2013 Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 22, 2013 Altior [Member]
Identifiable tangible assets (liabilities)
Cash						$ 344					$ 1,055
Accounts Receivable						143					241
Inventories						2,154					1,756	126
Other current assets						267
Property, plant and equipment						18					231	140
Other assets						11					3	36
Debt assumed						(6,186)
Accounts payable and accruals						(3,408)					(7,400)	(24)
Other short-term liabilities						(1,010)					(520)	(51)
Long-term liabilities											(296)	(61)
Total identifiable tangible assets (liabilities), net						(7,667)					(4,930)	166
Identifiable intangible assets				5,990	1,020	7,010	15,720	2,170	2,280	210	20,380	7,540
Total identifiable assets, net						(657)					15,450	7,706
Goodwill	30,410	10,356	3,184			667					19,387	7,172
Fair value of total consideration transferred						$ 10					$ 34,837	$ 14,878

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Note 7 - Related Party Transaction (Details) - Related Party Receivables As a Percentage of Net Accounts Receivable (Net Accounts Receivable [Member], Alonim Investments Inc. [Member], Accounts Receivable [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Net Accounts Receivable [Member] | Alonim Investments Inc. [Member] | Accounts Receivable [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Alonim	18.00%	21.00%

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Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 14,614	$ 14,718
Short-term marketable securities	152,420	190,587
Accounts receivable (net of allowances of $1,178 and $944)	15,023	12,614
Accounts receivable, related party (net of allowances of $608 and $346)	3,309	3,374
Inventories	28,982	19,430
Other current assets	3,549	3,177
Total current assets	217,897	243,900
Property, plant and equipment, net	21,280	24,100
Goodwill	30,410	10,356
Intangible assets, net	31,390	13,338
Other non-current assets	1,240	1,474
Total assets	302,217	293,168
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	15,488	9,455
Accrued compensation and related benefits	4,174	3,624
Deferred income and allowances on sales to distributors	1,765	2,399
Deferred income and allowances on sales to distributors, related party	9,349	9,475
Other current liabilities	11,370	15,215
Total current liabilities	42,146	40,168
Long-term lease financing obligations	70	1,342
Other non-current obligations	6,626	11,204
Total liabilities	48,842	52,714
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 15, 16 and 17)
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock, $.0001 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; 47,336,005 and 46,607,246 shares outstanding (net of treasury shares)	5	5
Additional paid-in capital	508,116	749,426
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(1,079)	(526)
Treasury stock at cost, 0 and 19,924,369 shares		(248,983)
Accumulated deficit	(253,667)	(259,468)
Total stockholders’ equity	253,375	240,454
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$ 302,217	$ 293,168

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Note 18 - Income Taxes (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Current:
Federal	$	(1,350	)	$	(1,255	)	$	110
State		(93	)		(73	)		(235	)
Foreign		(81	)		114			218
Total current	$	(1,524	)	$	(1,214	)	$	93
Deferred:
Federal	$	(6,807	)	$	23		$	(39	)
State		(147	)		2			(3	)
Total deferred	$	(6,954	)	$	25		$	(42	)
Total provision for (benefit from) income taxes	$	(8,478	)	$	(1,189	)	$	51

Schedule Of Foreign Income Included In Pre-Tax Income [Table Text Block]

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Foreign income/(loss)	$	(307	)	$	—	$	1,243

Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Deferred tax assets:
Reserves and expenses not currently deductible	$	7,973		$	8,049
Net operating loss carryforwards		123,826			124,662
Tax credits		27,259			29,109
Losses on investments		1,832			2,110
Unrealized investment gain		80			-
Intangible assets		6,838			6,225
Deferred margin		3,968			4,158
Depreciation		642			604
Total deferred tax assets		172,418			174,917
Deferred tax liabilities:
Unrealized investment loss		—			(116	)
Non-goodwill intangibles		(6,560	)		(930	)
Total deferred tax liabilities		(6,560	)		(1,046	)
Valuation allowance		(165,924	)		(173,927	)
Net deferred tax liabilities	$	(66	)	$	(56	)

Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Income tax benefit at statutory rate	$	(937	)	$	593		$	(10,061	)
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit		(1	)		60			(824	)
Deferred tax assets not benefited		(1,972	)		(378	)		11,967
Tax credits		(757	)		(539	)		(1,021	)
Stock-based compensation		(427	)		258			432
Foreign rate differential		156			148			(373	)
Prior year tax expense true-up		(10	)		11			12
Fair value adjustment		(3,732	)		-			-
Other, net		(798	)		(1,342	)		(81	)
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes	$	(8,478	)	$	(1,189	)	$	51

Summary of Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table Text Block]

Federal net operating loss carryforwards	$	325,333
State net operating loss carryforwards	$	118,149
Canada net operating loss carryforwards	$	27,064

Summary of Tax Credit Carryforwards [Table Text Block]

Federal tax credit carryforwards	$	9,618
State tax credit carryforwards	$	19,186
Canada tax credit carryforwards	$	5,135

Summary of Positions for which Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Table Text Block]

	Amount
Unrecognized tax benefits as of March 27, 2011	$	16,714
Gross decrease related to prior year tax positions		(289	)
Gross increase related to current year tax positions		578
Lapses in statute of limitation		(183	)
Unrecognized tax benefits as of April 1, 2012		16,820
Gross decrease related to prior year tax positions		(271	)
Gross increase related to current year tax positions		292
Lapses in statute of limitation		(1,376	)
Unrecognized tax benefits as of March 31, 2013		15,465
Gross increase related to prior year tax positions		92
Gross increase related to current year tax positions		487
Lapses in statute of limitation		(1,880	)
Unrecognized tax benefits as of March 30, 2014	$	14,164

Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Unrecognized gross tax benefits	$	14,164	$	15,465
Less: amount used to reduce deferred tax assets		13,370		13,240
Net income tax payable(1)	$	794	$	2,225

Schedule Of Interest And Penalty Related To Underpayment Of Tax [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Accrued interest and penalties	$	83	$	228

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Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Unrecognized Stock-Based Compensation Expense Related to Stock Options and RSUs (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Unrecognized Stock-Based Compensation Expense Related to Stock Options and RSUs [Line Items]
Amount	$ 19,217	$ 10,142	$ 11,656
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Unrecognized Stock-Based Compensation Expense Related to Stock Options and RSUs [Line Items]
Amount	9,958	6,269	7,356
Weighted Average Remaining Recognition Period	2 years 255 days	2 years 292 days	2 years 292 days
Performance Shares [Member]
Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Unrecognized Stock-Based Compensation Expense Related to Stock Options and RSUs [Line Items]
Amount	242	502	763
Weighted Average Remaining Recognition Period	2 years 73 days	2 years 219 days	3 years 6 months
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Unrecognized Stock-Based Compensation Expense Related to Stock Options and RSUs [Line Items]
Amount	5,970	1,557	1,185
Weighted Average Remaining Recognition Period	2 years 73 days	2 years 6 months	3 years 73 days
Performance-Based RSUs [Member]
Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Unrecognized Stock-Based Compensation Expense Related to Stock Options and RSUs [Line Items]
Amount	$ 3,047	$ 1,814	$ 2,352
Weighted Average Remaining Recognition Period	2 years 6 months	3 years 146 days	4 years 36 days

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Note 18 - Income Taxes (Details) - Reconciliation of the Beginning and Ending Amount of the Unrecognized Tax Benefits (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012	Mar. 27, 2011
Reconciliation of the Beginning and Ending Amount of the Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Abstract]
Unrecognized tax benefits	$ 14,164	$ 15,465	$ 16,820	$ 16,714
Gross increase related to prior year tax positions	92
Gross decrease related to prior year tax positions		(271)	(289)
Gross increase related to current year tax positions	487	292	578
Lapses in statute of limitation	$ (1,880)	$ (1,376)	$ (183)

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Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Common Stock [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Total
Balance at Mar. 27, 2011	$ 4,000	$ (248,983,000)	$ 728,139,000	$ (234,294,000)	$ (287,000)	$ 244,579,000
Balance (in Shares) at Mar. 27, 2011	64,444,032	(19,924,369)
Net income (loss)				(28,056,000)		(28,056,000)
Change in unrealized gains on marketable securities					86,000	86,000
Shares issued through employee stock plans	1,000		3,144,000			3,145,000
Shares issued through employee stock plans (in Shares)	485,210					62,000
Shares issued in connection with acquisitions			24,000			24,000
Shares issued in connection with acquisitions (in Shares)	3,358
Shares issued for vested restricted stock units			16,000			16,000
Shares issued for vested restricted stock units (in Shares)	278,080
Withholding of shares for tax obligations on vested restricted stock units			(252,000)			(252,000)
Withholding of shares for tax obligations on vested restricted stock units (in Shares)	(41,078)
Repurchase of common stock						0
Stock-based compensation			3,750,000			3,750,000
Balance at Apr. 01, 2012	5,000	(248,983,000)	734,821,000	(262,350,000)	(201,000)	223,292,000
Balance (in Shares) at Apr. 01, 2012	65,169,602	(19,924,369)
Net income (loss)				2,882,000		2,882,000
Change in unrealized gains on marketable securities					(325,000)	(325,000)
Shares issued through employee stock plans			6,296,000			6,296,000
Shares issued through employee stock plans (in Shares)	903,772					26,000
Shares issued in connection with acquisitions			3,740,000			3,740,000
Shares issued in connection with acquisitions (in Shares)	357,873
Shares issued for vested restricted stock units (in Shares)	125,095
Withholding of shares for tax obligations on vested restricted stock units			(219,000)			(219,000)
Withholding of shares for tax obligations on vested restricted stock units (in Shares)	(24,727)
Repurchase of common stock						0
Stock-based compensation			4,788,000			4,788,000
Balance at Mar. 31, 2013	5,000	(248,983,000)	749,426,000	(259,468,000)	(526,000)	240,454,000
Balance (in Shares) at Mar. 31, 2013	66,531,615	(19,924,369)
Net income (loss)				5,801,000		5,801,000
Change in unrealized gains on marketable securities					(553,000)	(553,000)
Shares issued through employee stock plans			5,833,000			5,833,000
Shares issued through employee stock plans (in Shares)	805,527					20,000
Shares issued in connection with acquisitions			5,005,000			5,005,000
Shares issued in connection with acquisitions (in Shares)	438,995
Shares issued for vested restricted stock units			12,000			12,000
Shares issued for vested restricted stock units (in Shares)	346,407
Withholding of shares for tax obligations on vested restricted stock units			(1,149,000)			(1,149,000)
Withholding of shares for tax obligations on vested restricted stock units (in Shares)	(106,865)
Retirement of treasury shares		248,983,000	(248,983,000)
Retirement of treasury shares (in Shares)	(19,924,369)	19,924,369				755,000
Repurchase of common stock			(9,000,000)			(9,000,000)
Repurchase of common stock (in Shares)	(755,305)
Stock-based compensation			6,972,000			6,972,000
Balance at Mar. 30, 2014	$ 5,000		$ 508,116,000	$ (253,667,000)	$ (1,079,000)	$ 253,375,000
Balance (in Shares) at Mar. 30, 2014	47,336,005

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Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Weighted Average Assumptions (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Weighted Average Assumptions [Line Items]
Expected term of options (years)		4 years 131 days	4 years 109 days
Weighted average grant date fair value (in Dollars per share)	$ 3.40	$ 2.80	$ 2.22
Minimum [Member]
Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Weighted Average Assumptions [Line Items]
Expected term of options (years)	4 years 146 days
Risk-free interest rate	0.60%	0.50%	0.70%
Expected volatility	32.00%	37.00%	41.00%
Maximum [Member]
Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Weighted Average Assumptions [Line Items]
Expected term of options (years)	4 years 178 days
Risk-free interest rate	1.10%	0.60%	1.50%
Expected volatility	35.00%	42.00%	43.00%

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Note 5 - Balance Sheet Details (Details) - Other Current Liabilities (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Other Current Liabilities [Abstract]
Short-term lease financing obligations	$ 2,671	$ 3,189
Accrued restructuring charges and exit costs	2,214	2,020
Accrued manufacturing expenses, royalties and licenses	1,639	2,370
Accrued legal and professional services	1,453	746
Purchase consideration holdback	1,256
Accrued sales and marketing expenses	666	576
Fair value of earn out liability – short-term	490	2,599
Accrual for dispute resolution		2,727
Other	981	988
Total other current liabilities	$ 11,370	$ 15,215

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Note 15 - Lease Financing Obligation (Details) - Lease Financing (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Lease Financing [Abstract]
2015	$ 2,741
2016	59
2017	10
2018	7
Total minimum lease payments	2,817
Less: amount representing interest	76
Present value of future minimum lease payments	2,741
Less: short-term lease financing obligations	2,671	3,189
Long-term lease financing obligations	$ 70

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Note 7 - Related Party Transaction (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Total Net Sales [Member]

Note 7 - Related Party Transaction (Tables) [Line Items]

Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block]

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Alonim		29	%		30	%		31	%

Net Accounts Receivable [Member]

Note 7 - Related Party Transaction (Tables) [Line Items]

Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Alonim		18	%		21	%

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Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) - Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Marketable Securities (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012	Mar. 27, 2011
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash in financial institutions	$ 9,978	$ 9,676
Money market funds	4,636	5,042
Total cash and cash equivalents	14,614	14,718	8,714	15,039
Short-term marketable securities
Short-term marketable securities	152,420	190,587
US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member]
Short-term marketable securities
Short-term marketable securities	22,512	41,721
US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member]
Short-term marketable securities
Short-term marketable securities	2,772	2,935
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Short-term marketable securities
Short-term marketable securities	71,253	92,229
Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Short-term marketable securities
Short-term marketable securities	27,635	30,966
Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Short-term marketable securities
Short-term marketable securities	$ 28,248	$ 22,736

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Note 15 - Lease Financing Obligation

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract]

Debt and Capital Leases Disclosures [Text Block]

NOTE 15.    LEASE FINANCING OBLIGATION

We have acquired engineering design tools under capital leases. We acquired design tools of $0.9 million in July 2012 under a three-year license, $4.5 million in December 2011 under a three-year license, $5.8 million in October 2011 under a three-year license, $1.0 million in June 2010 under a three-year license, $1.3 million in December 2009 under a 28-month license, and $1.1 million in July 2009 under a three-year license, all of which were accounted for as capital leases and recorded in the property, plant and equipment, net line item in the consolidated balance sheets. The obligations related to the design tools were included in other current liabilities and long-term lease financing obligations in our consolidated balance sheets as of March 30, 2014 and April 1, 2012, respectively. The effective interest rates for the design tools range from 2.0% to 7.25%.

