Nanometrics acquires 4D Technology Corporation

Nanometrics has announced that it is acquiring 4D Technology Corporation, a leading supplier of high-performance interferometric measurement and inspection systems located in Tucson, Arizona. 4D Technology’s Dynamic Interferometry solutions are used in a variety of industries to provide accurate shape and surface measurements. This measurement data provides feedback to customers of optical surface shape and quality, machine finish, and surface defectivity, to improve manufacturing yield and performance. 4D Technology’s solutions are used primarily in the manufacture of advanced aerospace and industrial systems as well as for scientific research and semiconductor applications.

“4D Technology pioneered Dynamic Interferometry, which enables specialised applications for high-precision surface shape and profile.  The addition of this business and technology to Nanometrics enables us to serve new markets in advanced process control metrology and inspection,” commented Dr. Pierre-Yves Lesaicherre, president and chief executive officer of Nanometrics.  “In addition to expanding our served markets, 4D’s technology enables next-generation systems for leading semiconductor device applications and is a natural complement to our current optical metrology and inspection solutions.”

“4D is excited to be part of the Nanometrics team,” commented Dr. James Millerd, president of 4D Technology.  “We have worked closely with Nanometrics for several years and believe that our technology will enable new applications for Nanometrics and continued adoption of the 4D technology.  The maturity and scale of Nanometrics will enable 4D to drive into additional end markets, applications, and customers with our proprietary technology.”  Dr. Millerd will continue with Nanometrics as the vice president and general manager of the 4D Technology business unit.

The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close in the fourth quarter. The purchase price of $40 million will be paid with $36 million of cash on hand and approximately $4 million of Nanometricsstock. 4D Technology’s current revenue run rate is in the range of $15 million to $20 million annually, with a similar profitability and margin model as Nanometrics.