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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

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

For the quarterly period ended April 3, 2010

or

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

For the transition period from             to

Commission file number 001-33170

NETLIST, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

51 Discovery, Suite 150

Irvine, CA 92618

 (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

(949) 435-0025

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

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 x No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (section 232.405 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 o No o

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 definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check One):

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).   Yes o No x

The number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of common stock as of the latest practicable date:

Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share

25,266,327 shares outstanding at April 30, 2010

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NETLIST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q

FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED APRIL 3, 2010

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PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

NETLIST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(in thousands, except par value)

See accompanying notes.

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NETLIST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

See accompanying notes.

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NETLIST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(in thousands)

See accompanying notes.

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NETLIST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

April 3, 2010

Note 1—Description of Business

Netlist, Inc. (the “Company” or “Netlist”) designs, manufactures and sells high-performance, logic-based memory subsystems for the server, storage and communications equipment markets. The Company’s memory subsystems consist of combinations of dynamic random access memory integrated circuits, NAND flash memory, application —specific integrated circuits (“ASICs”) and other components assembled on printed circuit boards.  The Company primarily markets and sells its products to leading original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) customers. Netlist’s solutions are targeted at applications where memory plays a key role in meeting system performance requirements.

Note 2—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation

The interim unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (the “U.S.”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Form 10-Q and Article 8 of SEC Regulation S-X. These financial statements do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. for complete financial statements. Therefore, these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended January 2, 2010, included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 19, 2010.

The condensed consolidated financial statements included herein as of April 3, 2010 are unaudited; however, they contain all normal recurring accruals and adjustments that, in the opinion of the Company’s management, are necessary to present fairly the consolidated financial position of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries as of April 3, 2010, the consolidated results of its operations for the three months ended April 3, 2010 and April 4, 2009, and the consolidated cash flows for the three months ended April 3, 2010 and April 4, 2009.  The results of operations for the three months ended April 3, 2010 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year or any future interim periods.

Reclassifications

Certain amounts in the 2009 financial statements have been reclassified to conform with the current year presentation.

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Netlist, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Fiscal Year

The Company operates under a 52/53-week fiscal year ending on the Saturday closest to December 31.  For fiscal 2010, the Company’s fiscal year is scheduled to end on January 1, 2011 and will consist of 52 weeks. Each of the Company’s first three quarters in a fiscal year is comprised of 13 weeks.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of the assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of net sales and expenses during the reporting period. By their nature, these estimates and assumptions are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty.  Significant estimates made by management include, among others, provisions for uncollectible receivables and sales returns, warranty liabilities, valuation of inventories, fair value of financial instruments, impairment of long-lived assets, stock-based compensation expense and realization of deferred tax assets. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience, knowledge of current conditions and our beliefs of what could occur in the future considering available information.  The Company reviews its estimates on an on-going basis.. The actual results experienced by the Company may differ materially and adversely from its estimates. To the extent there are material differences between the estimates and the actual results, future results of operations will be affected.

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Revenue Recognition

The Company’s revenues primarily consist of product sales of high-performance memory subsystems to OEMs. Revenues also include sales of excess inventories to distributors and other users of memory integrated circuits (“ICs”) totaling approximately $0.1 million and $0.1 million, for the three months ended April 3, 2010 and April 4, 2009, respectively.

The Company recognizes revenues in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 605.  Accordingly, the Company recognizes revenues when there is persuasive evidence of an arrangement, product delivery and acceptance have occurred, the sales price is fixed or determinable, and collectibility of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured.

The Company generally uses customer purchase orders and/or contracts as evidence of an arrangement. Delivery occurs when goods are shipped for customers with FOB Shipping Point terms and upon receipt for customers with FOB Destination terms, at which time title and risk of loss transfer to the customer. Shipping documents are used to verify delivery and customer acceptance. The Company assesses whether the sales price is fixed or determinable based on the payment terms associated with the transaction and whether the sales price is subject to refund. Customers are generally allowed limited rights of return for up to 30 days, except for sales of excess inventories, which contain no right-of-return privileges. Estimated returns are provided for at the time of sale based on historical experience or specific identification of an event necessitating a reserve. The Company offers a standard product warranty to its customers and has no other post-shipment obligations. The Company assesses collectibility based on the creditworthiness of the customer as determined by credit checks and evaluations, as well as the customer’s payment history.

All amounts billed to customers related to shipping and handling are classified as revenues, while all costs incurred by the Company for shipping and handling are classified as cost of sales.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term investments with original maturities of three months or less, other than short-term investments in securities that lack an active market.

Investments in Marketable Securities

The Company accounts for its investments in marketable securities in accordance with ASC Topic 320.  The Company determines the appropriate classification of its investments at the time of purchase and reevaluates such designation at each balance sheet date. The Company’s investments in marketable securities have been classified and accounted for as available-for-sale based on management’s investment intentions relating to these securities. Available-for-sale securities are stated at market value, and are generally based on market quotes, to the extent they are available. Unrealized gains and losses, net of applicable deferred taxes, are recorded as a component of other comprehensive income (loss). Realized gains and losses and declines in value judged to be other than temporary are determined based on the specific identification method and are reported in other income, net in the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations.

The Company generally invests its excess cash in domestic bank-issued certificates of deposit which carry federal deposit insurance, money market funds and in highly liquid debt instruments of U.S. municipalities, corporations and the U.S. government and its agencies. All highly liquid investments with stated maturities of three months or less from the date of purchase are classified as cash equivalents; all investments with stated maturities of greater than three months are classified as investments in marketable securities.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The Company’s financial instruments consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, investments in marketable securities, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued expenses and debt instruments.  Other than for certain investments in auction rate securities (see Note 4), the fair value of the Company’s cash equivalents and investments in marketable securities, other than commercial paper or short-term corporate bonds,  is determined based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or Level 1 inputs.  Because of their short-term nature, commercial paper and short-term corporate bonds are not frequently traded.  Although there are observable quotes for these securities, the markets are not considered active.  Accordingly, the fair values of these investments are based on Level 2 inputs.  The Company recognizes transfers between Levels 1 through 3 of the fair value hierarchy at the beginning of the reporting period.  The Company believes that the carrying values of all other financial instruments approximate their current fair values due to their nature and respective durations.

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Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

The Company evaluates the collectibility of accounts receivable based on a combination of factors. In cases where the Company is aware of circumstances that may impair a specific customer’s ability to meet its financial obligations subsequent to the original sale, the Company will record an allowance against amounts due, and thereby reduce the net recognized receivable to the amount the Company reasonably believes will be collected. For all other customers, the Company records allowances for doubtful accounts based primarily on the length of time the receivables are past due based on the terms of the originating transaction, the current business environment and its historical experience.  Uncollectible accounts are charged against the allowance for doubtful accounts when all cost effective commercial means of collection have been exhausted.

Concentration of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to significant concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, investments in marketable securities, and accounts receivable.

