10-K 1 d10k.htm FORM 10-K Form 10-K
Table of Contents

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 


 

FORM 10-K

 

(Mark One)

   ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)

x

   OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
     For the fiscal year ended September 29, 2006

 

OR

 

¨

   TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
     SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
     For the transition period from                      to                     

 

Commission File Number: 0-25395

 

Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter:

 


 

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

State or other jurisdiction of

Incorporation or organization:

 

IRS Employer

Identification No.:

DELAWARE   77-0501994

 

Address and telephone number of principal executive offices:

35 Dory Road, Gloucester, Massachusetts 01930-2297

(978) 282-2000

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

None

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

 

Title of each class


Common Stock, $0.01 par value

 


 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  YES  x        NO  ¨

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.  YES  ¨        NO  x

 

Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  YES  x        NO  ¨

 

Indicate by checkmark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

Large accelerated filer  x            Accelerated filer  ¨            Non-accelerated filer  ¨

 

Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 12b-2).  Yes  ¨    No  x

 

The aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates as of March 31, 2006 was $1,602,242,000.

 

The number of shares of the registrants’ common stock outstanding as of December 1, 2006 was 55,326,158 shares of $0.01 par value common stock.

 

An index of exhibits filed with this Form 10-K is located on page 43.

 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:

 

Document Description


 

Part of Form 10-K into which incorporated


Portions of the Registrant’s Proxy Statement with respect to the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on February 5, 2007 to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after September 29, 2006.   Part III

 



Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC

 

FORM 10-K

 

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 29, 2006

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PART I

Item 1.

  

Business

   1

Item 1A.

  

Risk Factors

   11

Item 2.

  

Properties

   18

Item 3.

  

Legal Proceedings

   19

Item 4.

  

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

   19
PART II

Item 5.

  

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

   20

Item 6.

  

Selected Financial Data

   22

Item 7.

  

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

   24

Item 7A.

  

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

   36

Item 8.

  

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

   38

Item 9.

  

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

   38

Item 9A.

  

Controls and Procedures

   38

Item 9B.

  

Other Information

   39
PART III

Item 10.

  

Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant

   40

Item 11.

  

Executive Compensation

   40

Item 12.

  

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

   40

Item 13.

  

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

   40

Item 14.

  

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

   40
PART IV

Item 15.

  

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

   41


Table of Contents

PART I

 

Item 1. Business.

 

Overview

 

Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. (“Varian Semiconductor”) is the leading supplier of ion implantation systems used in the fabrication of semiconductor chips. Varian Semiconductor designs, manufactures, markets and services semiconductor processing equipment for virtually all of the major semiconductor manufacturers in the United States (“U.S.”), Europe and Asia Pacific. The VIISta ion implanter products are designed to leverage single wafer processing technology for the full range of semiconductor implant applications. Varian Semiconductor has shipped more than 3,600 systems worldwide.

 

Varian Semiconductor provides support, training, and after-market products and services that help its customers obtain high utilization and productivity, reduce operating costs, and extend capital productivity of investments throughout multiple product generations. In fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor was ranked number one in customer satisfaction in VLSI Research Inc.’s customer survey for all large suppliers of wafer processing equipment, an honor received in nine of the past ten years.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s business is cyclical. The business depends upon semiconductor manufacturers’ expectations and resulting capacity investments for future integrated circuit demand. In fiscal year 2004 Varian Semiconductor experienced an increase in business activity owing to a generally strengthening economy and increased demand for semiconductor equipment. During calendar year 2005, there was an 11% decline in worldwide ion implanter sales. However, due to market share gains, Varian Semiconductor’s fiscal year 2005 revenue increased 13% over fiscal year 2004 as customers migrated to single wafer systems, which favor Varian Semiconductor’s product offerings. Single wafer systems are now preferred over batch systems as they process wafers in such a way that results in higher yields for advanced device manufacturers. During fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor believes its 22% revenue increase over fiscal year 2005 was the result of both increases in worldwide ion implanter sales as well as Varian Semiconductor’s continued market share gains for the calendar year 2006.

 

Varian Semiconductor maintains a website at www.vsea.com. The information contained on the Varian Semiconductor website is not included in, or incorporated by reference into, this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to these reports, are made available through the Varian Semiconductor website, free of charge, as soon as reasonably practicable following the electronic filing or furnishing of such materials by Varian Semiconductor to the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and are available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

 

The Industry

 

Historically, the semiconductor industry has experienced significant growth due to the continued demand for personal computers, the expansion of telecommunications, the emergence of new applications within consumer electronics, the escalation of wireless communication devices, infrastructure used to support the internet and the increased semiconductor content in many commercial products.

