Rohde & Schwarz acquires Zurich Instruments

14 Jul 2021

To strengthen its position in quantum technology sector; terms of the deal not disclosed.

Rohde & Schwarz, a developer of technologies such as 6G and autonomous driving systems, will now also be active in the field of quantum computing. The Munich-headquartered company says its July 1 acquisition of Zurich Instruments AG, Switzerland, a developer of test and measurement systems, will help R&S expand its Test & Measurement Division.

Rohde & Schwarz commented, “In the coming decades, quantum technologies will significantly shape the high-tech industry. The potential for industry and research is enormous. It is a future trend involving billions in governmental subsidies and industrial investment.

The acquisition statement added, “We are already active in quantum sensing. Thanks to this acquisition, the company is now positioning its test and measurement solutions in quantum computing, one of the most promising future technologies in the world.”

Zurich offers test and measurement systems to scientific and industrial research customers. The company has been at the forefront of science since its founding in 2008. A spin-off of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETH Zurich), ZI has grown continuously ever since.

Quantum solutions and academic research

The Swiss company has over 100 employees at its Zurich headquarters and regional offices in China, the USA, France, South Korea, Japan and Italy. In addition to quantum technology, Zurich Instruments has a strong network and extensive experience in academic physics research. Henceforth it will be run as a full subsidiary of R&S.

Peter Riedel, President and COO of Rohde & Schwarz, commented, “We are looking forward to developing technological solutions for the future together with Zurich Instruments. We are also strengthening our position in the scientific realm. Rohde & Schwarz and Zurich Instruments already share a passion for advancing science and innovation.”

The test and measurement market for quantum computing holds enormous potential for both companies, he added. “Operating and maintaining a large-scale quantum computer requires numerous, specific T&M solutions. Thanks to our complementary products, together we are planning to provide complete solutions.”

Dr. Sadik Hafizovic, co-founder and CEO of Zurich Instruments, added, “In R&S, we have found a company that can provide us with access to the latest and best technologies. Its size, stability and technological expertise offers optimal conditions for us to remain a leader in the rapidly growing quantum computing market and continue to grow as an independent subsidiary.”

For ZI's customers, the deal means more future-ready, innovative product development roadmaps for lock-in amplifiers, impedance T&M instruments and quantum computing control systems. All functions at ZI will remain in place, from development and production to marketing and sales.