The Company invests its cash equivalents primarily in money market funds.  Cash equivalents are maintained with high quality institutions, the composition and maturities of which are regularly monitored by management. The Company had $0.7 million of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured cash and cash equivalents at April 3, 2010.  Investments in marketable securities are generally in high-credit quality debt instruments with an active resale market. Such investments are made only in instruments issued or enhanced by high-quality institutions.  The Company has not incurred any credit risk losses related to these investments.

The Company’s trade accounts receivable are primarily derived from sales to OEMs in the computer industry. The Company performs credit evaluations of its customers’ financial condition and limits the amount of credit extended when deemed necessary, but generally requires no collateral. The Company believes that the concentration of credit risk in its trade receivables is moderated by its credit evaluation process, relatively short collection terms, the high level of credit worthiness of its customers (see Note 3), and foreign credit insurance. Reserves are maintained for potential credit losses, and such losses historically have not been significant and have been within management’s expectations.

Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of actual cost to purchase or manufacture the inventory or net realizable value of the inventory. Cost is determined on an average cost basis which approximates actual cost on a first-in, first-out basis and includes raw materials, labor and manufacturing overhead.  At each balance sheet date, the Company evaluates its ending inventory quantities on hand and on order and records a provision for excess quantities and obsolescence. Among other factors, the Company considers historical demand and forecasted demand in relation to the inventory on hand, competitiveness of product offerings, market conditions and product life cycles when determining obsolescence and net realizable value of raw material inventory. Provisions are made to reduce excess or obsolete inventories to their estimated net realizable values. Once established, write-downs are considered permanent adjustments to the cost basis of the excess or obsolete inventories.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are recorded at cost and depreciated on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives, which generally range from three to seven years. Leasehold improvements are recorded at cost and amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the remaining lease term.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

The Company evaluates the recoverability of the carrying value of long-lived assets held and used in its operations for impairment on at least an annual basis or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their net book value may not be recoverable.  When such factors and circumstances exist, the Company compares the projected undiscounted future net cash flows associated with the related asset or group of assets over their estimated useful lives against their respective carrying amount.  These projected future cash flows may vary significantly over time as a result of increased competition, changes in technology, fluctuations in demand, consolidation of our customers and reductions in average selling prices.  If the carrying value is determined not to be recoverable from future operating cash flows, the asset is deemed impaired and an impairment loss is recognized to the extent the carrying value exceeds the estimated fair value of the asset.  The fair value of the asset or asset group is based on market value when available, or when unavailable, on discounted expected cash flows.

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Warranties

The Company offers warranties generally ranging from one to three years, depending on the product and negotiated terms of the purchase agreements with customers.  Such warranties require the Company to repair or replace defective product returned to the Company during the warranty period at no cost to the customer. Warranties are not offered on sales of excess inventory.  The Company records an estimate for warranty-related costs at the time of sale based on its historical and estimated product return rates and expected repair or replacement costs (see Note 3). Such costs have historically been consistent between periods and within management’s expectations and the provisions established.

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company accounts for equity issuances to non-employees in accordance with ASC Topic 505.  All transactions in which goods or services are the consideration received for the issuance of equity instruments are accounted for based on the fair value of the consideration received or the fair value of the equity instrument issued, whichever is more reliably measurable. The measurement date used to determine the fair value of the equity instrument issued is the earlier of the date on which the third-party performance is complete or the date on which it is probable that performance will occur.

In accordance with ASC Topic 718, employee and director stock-based compensation expense recognized during the period is based on the value of the portion of stock-based payment awards that is ultimately expected to vest during the period.  Given that stock-based compensation expense recognized in the consolidated statements of operations is based on awards ultimately expected to vest, it has been reduced for estimated forfeitures. ASC Topic 718 requires forfeitures to be estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. The Company’s estimated average forfeiture rates are based on historical forfeiture experience and estimated future forfeitures.

The fair value of common stock option awards to employees and directors is calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The Black-Scholes model requires subjective assumptions regarding future stock price volatility and expected time to exercise, along with assumptions about the risk-free interest rate and expected dividends, which affect the estimated fair values of the Company’s common stock option awards.  The expected term of options granted is calculated as the average of the weighted vesting period and the contractual expiration date of the option.  This calculation is based on the safe harbor method permitted by the SEC in instances where the vesting and exercise terms of options granted meet certain conditions and where limited historical exercise data is available.  Prior to fiscal 2009, the expected volatility was based on the historical volatilities of the common stock of comparable publicly traded companies based on management’s belief that the Company had limited historical data regarding the volatility of its stock price on which to base a meaningful estimate of expected volatility. Beginning in fiscal 2009, the expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of the Company’s common stock.  The risk-free rate selected to value any particular grant is based on the U.S. Treasury rate that corresponds to the expected term of the grant effective as of the date of the grant. The expected dividend assumption is based on the Company’s history and management’s expectation regarding dividend payouts.   Compensation expense for awards with graded vesting schedules is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the last separately vesting portion of the award.

Income Taxes

Under ASC Topic 270, the Company is required to adjust its effective tax rate each quarter to be consistent with the estimated annual effective tax rate. The Company is also required to record the tax impact of certain discrete items, unusual or infrequently occurring, including changes in judgment about valuation allowances and effects of changes in tax laws or rates, in the interim period in which they occur. In addition, jurisdictions with a projected loss for the year or a year-to-date loss where no tax benefit can be recognized are excluded from the estimated annual effective tax rate. The impact of such an exclusion could result in a higher or lower effective tax rate during a particular quarter, based upon the mix and timing of actual earnings versus annual projections.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized to reflect the estimated future tax effects, calculated at currently effective tax rates, of future deductible or taxable amounts attributable to events that have been recognized on a cumulative basis in the consolidated financial statements.  A valuation allowance related to a net deferred tax asset is recorded when it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.

ASC Topic 740 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement requirement for the financial statement recognition of a tax position that has been taken or is expected to be taken on a tax return and also provides guidance on de-recognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition. Under ASC Topic 740 the Company may only recognize or continue to recognize tax positions that meet a “more likely than not” threshold.

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Research and Development Expenses

Research and development expenditures are expensed in the period incurred.

Collaborative Arrangement

The Company has entered into a collaborative arrangement with a partner in order to develop products using certain of the Company’s proprietary technology.  Under the arrangement, the development partner was granted a non-exclusive license to specified intellectual property for exclusive use in the development and production of ASIC chipsets for the Company.  Both the Company and the development partner provided and continue to provide engineering project management resources at their own expense.  The development partner is entitled to non-recurring engineering fees based upon the achievement of development milestones, and to a minimum portion of the Company’s purchasing allocations for the component.  Expenses incurred and paid to the development partner are included in research and development expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

Comprehensive Loss

ASC Topic 220 establishes standards for reporting and displaying comprehensive income and its components in the condensed consolidated financial statements. Accumulated other comprehensive loss includes unrealized gains or losses on investments.