Amortization expense related to the design tools, which was 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 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Amortization expense	$	3,294	$	3,523	$	3,706

Future minimum lease and sublease income payments for the lease financing obligations as of March 30, 2014, which all expire prior to 2019, are as follows (in thousands):

Lease financing

Fiscal Years	Design tools
2015	$	2,741
2016		59
2017		10
2018		7
Total minimum lease payments		2,817
Less: amount representing interest		76
Present value of future minimum lease payments		2,741
Less: short-term lease financing obligations		2,671
Long-term lease financing obligations	$	70

Interest expense for the design tools lease financing obligations for the periods indicated were as follow (in thousands): 

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Interest expense – design tools	$	155	$	143	$	210

In the course of our business, we enter into arrangements accounted for as operating leases related to the licensing of engineering design software and the rental of office space. Rent expenses for all operating leases for the periods indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Rent expense	$	1,289	$	616	$	2,121

Our future minimum lease payments for the lease operating obligations, which all expire prior to 2019, as of March 30, 2014 are as follows (in thousands):

Operating lease

Fiscal Years	Facilities
2015	$	688
2016		463
2017		152
2018		21
Total future minimum lease payments	$	1,324

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Note 8 - Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]

Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014
	Beginning  balance		Additions/ adjustments		Non-cash charges			Payments			Ending balance
Lease termination and other costs	$	2,860	$	570	$	(57	)	$	(1,758	)	$	1,615
Severance		426		2,444		—			(2,116	)		754
Balance at March 30, 2014	$	3,286	$	3,014	$	(57	)	$	(3,874	)	$	2,369

	March 31, 2013
	Beginning balance		Additions/ adjustments		Non-cash charges			Payments			Ending balance
Lease termination costs and others	$	5,235	$	6	$	(56	)	$	(2,325	)	$	2,860
Severance		2,806		1,548		—			(3,928	)		426
Balance at March 31, 2013	$	8,041	$	1,554	$	(56	)	$	(6,253	)	$	3,286

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Note 15 - Lease Financing Obligation (Details) - Amortization Expense Related to the Design Tools (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Note 15 - Lease Financing Obligation (Details) - Amortization Expense Related to the Design Tools [Line Items]
Amortization expense	$ 7,600	$ 3,379	$ 3,603
Design Tools [Member]
Note 15 - Lease Financing Obligation (Details) - Amortization Expense Related to the Design Tools [Line Items]
Amortization expense	$ 3,294	$ 3,523	$ 3,706

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Note 22 - Subsequent Event (Details)	12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2013 USD ($)	Apr. 26, 2014 Subsequent Event [Member] Stifel Financial Corp. [Member] Integrated Memory Logic Limited [Member] USD ($)	May 29, 2014 Subsequent Event [Member] Integrated Memory Logic Limited [Member]	May 29, 2014 Subsequent Event [Member] Integrated Memory Logic Limited [Member]	Apr. 26, 2014 Subsequent Event [Member] Integrated Memory Logic Limited [Member] USD ($)	Apr. 26, 2014 Subsequent Event [Member] Integrated Memory Logic Limited [Member] TWD	Mar. 30, 2014 Future Event June 29, 2014 [Member] Integrated Memory Logic Limited [Member] USD ($)	Mar. 30, 2014 Future Event June 29, 2014 [Member] Integrated Memory Logic Limited [Member] TWD
Note 22 - Subsequent Event (Details) [Line Items]
Business Acquisition, Share Price						$ 3.00	91.00
Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares (in Shares)				68,319,091	68,319,091
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired				92.00%	92.00%
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross								$ 206,000,000	6,200,000,000
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred								224,000,000	6,800,000,000
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired	22,777,000	750,000						92,000,000	2,800,000,000
Senior Notes			$ 90,000,000

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Note 17 - Legal Proceedings

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract]

Legal Matters and Contingencies [Text Block]

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. Although the ultimate outcome of the matters discussed below and other matters is not presently determinable, management currently believes that the resolution of all such pending matters will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In fiscal year 2014, two former employees of Exar’s French subsidiary asserted claims against that subsidiary for alleged unfair dismissal in the French Labor Courts. We believe that the former employees were terminated in accordance with the requirements of French law and that the former employees’ claims are not supported by evidence. The matters are in the early procedural stages. A court hearing for one of the matters is scheduled for October 10, 2014. We dispute the claims and we intend to vigorously protect our interests. We do not believe an adverse outcome will have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flow.

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Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) - Amortized Cost and Estimated Fair Value of Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Amortized Cost and Estimated Fair Value of Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities [Abstract]
Less than 1 year	$ 49,539	$ 61,011
Less than 1 year	49,504	61,029
Due in 1 to 5 years	107,741	134,289
Due in 1 to 5 years	107,552	134,600
Total	157,280	195,300
Total	$ 157,056	$ 195,629

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Note 18 - Income Taxes (Details) - Foreign Income Included in Consolidated Pre-Tax Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Apr. 01, 2012
Foreign Income Included in Consolidated Pre-Tax Income [Abstract]
Foreign income/(loss)	$ (307)	$ 1,243

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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$ 5,801,000	$ 2,882,000	$ (28,056,000)
Reconciliation of net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Impairment charges	2,224,000
Depreciation and amortization	12,947,000	10,809,000	14,898,000
Gain on sale of intangible asset		(223,000)
Stock-based compensation expense	8,852,000	4,788,000	3,750,000
Release of deferred tax valuation allowance	(6,940,000)
Net change in fair value of contingent consideration	(10,455,000)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable and accounts receivable, related party	(1,960,000)	(4,616,000)	1,598,000
Inventories	(5,907,000)	(930,000)	3,588,000
Other current and non-current assets	(305,000)	528,000	683,000
Accounts payable	5,505,000	1,632,000	(971,000)
Accrued compensation and related benefits	412,000	(513,000)	(2,364,000)
Other current liabilities	(8,563,000)	(5,847,000)	6,836,000
Deferred income and allowance on sales to distributors and related party distributor	(760,000)	(1,144,000)	(2,294,000)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	851,000	7,366,000	(2,332,000)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property, plant and equipment and intellectual property, net	(2,658,000)	(1,385,000)	(2,539,000)
Purchases of short-term marketable securities	(257,946,000)	(200,654,000)	(169,688,000)
Proceeds from maturities of short-term marketable securities	31,821,000	48,687,000	63,226,000
Proceeds from sales of short-term marketable securities	264,221,000	148,914,000	105,040,000
Acquisitions, net of cash	(22,777,000)	(750,000)
Other disposal activities	125,000	360,000	384,000
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	12,786,000	(4,828,000)	(3,577,000)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	5,844,000	6,515,000	3,145,000
Shares withheld on RSUs released	(1,149,000)	(219,000)
Repayment of debt assumed from Stretch acquisition	(6,187,000)
Repurchase of common stock	(9,000,000)
Repayment of lease financing obligations	(3,249,000)	(2,830,000)	(3,561,000)
Net cash provided by (used) in financing activities	(13,741,000)	3,466,000	(416,000)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(104,000)	6,004,000	(6,325,000)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of year	14,718,000	8,714,000	15,039,000
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year	14,614,000	14,718,000	8,714,000
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow and non-cash information:
Return of Hillview Facility to Lessor			12,167,000
Issuance of common stock in connection with acquisitions	5,005,000	3,740,000	24,000
Cash paid for income taxes	106,000	154,000	122,000
Cash received from income taxes refund	4,000		19,000
Cash paid for interest	155,000	165,000	193,000
Property, plant and equipment acquired under capital lease			8,478,000
Hifn and Others [Member]
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow and non-cash information:
Issuance of common stock in connection with acquisitions	10,000	19,000	24,000
Altior [Member]
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow and non-cash information:
Issuance of common stock in connection with acquisitions		3,740,000
Cadeka [Member]
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow and non-cash information:
Issuance of common stock in connection with acquisitions	$ 5,005,000

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Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Accounts receivable, allowances (in Dollars)	$ 1,178	$ 944
Common stock par value (in Dollars per share)	$ 0.0001	$ 0.0001
Common stock, shares authorized	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	47,336,005	46,607,246
Treasury stock at cost, shares	0	19,924,369
Related Party [Member]
Accounts receivable, allowances (in Dollars)	$ 608	$ 346

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Note 10 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]

NOTE 10.    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 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. Estimations and assumptions regarding the number of reporting units, future performances, results of our operations and comparability of our market capitalization and net book value will be used. 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 single operating segment and one chief operating decision maker, the President and Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), with highly integrated business, we utilize an entity-wide approach to assess goodwill for impairment.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014, we conducted our annual impairment review comparing the fair value of our single reporting unit with its carrying value. As of the test date and as of fiscal 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 goodwill impairment was recorded for fiscal year 2014. However, we recorded an impairment charge for certain purchased technologies due to a decrease in valuation based on decline in our business forecasts related to these technologies.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal years 2013 and 2012, we conducted our annual impairment. 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 years 2013 or 2012.

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for fiscal years 2014 and 2013 were as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Beginning balance	$	10,356	$	3,184
Goodwill additions		20,054		7,172
Ending balance	$	30,410	$	10,356

The goodwill additions during fiscal year 2014 consist of $19.4 million and $0.7 million residual allocation from the Cadeka and Stretch acquisition purchase price accounting, respectively. Goodwill additions during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2013 consisted of $7.2 million residual allocation from the Altior acquisition purchase price accounting.

Intangible Assets

Our purchased intangible assets as of the dates indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014										March 31, 2013
	Carrying Amount		Impair- ment			Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Amount		Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Amount
Amortized intangible assets:
Existing technology	$	64,678	$	(1,635	)	$	(37,510	)	$	25,533	$	42,858	$	(30,668	)	$	12,190
Customer relationships		6,095		—			(2,762	)		3,333		2,905		(2,079	)		826
Patents/Core technology		3,459		—			(3,378	)		81		3,459		(3,182	)		277
Distributor relationships		1,264		—			(1,260	)		4		1,264		(1,219	)		45
Tradenames		210		—			(51	)		159		—		—			—
Total intangible assets subject to amortization		75,706		(1,635	)		(44,961	)		29,110		50,486		(37,148	)		13,338
In-process research and development		2,280		—			—			2,280		—		—			—
Total	$	77,986	$	(1,635	)	$	(44,961	)	$	31,390	$	50,486	$	(37,148	)	$	13,338

Long-lived assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their respective estimated useful lives. Existing technology is amortized over two to nine years. Patents/core technology is amortized over five to six years. Distributor relationships are amortized over six years. Customer relationships are amortized over five to seven years. Tradenames are amortized over three years. We expect the amortization of IPR&D to start in fiscal year 2015. 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 business circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets (or asset group) may not be fully recoverable. Whenever events or changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount of long-lived assets may not be recoverable, we estimate the future cash flows expected to be generated by the assets (or asset group) from its use or eventual disposition. If the sum of the expected future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of those assets, we recognize an impairment loss based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets. Significant management judgment is required in the grouping of long-lived assets and forecasts of future operating results that are used in the discounted cash flow method of valuation. If our actual results, or the plans and estimates used in future impairment analyses are lower than the original estimates used to assess the recoverability of these assets, we could incur additional impairment charges.

Due to the decline in forecasted revenue related to certain acquired intangible assets, we recorded $1.6 million impairment charges for fiscal year 2014. No impairment charges were recorded for fiscal year 2013 or fiscal year 2012.

During the second quarter of fiscal year 2013, we sold certain patents for $500,000 and recorded a gain of approximately $223,000.

During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012 we exited the OTN market, and, in connection therewith, stopped development of our OTN products. We also ceased development of our de-duplication products. In both instances, we determined that the current economic and market environment did not provide the potential to deliver acceptable returns on the required investments. As a result, in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, we expensed the costs for the related IPR&D and intangible assets. We recorded total charges of $1.7 million in restructuring charges and exit costs line item in our consolidated statements of operations.

The intangible asset charges related to the exiting of the OTN and de-duplication products of $1.7 million consists of $0.3 million write-off of the IPR&D acquired from Galazar, $1.1 million of amortization of purchased intangible assets related to the OTN products acquired from Galazar and $0.3 million amortization of the existing technology acquired from Hifn. See “Note 8—Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs.”

