Consolidation is the word in software these days, and the manufacturing execution systems (MES) market is no exception. The latest deal has GenRad Inc. acquiring Industrial Computer Corp. (ICC), based in Atlanta.
For GenRad, a Westford, Mass., maker of hardware, software, and inspection systems for printed circuit boards, the acquisition will extend the company's ability to meet the needs of electronics manufacturers.
"Combining the two forms a powerful software company focused clearly on meeting the needs of electronics manufacturing," says Mike Cahoon, vice president and CIO at AVEX Electronics Inc., a customer of both companies. Adds Tony Friscia, president of Advanced Manufacturing Research, a manufacturing software research firm in Boston, "The electronics assembly market provides tremendous opportunity for a strong MES player."
In another announcement, GenRad struck an agreement with Electronic Data Systems to design and develop the next generation of systems providing realtime process diagnostics for printed circuit board assembly.
