Thorlabs announces acquisition of OPTEK

Summary

October 18, 2019 – Thorlabs announced that it has completed the acquisition of Blairstown-based Operations Technology Inc. (OPTEK). Founded in 1978 by Richard Amon, OPTEK is an designer and manufacturer of large-format, granite-based video (VideoMic) and x-ray (InnerVision) dimensional measurement systems. These systems are used by machine shops for inspecting precision-machined dimensional components for accuracy as well as for performing metrology and quality assurance in industries such as electronics, semiconductor, automotive, and medical.

The VideoMic coordinate measurement systems combine the magnification characteristics of a microscope with the measuring capabilities of a micrometer to provide rapid, non-contact measurements. The closed-loop systems are constructed by bonding translation stages directly to the granite slab. Depending on the exact model chosen, the VideoMic family is comprised of products capable of measuring envelops ranging from 12"x12" to 50"x36", all with 8" of z-axis travel and one-tenth micron precision.

OPTEK also offers the x-ray-based coordinate measurement systems for real-time internal imaging of multilayer circuit boards and other complex electronics. The InnerVision systems can quantify distortions within obstructed internal components so that further fabrication processes may be adjusted and optimized. As with the VideoMic series, these large- format machines offer fast XY positioning at speeds of up to 30 inches per second and precise x-ray-based metrology capabilities.