The aggregate amortization expenses for our purchased intangible assets for fiscal years indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Amortization expense	$	7,813	$	4,150	$	6,700

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

Amortization Expense (by fiscal year)
2015	$	6,159
2016		5,578
2017		4,645
2018		4,432
2019		3,231
2020 and thereafter		5,065
Total future amortization excluding IPR&D	$	29,110

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Note 16 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Product Warranty Accrual	$ 1,074	$ 1,400	$ 50	$ 90

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Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - RSU Transactions (Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member], USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012	Mar. 27, 2011
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - RSU Transactions [Line Items]
Shares	732,204	604,655		557,098
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (in Dollars per share)	$ 7.73	$ 7.13		$ 7.17
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)	1 year 226 days	1 year 262 days	2 years 138 days	1 year 32 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands) (in Dollars)	$ 7,688	$ 5,079		$ 3,387
Vested and expected to vest, March 30, 2014	1,018,609
Vested and expected to vest, March 30, 2014	1 year 211 days
Vested and expected to vest, March 30, 2014 (in Dollars)	11,928
Shares Granted	828,995	331,894	481,650
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in Dollars per share)	$ 13.06	$ 8.40	$ 7.12
Shares Issued and Released	(346,407)	(125,095)	(271,830)
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in Dollars per share)	$ 9.38	$ 7.10	$ 7.25
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)	(37,666)	(79,250)	(162,263)
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands) (in Dollars per share)	$ 9.52	$ 6.96	$ 7.25
Shares	1,177,126	732,204	604,655
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value (in Dollars per share)	$ 10.94	$ 7.73	$ 7.13
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)	1 year 226 days	1 year 262 days	2 years 138 days	1 year 32 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands) (in Dollars)	$ 13,784	$ 7,688	$ 5,079

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Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Stock Option Transactions (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012	Mar. 27, 2011
Stock Option Transactions [Abstract]
Options outstanding	6,212,333	6,345,307		5,729,464
Weighted Average Exercise Price of Options Outstanding (in Dollars per share)	$ 7.48	$ 7.23		$ 7.61
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term of Options Outstanding	5 years 7 days	5 years 14 days	4 years 244 days	4 years 270 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in Dollars)	$ 19,199	$ 9,474		$ 147
In the Money Options Vested and Exercisable	1,481,000	1,193,000		103,000
Vested and expected to vest, March 30, 2014	6,740,358
Vested and expected to vest, March 30, 2014 (in Dollars per share)	$ 8.88
Vested and expected to vest, March 30, 2014	4 years 343 days
Vested and expected to vest, March 30, 2014 (in Dollars)	20,539
Vested and exercisable, March 30, 2014	2,369,001
Vested and exercisable, March 30, 2014 (in Dollars per share)	$ 7.54
Vested and exercisable, March 30, 2014	3 years 200 days
Vested and exercisable, March 30, 2014 (in Dollars)	10,114
Options Granted	2,482,650	2,540,010	3,100,595
Weighted average Exercise Price per Share of Options Granted (in Dollars per share)	$ 11.89	$ 8.32	$ 6.33
Options Exercised	(784,864)	(875,459)	(422,749)
Weighted Average Exercise Price of Options Exercised (in Dollars per share)	$ 7.14	$ 6.92	$ 6.54
Options Cancelled	(10,834)	(903,781)	(526,574)
Weighted Average Exercise Price of Options Cancelled (in Dollars per share)	$ 10.92	$ 9.67	$ 8.15
Options Forfeited	(685,437)	(893,744)	(1,535,429)
Weighted Average Exercise Price of Options Forfeited (in Dollars per share)	$ 8.02	$ 6.41	$ 6.70
Options outstanding	7,213,848	6,212,333	6,345,307
Weighted Average Exercise Price of Options Outstanding (in Dollars per share)	$ 8.98	$ 7.48	$ 7.23
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term of Options Outstanding	5 years 7 days	5 years 14 days	4 years 244 days	4 years 270 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in Dollars)	$ 21,301	$ 19,199	$ 9,474
In the Money Options Vested and Exercisable	2,170,000	1,481,000	1,193,000

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Note 21 - Supplementary Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Details) - Selected Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data (USD $) Share data in Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jul. 01, 2012	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Net sales by end market:
Sales Revenue Net	$ 27,987,000	$ 30,690,000	$ 34,018,000	$ 32,627,000	$ 31,154,000	$ 30,999,000	$ 30,622,000	$ 29,251,000	$ 89,595,000	$ 85,856,000	$ 89,988,000
Gross profit	8,422,000	12,826,000	13,929,000	15,477,000	15,296,000	14,192,000	13,330,000	12,869,000	50,654,000	55,687,000	55,924,000
Income (loss) from operations	(311,000)	(3,321,000)	(616,000)	547,000	1,309,000	(353,000)	(373,000)	(1,166,000)	(3,701,000)	(583,000)	(30,593,000)
Net income (loss)	147,000	(1,634,000)	6,482,000	806,000	1,672,000	1,523,000	263,000	(576,000)	5,801,000	2,882,000	(28,056,000)
Net income (loss) per share:
Basic (in Dollars per share)	$ 0.00	$ (0.03)	$ 0.14	$ 0.02	$ 0.04	$ 0.03	$ 0.01	$ (0.01)	$ 0.12	$ 0.06	$ (0.63)
Diluted (in Dollars per share)	$ 0.00	$ (0.03)	$ 0.13	$ 0.02	$ 0.04	$ 0.03	$ 0.01	$ (0.01)	$ 0.12	$ 0.06	$ (0.63)
Shares used in the computation of net income (loss) per share:
Basic (in Shares)	47,328	47,529	47,496	46,805	46,219	45,925	45,720	45,388
Diluted (in Shares)	48,778	47,529	49,150	48,085	47,379	46,438	46,046	45,388	48,823	46,476	44,796
Industrial And Embedded Systems [Member]
Net sales by end market:
Sales Revenue Net	19,588,000	18,429,000	17,943,000	16,498,000	15,265,000	16,119,000	15,923,000	16,088,000
Networking And Storage [Member]
Net sales by end market:
Sales Revenue Net	3,310,000	7,104,000	10,273,000	9,907,000	9,346,000	9,300,000	7,656,000	6,435,000
Communications Infrastructure [Member]
Net sales by end market:
Sales Revenue Net	5,046,000	5,089,000	5,697,000	5,976,000	6,231,000	5,270,000	6,737,000	6,728,000
Other Segments [Member]
Net sales by end market:
Sales Revenue Net	$ 43,000	$ 68,000	$ 105,000	$ 246,000	$ 312,000	$ 310,000	$ 306,000

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Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Major Distributors and Customer of Net Revenue (Net Revenue [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Distributor A [Member]
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Net Revenue	27.00%	30.00%	31.00%
Distributor B [Member]
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Net Revenue	21.00%	11.00%	11.00%
Distributor C [Member]
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Net Revenue	12.00%	10.00%

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Document And Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Jun. 09, 2014	Sep. 27, 2013
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	Exar Corporation
Document Type	10-K
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--03-30
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		47,242,288
Entity Public Float			$ 278,800,000
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Central Index Key	0000753568
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Document Period End Date	Mar. 30, 2014
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY

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Note 11 - Net Income (Loss) Per Share

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share [Text Block]

NOTE 11.    NET INCOME (LOSS) PER SHARE

Basic net income (loss) per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the applicable period. Diluted earnings per share 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.

The following table summarizes our net income (loss) per share for the periods indicated below (in thousands, except per share amounts):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Net income (loss)	$	5,801	$	2,882	$	(28,056	)
Shares used in computation of net income (loss) per share:
Basic		47,291		45,809		44,796
Effect of options and awards		1,532		667		—
Diluted		48,823		46,476		44,796
Net income (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.12	$	0.06	$	(0.63	)
Diluted	$	0.12	$	0.06	$	(0.63	)

All outstanding stock options and RSUs are potentially dilutive securities. As of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013, stock options of 1.4 million and 2.2 million, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted net income per share because they were determined to be anti-dilutive. For fiscal years 2012, all shares attributable to outstanding options and RSUs were excluded from the computation of diluted net loss per share, as inclusion of such shares would have had an anti-dilutive effect. Accordingly, basic and diluted net loss per share were the same in each period presented.

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Note 10 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details) - Aggregate Amortization Expenses for Purchased Intangible Assets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Aggregate Amortization Expenses for Purchased Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Amortization expense	$ 7,813	$ 4,150	$ 6,700

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Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Stock Options Outstanding (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012	Mar. 27, 2011	Mar. 28, 2010
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Number Outstanding (in Shares)	7,213,848	6,212,333	6,345,307		5,729,464
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms (in years)	5 years 7 days	5 years 14 days	4 years 244 days	4 years 270 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share	$ 8.98	$ 7.48	$ 7.23		$ 7.61
Number Exercisable (in Shares)	2,369,001
Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share	$ 7.54
Range One [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices	$ 5.44
Range of Exercise Prices	$ 6.43
Number Outstanding (in Shares)	2,010,296
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms (in years)	4 years
Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share	$ 6.27
Number Exercisable (in Shares)	1,184,735
Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share	$ 6.25
Range Two [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices	$ 6.60
Range of Exercise Prices	$ 8.07
Number Outstanding (in Shares)	1,577,634
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms (in years)	4 years 124 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share	$ 7.62
Number Exercisable (in Shares)	597,423
Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share	$ 7.46
Range Three [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices	$ 8.16
Range of Exercise Prices	$ 10.80
Number Outstanding (in Shares)	1,764,751
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms (in years)	5 years 164 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share	$ 9.56
Number Exercisable (in Shares)	387,376
Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share	$ 8.90
Range Four [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices	$ 11.23
Range of Exercise Prices	$ 13.36
Number Outstanding (in Shares)	1,451,567
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms (in years)	6 years 142 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share	$ 12.22
Number Exercisable (in Shares)	136,867
Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share	$ 12.32
Range Five [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices	$ 13.54
Range of Exercise Prices	$ 15.67
Number Outstanding (in Shares)	409,600
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms (in years)	6 years 7 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share	$ 13.59
Number Exercisable (in Shares)	62,600
Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share	$ 13.84

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Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $) Share data in Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Sales:
Net sales	$ 89,595,000	$ 85,856,000	$ 89,988,000
Net sales, related party	35,727,000	36,170,000	40,578,000
Total net sales	125,322,000	122,026,000	130,566,000
Cost of sales:
Cost of sales	48,067,000	45,943,000	49,839,000
Cost of sales, related party	15,738,000	16,716,000	19,888,000
Amortization of purchased intangible assets and inventory step-up cost	7,600,000	3,379,000	3,603,000
Impairment of intangible assets	1,636,000	0	0
Warranty reserve	1,440,000
Restructuring charges and exit costs	3,000,000		14,200,000
Total cost of sales	74,668,000	66,339,000	74,642,000
Gross profit	50,654,000	55,687,000	55,924,000
Operating expenses:
Research and development	27,048,000	22,376,000	35,006,000
Selling, general and administrative	33,055,000	32,531,000	38,598,000
Merger and acquisition costs	1,880,000	110,000
Net change in fair value of contingent consideration	(10,455,000)
Total operating expenses, net	54,355,000	56,270,000	86,517,000
Loss from operations	(3,701,000)	(583,000)	(30,593,000)
Other income and expense, net:
Interest income and other, net	1,503,000	2,441,000	2,803,000
Interest expense	(156,000)	(165,000)	(215,000)
Impairment of long term investment	(323,000)
Total other income and expense, net	1,024,000	2,276,000	2,588,000
Income (loss) before income taxes	(2,677,000)	1,693,000	(28,005,000)
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes	(8,478,000)	(1,189,000)	51,000
Net income (loss)	5,801,000	2,882,000	(28,056,000)
Net income (loss) per share:
Basic (in Dollars per share)	$ 0.12	$ 0.06	$ (0.63)
Diluted (in Dollars per share)	$ 0.12	$ 0.06	$ (0.63)
Shares used in the computation of net income (loss) per share:
Basic (in Shares)	47,291	45,809	44,796
Diluted (in Shares)	48,823	46,476	44,796
Cost of Sales [Member]
Cost of sales:
Restructuring charges and exit costs	187,000	301,000	1,312,000
Operating Expense [Member]
Cost of sales:
Restructuring charges and exit costs	$ 2,827,000	$ 1,253,000	$ 12,913,000

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Note 5 - Balance Sheet Details

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract]

Supplemental Balance Sheet Disclosures [Text Block]

NOTE 5.    BALANCE SHEET DETAILS

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

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Land	$	6,660		$	6,660
Building		16,787			16,224
Machinery and equipment		40,675			42,258
Software and licenses		17,549			17,566
Property, plant and equipment, total		81,671			82,708
Accumulated depreciation and amortization		(60,391	)		(58,608	)
Total property, plant and equipment, net	$	21,280		$	24,100

During fiscal year 2014, we wrote off $4.1 million of fully depreciated assets.

Depreciation and amortization expense pertaining to property, plant and equipment for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $5.6 million, $6.8 million and $8.1 million, respectively.

During fiscal year 2013, we started actively looking for potential buyers for our Fremont campus. In the first quarter of our fiscal year 2014, we reclassified the related property and land as held for sale as of June 30, 2013, however due to our intent to lease back of one of the buildings, we should not have classified these asset as held for sale which resulted in the overstatement of current assets and understatement of long-lived assets by $13.1 million as of June 30, 2013, September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2013, respectively. The impact to our consolidated statement of operations was immaterial. We assessed the materiality of the misclassifications on prior periods' financial statements and concluded that impact was not material to any of our prior period interim financial statements.

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

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Work-in-progress and raw materials	$	13,555	$	9,981
Finished goods		15,427		9,449
Total inventories	$	28,982	$	19,430

Our other current liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands) as of the dates indicated below:

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Short-term lease financing obligations	$	2,671	$	3,189
Accrued restructuring charges and exit costs		2,214		2,020
Accrued manufacturing expenses, royalties and licenses		1,639		2,370
Accrued legal and professional services		1,453		746
Purchase consideration holdback		1,256		—
Accrued sales and marketing expenses		666		576
Fair value of earn out liability – short-term		490		2,599
Accrual for dispute resolution		—		2,727
Other		981		988
Total other current liabilities	$	11,370	$	15,215

Our other non - current obligations consisted of the following (in thousands) as of the dates indicated:

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Fair value of earn out liability – long-term	$	3,853	$	7,539
Accrued retention bonus		1,181		—
Long-term taxes payable		794		2,225
Deferred tax liability		614		145
Accrued restructuring charges and exit costs		155		1,266
Other		29		29
Total other non-current obligations	$	6,626	$	11,204

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Note 4 - Business Combinations

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]

NOTE 4.    BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

We periodically evaluate potential strategic acquisitions to, broaden our product offering and 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 (1) identifying the acquiree; (2) determining the acquisition date; (3) recognizing and measuring the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interest we have in the acquiree at their acquisition date fair value; and (4) 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.

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 Stretch

On January 14, 2014, we completed the acquisition of Stretch, Inc. (“Stretch”), a provider of software configurable processors supporting the video surveillance market previously located in Sunnyvale, California. The transaction provides Exar with the technology to deliver an end-to-end high-definition solution for both digital and analog transmission of data from the camera to the DVR or NVR in surveillance applications. Stretch’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning January 14, 2014. The pro forma effects of the portion of the Stretch operations assumed through the transaction on our results of operations during fiscal year 2014 and 2013 were considered immaterial.

Consideration

Stretch was acquired for which the purchase consideration was $10,000 in cash. By acquiring Stretch, Exar acquired all of Stretch’s assets, consisting principally intellectual property, accounts receivable and inventory, as well as assumed all of Stretch’s liabilities and contractual obligations.

In accordance with Accounting Standard Codification (“ASC”) 805, Business Combinations, the acquisition of Stretch was recorded as a purchase business acquisition since Stretch was considered a business. Under the purchase method of accounting, the fair value of the consideration was allocated to net assets acquired at their fair values. The fair value of purchased identifiable intangible assets was determined using discounted cash flow models from operating projections prepared by management using an internal rate of return ranging from 17% to 21%. The excess of the preliminary fair value of consideration paid over the preliminary fair values of net assets acquired and identifiable intangible assets resulted in recognition of goodwill of approximately $0.7 million. The goodwill results largely of expected synergies from combining the operations of Stretch with that of Exar and is deductible over 15 years for tax purposes.

Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation

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

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

	Amount
Identifiable tangible assets (liabilities)
Cash	$	344
Accounts receivable		143
Inventories		2,154
Other current assets		267
Property, plant and equipment		18
Other assets		11
Debt assumed		(6,186	)
Accounts payable and accruals		(3,408	)
Other short-term liabilities		(1,010	)
Total identifiable tangible assets (liabilities), net		(7,667	)
Identifiable intangible assets		7,010
Total identifiable assets, net		(657	)
Goodwill		667
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$	10

The following table sets forth the components of identifiable intangible assets acquired in connection with the Stretch acquisition (in thousands):

	Fair Value
Developed technologies	$	5,990
Customer relations		1,020
Total identifiable intangible assets	$	7,010

In valuing specific components of the acquisition, that includes deferred taxes, and intangibles required us to make estimates that may be adjusted in the future, if new information is obtained about circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date that, if known, would have resulted in the recognition of those assets and liabilities as of that date. Thus, the purchase price allocation is considered preliminary and dependent upon the finalization of the valuation of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, including income tax effects. Final determination of these estimates could result in an adjustment to the preliminary purchase price allocation, with an offsetting adjustment to goodwill.

Acquisition Related Costs

Acquisition related costs, or deal costs, relating to Stretch are included in the selling, general and administrative line on the consolidated statement of operations for the fiscal year ended March 30, 2014 were approximately $0.5 million.

Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information

The following unaudited pro forma condensed financial information presents the combined revenue of Exar and Stretch as if the acquisition had occurred as of April 1, 2013 (in thousands).

	Year ended March 30, 2014
Net sales	$	134,290

The combined net income and basic and diluted earnings per shares were immaterial. It was impracticable to present the combined financials for fiscal year 2013. The unaudited pro forma financial information is not intended to represent or be indicative of the revenue of Exar that would have been reported had the acquisition been completed as of the beginning of fiscal year 2014, and should not be taken as representative of the future revenue of Exar.

Acquisition of Cadeka

On July 5, 2013, we completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Cadeka Technologies (Cayman) Holding Ltd., a privately held company organized under the laws of the Cayman Islands and all the outstanding stock of the subsidiaries of Cadeka, including the equity of its wholly owned subsidiary Cadeka Microcircuits, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company (“Cadeka”). With locations in Loveland, Colorado, Shenzhen and Wuxi, China, Cadeka designs, develops and markets high precision analog integrated circuits for use in industrial and high reliability applications. Cadeka’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning July 5, 2013. The pro forma effects of the portion of the Cadeka operations assumed through the transaction on our results of operations during fiscal years 2014 and 2013 were considered immaterial.

Consideration

The purchase consideration includes approximately 454,000 shares of our common stock issued to the shareholders of Cadeka (valued at $5.2 million) and a cash payment of $25.0 million (less an amount of $1.0 million, inclusive of 15,000 shares, held back temporarily to satisfy potential indemnity claims). An additional purchase price consideration earn-out (up to $5.0 million) may be earned over the next two fiscal years contingent upon achieving certain revenue targets, and may be paid in the form of cash, stock or both. The $5.2 million worth of shares issued at closing were valued on the date of the acquisition, and the fair value of contingent earn-outs was derived using a probability-based approach on various revenue assumptions and discounted to a present value. Final determination of the earn-out liability can range from zero to $5.0 million based on the actual achievement of the revenue targets. Fair value of contingent consideration is subject to periodic revaluation and any change in the fair value of contingent consideration from the events after the acquisition date will be recognized in earnings of the period in which the fair value changes. The probability–based approach used to fair value contingent consideration is based on significant inputs not observed in the market and thus represents a Level 3 measurement. The significant unobservable inputs include projected revenues, percentage probability of occurrence and a discount rate to present value the future payments. The summary of the purchase consideration is as follows (in thousands):

	Amount
Cash	$	25,000
Equity instruments		5,177
Estimated fair value of earn-out payments		4,660
Total consideration paid	$	34,837

In accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations, the acquisition of Cadeka was recorded as a purchase business acquisition since Cadeka was considered a business. Under the purchase method of accounting, the fair value of the consideration was allocated to net assets acquired at their fair values. The fair value of purchased identifiable intangible assets and contingent earn-outs were derived from model-based valuations from significant unobservable inputs (“Level 3 inputs”) determined by management. The fair value of purchased identifiable intangible assets was determined using discounted cash flow models from operating projections prepared by management using an internal rate of return ranging from 15% to 23%. The fair value of the contingent earn-out was a probability-based approach that includes significant Level 3 inputs. “See Note 4 — Fair Value,” for additional details of the inputs used to determine the fair value of the contingent earn-out. The excess of the preliminary fair value of consideration paid over the preliminary fair values of net assets acquired and identifiable intangible assets resulted in recognition of goodwill of approximately $12.4 million prior to considering the impact on deferred tax assets and liabilities. The goodwill results largely of expected synergies from combining the operations of Cadeka with that of Exar and is not expected to be tax deductible. After considering the impact of deductible and taxable temporary tax differences on the acquired business, a deferred tax liability of $6.8 million was established primarily related to identified intangible asset basis differences, which resulted in a total goodwill amount recorded as part of the acquisition of $19.2 million. Additionally, in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations, we also evaluated the impact of the acquisition on Exar’s valuation allowance, the impact of which is recorded outside of purchase accounting, resulting in a release of the valuation allowance and an income tax benefit of $6.8 million. Such benefit was trued up by approximately $170,000 in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014 as a result of the filing of Cadeka’s pre-acquisition period federal and state returns.

Purchase Price Allocation

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

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

	Amount
Identifiable tangible assets (liabilities)
Cash	$	1,055
Accounts Receivable		241
Inventories		1,756
Property, plant and equipment		231
Other assets		3
Accounts payable and accruals		(7,400	)
Other short-term liabilities		(520	)
Long-term liabilities		(296	)
Total identifiable tangible assets (liabilities), net		(4,930	)
Identifiable intangible assets		20,380
Total identifiable assets, net		15,450
Goodwill		19,387
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$	34,837

The following table sets forth the components of identifiable intangible assets acquired in connection with the Cadeka acquisition (in thousands):

	Fair Value
Developed technologies	$	15,720
In-process research and development		2,280
Customer relations		2,170
Trade name		210
Total identifiable intangible assets	$	20,380

Acquisition Related Costs

Acquisition related costs, or deal costs, relating to Cadeka are included in the selling, general and administrative line on the consolidated statement of operations for the fiscal year ended March 30, 2014 were approximately $0.4 million.

Acquisition of Altior

On March 22, 2013, we completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Altior Inc. (“Altior”), a developer of data management solutions in Eatontown, New Jersey. Altior’s results of operations and estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning March 23, 2013. The pro forma effects of the portion of the Altior operations assumed through the transaction on our results of operations during fiscal years 2013 were considered immaterial.

Consideration

The purchase consideration included approximately 358,000 of our shares issued to the shareholders of Altior, a cash payment of $1.0 million (of which $0.25 million was held back temporarily to satisfy potential indemnity claims), and additional purchase price consideration earn-outs which may be paid in the form of cash, shares or a combination thereof (not to exceed $20.0 million in aggregate) payable over the next three fiscal years contingent upon achieving certain revenue targets. The $3.7 million worth of shares issued as consideration were valued on the date of the acquisition, and the fair value of contingent earn-outs was derived using a probability-based approach on various revenue assumptions. Final determination of the earn-out liability can range from zero to $20.0 million based on the actual achievement of the revenue targets. Fair value of contingent consideration is subject to periodic revaluation and any change in the fair value of contingent consideration from the events after the acquisition date, will be recognized in earnings of the period in which the fair value changes. The probability–based approach used to fair value contingent consideration is based on significant inputs not observed in the market and thus represents a Level 3 measurement. The significant unobservable inputs include projected revenues, percentage probability of occurrence and a discount rate to present value the future payments.

The summary of the purchase consideration is as follows (in thousands):

	Amount
Cash	$	1,000
Equity instruments		3,740
Estimated fair value of earn-out payments		10,138
Total consideration paid	$	14,878

In accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations, the acquisition of Altior was recorded as a purchase business acquisition since Altior was considered a business. Under the purchase method of accounting, the fair value of the consideration was allocated to assets and liabilities assumed at their fair values. The fair value of purchased identifiable intangible assets and contingent earn-outs were derived from model-based valuations from significant Level 3 inputs determined by management. The fair value of purchased identifiable intangible assets was determined using discounted cash flow models from operating projections prepared by management using an internal rate of return ranging from 12% to 19%. The fair value of the contingent earn-outs was a probability-based approach that includes significant Level 3 inputs. “See Note 4 — Fair Value,” for additional details of the inputs used to determine the fair value of the contingent earn-out. The excess of the fair value of consideration paid over the fair values of net assets and liabilities acquired and identifiable intangible assets resulted in recognition of goodwill of approximately $7.2 million. The goodwill consists largely of expected synergies from combining the operations of Altior with that of Exar and is deductible over 15 years for tax purposes.“

Purchase Price Allocation

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

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

	Amount
Identifiable tangible assets
Inventories	$	126
Property, plant and equipment		140
Other assets		36
Accounts payable and accruals		(24	)
Other short-term liabilities		(51	)
Long-term liabilities		(61	)
Total identifiable tangible assets, net		166
Identifiable intangible assets – existing technology		7,540
Total identifiable assets, net		7,706
Goodwill		7,172
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$	14,878

Acquisition Related Costs

Acquisition related costs, or deal costs, relating to Altior are included in the selling, general and administrative line on the consolidated statement of operations for fiscal year 2013, which were immaterial.

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 Synchronous Optical NETwork and Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (“SONET/SDH”), Plesiochronous Digital Hierarchy (“PDH”) and Optical Transport Network (“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. On February 1, 2012, we terminated our development efforts in connection with our pre-production OTN products. Therefore, the results of operations of Galazar were included in our consolidated financial statements from June 18, 2009 through February 1, 2012.

See “Note 22 — Subsequent Event” for additional information regarding our acquisitions.

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Note 16 - Commitments and Contingencies

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]

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 and well closure activities. In April 2012, the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (“RWQCB”) approved our application for low-threat closure and rescinded the previous cleanup order. All monitoring well closure activities on the site and adjacent/neighboring sites have been completed. We have finalized and executed access, environmental indemnity and tolling agreements, and deed restriction covenants with the property owner. The required deed restriction has been recorded. We are awaiting final determination from RWQCB.

Outstanding liabilities for remediation activities, net of payments, consisted of the following as of the dates indicated (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Liabilities for remediation activities	$	28	$	76

In early 2012, we received correspondences from the California Department of Toxic Substance Control (“DTSC”) regarding its ongoing investigation of hazardous wastes and hazardous waste constituents at a former regulated treatment facility in San Jose, California. In 1985, MPSI made two separate permitted hazmat deliveries to a licensed and regulated site for treatment. DTSC has requested that former/current property owners and companies, currently in excess of 50, that had hazardous waste treated at the site participate in further site assessment and limited remediation activities. We have entered into various agreements with other named generators, former property owners and DTSC limited to the investigation of the sites’ condition and evaluation, and selection of appropriate remedial measures. The designated environmental consulting firm is moving forward with the agreed preliminary site assessment and periodic status reporting. Given that this matter is in the early stages of investigation and discussions are ongoing, we are unable to ascertain our exposure, if any.

In a letter dated March 27, 2012, Exar was notified by the Alameda County Water District (“ACWD”) of the recent detection of volatile organic compounds at a site adjacent to a facility that was previously owned and occupied by Sipex. The letter was also addressed to prior and current property owners and tenants (collectively “Property Owners”). ACWD requested that the property owners carry out further site investigation activities to determine if the detected compounds are emanating from the site or simply flowing under it. In June 2012, the Property Owners filed with ACWD a report of its investigation/characterization activities and analytical data obtained. Accumulated data suggests that compounds of concern in groundwater appear to be from an offsite source. ACWD is investigating alternative upgradient sites. Given that this investigation is ongoing, we are unable to ascertain our exposure, if any.

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 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, historical warranty costs incurred and customer/product specific circumstances. Our liability is generally limited, at our option, to replacing, repairing, or issuing a credit (if it has been paid for). Our 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 liability related to our product sales as of September 29, 2013 of $1.4 million was established for the return of certain older generation data compression products shipped in prior years. The remaining balance for this warranty was $1.1 million as of March 30, 2014, and warranty liability as of March 31, 2013 was immaterial.

As of the dates indicated below, our warranty reserve balance, which is included in the “Other current liabilities” line item on the consolidated balance sheets, consisted of the following (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Beginning balance	$	50		$	90
Provisions for warranties issued		1,480		─
Settlements/adjustments		(456	)		(40	)
Ending balance	$	1,074		$	50

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, matters related to our conduct of the business. 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 unique facts and circumstances involved in each particular agreement and claims. 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.

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Note 12 - Common Stock Repurchases

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]

Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]

NOTE 12.    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 invested capital and to bring our cash to a more appropriate level for our organization.

On August 28, 2007, we announced the approval of a share repurchase plan under which we were authorized to repurchase up to $100.0 million of our common stock.

On July 9, 2013, we announced the approval of a share repurchase program under which we were authorized to repurchase an additional $50.0 million of our common stock. The repurchase program does not have a termination date, and may be modified, extended or terminated at any time. We intend to retire all shares repurchased under the stock repurchase plan. The purchase price for the repurchased shares of Exar is reflected as a reduction of common stock and additional paid-in capital. We may continue to repurchase our common stock under the 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.

In the first fiscal quarter of 2014, we retired all of our 19.9 million treasury shares. 

As of March 30, 2014, we had repurchased shares valued at $97.2 million under the August 2007 repurchase program. During fiscal year 2014, we repurchased $9.0 million of our common stock under the July 2013 repurchase program. The repurchased shares were retired immediately. During fiscal year 2013 and 2012, we did not repurchase any shares. The remaining authorized amount for the stock repurchase under the repurchase programs is $52.8 million.

We repurchased shares valued at $3.0 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015.

Stock repurchase activities during fiscal year 2014 and 2013 were indicated below (in thousands, except per share amounts):

	Total number of Shares Purchased		Average Price Paid Per Share (or Unit)		Amount Paid for Purchase
Balances, April 1, 2012		9,564	$	9.22	$	88,189
Repurchases		—	$	—		—
Balances, March 31, 2013		9,564	$	9.22	$	88,189
Repurchases		755	$	11.92		9,000
Balances, March 30, 2014		10,319	$	9.42	$	97,189

Note: The average price paid per share is based on the total price paid by Exar, which includes applicable broker fees.