Risks and Uncertainties

The Company’s operations in the PRC are subject to various political, geographical and economic risks and uncertainties inherent to conducting business in China. These include, but are not limited to, (i) potential changes in economic conditions in the region, (ii) managing a local workforce that may subject the Company to uncertainties or certain regulatory policies, (iii) changes in other policies of the Chinese governmental and regulatory agencies, and (iv) changes in the laws and policies of the U.S. government regarding the conduct of business in foreign countries, generally, or in China, in particular.  Additionally, the Chinese government controls the procedures by which its local currency, the Chinese Renminbi (“RMB”), is converted into other currencies and by which dividends may be declared or capital distributed for the purpose of repatriation of earnings and investments.  If restrictions in the conversion of RMB or in the repatriation of earnings and investments through dividend and capital distribution restrictions are instituted, the Company’s operations and operating results may be negatively impacted.  Restricted net assets of our subsidiary in the PRC totaled $2.8 million and $2.7 million at April 3, 2010 and January 2, 2010, respectively.

Foreign Currency Re-measurement

The functional currency of the Company’s foreign subsidiary is the U.S. dollar. Local currency financial statements are re-measured into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate in effect as of the balance sheet date for monetary assets and liabilities and the historical exchange rate for nonmonetary assets and liabilities. Expenses are re-measured using the average exchange rate for the period, except items related to nonmonetary assets and liabilities, which are re-measured using historical exchange rates. All re-measurement gains and losses are included in determining net loss.

Net Loss Per Share

Basic net loss per share is calculated by dividing net loss by the weighted-average common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net loss per share is calculated by dividing the net loss by the weighted-average shares and dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the period. Dilutive potential shares consist of dilutive shares issuable upon the exercise of outstanding stock options and warrants computed using the treasury stock method.  In periods of losses, basic and diluted loss per share are the same, as the effect of stock options and warrants on loss per share is anti-dilutive.

New Accounting Pronouncements

In September 2009, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2009-13, Multiple-Deliverable Revenue Arrangements (“ASU 2009-13”), which amends the revenue guidance under ASC Topic 605, which describes the accounting for multiple element arrangements.  ASU 2009-13 addresses how to determine whether an arrangement involving multiple deliverables contains more than one unit of accounting and how arrangement consideration shall be measured and allocated to the separate units of accounting in the arrangement.  ASU 2009-13 is effective on a prospective basis for the Company’s fiscal year 2011, with earlier adoption permitted.  The Company is currently evaluating the adoption of ASU 2009-13 and the impact that ASU 2009-13 will have on its condensed consolidated financial statements.

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In September 2009, the FASB issued ASU 2009-14, Certain Revenue Arrangements That Include Software Elements (“ASU 2009-14”), which excludes tangible products containing software components and non-software components that function together to deliver the product’s essential functionality from the scope of ASC Topic 985, which describes the accounting for software revenue recognition.  ASU 2009-14 is effective on a prospective basis for the Company’s fiscal year 2011, with earlier adoption permitted.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact that ASU 2009-14 will have on its condensed consolidated financial statements.

In January 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-6, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures: Improving Disclosures About Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2010-6”), which affects the disclosures made about recurring and non-recurring fair value measurements.  The Company adopted the expanded disclosure requirements in the quarter ended April 3, 2010.

Note 3—Supplemental Financial Information

Inventories

Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):

Warranty Liability

The following table summarizes the activity related to the warranty liability (in thousands):

The warranty liability is included as a component of accrued expenses and other current liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Facility Relocation Costs

The following table summarizes the activity related to the Company’s accrual for facility relocation costs during the three months ended April 3, 2010 and April 4, 2009 (in thousands):

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In February 2010, a sublessor of a portion of the Company’s headquarters facility vacated the space that it had subleased.  The Company determined that the space could be used in its operations.  As a result, the Company reversed $28,000 of its accrual for facility relocation costs.  The resulting expense reduction is included as a component of selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of operations for the three months ended April 3, 2010.

The liability for facility relocation costs is included as a component of accrued expenses and other current liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Comprehensive Loss

The components of comprehensive loss, net of taxes, consist of the following (in thousands):

Accumulated other comprehensive loss reflected on the condensed consolidated balance sheets at April 3, 2010 and January 2, 2010, represents accumulated net unrealized losses on investments in marketable securities.

Computation of Net Loss Per Share

Basic and diluted net loss per share is calculated by dividing net loss by the weighted-average common shares outstanding during the period. The following table sets forth the computation of net loss per share (in thousands, except per share data):

The following table sets forth potentially dilutive common share equivalents, consisting of shares issuable upon the exercise of outstanding stock options and warrants computed using the treasury stock method, which have been excluded from the diluted net loss per share calculations above as their effect would be anti-dilutive for the periods then ended (in thousands):

The above common share equivalents would have been included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share had the Company reported net income for the periods then ended.

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Major Customers

Net sales to some of our OEM customers include memory modules that are qualified by us directly with the OEM customer and sold to electronic manufacturing services providers (“EMSs”), for incorporation into products manufactured exclusively for the OEM customer or in some instances, to facilitate credit and logistics. These net sales to EMSs have historically fluctuated period to period as a portion of the total net sales to the OEM customers.  Net sales to Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd., an EMS operating under the trade name Foxconn that purchases memory modules from us for incorporation into products manufactured exclusively for Dell, represented approximately 89% and 67% of net sales to Dell for the three months ended April 3, 2010 and April 4, 2009, respectively.  Arrow Electronics, Inc. (“Arrow”) is an EMS for DRS Electronics, Inc. (“DRS Electronics”).  Substantially all of our products sold to Arrow are incorporated into components manufactured for DRS Electronics.  Similarly, Flextronics International Ltd. (“Flextronics”) distributes substantially all of the products purchased from us to F5 Networks, Inc (“F5 Networks”). The following table sets forth sales to customers comprising 10% or more of the Company’s net sales for the periods presented:

*  less than 10% of net sales

The Company’s accounts receivable are concentrated with three customers at April 3, 2010 representing approximately 41%, 39% and 15% of aggregate gross receivables. A significant reduction in sales to, or the inability to collect receivables from, a significant customer could have a material adverse impact on the Company.

Cash Flow Information

The following table sets forth cash paid (received) for income taxes and interest for the periods presented (in thousands):

Note 4—Fair Value Measurements

The following table details the fair value measurements within the fair value hierarchy of the Company’s investments in marketable securities (in thousands):

As of January 3, 2010, the Company reclassified its investments in commercial paper and corporate notes and bonds, with a fair value of $2,891,000, from assets measured at fair value using Level 1 inputs to assets measured at fair value using Level 2 inputs.  The transfer resulted from solely from management’s reassessment of the level of activity in the secondary

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market for these investments, which historically has been low due to the short-term nature of the instruments.  Management does not believe that the reassessment in any way reflects a change in the actual liquidity or credit quality of these investments.  The reassessment was precipitated by a change in custodial institutions in connection with the Company’s new revolving credit agreement (see Note 6).

Fair value measurements using Level 3 inputs in the table above relate to the Company’s investments in auction rate securities. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs used to estimate the fair value of assets or liabilities and are utilized to the extent that observable inputs are not available.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for the Company’s assets measured at fair value using Level 3 inputs (in thousands):

Note 5—Investments in Marketable Securities

Investments in marketable securities consist of the following at April 3, 2010 (in thousands):

Realized gains and losses on the sale of investments in marketable securities are determined using the specific identification method.  Net realized gains recorded during the three months ended April 3, 2010 were not significant.

