20 Broadcom Interview Questions and Answers

Broadcom is a global technology leader that designs, develops and supplies semiconductor and infrastructure software solutions. They are one of the largest fabless semiconductor companies in the world, with products that serve the wired infrastructure, wireless communications, enterprise storage and industrial markets.

If you’re interviewing for a position at Broadcom, you can expect to be asked questions about your technical skills and experience, as well as your ability to work in a team environment. You may also be asked questions about specific Broadcom products and technologies.

To help you prepare for your interview, we’ve compiled a list of sample Broadcom interview questions and answers.

Broadcom Interview Process

The interview process at Broadcom can vary depending on the position you are applying for. For some positions, you may only have one or two interviews, while for others you may have several rounds of interviews. The difficulty of the interviews also varies depending on the position. Some positions may require you to do a coding test or other technical assessment, while others may be more focused on behavioral questions. Overall, the interview process is generally smooth and efficient.

1. What are your thoughts on the latest developments in Artificial Intelligence?

This question is a great way to gauge your knowledge of the latest developments in technology. It also allows you to show how you can apply new technologies to real-world situations and challenges.

Example: “I think that Artificial Intelligence has incredible potential for businesses, especially when it comes to automating processes and streamlining operations. However, I believe that AI should be used as an assistant rather than a replacement for human decision making. For example, I worked with a client who was using AI to automate their customer service department. The company had set up a chatbot to answer basic questions about their products. While this helped reduce costs, it didn’t allow customers to interact with a human being if they needed more personalized assistance.”

2. What types of programming languages do you have experience with?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience with the programming languages they use at Broadcom. If you don’t, it’s okay to say so and explain that you’re willing to learn new ones. You can also mention any other relevant skills or knowledge you have in regards to programming languages.

Example: “I’ve worked with C++, Java and Python extensively throughout my career. I’m always open to learning new languages, however, as I find them interesting and challenging. I think it’s important for programmers to be able to adapt to different types of coding.”

3. What is your approach to designing software for an embedded system?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the software development process. You can answer this question by describing a specific project you worked on that involved designing embedded systems and how you approached it.

Example: “I start my design process for embedded systems by first identifying the requirements of the system I’m working with. Then, I create a functional specification document that outlines what the system needs to do. Next, I develop a detailed architecture diagram that shows all the components of the system and their interconnections. Finally, I write code in C or C++ to implement the functionality outlined in the functional specification.”

4. Do you have any experience working with analog circuits?

Analog circuits are a type of circuit that is used in many different applications. This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with this type of circuit and how well you understand it. If you do not have any direct experience, consider describing your understanding of analog circuits to show that you know what they are and how they work.

Example: “I have worked with analog circuits before but only as part of my education. I took an electronics class where we learned about analog circuits and their uses. I found them interesting because they use continuous signals rather than digital ones. In my current role, I am responsible for designing digital circuits.”

5. Describe a time when you had to work with other engineers to complete a project, how did it go?

This question is an opportunity to show your communication skills and ability to work with a team. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention how you helped the team complete the project successfully or what you learned from working with others.

Example: “In my last role as an engineer, I was tasked with creating a new system that would allow customers to order food online. My manager wanted me to create a system that could integrate with other systems already in place at the restaurant. This meant I had to work with several other engineers who were experts in different areas of technology. We met regularly to discuss our progress and make sure we were all on the same page. In the end, we created a successful system that allowed customers to order their food online and pick it up at the drive-thru.”

6. How would you design software for a company like Broadcom that develops lots of different products?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the company and how you would approach working there. Your answer should show that you understand what Broadcom does, as well as how you would apply your skills to the job.

Example: “I would start by creating a software framework for all of the products that Broadcom develops. This will allow me to create common code that can be used in multiple projects. I would also use design patterns so that I could reuse code from previous projects. By doing this, I can ensure that each product has similar features while still being unique.”

7. Why are you interested in joining the team at Broadcom?

This question is an opportunity to show your enthusiasm for the role and company. It’s also a chance to highlight any research you’ve done on Broadcom, its products or its competitors.

Example: “I’m interested in joining the team at Broadcom because of the innovative work you do. I have been following your progress with 5G technology and am impressed by how quickly you’re developing it. I think my background in software development would be a great asset to the team as we continue to develop new ways to connect people around the world.”

8. Are you comfortable with handling confidential information?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your ability to handle confidential information. It’s important that you can keep all company information private, so it’s best to answer this question with a “yes.”

Example: “Yes, I am comfortable handling confidential information. In my last role, I was responsible for keeping all client data secure and confidential. I used encryption software on all devices and kept all documents in locked drawers when not in use. I also had an employee sign confidentiality agreements before they were hired, which helped me ensure everyone understood how important it was to protect our clients’ privacy.”

9. Tell me about a time when you were dealing with ambiguity and how you handled it.

This question is a great way to assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work in ambiguous situations. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe the situation you were in and how you used your critical thinking skills to solve the issue.

Example: “When I was working as an engineer for a large company, we had a project that required us to create a new product. The client wanted some specific features, but they weren’t sure what exactly they wanted. We needed to figure out what the client wanted without having all of the information. To do so, we created prototypes with different features and presented them to the client. They then selected which prototype they liked best.”

10. Broadcom likes to provide their customers with innovative solutions. How would you handle a situation where a customer doesn’t want to use new technology due to concerns over reliability?

