DUBLIN -- The market for OEM automotive electronics in China is forecast to reach $3.5 billion by 2012, a compound annual growth rate of 14.2%, a new study says.

At that rate, China is the fastest growing region for automotive electronics, says Dublin, Ireland-based Research and Markets.

The average automotive electronic content per light vehicle in China is forecast to increase from $300 in 2003 to $500 in 2012, the firm said.

The C3 performs real-time cleanliness analysis, the company said. It operates using a steaming technique to extract residues from a specified area and electrically test for conductivity and corrosivity. Results are returned in minutes, Foresite said.

The process is a means for localized residue assessment and for collecting samples for ion chromatography analysis. The C3 tests specific areas and pinpoints the location of residue without exposing the entire board to water, which can dilute test results.

Tests can be localized to an area of 0.1 in², Foresite said.

NORTH BILLERICA, MA - BTU International, a maker of thermal processing equipment, swung back to profitability despite lower quarterly sales.

Net sales for the quarter ended Dec. 31 were $13.6 million, down from $15.4 million sequentially but up from $7.8 million a year ago. Net income was $70,000, versus a net loss of $2.4 million sequentially and a net loss of $1.6 million last year. BTU took a one-time restructuring charge of $1.6 million in the third quarter.

For the year net sales nearly doubled to $54.6 million, versus $28.5 million. The net loss for was $4.2 million, including $1.6 million in charges. BTU lost $6.8 million in 2003.

In a press statement, chairman and CEO Paul van der Wansem said, "The general trend in capital spending levels in many of the markets we serve has been cautious, with an indication of growth in Asia and Europe. The operations in China are proceeding according to plan."