The following table provides the breakdown of investments in marketable securities with unrealized losses at April 3, 2010 (in thousands):

As of April 3, 2010, the Company held four investments that were in an unrealized loss position.

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Auction Rate Securities

Disruptions in the credit market continue to adversely affect the liquidity and overall market for auction rate securities. As of April 3, 2010 and January 2, 2010, the Company held two investments in auction rate securities with a total purchase cost of $1.0 million. These two investments represent (i) a Baa1 rated, fully insured debt obligation of a municipality and (ii) an A3 rated debt obligation backed by pools of student loans guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Education. Given the insufficient observable market inputs and related information available, the Company has classified its investments in auction rate securities within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy (see Note 4).

The Company does not believe that the current illiquidity of its investments in auction rate securities will materially impact its ability to fund its working capital needs, capital expenditures or other business requirements. The Company, however, remains uncertain as to when liquidity will return to the auction rate markets, whether other secondary markets will become available or when the underlying securities may be called by the issuer. Given these and other uncertainties, the Company’s investments in auction rate securities have been classified as long-term investments in marketable securities in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet as of April 3, 2010. The Company has concluded that the estimated gross unrealized losses on these investments, which totaled approximately $96,000 at April 3, 2010, are temporary because (i) the Company believes that the absence of liquidity that has occurred is due to general market conditions, (ii) the auction rate securities continue to be of a relatively high credit quality and interest is paid as due and (iii) the Company has the intent and ability to hold these investments until a recovery in the market occurs.

Other Investments in Marketable Securities

Excluding its auction rate securities, the gross unrealized losses on the Company’s other investments in marketable securities totaled approximately $1,000 and $1,000 as of April 3, 2010 and January 2, 2010, respectively, and are generally due to the ongoing uncertainties in the credit and financial markets, as well as changes in interest rates. The fair value of these investments was determined based on Level 1 and Level 2 inputs, consisting of quoted prices from actual market transactions for identical investments. The Company has determined that the unrealized losses on these investments as of April 3, 2010 are temporary in nature. Factors considered in determining whether impairments are other than temporary include (i) the length of time and extent to which fair value has been less than the amortized cost basis, (ii) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the investee and (iii) the Company’s intent and ability to hold an investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value.

The Company maintains an investment portfolio of various holdings, types and maturities. The Company invests in instruments that meet high quality credit standards, as specified in its investment policy guidelines. These guidelines generally limit the amount of credit exposure to any one issue, issuer or type of instrument. The fair value of the Company’s investments in marketable securities could change significantly in the future and the Company may be required to record other-than-temporary impairment charges or additional unrealized losses in future periods.

The following table presents the amortized cost and fair value of the Company’s investments in marketable securities classified as available-for-sale at April 3, 2010 by contractual maturity (in thousands):

*               Comprised of auction rate securities which generally have reset dates of 90 days or less but final contractual maturity dates in excess of 15 years.

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Note 6—Credit Agreement

On October 31, 2009, the Company entered into a revolving credit agreement with a financial institution.  Under the original terms of the credit agreement, the Company could borrow up to the lesser of (i) 80% of eligible accounts receivable, minus $1.0 million, or (ii) $5.0 million.  The revolving credit agreement was amended on March 24, 2010 to allow for increased accounts receivable eligibility and to remove the $1.0 million reduction from the calculated accounts receivable borrowing base.  The credit agreement contains an overall sublimit of $2.5 million to collateralize the Company’s contingent obligations under letters of credit, foreign exchange contracts and cash management services.  Amounts outstanding under the overall sublimit reduce the amount available pursuant to the credit agreement.  At April 3, 2010, a letter of credit in the amount of $0.5 million was outstanding.  The letter of credit expires on September 30, 2010.

Interest is payable monthly at either (i) prime plus 1.25%, as long as the Company maintains $8.5 million in revolving credit availability plus unrestricted cash on deposit with the financial institution, or (ii) prime plus 2.25%.  The minimum monthly interest due is $3,750 minus the aggregate amount of any interest earned by the bank. The credit agreement matures on October 30, 2010, at which time all advances and interest are due and payable.

The Company’s previous credit facility, which consisted of a revolving line of credit and a non-revolving equipment line, expired on August 31, 2009 and all borrowings were repaid to the bank.  Interest on the credit facility was payable monthly at the greatest of (i) the sum of the prime rate plus 3%, (ii) LIBOR plus 6% or (iii) 8%.

The following table presents details of interest expense related to borrowings on revolving credit lines, along with certain other applicable information (in thousands):

Obligations under this revolving credit agreement are secured by a first priority lien on the Company’s tangible and intangible assets.  In connection with the revolving credit agreement, the Company entered into an Intercompany Subordination Agreement, which provided that one of the Company’s subsidiaries, Netlist Technology Texas, LP, is an additional obligor on the revolving credit agreement.

The revolving credit agreement subjects the Company to certain affirmative and negative covenants, including financial covenants with respect to the Company’s liquidity and profitability and restrictions on the payment of dividends.  As of April 3, 2010, the Company was in compliance with its financial covenants.

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Note 7—Long-Term Debt

Long-term debt consists of the following (in thousands):

Interest expense related to long-term debt is presented in the following table (in thousands):

Note 8—Income Taxes

The following table sets forth the Company’s provision (benefit) for income taxes, along with the corresponding effective tax rates (in thousands, except percentages):

The Company is required to adjust its effective tax rate each quarter to be consistent with the estimated annual effective tax rate.  The Company is also required to record the tax impact of certain discrete items, unusual or infrequently occurring, including changes in judgment about valuation allowances and effects of changes in tax laws or rates, in the interim period in which they occur.  During the quarter ended April 3, 2010, the Company carried back approximately $1.7 million of gross net operating losses under the Worker, Homeownership, and Business Act and recorded a tax benefit and income tax receivable of approximately $0.7 million.  In addition, jurisdictions with a projected loss for the year or a year-to-date loss where no tax benefit can be recognized are excluded from the estimated annual effective tax rate.  The impact of such an exclusion could result in a higher or lower effective tax rate during a particular quarter, based upon the mix and timing of actual earnings versus annual projections.

The Company evaluates whether a valuation allowance should be established against its deferred tax assets based on the consideration of all available evidence using a “more likely than not” standard.  Due to uncertainty of future utilization, the Company has provided a full valuation allowance as of April 3, 2010 and January 2, 2010.  Accordingly, no benefit has been recognized for net deferred tax assets, including net operating losses that cannot be realized currently via carryback to periods of taxable income.

The Company had unrecognized tax benefits at April 3, 2010 and January 2, 2010 of approximately $0.1 million that, if recognized, would affect the Company’s annual effective tax rate.