This question is designed to test your problem-solving skills and ability to work with customers. Your answer should show that you can be diplomatic while still being honest about the benefits of new technology.

Example: “I would first try to understand their concerns, as this may help me find a solution. For example, if they are concerned about reliability due to lack of experience with the new technology, I would offer training or other resources to help them learn more about it. If they are worried about cost, I would explain how using the new technology will save money in the long run.”

11. What is your software development process?

This question is a great way to see how you approach your work. Your answer should show that you have a process in place and can explain it clearly. You may want to include steps like gathering requirements, creating prototypes, testing the software and implementing it into production.

Example: “I start by meeting with my client to learn about their needs and expectations for the project. I then create a prototype of the software using an agile development methodology. After this, I test the software on a small scale before releasing it to a larger audience. Finally, I implement the software into its final form.”

12. Broadcom has many employees who are part of matrix organizations. Have you ever been a member of such an organization? How well did you work with those members?

Matrix organizations are common in the technology industry, and they allow employees to work on multiple projects at once. This question allows you to show your ability to work with others and collaborate effectively. If you have experience working in a matrix organization, explain how it helped you grow as an employee.

Example: “I’ve worked in a matrix organization for most of my career. I find that this type of structure helps me learn new skills and develop existing ones. In my last role, I was part of a team that worked on many different projects at once. We had weekly meetings where we discussed our progress and any challenges we were facing. These meetings allowed us to share ideas and support each other.”

13. What type of testing should be performed before releasing software into production?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the software development process. You can answer this question by describing a testing phase and what it does.

Example: “There are two types of testing that should be performed before releasing software into production. The first type is unit testing, which tests individual units of code for errors. This type of testing is usually done at the beginning of the SDLC because it’s quick and easy to perform. Integration testing checks if different components of the system work together properly. It’s usually performed after unit testing but before UAT.”

14. Explain what happens from when a user hits enter on their computer until a website loads up on their browser.

This question tests your knowledge of the entire process that occurs when a user enters a URL into their browser and hits enter. It also tests your ability to break down complex processes into simple steps.

Example: “When a user types in a website address, it is sent from the computer’s RAM to the CPU where it is stored as an IP address. The CPU then sends this information to the router, which translates the IP address into its corresponding domain name. The router then sends the request to the DNS server, which looks up the domain name and returns the IP address back to the router. The router then forwards the IP address to the modem, which connects to the internet provider. The ISP then routes the IP address to the correct web server.”

15. If you were asked to create a firmware for a device, how would you start?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the steps involved in creating firmware. You can answer this question by describing the process you would take and how you would apply it to a real-world scenario.

Example: “I would start with defining the requirements for the device, including its purpose, size, power consumption and other important factors. Then I would create a design that includes all the components needed to meet these requirements. Next, I would write code for each component and integrate them into the system. Finally, I would test the device to ensure it works as expected.”

16. Have you worked with high-speed digital systems before?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the company’s products. If you have, explain how they helped you in your previous role. If not, talk about what you know about them and why you’re interested in working with them.

Example: “I’ve worked with high-speed digital systems before, but I haven’t had the opportunity to work with Broadcom yet. However, I’m very excited to learn more about their products because I think they are one of the best companies for networking solutions. In my last job, I was tasked with creating an efficient network system that would allow users to access information quickly. I used a Broadcom product called NetXtreme II BCM5719 Gigabit Ethernet Controller to create a fast and reliable network.”

17. What is your background in mathematics?

This question is a great way to determine if you have the necessary skills and knowledge for this role. It also allows employers to see how much experience you have in using math to solve problems. When answering, be sure to highlight your strongest mathematical abilities.

Example: “I’ve always been good at math, but I really started to enjoy it when I took calculus in high school. I was able to use my calculus knowledge to help me understand other math concepts more easily. In college, I decided to major in mathematics because I wanted to learn even more about the subject. My favorite part of studying math has always been solving complex equations.”

18. We sometimes deal with very sensitive data here at Broadcom. How would you handle a situation if you were entrusted with some sensitive information and one of your colleagues asks you what it is?

This question is a test of your integrity and ability to keep information confidential. You should answer honestly, but you can also show that you are willing to take responsibility for the situation if it happens again in the future.

Example: “I would tell my colleague that I cannot share the information with them because it’s confidential. However, I would offer to help them find the information they need elsewhere so they don’t have to go through me.”

19. Broadcom has a large number of foreign subsidiaries. Would you be able to travel overseas if necessary?

The interviewer may ask you this question to determine if you have the flexibility and willingness to travel for work. If you are not comfortable with international travel, be honest about your limitations and explain how you would overcome them.

Example: “I am very flexible when it comes to traveling for work. I understand that sometimes business trips are necessary, so I always make sure to keep my passport up-to-date. In addition, I take a few online language courses each year to learn more languages. This way, I can communicate better with foreign colleagues and clients.”

20. How do you stay up to date with

This is a question that can help an interviewer determine how you stay up to date with the latest technology. It also helps them understand your passion for technology and what drives you to learn more about it.

Example: “I have several online resources I use to keep up with the latest news in the tech industry. I subscribe to several newsletters, blogs and forums where I can read about new products and technologies being released. I also follow many tech influencers on social media who share their opinions on the newest developments. Another way I stay up to date is by attending conferences and networking events where I can meet other professionals in the field.”