Jenoptik Buys Diode Maker

The Jenoptik Group announced this week it has strengthened its Optical Systems business by acquiring Epigap Optoelektronik GmbH.

Jenoptik, which has its headquarters in Jena, said it bought Epigap on Dec. 31; terms of the deal were not disclosed. The Berlin-based company manufactures photodiodes, LED chips and components and optoelectronic modules and elements of sensor systems. Epigap's diodes are primarily used in the automotive, medical, defense and security, and lighting industries. It has approximately 50 employees.

Jenoptik said it will incorporate Epigap's expertise in optics and semiconductors to create custom-designed sensors and optoelectronic modules for a wide range of applications. The company said it is primarily focusing on capturing market share in medical technology, particularly for home diagnostics, as well as in minimally invasive surgery, lighting applications, and machine construction and automation.

Epigap will become part of Jenoptik's Optical Systems division, which also includes Jenoptik Laser, Optik, Systeme, Jenoptik Polymer Systems and Sinar in Europe as well as the US-based companies Coastal Optical Systems, Liebmann Optical Comp., and MEMS Optical. The division has production facilities in Germany at Jena, Triptis and Giessen, as well as in Switzerland and the US.

Jenoptik said the acquisition is particularly complementary to Jenoptik Polymer Systems, which is based in Triptis and provides polymer optics and optoelectronic systems to manufacturers in the medical, sensor systems, automotive and lighting industries. The company said the LED and photodiode chips manufactured there using Epigap products and technology will be processed into optical systems and marketed worldwide.

For more information, visit: www.jenoptik.com