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Note 9—Commitments and Contingencies

Litigation

Federal Securities Class Action

Beginning in May 2007, the Company, certain of its officers and directors, and the Company’s underwriters were named as defendants in four purported class action shareholder complaints, two of which were filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, and two of which were filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. These purported class action lawsuits were filed on behalf of persons and entities who purchased or otherwise acquired the Company’s common stock pursuant or traceable to the Company’s November 30, 2006 initial public offering (the “IPO”). The lawsuits were consolidated into a single action—Belodoff v. Netlist, Inc., Lead Case No. SACV07-677 DOC (MLGx)—which is currently pending in the Central District of California. Lead Plaintiff filed the Consolidated Complaint in November 2007. Defendants filed their motions to dismiss the Consolidated Complaint in January 2008. The motions to dismiss were taken under submission in April 2008 and on May 30, 2008, the court granted the defendants’ motions. However, plaintiffs were granted the right to amend their complaint and subsequently filed their First Amended Consolidated Class Action Complaint (“Amended Complaint”) in July 2008. The defendants filed motions to dismiss the Amended Complaint in January 2009, and on April 17, 2009, the court granted defendants’ motions to dismiss. However, plaintiffs were again granted the right to amend their complaint. Plaintiffs’ filed their Second Amended Consolidated Class Action Complaint (“Second Amended Complaint”) in May 2009. Generally, the Second Amended Complaint, like the preceding complaints, alleged that the Registration Statement filed by the Company in connection with the IPO contained untrue statements of material fact or omissions of material fact in violation of Sections 11 and 15 of Securities Act of 1933. Defendants filed motions to dismiss the Second Amended Complaint in June 2009. The motions to dismiss were taken under submission in August 2009 and on September 1, 2009, the Court granted the defendants’ motions. However, plaintiffs again were granted the right to amend their complaint.

In December 2008,  the parties reached a tentative agreement in principle to settle the class action. In February 2010, the parties executed a Stipulation and Agreement of Settlement documenting the essential terms of the proposed settlement, informed the court of their proposed settlement, and drafted a joint motion to submit to the court for preliminary approval of the proposed settlement. Under the settlement agreement presented to the court for approval, plaintiffs and the class will dismiss all claims, with prejudice, in exchange for a cash payment of $2.6 million. The Company’s directors’ and officers’ liability insurers will pay the settlement amount in accordance with the Company’s insurance policies.

On April 19, 2010, the court issued an order preliminarily approving the settlement.  A final settlement approval hearing is scheduled to be held on September 30, 2010. Despite the proposed agreement to settle this action, the Company believes that the allegations lack merit and, if necessary, intends to vigorously defend all claims asserted. The Company makes no assurances at this time that the court will grant final approval of the proposed settlement terms or that the matter ultimately will be settled.

Patent Claims

In May 2008, the Company initiated discussions with Google, Inc. regarding the Company’s claims that Google has infringed on a US patent assigned to the Company relating generally to “rank multiplication” in memory modules. On August 29, 2008, Google filed a declaratory judgment lawsuit against the Company in United States District Court for the Northern District of California, seeking a declaration that Google did not infringe on the Company’s patent, and that the Company’s patent is invalid. Google is not seeking any monetary damages. On November 18, 2008, the Company filed a counterclaim for infringement of the patent by Google. Claim construction proceedings were held on November 14, 2009, and the Company prevailed on every disputed claim construction issue. Trial is currently set for November 2010.

On December 4, 2009, the Company filed a patent infringement suit against Google in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, seeking damages and injunctive relief based on Google’s infringement of a recently issued patent related to the Company’s patent-in-suit in the August 29, 2008 declaratory judgment action filed by Google. On February 11, 2010, Google answered the Company’s complaint and has asserted counterclaims against the Company seeking a declaration that the patent is invalid and not infringed, and claiming that the Company committed fraud, negligent misrepresentation and contractual breaches in connection with the setting of standards covered by the patent. The counterclaim seeks unspecified compensatory damages.  On April 30, 2010, the parties attended a court ordered settlement conference but the dispute remains unresolved. The Company intends to vigorously pursue its infringement claims against Google and to vigorously defend against Google’s claims.

On March 17, 2009, the Company filed a complaint for patent infringement against MetaRAM, Inc. for its infringement of one of the Company’s patents. On March 26, 2009, MetaRAM filed a complaint against the Company for patent infringement. Both actions were settled on December 21, 2009. Pursuant to the Settlement Agreement, MetaRAM agreed to no longer sell the accused product at issue in the case filed by the Company, and the parties executed conditional licenses to one another for the respective patents-in-suit in the two actions.

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On September 22, 2009, the Company filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Inphi Corporation in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. The suit alleges that Inphi is contributorily infringing and actively inducing the infringement of a US patent assigned to the Company which is directed to memory modules with load isolation and memory domain translation capabilities. The Company is seeking damages and injunctive relief based on Inphi’s use of its patented technology. On December 22, 2009, Netlist filed an Amended Complaint asserting claims of patent infringement based on two additional patents concerning load isolation and memory domain translation technologies. Inphi has denied infringement and has asserted that the patents-in-suit are invalid. On April 20, 2010, Inphi filed a request for reexamination of all three patents in suit with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (“PTO”).  Shortly thereafter, on April 30, 2010, the PTO rejected Inphi’s initial request. On May 7, 2010, Inphi re-filed its request for reexamination of all three patents.  The Company intends to vigorously pursue its infringement claims and to vigorously defend against any further claims of invalidity in the PTO as well as the Court.

On November 30, 2009, Inphi Corporation filed a patent infringement lawsuit against the Company in the United States District Court for the Central District of California alleging infringement of two patents related to memory module output buffers. The Company recently answered Inphi’s Complaint and intends to vigorously defend against Inphi’s claims of infringement.

On March 24, 2010, Ring Technologies Enterprises filed a patent infringement lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against Dell Computer and its suppliers.  The suit alleges that the Company and forty-two (42) other defendants infringed on its patent no. 6,879,526.  The Company is preparing an answer to Ring Technologies’ complaint and intends to vigorously defend against Ring Technologies’ claims of infringement.

Trade Secret Claim

On November 18, 2008, the Company filed a claim for trade secret misappropriation against Texas Instruments (“TI”) in Santa Clara County Superior Court, based on TI’s disclosure of confidential Company materials to the JEDEC standard-setting body.  On May 7, 2010, the parties entered into a settlement agreement. The court dismissed the case with prejudice.

Other Contingent Obligations

During its normal course of business, the Company has made certain indemnities, commitments and guarantees under which it may be required to make payments in relation to certain transactions. These include (i) intellectual property indemnities to the Company’s customers and licensees in connection with the use, sales and/or license of Company products; (ii) indemnities to vendors and service providers pertaining to claims based on the Company’s negligence or willful misconduct; (iii) indemnities involving the accuracy of representations and warranties in certain contracts; (iv) indemnities to directors and officers of the Company to the maximum extent permitted under the laws of the State of Delaware; and (v) certain real estate leases, under which the Company may be required to indemnify property owners for environmental and other liabilities, and other claims arising from the Company’s use of the applicable premises. The duration of these indemnities, commitments and guarantees varies and, in certain cases, may be indefinite. The majority of these indemnities, commitments and guarantees do not provide for any limitation of the maximum potential for future payments the Company could be obligated to make. Historically, the Company has not been obligated to make significant payments for these obligations, and no liabilities have been recorded for these indemnities, commitments and guarantees in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Note 10—Stockholders’ Equity

Common Stock

On March 24, 2010, the Company sold 4,594,250 shares of common stock in a registered public offering.  The shares were sold to the public at a price of $3.85 per share.  The Company received net proceeds of $16.3 million, after underwriting discounts and commissions, and estimated expenses payable by the Company.

