MKS acquires Alter Power Systems, strengthen microwave technology portfolio

USA: MKS Instruments Inc. announced the acquisition of Alter Power Systems S.r.l. of Reggio Emilia, Italy in a cash transaction closed today.

Alter develops advanced microwave power generators, components and systems for industrial microwave heating, microwave plasma coating and semiconductor applications. The Alter product portfolio includes a wide range of switch-mode magnetron power supplies with power levels up to 30 kW at 2.45 GHz, up to 75 kW at 915 MHz and 1 kW at 5.8 GHz.

Leo Berlinghieri, CEO of MKS, said: "Alter has significant depth in microwave design and will strengthen MKS' existing product portfolio and plasma expertise, along with extending our opportunity into non-plasma applications such as the industrial heating and food and beverage markets. Our distribution and service channels along with Alter's products and technology strengthen our leadership in the semiconductor market and provide additional opportunities to grow in other high growth markets."

"We are pleased to be joining a global technology leader," said Marco Garuti, Alter's co-founder and president. "Being a part of MKS  provides resources and additional opportunities for Alter to grow." Alter will continue its operations in Italy as a wholly owned subsidiary of MKS Instruments."