From: EETimes

CAMBRIDGE, UK — Seeking earlier profitability, Keithley Instruments has signed a definitive agreement with Agilent Technologies to sell substantially all of its RF product line to Agilent, for approximately $9 million.

Because we have placed a high emphasis on profitability in fiscal 2010 and beyond, we concluded that we could no longer continue to support our significant investment in RF measurement products, and should instead focus on growing our core business, stated Joseph P. Keithley, the Companys Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer.

The CEO explained how the impact of the economic downturn changed the expected timing of the returns the company was anticipating from its RF product line.

The returns were extended beyond a time-frame that the company was willing to continue to support.

Both Keithley and Agilent will work to provide high quality service and support through the transition for the customers using these products.

Subject to the completion of customary closing conditions, it is anticipated that the transaction will close around November 30, 2009. Following the closing, it is anticipated that the majority of the RF team will become Agilent employees.

Under the terms of the agreement, the Company will transfer substantially all of the assets associated with the RF product line and Agilent will assume certain related liabilities.

***

Agilent太威武了！不仅经济危机下巍然屹立，还可以借机吃点小虾米！