Common Stock Options

A summary of the Company’s common stock option activity as of and for the three months ended April 3, 2010 is presented below (shares in thousands):

The intrinsic value of options exercised in the three months ended April 3, 2010 was $0.2 million.

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The following table presents details of the assumptions used to calculate the weighted-average grant date fair value of common stock options granted by the Company:

The Company did not issue options in the period ended April 4, 2009.

At April 3, 2010, the amount of unearned stock-based compensation currently estimated to be expensed from fiscal 2010 through fiscal 2014 related to unvested common stock options is approximately $1.9 million, net of estimated forfeitures. The weighted-average period over which the unearned stock-based compensation is expected to be recognized is approximately 2.6 years. If there are any modifications or cancellations of the underlying unvested common stock options, the Company may be required to accelerate, increase or cancel any remaining unearned stock-based compensation expense.

Warrants

A summary of activity with respect to outstanding warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock as of and for the three months ended April 3, 2010 is presented below (shares in thousands):

Note 11—Segment and Geographic Information

The Company operates in one reportable segment: the design and manufacture of high-performance memory subsystems for the server, high-performance computing and communications markets. The Company evaluates financial performance on a Company-wide basis.

At April 3, 2010 and January 2, 2010, approximately $2.7 million and $3.0 million, respectively, of the Company’s net long-lived assets were located in the PRC.

Item 2.    Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Cautionary Statement

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and the related notes thereto contained in Part I, Item 1 of this Report. The information contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q is not a complete description of our business or the risks associated with an investment in our common stock. We urge you to carefully review and consider the various disclosures made by us in this Report and in our other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 2, 2010 and subsequent reports on Form 8-K, which discuss our business in greater detail.

The section entitled “Risk Factors” set forth in Part I, Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 2, 2010 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 19, 2010, and similar discussions in our other SEC filings, describe some of the important risk factors that may affect our business, results of operations and financial condition. You should carefully consider those risks, in addition to the other information in this Report and in our other filings with the SEC, before deciding to purchase, hold or sell our common stock.

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This Report contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties, estimates and assumptions. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, our actual results could differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including but not limited to those identified under the heading “Risk Factors” set forth in Part II, Item 1A of this Report and in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 2, 2010.  Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason.

Overview

We design, manufacture and sell high-performance, logic-based memory subsystems for the server, storage and communications equipment markets. Our memory subsystems consist of combinations of dynamic random access memory integrated circuits (“DRAM ICs” or “DRAM”), NAND flash memory (“NAND”), application-specific integrated circuits (“ASICs”) and other components assembled on printed circuit boards (“PCBs”).  We primarily market and sell our products to leading original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) customers.  Our solutions are targeted at applications where memory plays a key role in meeting system performance requirements.

In November 2009, we introduced HyperCloud™ DDR3 memory technology.  HyperCloud™ utilizes an ASIC chipset that incorporates Netlist patented rank multiplication technology that increases memory capacity and load reduction functionality that increases memory bandwidth.  We expect that this achievement will make possible improved levels of performance for memory intensive datacenter applications and workloads, including search engines, social networks/communications, media internet portals, virtualization, and high performance scientific and defense-related computing.  HyperCloud™ memory is being evaluated by several of our OEM customers for use in their server products.  HyperCloud™ is interoperable with Joint Electronics Devices Engineering Council (“JEDEC”) standard DDR3 memory modules.  As of April 3, 2010, we have not shipped any production quantities of HyperCloud™.

In February 2010, we announced general availability of NetVaultTM, a non-volatile cache memory subsystem targeting Redundant Array of Independent Disks, (“RAID”) storage applications.  NetVaultTM provides server and storage OEMs a solution for enhanced datacenter fault recovery. Unlike traditional battery-powered fault tolerant cache schemes which rely solely on batteries to power the cache, NetVaultTM utilizes a combination of DRAM for high throughput performance and flash for extended data retention.

Our HyperCloud™ products can be installed in servers without the need for a bios change.  As such, their design and anticipated sales launch is not dependent on the design plans or product cycle of our OEM customers.  Alternatively, when developing custom modules for an equipment product launch, we engage with our OEM customers from the earliest stages of new product definition, providing us unique insight into their full range of system architecture and performance requirements. This close collaboration has also allowed us to develop a significant level of systems expertise. We leverage a portfolio of proprietary technologies and design techniques, including efficient planar design, alternative packaging techniques and custom semiconductor logic, to deliver memory subsystems with high speed, capacity and signal integrity, small form factor, attractive thermal characteristics and low cost per bit.

Consistent with the concentrated nature of the OEM customer base in our target markets, a small number of large customers have historically accounted for a significant portion of our net sales.  Dell, Inc. (“Dell”), Flextronics International Ltd. (“Flextronics”) and Arrow Electronics, Inc. (“Arrow”) represented approximately 37%, 31% and 16%, respectively, of our net sales for the three months ended April 3, 2010.  Dell and Arrow represented approximately 33% and 21%, respectively, of our net sales for the three months ended April 4, 2009. Net sales to some of our OEM customers include memory modules that are qualified by us directly with the OEM customer and sold to electronic manufacturing services providers (“EMSs”), for incorporation into products manufactured exclusively for the OEM customer or in some instances, to facilitate credit and logistics. These net sales to EMSs have historically fluctuated period to period as a portion of the total net sales to the OEM customers.  Net sales to Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd., an EMS operating under the trade name Foxconn that purchases memory modules from us for incorporation into products manufactured exclusively for Dell, represented approximately 89% and 67% of net sales to Dell for the three months ended April 3, 2010 and April 4, 2009, respectively.  Arrow is an EMS for DRS Electronics, Inc. (“DRS Electronics”).  Substantially all of our products sold to Arrow are incorporated into components manufactured for DRS Electronics.  Similarly, Flextronics distributes substantially all of the products purchased from us to F5 Networks, Inc.

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Key Business Metrics

The following describes certain line items in our consolidated statements of operations that are important to management’s assessment of our financial performance:

Net Sales.  Net sales consist primarily of sales of our high performance memory subsystems, net of a provision for estimated returns under our right of return policies, which generally range up to 30 days. We generally do not have long-term sales agreements with our customers. Although OEM customers typically provide us with non-binding forecasts of future product demand over specific periods of time, they generally place orders with us approximately two weeks in advance of scheduled delivery. Selling prices are typically negotiated monthly, based on competitive market conditions and the current price of DRAM ICs and NAND. Purchase orders generally have no cancellation or rescheduling penalty provisions. We often ship our products to our customers’ international manufacturing sites. All of our sales to date, however, are denominated in United States (“U.S.”) dollars. We also sell excess component inventory of DRAM ICs and NAND to distributors and other users of memory ICs.  As compared to previous years, component inventory sales remain a relatively small percentage of net sales as a result of our efforts to diversify both our customer and product line bases. This diversification effort has also allowed us to use components in a wider range of memory subsystems. We expect that component inventory sales will continue to represent a minimal portion of our net sales in future periods.

