LOUISVILLE -- A federal bankruptcy judge turned down Sypris Solutions' request for quick decision by its top customer on whether to continue its supply contracts with Sypris.

Dana Corp., which makes auto parts, is said to be Sypris' largest customer, having purchased more than $120 million in parts in 2005.

The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in March, however, and Sypris was seeking for the court to order Dana to render a decision on whether to keep the supply contracts by Oct. 3.

According to the ruling, by contract Sypris can prevent Dana from buying those parts from another manufacturer through 2014.

NEW YORK -- Private equity firm Francisco Partners has purchased Vitronics and Universal Instruments, Circuits Assembly has learned.

An announcement is expected later today. Terms were not disclosed and the transaction is subject to normal closing conditions and regulatory approval.

Privately held Francisco focuses on investments in technology and related services businesses.

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NEW YORK -- Sales of benchtop SMT equipment for low-volume, high-mix production has been on a steady rise, says Frost & Sullivan in a new report.

The research firm says revenues for the equipment would rise to $363.7 million in 2012, from $152.4 million in 2005.

“Being an intensely competitive and fast-paced industry, electronics relies on constant innovation and improvement of its products to sustain interest among customers,” said analyst Deepa Mathew. “SMT benchtop equipment plays a crucial role by providing a high degree of flexibility and desired performance to suit low-volume, high-mix production requirements.”