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Note 12 - Common Stock Repurchases (Details) (USD $) Share data in Millions, unless otherwise specified	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 09, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012	Jun. 29, 2014 Subsequent Event [Member]	Aug. 28, 2007 August 2007 Repurchase Plan [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 August 2007 Repurchase Plan [Member]
Note 12 - Common Stock Repurchases (Details) [Line Items]
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount	$ 50,000,000						$ 100,000,000
Treasury Stock, Shares, Retired (in Shares)		19.9
Stock Repurchased During Period, Value			9,000,000	0	0	3,000,000		97,200,000
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount			$ 52,800,000

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Note 8 - Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]

Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block]

NOTE 8.    RESTRUCTURING CHARGES AND EXIT COSTS

2014 Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs

Restructuring expenses result from the execution of management approved restructuring plans that were generally developed to improve our cost structure and/or operations, often in conjunction with our acquisition integration strategies. Restructuring expenses consist of employee severance costs and may also include contract termination costs to improve our cost structure prospectively. In fiscal year 2014, we recorded $3.0 million of restructuring charges and exit costs. Of the total restructuring charges and exit costs recorded in fiscal year 2014, $0.2 million was reflected in cost of sales and $2.8 million was reflected in operating expenses within our consolidated statements of operations. 

2013 Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs

In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2013, we recorded $0.3 million of restructuring charges and exit costs and released a $0.5 million liability related to the Industrial Research Assistance Program (“IRAP”) with Canadian governmental agency. In the third, second and first quarters of fiscal year 2013, we recorded restructuring charges and exit costs of $0.6 million, $0.3 million and $0.9 million, respectively. Of the total restructuring charges and exit costs recorded in fiscal year 2013, $0.3 million was reflected in cost of sales and $1.3 million was reflected in operating expenses within our consolidated statements of operations. 

2012 Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs

In fiscal year 2012, we incurred restructuring charges and exit costs totaling $14.2 million, of which $13.9 million was recorded in the fourth quarter and $0.3 million was recorded in the first quarter. Of the total restructuring charges and exit costs, $1.3 million was reflected in cost of sales and $12.9 million was reflected in operating expenses within our consolidated statements of operations.

During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, we implemented and completed reductions in force of approximately 173 positions across of all company functions. This action was intended to align our cost structure with revenues, reduce spending in operations and to cease development of certain products. The reduction in headcount was primarily associated with offices located in Fremont, California; Hangzhou, China; Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Raleigh, North Carolina; and San Diego, California. As part of the reduction activity, we terminated our development efforts in connection with our pre-production OTN and de-duplication products. The market for our OTN product was modest and the outlook to achieve meaningful revenue and a return on this investment was considered unlikely. As a result of the reduction activity in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, we recorded a total charge for restructuring and exit costs of $13.9 million, which included a one-time severance charge of $4.2 million, lease contract termination costs and other costs of $7.0 million, lease abandonment charges of $0.8 million and accelerated amortization and depreciation charges of $1.9 million. We paid $1.4 million of the $4.2 million one-time severance charges in fiscal year 2012.

The lease contract termination costs and other costs of $7.0 million include: (1) costs associated with the termination of certain electronic design automated license agreements consisting of the accrual of future payments of $3.9 million, and the write off of prepaid training, maintenance and license fees of $2.6 million; and (2) costs associated with a Canadian governmental agency related to IRAP tied to continued employment obligations of $0.5 million, which was waived as of March 31, 2013.

The lease abandonment charges of $0.8 million include future lease obligations, net of estimated rental income for vacated facilities in Ottawa, Canada, San Diego, California, Minneapolis, Minnesota and Raleigh, North Carolina, for leases that expire at various dates from June 2012 to January 2015.

The accelerated amortization and depreciation charges of $1.9 million include $1.7 million related to termination of OTN and de-duplication products (See “Note 10 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets”) and $0.2 million related to certain property and equipment.

During the first quarter of fiscal year 2012, we incurred restructuring charges and exit costs of $0.3 million, which included a one-time severance charge of $0.1 million, lease contract termination costs of $0.1 million, and inventory write-off costs of $0.1 million.

Our restructuring liabilities were included in the accounts payable, other current liabilities and other non-current obligations lines within our consolidated balance sheets. The following table summarizes the activities affecting the liabilities as of the dates indicated below (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014
	Beginning  balance		Additions/ adjustments		Non-cash charges			Payments			Ending balance
Lease termination and other costs	$	2,860	$	570	$	(57	)	$	(1,758	)	$	1,615
Severance		426		2,444		—			(2,116	)		754
Balance at March 30, 2014	$	3,286	$	3,014	$	(57	)	$	(3,874	)	$	2,369

	March 31, 2013
	Beginning balance		Additions/ adjustments		Non-cash charges			Payments			Ending balance
Lease termination costs and others	$	5,235	$	6	$	(56	)	$	(2,325	)	$	2,860
Severance		2,806		1,548		—			(3,928	)		426
Balance at March 31, 2013	$	8,041	$	1,554	$	(56	)	$	(6,253	)	$	3,286

See “Note 5—Balance Sheet Details” for current and long-term portion of restructuring charges and exit costs recorded in the consolidated balance sheets as of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013.

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Note 5 - Balance Sheet Details (Details) - Other Noncurrent Obligations (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Other Noncurrent Obligations [Abstract]
Fair value of earn out liability – long-term	$ 3,853	$ 7,539
Accrued retention bonus	1,181
Long-term taxes payable	794	2,225
Deferred tax liability	614	145
Accrued restructuring charges and exit costs	155	1,266
Other	29	29
Total other non-current obligations	$ 6,626	$ 11,204

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Note 18 - Income Taxes (Details) - Reconciliations of Income Tax Provision at the Statutory Rate to Provision for (Benefit from) Income Tax (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 29, 2013	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Reconciliations of Income Tax Provision at the Statutory Rate to Provision for (Benefit from) Income Tax [Abstract]
Income tax benefit at statutory rate		$ (937)	$ 593	$ (10,061)
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit		(1)	60	(824)
Deferred tax assets not benefited		(1,972)	(378)	11,967
Tax credits		(757)	(539)	(1,021)
Stock-based compensation		(427)	258	432
Foreign rate differential		156	148	(373)
Prior year tax expense true-up		(10)	11	12
Fair value adjustment		(3,732)
Other, net		(798)	(1,342)	(81)
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes	$ (1,300)	$ (8,478)	$ (1,189)	$ 51

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Note 6 - Fair Value

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]

NOTE 6.    FAIR VALUE

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 cash and investment instruments are classified within Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted market prices, broker or dealer quotations, or alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency.

The fair value of contingent consideration arising from the acquisition of Altior and Cadeka (See “Note 4—Business Combinations”) is classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy since it is based on a probability-based approach that includes significant unobservable inputs.

There were no transfers between Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 during the year ended March 30, 2014.

 Our investment assets, measured at fair value on a recurring basis, as of the dates indicated below were as follows (in thousands, except for percentages):

	March 30, 2014
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
Assets:
Money market funds	$	4,636	$	—	$	—	$	4,636
U.S. government and agency securities		9,378		13,134		—		22,512
State and local government securities		—		2,772		—		2,772
Corporate bonds and securities		5		71,248		—		71,253
Asset-backed securities		—		27,635		—		27,635
Mortgage-backed securities		—		28,248		—		28,248
Total investment assets	$	14,019	$	143,037	$	—	$	157,056
Liabilities:
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Altior	$	—	$	—	$	2,973	$	2,973
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Cadeka	$	—	$	—	$	1,370	$	1,370
Total liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	4,343	$	4,343

	March 31, 2013
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
Assets:
Money market funds	$	5,042	$	—	$	—	$	5,042
U.S. government and agency securities		22,460		19,261		—		41,721
State and local government securities		—		2,935		—		2,935
Corporate bonds and securities		274		91,955		—		92,229
Asset-backed securities		—		30,966		—		30,966
Mortgage-backed securities		—		22,736		—		22,736
Total investment assets	$	27,776	$	167,853	$	—	$	195,629
Liabilities:
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Altior	$	—	$	—	$	10,138	$	10,138

The fair value of contingent consideration was determined based on a probability-based approach which includes projected revenues, percentage probability of occurrence and discount rate to present value payments. A significant increase (decrease) in the projected revenue, discount rate or probability of occurrence in isolation could result in a significantly higher (lower) fair value measurement. 

The following table presents quantitative information about the inputs and valuation methodologies used for our fair value measurements classified in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy as of March 30, 2014.

	Fair Value (in thousands)		Valuation Technique	Significant Unobservable Input	Range
As of March 30, 2014
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Altior	$	2,973	Combination of income and market approach	Revenue (in “000’s)	$6,725	-	$20,175
				Probability of Achievement	1%	-	66%
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Cadeka	$	1,370	Combination of income and market approach	Revenue (in “000’s)	$4,800	-	$18,000
				Probability of Achievement	2%	-	50%

We calculate the fair value of the contingent consideration on a quarterly basis based on additional information as it becomes available. Any change in the fair value adjustment is recorded in the earnings of that period.

The change in the fair value of our Altior purchase consideration liability is as follows (in thousands):

	Amount
As of original recognition in year ended and as of March 31, 2013	$	10,138
Less: Adjustment to purchase consideration		(7,165	)
As of March 30, 2014	$	2,973

The change in the fair value of our Cadeka purchase consideration liability is as follows (in thousands):

	Amount
As of March 31, 2013	$	—
Purchase contingent consideration		4,660
Less: Adjustment to purchase consideration		(3,290	)
As of March 30, 2014	$	1,370

In fiscal year 2014 the fair value of the contingent considerations for Altior and Cadeka acquisitions were decreased by $7.2 million and $3.3 million, respectively, due to changes in probability of achieving revenue targets and impact of change in present value of the amount payable due to passage of time.

Our cash, cash equivalents and short-term marketable securities as of the dates indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash in financial institutions	$	9,978	$	9,676
Money market funds		4,636		5,042
Total cash and cash equivalents	$	14,614	$	14,718
Short-term marketable securities
U.S. government and agency securities	$	22,512	$	41,721
State and local government securities		2,772		2,935
Corporate bonds and securities		71,253		92,229
Asset-backed securities		27,635		30,966
Mortgage-backed securities		28,248		22,736
Total short-term marketable securities	$	152,420	$	190,587

 Our marketable securities include U.S. government and agency securities, state and local government securities, corporate bonds and securities, and asset-backed and mortgage-backed 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 the consolidated statements of other comprehensive income except those unrealized losses that are deemed to be other than temporary which are reflected in the impairment of long term investment line item on the consolidated statements of operations.

Realized gains (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 item on the consolidated statements of operations.

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

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Gross realized gains	$	748		$	871		$	799
Gross realized losses		(547	)		(953	)		(1,098	)
Net realized gains (losses)	$	201		$	(82	)	$	(299	)

The following table summarizes our investments in marketable securities as of the dates indicated below (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014
	Amortized Cost		Unrealized Gross Gains(1)		Unrealized Gross Losses(1)			Fair Value
Money market funds	$	4,636	$	—	$	—		$	4,636
U.S. government and agency securities		22,550		1		(39	)		22,512
State and local government securities		2,762		10		—			2,772
Corporate bonds and securities		71,309		32		(88	)		71,253
Asset-backed securities		27,661		22		(48	)		27,635
Mortgage-backed securities		28,362		24		(138	)		28,248
Total investments	$	157,280	$	89	$	(313	)	$	157,056

	March 31, 2013
	Amortized Cost		Unrealized Gross Gains(1)		Unrealized Gross Losses(1)			Fair Value
Money market funds	$	5,042	$	—	$	—		$	5,042
U.S. government and agency securities		41,694		27		—			41,721
State and local government securities		2,927		10		(2	)		2,935
Corporate bonds and securities		92,059		215		(45	)		92,229
Asset-backed securities		30,932		61		(27	)		30,966
Mortgage-backed securities		22,646		194		(104	)		22,736
Total investments	$	195,300	$	507	$	(178	)	$	195,629

(1) Gross of tax impact of $828 for fiscal years 2014 and 2013

Our asset-backed securities are comprised primarily of premium tranches of vehicle 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 March 30, 2014, we have sufficient liquidity and do not intend to sell these securities to fund normal operations or 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/amortization, which is immaterial for all periods presented, is included in the interest income and other, net line in the consolidated statements 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 losses line in the consolidated balance sheets. As of March 30, 2014, there was approximately $1.1 million of unrealized losses, net of tax 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 not to 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. For fiscal year 2014, there were no investments identified with other-than-temporary declines in value.

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of cash equivalents and marketable securities classified as available-for-sale by expected maturity as of the dates indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014				March 31, 2013
	Amortized Cost		Fair Value		Amortized Cost		Fair Value
Less than 1 year	$	49,539	$	49,504	$	61,011	$	61,029
Due in 1 to 5 years		107,741		107,552		134,289		134,600
Total	$	157,280	$	157,056	$	195,300	$	195,629

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

	March 30, 2014
	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	$	18,245	$	(39	)	$	—	$	—		$	18,245	$	(39	)
Corporate bonds and securities		48,379		(87	)		596		(1	)		48,975		(88	)
Asset-backed securities		7,118		(12	)		5,478		(36	)		12,596		(48	)
Mortgage-backed securities		19,682		(120	)		983		(18	)		20,665		(138	)
Total	$	93,424	$	(258	)	$	7,057	$	(55	)	$	100,481	$	(313	)

	March 31, 2013
	Less than 12 months					12 months or greater					Total
	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses
State and local government securities	$	—	$	—		$	404	$	(2	)	$	404	$	(2	)
Corporate bonds and securities		29,609		(42	)		497		(3	)		30,106		(45	)
Asset-backed securities		10,008		(17	)		1,241		(10	)		11,249		(27	)
Mortgage-backed securities		2,911		(39	)		3,263		(65	)		6,174		(104	)
Total	$	42,528	$	(98	)	$	5,405	$	(80	)	$	47,933	$	(178	)

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Note 7 - Related Party Transaction

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Related Party Transactions [Abstract]

Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]

NOTE 7.    RELATED PARTY TRANSACTION

Alonim Investments Inc. (“Alonim”) owns approximately 7.6 million shares, or approximately 16%, of our outstanding common stock as of March 30, 2014. As such, Alonim is our largest stockholder and any sales made to Alonim or its affiliates are considered related party transactions and revenue is recognized in accordance to our revenue recognition policy disclosed in “Note 3 – Accounting Policies.”

Related party contributions as a percentage of our total net sales for the periods indicated below were as follows:

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Alonim		29	%		30	%		31	%

Related party receivables as a percentage of our net accounts receivable were as follows as of the dates indicated below:

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Alonim		18	%		21	%

Related party expenses for reimbursement of promotional materials were not significant for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012.

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Note 9 - Long-Term Investment

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Investments Schedule [Abstract]

Investment [Text Block]

NOTE 9.    LONG-TERM INVESTMENT

In July 2001, Exar became a Limited Partner in the Skypoint Telecom Fund II (US), LP. (“Skypoint Fund”), a venture capital fund focused on investments in communications infrastructure companies. We account for this non-marketable equity investment under the cost method in the other non-current assets in the consolidated balance sheet. The partnership was in the dissolution phase and the fund distributed stock of investee companies to Exar during first fiscal quarter of 2015. 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.

As of the dates indicated below, our long-term investment balance, which is included in the “Other non-current assets” line item on the consolidated balance sheets, consisted of the following (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Beginning balance	$	1,288		$	1,273
Contributions		—			15
Net distributions		(19	)		—
Impairment charges		(323	)		—
Ending balance	$	946		$	1,288

The carrying amount of $0.9 million as of March 30, 2014 reflects the net of the capital contributions, capital distributions and cumulative impairment charges. We have made $4.8 million in capital contributions to Skypoint Fund since we became a limited partner in July 2001. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2013, we contributed $15,000 to the fund. In the third quarter of fiscal year 2014, we received a $19,000 net distribution from one of our portfolio companies. In accordance with the standard related to accounting for cost method investments, we recorded the distribution on the cost basis and reduced the carrying value of our investment in the Skypoint Fund.

Impairment

We evaluate our long-term investment for impairment on an annual basis or whenever events and changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. We conduct our annual impairment analysis in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year by comparing the carrying amount to the fair value of the underlying investments. If the carrying amount exceeds its fair value, the long term-investment is considered impaired and a second step is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss. We analyzed the fair value of the underlying investments of Skypoint Fund and as a result, $0.3 million, $0 and $0 of impairment charges were recorded for fiscal year 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

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Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) - Change in Fair Value of Consideration Liability (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Altior [Member]
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Consideration liability fair value	$ 2,973	$ 10,138
Less: Adjustment to purchase consideration	(7,165)
Cadeka [Member]
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Consideration liability fair value	1,370
Purchase contingent consideration	4,660
Less: Adjustment to purchase consideration	$ (3,290)

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Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Major Distributors of Net Account Receivables (Accounts Receivable [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Distributor B [Member]
Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Major Distributors of Net Account Receivables [Line Items]
Net Accounts Receivable	17.00%	20.00%
Distributor A [Member]
Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Major Distributors of Net Account Receivables [Line Items]
Net Accounts Receivable	16.00%	21.00%
Distributor D [Member]
Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Major Distributors of Net Account Receivables [Line Items]
Net Accounts Receivable	14.00%	11.00%
Distributor C [Member]
Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Major Distributors of Net Account Receivables [Line Items]
Net Accounts Receivable	12.00%		[1]

[1] Net accounts receivable for this distributor for this period were less than 10% of our net accounts receivables.

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Note 12 - Common Stock Repurchases (Details) - Stock Repurchase Activities (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Stock Repurchase Activities [Abstract]
Balances, Total number of Shares Purchased	10,319	9,564	9,564
Balances, Average Price Paid Per Share (or Unit)	$ 9.42	$ 9.22	$ 9.22
Balances, Amount Paid for Purchase	$ 97,189	$ 88,189	$ 88,189
Repurchases, Total number of Shares Purchased	755
Repurchases, Average Price Paid Per Share (or Unit)	$ 11.92
Repurchases, Amount Paid for Purchase	$ 9,000

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Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) - Net Realized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Securities (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Net Realized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Securities [Abstract]
Gross realized gains	$ 748	$ 871	$ 799
Gross realized losses	(547)	(953)	(1,098)
Net realized gains (losses)	$ 201	$ (82)	$ (299)

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Note 15 - Lease Financing Obligation (Details) - Operating Lease (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014
Operating Lease [Abstract]
2015	$ 688
2016	463
2017	152
2018	21
Total future minimum lease payments	$ 1,324

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Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) - Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified					12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 30, 2014 Combination of Income and Marketable Approach [Member] Altior [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Combination of Income and Marketable Approach [Member] Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Combination of Income and Marketable Approach [Member] Minimum [Member] Altior [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Combination of Income and Marketable Approach [Member] Minimum [Member] Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Combination of Income and Marketable Approach [Member] Maximum [Member] Altior [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Combination of Income and Marketable Approach [Member] Maximum [Member] Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Minimum [Member] Altior [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Minimum [Member] Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Maximum [Member] Altior [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Maximum [Member] Cadeka [Member]
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Acquisition-related contingent consideration	$ 4,300	$ 10,100	$ 2,973	$ 1,370
Range					$ 6,725	$ 4,800	$ 20,175	$ 18,000
Range									1.00%	2.00%	66.00%	50.00%

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Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Options Exercised (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Options Exercised [Abstract]
Intrinsic value of options exercised	$ 3,887	$ 1,443	$ 79
Cash received related to option exercises	9,493	6,059	2,763
Tax benefit recorded	$ 6,669	$ 1,927	$ 1,761

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Note 6 - Fair Value (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
Assets:
Money market funds	$	4,636	$	—	$	—	$	4,636
U.S. government and agency securities		9,378		13,134		—		22,512
State and local government securities		—		2,772		—		2,772
Corporate bonds and securities		5		71,248		—		71,253
Asset-backed securities		—		27,635		—		27,635
Mortgage-backed securities		—		28,248		—		28,248
Total investment assets	$	14,019	$	143,037	$	—	$	157,056
Liabilities:
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Altior	$	—	$	—	$	2,973	$	2,973
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Cadeka	$	—	$	—	$	1,370	$	1,370
Total liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	4,343	$	4,343

	March 31, 2013
	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
Assets:
Money market funds	$	5,042	$	—	$	—	$	5,042
U.S. government and agency securities		22,460		19,261		—		41,721
State and local government securities		—		2,935		—		2,935
Corporate bonds and securities		274		91,955		—		92,229
Asset-backed securities		—		30,966		—		30,966
Mortgage-backed securities		—		22,736		—		22,736
Total investment assets	$	27,776	$	167,853	$	—	$	195,629
Liabilities:
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Altior	$	—	$	—	$	10,138	$	10,138

Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block]

	Fair Value (in thousands)		Valuation Technique	Significant Unobservable Input	Range
As of March 30, 2014
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Altior	$	2,973	Combination of income and market approach	Revenue (in “000’s)	$6,725	-	$20,175
				Probability of Achievement	1%	-	66%
Acquisition-related contingent consideration – Cadeka	$	1,370	Combination of income and market approach	Revenue (in “000’s)	$4,800	-	$18,000
				Probability of Achievement	2%	-	50%

Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]

	Amount
As of original recognition in year ended and as of March 31, 2013	$	10,138
Less: Adjustment to purchase consideration		(7,165	)
As of March 30, 2014	$	2,973

	Amount
As of March 31, 2013	$	—
Purchase contingent consideration		4,660
Less: Adjustment to purchase consideration		(3,290	)
As of March 30, 2014	$	1,370

Marketable Securities [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash in financial institutions	$	9,978	$	9,676
Money market funds		4,636		5,042
Total cash and cash equivalents	$	14,614	$	14,718
Short-term marketable securities
U.S. government and agency securities	$	22,512	$	41,721
State and local government securities		2,772		2,935
Corporate bonds and securities		71,253		92,229
Asset-backed securities		27,635		30,966
Mortgage-backed securities		28,248		22,736
Total short-term marketable securities	$	152,420	$	190,587

Realized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block]

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Gross realized gains	$	748		$	871		$	799
Gross realized losses		(547	)		(953	)		(1,098	)
Net realized gains (losses)	$	201		$	(82	)	$	(299	)

Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014
	Amortized Cost		Unrealized Gross Gains(1)		Unrealized Gross Losses(1)			Fair Value
Money market funds	$	4,636	$	—	$	—		$	4,636
U.S. government and agency securities		22,550		1		(39	)		22,512
State and local government securities		2,762		10		—			2,772
Corporate bonds and securities		71,309		32		(88	)		71,253
Asset-backed securities		27,661		22		(48	)		27,635
Mortgage-backed securities		28,362		24		(138	)		28,248
Total investments	$	157,280	$	89	$	(313	)	$	157,056

	March 31, 2013
	Amortized Cost		Unrealized Gross Gains(1)		Unrealized Gross Losses(1)			Fair Value
Money market funds	$	5,042	$	—	$	—		$	5,042
U.S. government and agency securities		41,694		27		—			41,721
State and local government securities		2,927		10		(2	)		2,935
Corporate bonds and securities		92,059		215		(45	)		92,229
Asset-backed securities		30,932		61		(27	)		30,966
Mortgage-backed securities		22,646		194		(104	)		22,736
Total investments	$	195,300	$	507	$	(178	)	$	195,629

Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014				March 31, 2013
	Amortized Cost		Fair Value		Amortized Cost		Fair Value
Less than 1 year	$	49,539	$	49,504	$	61,011	$	61,029
Due in 1 to 5 years		107,741		107,552		134,289		134,600
Total	$	157,280	$	157,056	$	195,300	$	195,629

Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014
	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	$	18,245	$	(39	)	$	—	$	—		$	18,245	$	(39	)
Corporate bonds and securities		48,379		(87	)		596		(1	)		48,975		(88	)
Asset-backed securities		7,118		(12	)		5,478		(36	)		12,596		(48	)
Mortgage-backed securities		19,682		(120	)		983		(18	)		20,665		(138	)
Total	$	93,424	$	(258	)	$	7,057	$	(55	)	$	100,481	$	(313	)

	March 31, 2013
	Less than 12 months					12 months or greater					Total
	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses
State and local government securities	$	—	$	—		$	404	$	(2	)	$	404	$	(2	)
Corporate bonds and securities		29,609		(42	)		497		(3	)		30,106		(45	)
Asset-backed securities		10,008		(17	)		1,241		(10	)		11,249		(27	)
Mortgage-backed securities		2,911		(39	)		3,263		(65	)		6,174		(104	)
Total	$	42,528	$	(98	)	$	5,405	$	(80	)	$	47,933	$	(178	)

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Note 3 - Accounting Policies (Details) - Deferred Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Deferred Income [Abstract]
Deferred revenue at published list price	$ 15,871	$ 18,652
Deferred cost of revenue	(4,757)	(6,778)
Deferred income	$ 11,114	$ 11,874

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Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]

NOTE 14.    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. Exar’s ESPP qualifies with IRS 423(b) and was approved by our stockholders at our 1989 annual shareholder meeting. 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 per Share
Authorized to issue:		4,500	$	—
Reserved for future issuance:
Fiscal year ending March 30, 2014		1,372		—
Fiscal year ending March 31, 2013		1,392		—
Fiscal year ending April 1, 2012		1,418		—
Issued:
Fiscal year ending March 30, 2014		20		11.38
Fiscal year ending March 31, 2013		26		8.38
Fiscal year ending April 1, 2012		62		6.09

Equity Incentive Plans

We currently have two equity incentive plans, in which shares are available for future issuance, the Exar Corporation 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2006 Plan”) and the Sipex Corporation (“Sipex”) 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Sipex Plan”), the latter of which was assumed in connection with the August 2007 acquisition of Sipex.

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 Plan 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 30, 2014, there were 1.2 million shares available for future grant under all our equity incentive plans.

The following table summarizes information about our stock options outstanding at March 30, 2014:

			Options Outstanding						Options Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices			Number Outstanding As of March 30, 2014		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms (in years)		Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share		Number Exercisable As of March 30, 2014		Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share
$5.44	–	$6.43		2,010,296		4.00	$	6.27		1,184,735	$	6.25
6.60	–	8.07		1,577,634		4.34		7.62		597,423		7.46
8.16	–	10.80		1,764,751		5.45		9.56		387,376		8.90
11.23	–	13.36		1,451,567		6.39		12.22		136,867		12.32
13.54	–	15.67		409,600		6.02		13.59		62,600		13.84
Total				7,213,848		5.02	$	8.98		2,369,001	$	7.54

Stock Option Activities

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

	Outstanding Options / Quantity			Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands)		In-the-money Options Vested and Exercisable (in thousands)
Balance at March 27, 2011		5,729,464		$	7.61		4.74	$	147		103
Granted		3,100,595			6.33
Exercised		(422,749	)		6.54
Cancelled		(526,574	)		8.15
Forfeited		(1,535,429	)		6.70
Balance at April 1, 2012		6,345,307		$	7.23		4.67	$	9,474		1,193
Granted		2,540,010			8.32
Exercised		(875,459	)		6.92
Cancelled		(903,781	)		9.67
Forfeited		(893,744	)		6.41
Balance at March 31, 2013		6,212,333		$	7.48		5.04	$	19,199		1,481
Granted		2,482,650			11.89
Exercised		(784,864	)		7.14
Cancelled		(10,834	)		10.92
Forfeited		(685,437	)		8.02
Balance at March 30, 2014		7,213,848		$	8.98		5.02	$	21,301		2,170
Vested and expected to vest, March 30, 2014		6,740,358		$	8.88		4.94	$	20,539
Vested and exercisable, March 30, 2014		2,369,001		$	7.54		3.55	$	10,114

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 $11.71, $10.50 and $8.40 as of March 30, 2014, March 21, 2013 and April 1, 2012, respectively. These are the values which would have been received by option holders if all option holders exercised their options on that date.

In January 2012, we granted 480,000 performance-based stock options to our CEO. The options are scheduled to vest in four equal annual installments at the end of fiscal years 2013 through 2016 if certain predetermined financial measures are met. If the financial measures are not met, each installment will be rolled over to the subsequent fiscal year for vesting except for the last installment. In January 2014, we granted 140,000 performance-based stock options to our CEO. The options are scheduled to vest at the end of fiscal years 2017 if certain predetermined financial measures are met We recorded $260,000, $260,000 and $65,000 of compensation expense for these options in fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Options exercised for the fiscal years indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Intrinsic value of options exercised	$	3,887	$	1,443	$	79
Cash received related to option exercises		9,493		6,059		2,763
Tax benefit recorded		6,669		1,927		1,761

RSUs

We issue RSUs to employees and non-employee directors. RSUs generally vest on the first or third anniversary date from the grant date. 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 (in thousands)
Unvested at March 27, 2011		557,098		$	7.17		1.09	$	3,387
Granted		481,650			7.12
Issued and released		(271,830	)		7.25
Forfeited		(162,263	)		7.25
Unvested at April 1, 2012		604,655		$	7.13		2.38	$	5,079
Granted		331,894			8.40
Issued and released		(125,095	)		7.10
Forfeited		(79,250	)		6.96
Unvested at March 31, 2013		732,204		$	7.73		1.72	$	7,688
Granted		828,995			13.06
Issued and released		(346,407	)		9.38
Forfeited		(37,666	)		9.52
Unvested at March 30, 2014		1,177,126		$	10.94		1.62	$	13,784
Vested and expected to vest, March 30, 2014		1,018,609					1.58	$	11,928

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.

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 (“PRSUs”) 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. In fiscal year 2012, we recognized approximately $19,000 of compensation expense related to these awards, net of forfeitures. The awards were fully vested in fiscal year 2012, and no expense was recorded in fiscal year 2013 or 2014.

In March 2012, we granted 300,000 PRSUs to our CEO. The PRSUs are scheduled to start vesting in three equal installments at the end of fiscal year 2013 through 2015 with three year vesting periods if certain predetermined financial measures are met. If the financial measures are not met, each installment will be forfeited at the end of its respective fiscal year. In fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, we recorded $732,000, $448,000 and $48,000 compensation expense, respectively for these awards.

In April 2012, we granted 29,000 bonus RSUs to our CEO. The RSUs vest 50% on the date that is six months after the commencement of the fiscal year 2013 and 50% on the last day of fiscal year 2013. In fiscal year 2013, we recorded $250,000, of compensation expense for these awards.

In June 2012, we announced the Fiscal Year 2013 Management Incentive Program (“2013 Incentive Program”). Under this program, each participant’s award is denominated in stock and subject to achievement of certain financial performance goals and the participant’s annual Management by Objective goals. In fiscal year 2013, we recorded $1.2 million of stock compensation expense related to the 2013 Incentive Program as a result of achieving performance targets at various levels.

In July 2013, as part of the acquisition of Cadeka, we agreed to pay retention bonus to certain former Cadeka employees and the bonus will be settled in RSUs subject to fulfillment of the service period. In fiscal year 2014, we recorded $1.2 million of non-cash compensation expense, net of forfeiture for these PRSUs. The expense is reported in the other non-current obligations line in the consolidated balance sheet as the total amount of bonus is to be settled in variable number of RSUs at the completion of the requisite service period. Such non-cash compensation expense is recorded as part of stock compensation expense in the consolidated statement of operations.

In August 2013, we announced the Fiscal Year 2014 Management Incentive Program (“2014 Incentive Program”). Under this program, each participant’s award is denominated in stock and subject to achievement of certain financial performance goals and the participant’s annual Management by Objective goals. In fiscal year 2014, we recorded $0.7 million of stock compensation expense related to the 2014 Incentive Program. The expense is reported in the other current liabilities line in the consolidated balance sheet as the total amount of bonus is to be settled in variable number of RSUs at the completion of the requisite service period. Such non-cash compensation expense is recorded as part of stock compensation expense in the consolidated statement of operations.

In the first quarter of fiscal 2014 we granted 50,000 PRSUs to certain executives. The PRSUs are scheduled to start vesting in three equal installments at the end of fiscal year 2014 with a three-year vesting period if certain performance measures are met. In fiscal year 2014, we recorded $0.3 million of stock compensation expense related to these PRSUs.

In October 2013 we granted 35,000 PRSUs to certain executives. The PRSUs are scheduled to start vesting in three equal installments at the end of fiscal year 2015 with a three-year vesting period if certain performance measures are met. In fiscal year 2014, we recorded $0.1 million of stock compensation expense related to these PRSUs.

In January 2014, we granted 80,000 PRSUs to certain former Stretch employees. The PRSUs are scheduled to start vesting in three equal installments at the end of fiscal year 2015 with a three-year vesting period if certain performance measures are met. In fiscal year 2014, we recorded $0 of stock compensation expense related to these PRSUs as the vesting of such PRSUs was not deemed probable.

Stock-Based Compensation Expenses

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 on the date of grant using 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 NASDAQ Global Select Market (“NASDAQ”) and/or New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (“NYSE”) 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 used the following weighted average assumptions to calculate the fair values of options granted during the fiscal years presented below:

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Expected term of options (years)		4.40 – 4.49			4.36			4.30
Risk-free interest rate		0.6 – 1.1	%		0.5 – 0.6	%		0.7 – 1.5	%
Expected volatility		32 - 35	%		37 - 42	%		41 - 43	%
Expected dividend yield		—			—			—
Weighted average grant date fair value	$	3.40		$	2.80		$	2.22

The following table summarizes stock-based compensation expense related to stock options and RSUs during the fiscal years presented below (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Cost of sales	$	714	$	469	$	301
Research and development		1,974		789		1,239
Selling, general and administrative		6,164		3,530		2,210
Total stock-based compensation expense	$	8,852	$	4,788	$	3,750

The amount of stock-based compensation cost capitalized in inventory was immaterial at each of the fiscal years presented.

During fiscal year 2012, we modified stock options and PRSUs held by our then current CEO upon his termination to accelerate the vesting of any portion of each equity award that was scheduled to vest on or within 12 months after November 7, 2011 (the “Severance Date”) and to exercise the vested portion of stock options on or within twelve months after the Severance Date, which is in accordance with the separation agreement. As a result of the modifications in fiscal year 2012, we recorded additional stock-based compensation expense of approximately $114,000.

Unrecognized Stock-based Compensation Expense

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

	March 30, 2014				March 31, 2013				April 1, 2012
	Amount (in thousands)		Weighted Average Remaining Recognition Period (in years)		Amount (in thousands)		Weighted Average Remaining Recognition Period (in years)		Amount (in thousands)		Weighted Average Remaining Recognition Period (in years)
Options	$	9,958		2.7	$	6,269		2.8	$	7,356		2.8
Performance Options		242		2.2		502		2.6		763		3.5
RSUs		5,970		2.2		1,557		2.5		1,185		3.2
PRSUs		3,047		2.5		1,814		3.4		2,352		4.1
Total Stock-based compensation expense	$	19,217			$	10,142			$	11,656

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Note 18 - Income Taxes (Details) - Estimated Interest and Penalties Related to the Underpayment of Income Taxes (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Estimated Interest and Penalties Related to the Underpayment of Income Taxes [Abstract]
Accrued interest and penalties	$ 83	$ 228

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Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]

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 mixed-signal integrated circuits and advanced sub-system solutions for the Industrial & Embedded Systems, Networking & Storage and Communications Infrastructure markets.

Our net sales by end market were summarized as follows as of the dates indicated below (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Industrial & Embedded Systems	$	72,458	$	63,396	$	66,602
Networking & Storage		30,594		32,737		27,005
Communications Infrastructure		21,808		24,965		35,829
Other		462		928		1,130
Total net sales	$	125,322	$	122,026	$	130,566

Our foreign operations are conducted primarily through our wholly-owned subsidiaries in Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, 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 direct sales principally to OEMs, or their designated subcontract manufacturers, and to distributors (affiliated and unaffiliated) who buy our products and resell to their customers.

Our net sales by geographic area for the periods indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
China	$	43,537	$	41,118	$	44,035
United States		37,079		32,322		33,585
Singapore		13,397		13,827		13,883
Germany		11,270		11,692		13,671
Japan		6,393		5,685		6,161
Europe (excluding Germany)		3,999		4,765		5,628
Rest of world		9,647		12,617		13,603
Total net sales	$	125,322	$	122,026	$	130,566

Substantially all of our long-lived assets at March 30, 2014 and April 1, 2012 were located in the United States.

The following distributors accounted for 10% or more of our net sales in the fiscal years indicated below:

	Fiscal Years Ended
	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013			April 1, 2012
Distributor A		27	%		30	%		31	%
Distributor B		21	%		11	%		11	%
Distributor C		12	%		10	%		*	%

* Net sales for this distributor for this period were less than 10% of our net sales.

No other distributor or customer accounted for 10% or more of the net sales in fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

The following distributors accounted for 10% or more of our net accounts receivable as of the dates indicated below:

	March 30, 2014			March 31, 2013
Distributor B		17	%		20	%
Distributor A		16	%		21	%
Distributor D		14	%		11	%
Distributor C		12	%		*

* Net accounts receivable for this distributor for this period were less than 10% of our net accounts receivables.

No other distributor or customer accounted for 10% or more of the net accounts receivable as of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013, respectively.

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Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Stock-Based Compensation Expense Related to Stock Options and RSUs (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Stock-Based Compensation Expense categories	$ 8,852,000	$ 4,788,000	$ 3,750,000
Cost of Sales [Member]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Stock-Based Compensation Expense categories	714,000	469,000	301,000
Research and Development Expense [Member]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Stock-Based Compensation Expense categories	1,974,000	789,000	1,239,000
Selling and Marketing Expense [Member]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Stock-Based Compensation Expense categories	$ 6,164,000	$ 3,530,000	$ 2,210,000

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Note 2 - Revision of Prior Period Financial Statements (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jul. 01, 2012	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Note 2 - Revision of Prior Period Financial Statements (Details) [Line Items]
Additional Paid in Capital	$ 508,116,000				$ 749,426,000				$ 508,116,000	$ 749,426,000
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)	(253,667,000)				(259,468,000)				(253,667,000)	(259,468,000)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	147,000	(1,634,000)	6,482,000	806,000	1,672,000	1,523,000	263,000	(576,000)	5,801,000	2,882,000	(28,056,000)
Restatement Adjustment [Member] | Accounting For Stock-Based Compensation [Member]
Note 2 - Revision of Prior Period Financial Statements (Details) [Line Items]
Additional Paid in Capital											(741,000)
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)											(741,000)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent											$ 741,000

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Note 16 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details) - Warranty Reserve Balance (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013
Warranty Reserve Balance [Abstract]
Beginning balance	$ 50	$ 90	$ 1,400
Provisions for warranties issued	1,480
Settlements/adjustments	(456)	(40)
Ending balance	$ 1,074	$ 50	$ 1,400

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Note 13 - Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule Of Matching Contributions [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Matching contributions	$	373	$	267	$	294

Schedule Of Paid And Unpaid Incentive Compensation [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Unpaid incentive compensation	$	698	$	781	$	—

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Note 18 - Income Taxes (Details) - Components of the Provision for (Benefit from) Income Taxes (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 29, 2013	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Current:
Federal		$ (1,350)	$ (1,255)	$ 110
State		(93)	(73)	(235)
Foreign		(81)	114	218
Total current		(1,524)	(1,214)	93
Deferred:
Federal		(6,807)	23	(39)
State		(147)	2	(3)
Total deferred		(6,954)	25	(42)
Total provision for (benefit from) income taxes	$ (1,300)	$ (8,478)	$ (1,189)	$ 51

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Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Net income (loss)	$ 5,801	$ 2,882	$ (28,056)
Changes in market value of investments, net of tax:
Changes in unrealized gain (loss) on investments	(754)	(243)	385
Reclassification adjustment for net realized gains (losses)	201	(82)	(299)
Net change in market value of investments	(553)	(325)	86
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ 5,248	$ 2,557	$ (27,970)

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Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended			12 Months Ended						1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended		1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended		1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended				1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2012	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012	Apr. 30, 2012 6 Months After The Commencement [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	Apr. 30, 2012 On The Last Day of FY 2013 [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	Jan. 31, 2012 Employee Stock Option [Member] Chief Executive Officer [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Employee Stock Option [Member] Chief Executive Officer [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Employee Stock Option [Member] Chief Executive Officer [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Employee Stock Option [Member] Chief Executive Officer [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Employee Stock Option [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Employee Stock Option [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Employee Stock Option [Member]	Jul. 31, 2009 July 2009 PRSUs [Member] Certain Executives [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 July 2009 PRSUs [Member] Certain Executives [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 July 2009 PRSUs [Member] Certain Executives [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 July 2009 PRSUs [Member] Certain Executives [Member]	Mar. 31, 2012 Performance-Based RSUs [Member] Chief Executive Officer [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Performance-Based RSUs [Member] Chief Executive Officer [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Performance-Based RSUs [Member] Chief Executive Officer [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Performance-Based RSUs [Member] Chief Executive Officer [Member]	Jun. 30, 2013 Performance-Based RSUs [Member] Certain Executives [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Performance-Based RSUs [Member] Certain Executives [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Performance-Based RSUs [Member] Cadeka Employees [Member]	Jan. 31, 2014 Performance-Based RSUs [Member] Former Stretch Employees [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] 2013 Inventive Program [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] 2014 Incentive Program [Member]	Apr. 30, 2012 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Chief Executive Officer [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Chief Executive Officer [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	Oct. 31, 2013 October 2013 PRSUs [Member] Certain Executives [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 October 2013 PRSUs [Member] Certain Executives [Member]	Apr. 01, 2012 Stock Options and PRSUs [Member] Chief Executive Officer [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Employee Stock Participation Plan [Member]	Sep. 15, 2010 2006 Plan [Member]	Jan. 31, 2014 Chief Executive Officer [Member]	Jan. 31, 2012 Chief Executive Officer [Member]
Note 14 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Purchase Price of Common Stock, Percent																																				95.00%
Stock Based Compensation Equity Incentive Plan	2
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Additional Shares Authorized (in Shares)																																					5,500,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized (in Shares)		4,500,000																																			8,300,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant (in Shares)		1,200,000
Share Price (in Dollars per share)											$ 11.71	$ 10.50	$ 8.40
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross (in Shares)		2,482,650	2,540,010	3,100,595																																		140,000	480,000
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Vesting, Number of Installments							4											3				3			3								3
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense		$ 8,852,000	$ 4,788,000	$ 3,750,000				$ 260,000	$ 260,000	$ 65,000					$ 0	$ 0	$ 19,000		$ 732,000	$ 448,000	$ 48,000		$ 300,000	$ 1,200,000	$ 0	$ 1,200,000	$ 700,000		$ 250,000					$ 100,000	$ 114,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period (in Shares)														99,000				300,000				50,000			80,000			29,000		828,995	331,894	481,650	35,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period														3 years				3 years				3 years			3 years								3 years
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage					50.00%	50.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate		0.00%

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Note 3 - Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]

NOTE 3.    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. Fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012 consisted of 52, 52 and 53 weeks, respectively. Fiscal year 2015 will consist of 52 weeks. Fiscal years ended March 30, 2014, March 31, 2013 and April 1, 2012 are also referred to as “2014,” “2013,” and “2012,” respectively, unless otherwise indicated.

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.

Principles of Consolidation—The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Exar 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) allowance for doubtful accounts; (3) valuation of inventories; (4) income taxes; (5) stock-based compensation; (6) goodwill; (7) long-lived assets; (8) contingent consideration; and (9) warranty liabilities. 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 4—“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.

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 12 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 10 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 of long term investment 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.

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 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. Estimations and assumptions regarding the number of reporting units, future performances, results of our operations and comparability of our market capitalization and net book value will be used. 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.

Long-Lived Assets—We review long-lived assets, including property and equipment and intangible assets, for impairment whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets (or asset group) may not be fully recoverable. Whenever events or changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount of long-lived assets may not be recoverable, we estimate the future cash flows expected to be generated by the assets (or asset group) from its use or eventual disposition. If the sum of the expected future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of those assets, we recognize an impairment loss based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets. Significant management judgment is required in the grouping of long-lived assets and forecasts of future operating results that are used in the discounted cash flow method of valuation. If our actual results, or the plans and estimates used in future impairment analyses are lower than the original estimates used to assess the recoverability of these assets, we could incur additional impairment charges.

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 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 original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”) or their contract manufacturers. Our delivery terms are primarily free on board shipping point, at which time title and all risks of ownership are transferred to the customer.

To date, software revenue has been an immaterial portion of our net sales.

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. Allowances for sales returns and other reserves 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 5% to 6% of their purchases during the preceding quarter for purposes of stock rotation. For one of these distributors, a scrap allowance of 1% 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 the sell-in basis or sell-through basis, each as described below. 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 discussed above 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).

• 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 allowances 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. 

The following table summarizes the deferred income balance, primarily consisting of sell-through distributors (in thousands):

	As of March 30, 2014			As of March 31, 2013
Deferred revenue at published list price	$	15,871		$	18,652
Deferred cost of revenue		(4,757	)		(6,778	)
Deferred income	$	11,114		$	11,874

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.

Mask Costs— We incur costs for the fabrication of masks to manufacture our products. If we determine the product technological feasibility has been achieved when costs are incurred, the costs will be treated as pre-production costs and capitalized as machinery and equipment under property, plant and equipment. The amount will be amortized to cost of sales over the estimated production period of the product. If product technological feasibility has not been achieved or the mask is not expected to be utilized in production manufacturing, the related mask costs are expensed to Research and development (“R&D”) when incurred. We periodically assess capitalized mask costs for impairment. Total mask costs capitalized were $2.3 million and $1.7 million as of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013, respectively. The costs capitalized are amortized over five years commencing with the start of commercial production.

Research and Development Expenses—R&D costs consist primarily of salaries, employee benefits, certain types of 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 2014, 2013 and 2012.

We have entered into an agreement under which certain R&D costs are eligible for reimbursement. Amounts reimbursed under this arrangement are offset against R&D expenses. During fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, we offset $1.5 million, $2.0 million and $4.0 million, respectively, of R&D expenses in connection with such agreements.

Advertising Expenses—We expense advertising costs as incurred. Advertising expenses for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012 were immaterial.

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 2014, 2013 and 2012 has been disclosed within the consolidated statements of 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 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 immaterial for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012.

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 2014, 2013 and 2012. 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, has been and continues to be our largest distributor. See “Note 19 — Segment and Geographic Information,” for distributors who accounted for more than 10% of net sales and accounts receivable.

Concentration of Other Risks—The majority of our products are currently fabricated by our foundry suppliers and are assembled and tested by third-party subcontractors located in Asia. A significant disruption in the operations of one or more of these subcontractors could impact the production of our products for a substantial period of time which could result in 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 cash equivalents, short-term marketable securities, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities presented in the consolidated balance sheets at March 30, 2014, March 31, 2013 and April 1, 2012 was not materially different from the carrying values due to the relatively short periods to maturity of the instruments.

Fair Value of Contingent Consideration—We estimate the fair value of our contingent consideration at the date of acquisition and is re-measured each reporting period and any changes in the fair value of the contingent consideration are recognized as a gain or loss in the consolidated statements of operations. The contingent consideration is valued with level three inputs. As of March 30, 2014 and March 31, 2013, the fair value of the contingent consideration was $4.3 million and $10.1 million, respectively and is included in current and noncurrent liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet.

Stock-Based Compensation—We measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award. We use the Black-Scholes model to estimate the fair value of our options. The fair value of time-based and performance-based restricted stock units is based on the grant date share price. The fair value of market-based restricted stock units is estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation model. See Part II, Item 8—“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and “Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 14—Stock-Based Compensation” for more details about our assumptions used in calculating the stock-based compensation expenses and equity related transactions during the fiscal year.

We recognize compensation expense equal to the grant-date fair value for all share-based payment awards that are expected to vest. This expense is recorded on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the entire awards, unless the awards are subject to performance or market conditions, in which case we recognize compensation expense over the requisite service period of each separate vesting tranche. For the performance-based awards, we recognize compensation expense when it becomes probable that the performance criteria specified in the plan will be achieved. For the market-based awards, compensation expense is not reversed if the market condition is not satisfied. The amount of stock-based compensation that we recognize is also based on an expected forfeiture rate. If there is a difference between the forfeiture assumptions used in determining stock-based compensation costs and the actual forfeitures which become known over time, we may change the forfeiture rate, which could have a significant impact on its stock-based compensation expense. In addition, we follow the “with-and-without” intra-period allocation approach in our tax attribute calculations

Recent Accounting Pronouncements 

In July 2013, the FASB issued amended standards that provided explicit guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward or a tax credit carryforward exists. Under the amended standards, the unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward or a tax credit carryforward. These amended standard updates will be effective for our interim period beginning after December 15, 2013 and applied prospectively with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this guidance did not have any material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In February 2013, the FASB issued amended standards to improve the reporting of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income by requiring an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income but only if the amount reclassified is required under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) to be reclassified to net income in its entirety in the same reporting period. For other amounts that are not required under U.S. GAAP to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures required under U.S. GAAP that provide additional detail about those amounts. These amended standards are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The adoption of this guidance did not have any material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In May 2014, the FASB issued a new standard, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, to clarify the principles for recognizing revenue to develop a common revenue standard for U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) that would (1) provide a more robust framework for addressing revenue recognition; (2) improve comparability of revenue recognition practice across entities, industries, jurisdictions, and capital markets; and (3) provide more useful information to users of financial statements through improved disclosure requirements. This standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Exar is currently evaluating the effect the adoption of this standard will have, if any, on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

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Note 5 - Balance Sheet Details (Details) - Inventories (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Inventories [Abstract]
Work-in-progress and raw materials	$ 13,555	$ 9,981
Finished goods	15,427	9,449
Total inventories	$ 28,982	$ 19,430

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Note 11 - Net Income (Loss) Per Share (Details) (Equity Option [Member]) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Equity Option [Member]
Note 11 - Net Income (Loss) Per Share (Details) [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	1.4	2.2

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Note 18 - Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended				3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 29, 2013	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012	Mar. 27, 2011	Mar. 30, 2014 Cadeka [Member]	Dec. 29, 2013 Cadeka [Member]	Mar. 30, 2014 Cadeka [Member]
Note 18 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]
Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries		$ (5,800,000)
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount		(8,000,000)	(6,700,000)	13,900,000
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	(1,300,000)	(8,478,000)	(1,189,000)	51,000		(170,000)	(6,800,000)	(6,800,000)
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost		8,300,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits		14,164,000	15,465,000	16,820,000	16,714,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate		11,600,000
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit		$ 96,000

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Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) - Summary of the Gross Unrealized Losses and Fair Values of Investments (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) - Summary of the Gross Unrealized Losses and Fair Values of Investments [Line Items]
Fair Value Less than 12 Months	$ 93,424	$ 42,528
Gross Unrealized Losses Less than 12 Months	(258)	(98)
Fair Value Greater than 12 Months	7,057	5,405
Gross Unrealized Losses Greater than 12 Months	(55)	(80)
Fair Value Total	100,481	47,933
Gross Unrealized Losses Total	(313)	(178)
US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member]
Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) - Summary of the Gross Unrealized Losses and Fair Values of Investments [Line Items]
Fair Value Less than 12 Months	18,245
Gross Unrealized Losses Less than 12 Months	(39)
Fair Value Greater than 12 Months		404
Gross Unrealized Losses Greater than 12 Months		(2)
Fair Value Total	18,245	404
Gross Unrealized Losses Total	(39)	(2)
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) - Summary of the Gross Unrealized Losses and Fair Values of Investments [Line Items]
Fair Value Less than 12 Months	48,379	29,609
Gross Unrealized Losses Less than 12 Months	(87)	(42)
Fair Value Greater than 12 Months	596	497
Gross Unrealized Losses Greater than 12 Months	(1)	(3)
Fair Value Total	48,975	30,106
Gross Unrealized Losses Total	(88)	(45)
Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) - Summary of the Gross Unrealized Losses and Fair Values of Investments [Line Items]
Fair Value Less than 12 Months	7,118	10,008
Gross Unrealized Losses Less than 12 Months	(12)	(17)
Fair Value Greater than 12 Months	5,478	1,241
Gross Unrealized Losses Greater than 12 Months	(36)	(10)
Fair Value Total	12,596	11,249
Gross Unrealized Losses Total	(48)	(27)
Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Note 6 - Fair Value (Details) - Summary of the Gross Unrealized Losses and Fair Values of Investments [Line Items]
Fair Value Less than 12 Months	19,682	2,911
Gross Unrealized Losses Less than 12 Months	(120)	(39)
Fair Value Greater than 12 Months	983	3,263
Gross Unrealized Losses Greater than 12 Months	(18)	(65)
Fair Value Total	20,665	6,174
Gross Unrealized Losses Total	$ (138)	$ (104)

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Note 20 - Allowances for Sales Returns and Doubtful Accounts

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Receivables [Abstract]

Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block]

NOTE 20.   ALLOWANCES FOR SALES RETURNS AND DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS

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

Classification	Balance at Beginning of Year		Additions			Utilizations (1)		Balance at End of Year
Allowance for sales returns:
Year ended March 30, 2014	$	1,084	$	17,004		$	16,414	$	1,674
Year ended March 31, 2013		1,429	$	15,176		$	15,521	$	1,084
Year ended April 1, 2012		1,245		15,701			15,517		1,429
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
Year ended March 30, 2014		206		(25	)		70		111
Year ended March 31, 2013		167		39			—		206
Year ended April 1, 2012		278		69			180		167

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

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Note 19 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details) - Net Sales by End Market (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total net sales by end market	$ 125,322	$ 122,026	$ 130,566
Industrial And Embedded Systems [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total net sales by end market	72,458	63,396	66,602
Networking And Storage [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total net sales by end market	30,594	32,737	27,005
Communications Infrastructure [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total net sales by end market	21,808	24,965	35,829
Other Markets [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total net sales by end market	$ 462	$ 928	$ 1,130

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Note 8 - Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs (Details) - Summary of Activities Affecting Liabilities (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ 3,286	$ 8,041
Additions / adjustments	3,014	1,554
Non-cash charges	(57)	(56)
Payments	(3,874)	(6,253)
Ending balance	2,369	3,286
Lease Contract Termination Costs [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Beginning balance	2,860	5,235
Additions / adjustments	570	6
Non-cash charges	(57)	(56)
Payments	(1,758)	(2,325)
Ending balance	1,615	2,860
Employee Severance [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Beginning balance	426	2,806
Additions / adjustments	2,444	1,548
Payments	(2,116)	(3,928)
Ending balance	$ 754	$ 426

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Note 10 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013
Beginning balance	$	10,356	$	3,184
Goodwill additions		20,054		7,172
Ending balance	$	30,410	$	10,356

Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014										March 31, 2013
	Carrying Amount		Impair- ment			Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Amount		Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Amount
Amortized intangible assets:
Existing technology	$	64,678	$	(1,635	)	$	(37,510	)	$	25,533	$	42,858	$	(30,668	)	$	12,190
Customer relationships		6,095		—			(2,762	)		3,333		2,905		(2,079	)		826
Patents/Core technology		3,459		—			(3,378	)		81		3,459		(3,182	)		277
Distributor relationships		1,264		—			(1,260	)		4		1,264		(1,219	)		45
Tradenames		210		—			(51	)		159		—		—			—
Total intangible assets subject to amortization		75,706		(1,635	)		(44,961	)		29,110		50,486		(37,148	)		13,338
In-process research and development		2,280		—			—			2,280		—		—			—
Total	$	77,986	$	(1,635	)	$	(44,961	)	$	31,390	$	50,486	$	(37,148	)	$	13,338

Finite-lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Amortization expense	$	7,813	$	4,150	$	6,700

Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]

Amortization Expense (by fiscal year)
2015	$	6,159
2016		5,578
2017		4,645
2018		4,432
2019		3,231
2020 and thereafter		5,065
Total future amortization excluding IPR&D	$	29,110

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Note 13 - Employee Benefit Plans

12 Months Ended

Mar. 30, 2014

Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]

NOTE 13.    EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Exar Savings Plan

The Exar Savings Plan (“Plan”), as amended and restated, covers our eligible U.S. employees. The Plan provides for voluntary salary reduction contributions in accordance with Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code as well as matching contributions from Exar. The Exar matching amount is a percentage of employees’ contributions for fiscal year 2014. Exar matching for fiscal year 2013 and 2012 was based on the achievement of specified operating results.

Our matching contributions to the Plan for the fiscal years indicated below were as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Matching contributions	$	373	$	267	$	294

Management 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 unpaid incentive compensation for the fiscal years indicated below was as follows (in thousands):

	March 30, 2014		March 31, 2013		April 1, 2012
Unpaid incentive compensation	$	698	$	781	$	—

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Note 15 - Lease Financing Obligation (Details) - Rent Expense (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2012
Rent Expense [Abstract]
Rent expense	$ 1,289	$ 616	$ 2,121