Cost of Sales.  Our cost of sales includes the cost of materials, manufacturing costs, depreciation and amortization of equipment, inventory valuation provisions, stock-based compensation and occupancy costs and other allocated fixed costs. The DRAM ICs and NAND incorporated into our products constitute a significant portion of our cost of sales, and thus our cost of sales will fluctuate based on the current price of DRAM ICs and NAND. We attempt to pass through such DRAM IC and NAND flash memory cost fluctuations to our customers by renegotiating pricing prior to the placement of their purchase orders.  However, the sales prices of our memory subsystems can also fluctuate due to competitive situations unrelated to the pricing of DRAM ICs and NAND, which affects gross margins. The gross margin on our sales of excess component DRAM IC and NAND inventory is much lower than the gross margin on our sales of our memory subsystems.  As a result, a decrease in excess DRAM IC and NAND inventory sales as a percentage of our overall sales could result in an improved overall gross margin. We assess the valuation of our inventories on a monthly basis and record a provision to cost of sales as necessary to reduce inventories to the lower of cost or net realizable value.

Research and Development.  Research and development expense consists primarily of employee and independent contractor compensation and related costs, non-recurring engineering fees, patent filing and protection legal fees, computer-aided design software licenses, reference design development costs, depreciation or rental of evaluation equipment, stock-based compensation, and occupancy and other allocated overhead costs. Also included in research and development expense are the costs of material and overhead related to the production of engineering samples of new products under development or products used solely in the research and development process. Our customers typically do not separately compensate us for design and engineering work involved in developing application-specific products for incorporation into their products.  All research and development costs are expensed as incurred. We anticipate that research and development expenditures will increase in future periods as we seek to expand new product opportunities, increase our activities related to new and emerging markets and continue to develop additional proprietary technologies.

Selling, General and Administrative.  Selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of employee salaries and related costs, stock-based compensation, independent sales representative commissions, professional services, promotional and other selling and marketing expenses, and occupancy and other allocated overhead costs. A significant portion of our selling effort is directed at building relationships with OEMs and other customers and working through the product approval and qualification process with them. Therefore, the cost of material and overhead related to products manufactured for qualification is included in selling expenses. As we continue to service existing and establish new customers, we anticipate that our sales and marketing expenses will increase. For fiscal 2010, we are subject to attestation services requirements with respect to our internal control over financial reporting, the result of which will increase legal and accounting expenses in future periods.

Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes.  We are required to adjust our effective tax rate each quarter to be consistent with the estimated annual effective tax rate.  We are also required to record the tax impact of certain discrete items, unusual or infrequently occurring, including changes in judgment about valuation allowances and effects of changes in tax laws or rates, in the interim period in which they occur.  In addition, jurisdictions with a projected loss for the year or a year-to-date loss where no tax benefit can be recognized are excluded from the estimated annual effective tax rate.  The impact of such an exclusion could result in a higher or lower effective tax rate during a particular quarter, based upon the mix and timing of actual earnings versus annual projections.

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We evaluate whether a valuation allowance should be established against our deferred tax assets based on the consideration of all available evidence using a “more likely than not” standard.  As of April 3, 2010 and January 2, 2010, we have provided a full valuation allowance and no benefit has been recognized for net operating losses and other deferred tax assets due to uncertainty of future utilization.

Critical Accounting Policies

The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of net sales and expenses during the reporting period. By their nature, these estimates and assumptions are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty. We base our estimates on our historical experience, knowledge of current conditions and our beliefs of what could occur in the future considering available information. We review our estimates on an on-going basis. Actual results may differ from these estimates, which may result in material adverse effects on our operating results and financial position. We believe the following critical accounting policies involve our more significant assumptions and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements:

Revenue Recognition.  We recognize revenues in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 605. Accordingly, we recognize revenues when there is persuasive evidence that an arrangement, product delivery and acceptance have occurred, the sales price is fixed or determinable, and collectibility of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured.

We generally use customer purchase orders and/or contracts as evidence of an arrangement. Delivery occurs when goods are shipped for customers with FOB Shipping Point terms and upon receipt for customers with FOB Destination terms, at which time title and risk of loss transfer to the customer. Shipping documents are used to verify delivery and customer acceptance. We assess whether the sales price is fixed or determinable based on the payment terms associated with the transaction and whether the sales price is subject to refund.  Customers are generally allowed limited rights of return for up to 30 days, except for sales of excess inventories, which contain no right-of-return privileges. Estimated returns are provided for at the time of sale based on historical experience or specific identification of an event necessitating a reserve. We offer a standard product warranty to our customers and have no other post-shipment obligations. While these sales returns have historically been within our expectations and the provisions established, we cannot guarantee that we will continue to experience similar sales return rates in the future. Any significant increase in product return rates could have a material adverse effect on our operating results for the period or periods in which such returns materialize.  We assess collectibility based on the creditworthiness of the customer as determined by credit checks and evaluations, as well as the customer’s payment history.

All amounts billed to customers related to shipping and handling are classified as net sales, while all costs incurred by us for shipping and handling are classified as cost of sales.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments.  Our financial instruments consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, investments in marketable securities, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued expenses and debt instruments.  Other than for certain investments in auction rate securities, the fair value of our cash equivalents and investments in marketable securities, other than commercial paper or short-term corporate bonds,  is determined based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or Level 1 inputs.  Because of their short-term nature, commercial paper and short-term corporate bonds are not frequently traded.  Although there are observable quotes for these securities, the markets are not considered active.  Accordingly, the fair values of these investments are based on Level 2 inputs.  We recognize transfers between Levels 1 through 3 of the fair value hierarchy at the beginning of the reporting period.  We believe that the carrying values of all other financial instruments approximate their current fair values due to their nature and respective durations.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts.  We perform credit evaluations of our customers’ financial condition and limit the amount of credit extended to our customers as deemed necessary, but generally require no collateral.  We evaluate the collectibility of accounts receivable based on a combination of factors. In cases where we are aware of circumstances that may impair a specific customer’s ability to meet its financial obligations subsequent to the original sale, we will record an allowance against amounts due, and thereby reduce the net recognized receivable to the amount that we reasonably believe will be collected. For all other customers, we record allowances for doubtful accounts based primarily on the length of time the receivables are past due based on the terms of the originating transaction, the current business environment and our historical experience.  Uncollectible accounts are charged against the allowance for doubtful accounts when all cost effective commercial means of collection have been exhausted.  Generally, our credit losses have been within our expectations and the provisions established. However, we cannot guarantee that we will continue to experience credit loss rates similar to those we have experienced in the past.

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Our accounts receivable are highly concentrated among a small number of customers, and a significant change in the liquidity or financial position of one of these customers could have a material adverse effect on the collectability of our accounts receivable, our liquidity and our future operating results.

