Circuits Assembly Online Magazine - Features

MORRISVILLE, NC – Juki Corp., a provider of automated assembly lines, closed the third quarter with record growth of more than 35% year-over-year.

Sales of surface mount placement systems grew nearly 40%, complemented by more than 20% growth in the selective solder line.

Juki reported the strong start of the FX-3 high-speed placement system was a major factor in 2008 sales.

NEW YORK -- Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. made it official today, changing its name to Panasonic Corp.

The electronics company, one of the largest in the world, said last month it would switch to its more common brand, "Panasonic," over its traditional names, which includes "National" in Japan.

The changeover will be complete by the end of March 2010, the firm said.

CARLSBAD, CA –Dot Hill Systems will outsource manufacturing to Foxconn Technology Group, the company said today.

Under terms of the agreement, Foxconn will supply manufacturing, assembly and test services from its China facilities. Final integration services including final assembly, testing and configure-to-order, will be performed worldwide.

The companies did not disclose contract terms.

TAIPEI – Leading PC ODM Asustek Computer is forecasting notebook shipments to grow 50% and PC shipments to jump 60% next year, according to reports.

HARTLEPOOL, ENGLAND – The Stadium Group has acquired Fox Industries for £100,000, the electronics manufacturer said today.

Fox, which designs and sells of power supplies and other components for high-reliability applications, has reported annual sales of £300,000.

Fox owner Roger Barrett will be named business development director of Stadium Power.

Last month, Stadium reported pretax earnings rose 13% to £1.4 million. Chief executive Nigel Rogers said the company is continuing to look for other potential acquisitions in power and electronics.