MKS acquires Alter Power Systems

Andover, MA, March 12, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MKS Instruments, Inc. (Nasdaq:MKSI), a global provider of technologies that enable advanced processes and improve productivity, announces 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.

About MKS Instruments
MKS Instruments, Inc. is a global provider of instruments, subsystems and process control solutions that measure, control, power, monitor and analyze critical parameters of advanced manufacturing processes to improve process performance and productivity. Our products are derived from our core competencies in pressure measurement and control, materials delivery, gas composition analysis, control and information technology, power and reactive gas generation, and vacuum technology.
Our primary served markets are manufacturers of capital equipment for semiconductor devices, and for other thin film applications including flat panel displays, solar cells, light emitting diodes, data storage media, and other advanced coatings. We also leverage our technology in other markets with advanced manufacturing applications including medical equipment, pharmaceutical manufacturing, energy generation, and environmental monitoring. Find more information at www.mksinst.com