ChipVision Design Systems, a startup based in Oldenburg, Germany and San Jose, Calif., makes software that helps semiconductor designers create lower-powered chips for the consumer and communications applications.

The company was founded in 2002 based on research done at the University of Oldenburg, and simultaneously established its San Jose office to enter the American market.

This funding round of $4.5 million is ChipVision’s second; its previous backers, Target Partners and BayTech Venture Capital, both returned to lead the round.