Inventories.  We value our inventories at the lower of the actual cost to purchase or manufacture the inventory or the net realizable value of the inventory.  Cost is determined on an average cost basis which approximates actual cost on a first-in, first-out basis and includes raw materials, labor and manufacturing overhead.  At each balance sheet date, we evaluate ending inventory quantities on hand and record a provision for excess quantities and obsolescence.  Among other factors, we consider historical demand and forecasted demand in relation to the inventory on hand, competitiveness of product offerings, market conditions and product life cycles when determining obsolescence and net realizable value. In addition, we consider changes in the market value of DRAM ICs and NAND in determining the net realizable value of our raw material inventory. Once established, any write downs are considered permanent adjustments to the cost basis of our excess or obsolete inventories.

A significant decrease in demand for our products could result in an increase in the amount of excess inventory quantities on hand. In addition, our estimates of future product demand may prove to be inaccurate, in which case we may have understated or overstated the provision required for excess and obsolete inventory.  In the future, if our inventories are determined to be overvalued, we would be required to recognize additional expense in our cost of sales at the time of such determination. Likewise, if our inventories are determined to be undervalued, we may have over-reported our costs of sales in previous periods and would be required to recognize additional gross profit at the time such inventories are sold. In addition, should the market value of DRAM ICs or NAND decrease significantly, we may be required to lower our selling prices to reflect the lower current cost of our raw materials.  If such price decreases reduce the net realizable value of our inventories to less than our cost, we would be required to recognize additional expense in our cost of sales in the same period. Although we make every reasonable effort to ensure the accuracy of our forecasts of future product demand, any significant unanticipated changes in demand, technological developments or the market value of DRAM ICs or NAND could have a material effect on the value of our inventories and our reported operating results.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets.  We evaluate the recoverability of the carrying value of long-lived assets held and used in our operations for impairment on at least an annual basis or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their net book value may not be recoverable.  When such factors and circumstances exist, we compare the projected undiscounted future net cash flows associated with the related asset or group of assets over their estimated useful lives against their respective carrying amount.  These projected future cash flows may vary significantly over time as a result of increased competition, changes in technology, fluctuations in demand, consolidation of our customers and reductions in average selling prices.  If the carrying value is determined not to be recoverable from future operating cash flows, the asset is deemed impaired and an impairment loss is recognized to the extent the carrying value exceeds the estimated fair value of the asset.  The fair value of the asset or asset group is based on market value when available, or when unavailable, on discounted expected cash flows.

Warranty Reserve.  We offer product warranties generally ranging from one to three years, depending on the product and negotiated terms of purchase agreements with our customers. Such warranties require us to repair or replace defective product returned to us during the warranty period at no cost to the customer.  Warranties are not offered on sales of excess inventory.  Our estimates for warranty-related costs are recorded at the time of sale based on historical and estimated future product return rates and expected repair or replacement costs. While such costs have historically been consistent between periods and within our expectations and the provisions established, unexpected changes in failure rates could have a material adverse impact on us, requiring additional warranty reserves, and adversely affecting our gross profit and gross margins.

Stock-Based Compensation.  We account for equity issuances to non-employees in accordance with ASC Topic 505.  All transactions in which goods or services are the consideration received for the issuance of equity instruments are accounted for based on the fair value of the consideration received or the fair value of the equity instrument issued, whichever is more reliably measurable. The measurement date used to determine the fair value of the equity instrument issued is the earlier of the date on which the third-party performance is complete or the date on which it is probable that performance will occur.

In accordance with ASC Topic 718, employee and director stock-based compensation expense recognized during the period is based on the value of the portion of stock-based payment awards that is ultimately expected to vest during the period.  Given that stock-based compensation expense recognized in the consolidated statements of operations is based on awards ultimately expected to vest, it has been reduced for estimated forfeitures. ASC Topic 718 requires forfeitures to be estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Our estimated average forfeiture rates are based on historical forfeiture experience and estimated future forfeitures.

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The fair value of common stock option awards to employees and directors is calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.  The Black-Scholes model requires subjective assumptions regarding future stock price volatility and expected time to exercise, along with assumptions about the risk-free interest rate and expected dividends, all of which affect the estimated fair values of our common stock option awards. The expected term of options granted is calculated as the average of the weighted vesting period and the contractual expiration date of the option.  This calculation is based on the safe harbor method permitted by the SEC in instances where the vesting and exercise terms of options granted meet certain conditions and where limited historical exercise data is available.  Prior to fiscal 2009, the expected volatility was based on the historical volatilities of the common stock of comparable publicly traded companies based on our belief that we had limited historical data regarding the volatility of our stock price on which to base a meaningful estimate of expected volatility. Beginning in fiscal 2009, the expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of our common stock.  The risk-free rate selected to value any particular grant is based on the U.S. Treasury rate that corresponds to the expected term of the grant effective as of the date of the grant. The expected dividends assumption is based on our history and our expectations regarding dividend payouts. We evaluate the assumptions used to value our common stock option awards on a quarterly basis. If factors change and we employ different assumptions, stock- based compensation expense may differ significantly from what we have recorded in prior periods.  Compensation expense for awards with graded vesting schedules is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the last separately vesting portion of the award.

If there are any modifications or cancellations of the underlying vested or unvested stock-based awards, we may be required to accelerate, increase or cancel any remaining unearned stock-based compensation expense, or record additional expense for vested stock-based awards.  Future stock-based compensation expense and unearned stock- based compensation may increase to the extent that we grant additional common stock options or other stock-based awards.

Income Taxes.  Under ASC Topic 270, we are required to adjust our effective tax rate each quarter to be consistent with the estimated annual effective tax rate. We are also required to record the tax impact of certain discrete items, unusual or infrequently occurring, including changes in judgment about valuation allowances and effects of changes in tax laws or rates, in the interim period in which they occur. In addition, jurisdictions with a projected loss for the year or a year-to-date loss where no tax benefit can be recognized are excluded from the estimated annual effective tax rate. The impact of such an exclusion could result in a higher or lower effective tax rate during a particular quarter, based upon the mix and timing of actual earnings versus annual projections.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized to reflect the estimated future tax effects, calculated at currently effective tax rates, of future deductible or taxable amounts attributable to events that have been recognized on a cumulative basis in the consolidated financial statements.  A valuation allowance related to a net deferred tax asset is recorded when it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.

ASC Topic 740 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement requirement for the financial statement recognition of a tax position that has been taken or is expected to be taken on a tax return and also provides guidance on de-recognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition. Under ASC Topic 740 we may only recognize or continue to recognize tax positions that meet a “more likely than not” threshold.

The application of tax laws and regulations is subject to legal and factual interpretation, judgment and uncertainty. Tax laws and regulations themselves are subject to change as a result of changes in fiscal policy, changes in legislation, the evolution of regulations and court rulings. Therefore, the actual liability for U.S. or foreign taxes may be materially different from our estimates, which could result in the need to record additional tax liabilities or potentially reverse previously recorded tax liabilities.

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Results of Operations

The following table sets forth certain consolidated statements of operations data as a percentage of net sales for the periods indicated: