Today's Automation News Headlines from Automation.com

August 23, 2011 – Honeywell acquired EMS Technologies, Inc., for approximately $491 million. EMS is a provider of connectivity solutions for mobile networking, rugged mobile computers and satellite communications.

The acquisition will enhance Honeywell’s existing capabilities in rugged mobile computing technologies within its Automation and Control Solutions business (ACS) and satellite communications within its Aerospace business. EMS’s Global Resource Management (GRM) division provides highly ruggedized mobile computing products and services for use in transportation, logistics, and workforce management settings as well as secure satellite-based asset tracking and messaging technology for search and rescue, warehousing, and field force automation environments.

“Acquiring EMS Technologies demonstrates our commitment to build on our leadership position in the global scanning and mobility industry,” said Darius Adamczyk, president of Honeywell Scanning & Mobility. “By adding EMS Technologies to our business, we will acquire complementary rugged hand-held and vehicle-based products and expand our presence in warehousing, manufacturing and port segments. These new products and segments will be growth drivers for our business.”

Through its Aviation division, EMS provides terminals, antennas, in-cabin network devices, rugged data storage, and surveillance applications predominantly for use on aircraft and in other data gathering objectives.

“Adding EMS products into our aerospace business means that Honeywell can now define and deliver the next big leap in satellite communications technology, a key growth area in aviation,” said Tim Mahoney, president and CEO of Honeywell Aerospace. “Our customers will benefit from these new products and solutions, enabling them to leverage the global growth of high speed and satellite data services.”

Honeywell International is a Fortune 100 diversified technology and manufacturing leader, serving customers worldwide with aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes and industry; automotive products; turbochargers; and specialty materials. Based in Morris Township, N.J., Honeywell’s shares are traded on the New York, London, and Chicago Stock Exchanges.