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Photonics System on growth path
By Antonio Cives, Managing Partner
The Photonics Systems Group is establishing itself as a renowned machine manufacturer for laser micromaterial processing. The acquisition of Proaut Technology has strengthened its semiconductor division. The trimming business is newly positioned under the L-Tris brand and aligned specifically to customer requirements. A new and much more spacious building in Krailling with larger production capacity, state-of-the-art laboratory and cleanroom provides the basis for future growth.
At the end of 2021, the Photonics Systems Group (PSG) acquired Proaut Technology GmbH as part of the succession from the founder and partner Helmut Muchow. Proaut is an established and innovative provider of process automation solutions in the fields of microelectronics and semiconductor technology based in Berlin. One of the company’s specializations is precision measurement machines for electronic components on wafers and panels. As part of PSG, Proaut benefits from synergies in the areas of sales, services and development and provides the Group with an additional growth platform.
A comprehensive offering
Proaut ideally complements the PSG product and services portfolio in microelectronics and semiconductor technology. The Group’s global sales channels enables a broader client base to benefit from the comprehensive offering with additional products and an even better service offering. PSG has expanded its range of competencies and strengthened its innovative capacity through the acquisition and resulting scope for crossdisciplinary exchange in research and development.
New markets
Proaut notably gives the Group access to the rapidly growing 5G technology market. Its solutions enable the testing of radio frequency filters and microphones used in consumer electronics – mobile phones, tablets, smart watches etc. – or for connectivity and the Internet of things – smart homes, electromobility etc. This also opens up cross-selling opportunities with existing clients in sister companies.
Consolidation of Trimming business unit
In 2019, PSG established the basis for the Trimming business unit when it acquired LS Laser Systems and EPP Electronic Production Partners. At the end of 2020, it combined the two companies and their laser trimming expertise into the new L-Tris.
Proaut precision: fully automated measurement process for electric components on wafers and panels.
L-Tris has emerged as a leading global manufacturer of laser systems for trimming circuits and wafers used to produce sensors and thick and thin film chips. The company serves a renowned clientele in Europe, North America and Asia. There are over 1,000 L-Tris machines installed all over the world.
Optimal location
In late summer 2021, PSG completed another fundamental milestone in the integration and consolidation of the Group and merged the four locations around Krailling into a new building in Krailling Innovation Mile. The new company location with 1,000m2 of production space also has an ISO class 6 cleanroom for manufacturing machines used in semiconductor technology. A state-of-the-art laboratory of more than 200m2 with the latest technology covers the Group’s entire product range. PSG has a wealth of laser sources and inspection equipment with which to test varied and technologically advanced potential applications for clients.
Sustaining the growth rate
PSG aims to increase headcount at its locations in the US and Asia over the coming months in order to meet client requirements for local sales and service support.
The company also wants to maintain its above-average growth in all areas over the coming years. The growth will be both organic and acquisition-based and cover all Group locations. The company is therefore living up to its claim of being a leading global micromaterial processor.
Further information at: www.ps-group.net
Photonics Systems Group is the market leader for micromaterial processing laser systems. The Group comprising companies InnoLas Solutions, L-TRIS, and Proaut develops, produces, and sells highprecision system and process solutions for clientspecific laser applications in the photovoltaic, electronic, and semiconductor industry. The systems are used by renowned, globally operational clients in the core markets of Europe, the US, and Asia. The Group employs around 150 people at its headquarters in Krailling, Germany, in Berlin, in the US, in Singapore, and at other locations in Asia.
Proaut is a solution provider for semiconductor machinery based in Berlin. The company was founded in 1990 and has gained a reputation among customers as a client-oriented, reliable, and innovative partner over the past few decades. Besides the key product group of precision measurement machines for electronic components on wafers and panels, the product portfolio also includes microphone testers, pressure sensor testing, tape and reel systems (tapers), and laser markers. The company has over 35 employees in Berlin and Singapore.
