Am¥to merge with M/A-Com to increase presence in wireless markets

A merger agreement has been reached between Am¥Inc. (Harrisburg, PA), a manufacturer of electronic and fiberoptic interconnection products, and M/A-Com Inc. (Lowell, MA), a manufacturer of microwave, millimeterwave, and wireless products. William J. Hudson, president and CEO of Amp, said that the merger presents an opportunity for Am¥to immediately enter the high-growth market for advanced wireless components. M/A-Com makes discrete semiconductors, integrated circuits, cables, connectors, and related components to provide interconnect solutions. M/A-Com CEO Thomas A. Vanderslice said, "This linkage with Am¥will dramatically accelerate M/A-Com`s ability to service the component needs of leading wireless OEMs worldwide, all of whom are already Am¥customers." Am¥will trade stock worth about $270 million for all of M/A-Com`s shares and will assume $75 million of the debt.