Code of Conduct

I. Preface

Hilscher SoC Technology GmbH (HSoC) was founded in 2005 to develop and supply microchips for industrial applications. Our designs range from multi-million-gate, application-specific multi-core SoCs to mixed-signal ICs with precise analog signal chains.

As a small company with long-standing international customers and partners, we consider integrity, reliability, and responsible conduct as the foundation of our business activities. This Code of Conduct defines the fundamental principles and expectations that guide our business. It applies to all employees, including management, as well as external partners and service providers acting on behalf of the company.

This Code is based on recognized industry standards and is designed to be practical and applicable in a small company with a flat organizational structure.

II. Principles and Requirements

1. Compliance with laws and regulations

We comply with all applicable national and international laws and regulations. Each employee is responsible for ensuring compliance within the scope of his of her activities.

2. Confidentiality and Data Protection

Confidential business information, in particular technical data, customer data, and trade secrets, is protected and used only as necessary.

3. Environmental Responsibility

We act responsibly in the use of natural resources and seek to minimize environmental impact within our scope of influence. This includes considering environmental aspects in business decisions, including the selection of partners and suppliers.

We expect our partners to act responsibly with regard to environmental matters.

4. Health and Safety

We ensure a safe and healthy working environment in accordance with applicable laws and regulations and take appropriate measures to protect the health and safety of our employees.

5. Respect, Non-Discrimination and Fair Treatment

We are committed to a respectful and inclusive working environment. Harassment, violence, or any form of inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated.

Any form of discrimination is prohibited, in particular based on religious or political views, ethnic origin, skin color, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, trade union membership, military service, or marital status.

Employees must not be subjected to medical or physical tests that could be used in a discriminatory manner.

6. Human Rights and Labor Standards

We respect internationally recognized human rights and ensure that the dignity, personal rights, and privacy of all individuals are protected.

Child labor, forced labor, slavery, and human trafficking are strictly prohibited.

We respect the right to freedom of expression and the right of employees to form associations representing their interests in accordance with applicable laws.

7. Business Partners and Customers

As industrial ASICs typically have a lifespan of over 20 years, we maintain long-term and reliable business relationships, particularly with our international partners along the supply chain.

We consider the technical and economic risks associated with our chips and the products based on them and aim to minimize these risks within our scope of influence.

In all our business activities, we act with integrity and adhere to fair business practices. Bribery, corruption, extortion, and embezzlement are not tolerated.

8. Development and Technical Responsibility

The development of microelectronic products involves a high degree of complexity and requires disciplined engineering practices and a strong focus on detail. We apply established development and verification methods to ensure the functionality, reliability, and robustness of our products.

Given the scale and complexity of integrated circuits, we consider technical quality not only a requirement but also a fundamental responsibility. This is reflected in our approach to engineering, which aims to manage complexity systematically and achieve reliable results from concept through implementation.

9. Supply Chain and Due Diligence

We aim to ensure transparency and reliability in our supply chain. In doing so, we consider product quality and safety, compliance with applicable legal requirements, and the selection of reliable partners.

We expect our business partners to comply with fundamental legal and ethical standards, including applicable regulations regarding conflict minerals, and to conduct their business with integrity, in particular by refraining from bribery and corruption.

III. Implementation and Responsibility

Our Code of Conduct sets out the fundamental principles that guide our day-to-day business conduct. These principles are an integral part of how we work across the company, including management, and are taken into account when selecting and working with business partners and customers.

We encourage employees to raise questions or concerns related to this Code of Conduct. In line with our organizational structure, such matters are typically addressed directly within the team or with management. We aim to handle all concerns in a transparent, fair, and constructive manner. Individuals who report concerns in good faith will not suffer any disadvantages.

This Code of Conduct enters into force upon publication and is binding for all employees.

No formal audit or documentation obligations are established. The Code serves as a binding framework for responsible conduct in daily business.