MKS Instruments raises 3Q outlook on chip sales

MKS Instruments lifts 3rd-quarter earnings, revenue guidance on higher chip sales

• On 8:11 am EDT, Monday October 5, 2009

ANDOVER, Mass. (AP) -- MKS Instruments Inc., which makes analysis and processing equipment for semiconductor companies, raised its third-quarter earnings and revenue guidance on Monday, saying chip sales are climbing.

The company said earnings after one-time items could range between 2 cents to 4 cents per share, bringing it to profitability on an adjusted basis. Previously, the company expected a net loss of 7 cents to 18 cents per share.

The company also said revenue could range between $105 million and $107 million, exceeding the high end of its earlier guidance of $92 million.

Analysts surveyed by Thomson Reuters, whose estimates typically exclude one-time items, expect a loss of 10 cents per share, on average.

The company said the improved outlook reflects higher sales at its customers, semiconductor makers. Chip sales are higher and equipment utilization rates are now higher than 95 percent, MKS said.

MKS is scheduled to report results on Oct. 22. Shares of MKS closed Friday at $18.77.