 

During the past five to ten years however, the semiconductor equipment market has experienced a slowdown in growth as compared to historical levels. This is the result of a maturing semiconductor market where overall demand has increasingly been driven by repackaging of available technology into new consumer products instead of business demands for productivity-improving information management technology.

 

Semiconductor manufacturing is highly competitive with each manufacturer seeking to provide the lowest cost, fastest processing, and lowest power-consuming devices. Integrated circuit manufacturers generally rely on

 

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equipment suppliers for the timely development of equipment and processes to meet their rapidly changing and complex requirements. Today, a semiconductor manufacturing factory, or “fab,” can cost over $3 billion for a modern 65nm facility that can process 50,000 300mm wafers per month. As the industry transitions to 45nm devices, these costs are expected to increase.

 

The fabrication of integrated circuits requires a number of complex and repetitive processing steps, including deposition, photolithography, etch, metrology, anneal and ion implantation. Deposition is a process in which a film of either electrically insulating or electrically conductive material is deposited on the surface of a wafer. Photolithography is used to transfer a device or circuit pattern into a light-sensitive, resistant layer that, after development, can be used in turn to transfer the pattern onto the silicon surface. The etch process completes the transfer of the pattern into the various thin films used to make the integrated circuit. Metrology measures critical features and properties of the device to assure correct fabrication. Anneal is used to incorporate impurities into the silicon crystal matrix and make them electrically active. Ion implantation provides a means for introducing impurities into the silicon crystal, typically into selected areas defined by the photolithographic process. The selective implanting of ions into defined areas creates electrically conductive areas that form the transistors of the integrated circuits.

 

Semiconductor manufacturers have historically sought to increase the number of transistors per silicon substrate by “shrinking” device structures and by moving to larger silicon substrates, or “wafers.” The first is accomplished by utilizing finer lithography and reducing device geometries, commonly called “device nodes.” State-of-the-art production is now accomplished at 90nm nodes with production of 65nm in transition at more technologically advanced fabs. 45nm research and development is underway at multiple customer sites and semiconductor research labs. The use of larger silicon wafer substrates generally requires a great deal of infrastructure changes in equipment and factory automation systems, so it occurs less frequently, typically about every 10 years. The use of 200mm wafers in production began at the end of the 1980’s. The migration from 200mm to 300mm began at the end of the 1990’s and is now more than half of semiconductor expansions. Most advanced devices below 130nm are produced on 300mm wafers.

 

To achieve higher yields, implant systems must be capable of repeating the original process on a consistent basis for all devices on the wafer and for every wafer. These characteristics are known in the industry as “uniformity” and “repeatability.” In addition, implant systems must process wafers without damaging the device structures or introducing device damaging contamination, which is typically characterized by “cross contamination levels” and “particle defect adders.” In many cases implant performance is measured directly from the electrical performance of actual devices or device test structures. This is called “electrical parametrics.” In production fabs, there are typically multiple ion implantation systems performing the same processes in order to meet the production demands of the fab. In order to allow the greatest flexibility, semiconductor manufacturers require that each system perform equally well on each device step. This characteristic is known as “tool-to-tool” matching. In advanced device production, semiconductor manufacturers will often adjust the implant processes to compensate for variability in processes upstream from the implanter, making the implanter’s accuracy another important attribute. Uniformity, repeatability, accuracy, cross contamination, defect adders, parametrics and tool-to-tool matching are all critical in achieving commercially acceptable yields.

 

Semiconductor manufacturers generally measure the cost performance of their production equipment in terms of “cost of ownership,” which is determined by factoring in the fixed costs for acquisition and installation of the equipment, its variable operating costs and total wafer output. Equipment with higher wafer throughput increases total output and allows the semiconductor manufacturer to recover the purchase and installation costs of the equipment over a greater number of wafers and thereby reduces the cost of ownership of the equipment on a per wafer basis. Throughput is most accurately measured on a net or overall basis, which takes into account the processing speed of the equipment and any system setup and non-operational downtime for cleaning, maintenance or other repairs. The increased difficulty of achieving desired transistor performance at advanced nodes has made high yields important in selecting processing equipment. The most desired systems are those that can achieve process results within critical tolerance limits and still operate at desired throughput rates.

 

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The continuing evolution of semiconductor devices to smaller geometries and more complex multi-level circuitry has significantly increased the cost and performance requirements of the capital equipment used to manufacture these devices. As many of the advanced wafer manufacturing factories, especially those designed for 65nm device node processes on 300mm wafers, are projected to increase in cost substantially over previous generation facilities, yield losses and depreciation costs will become a much larger percentage of the aggregate production costs for semiconductor manufacturers relative to labor, materials and other variable manufacturing costs. As a result, there has been increasing focus by the semiconductor industry on obtaining increased capability and productivity to maintain returns from semiconductor manufacturing equipment, thereby increasing the revenue generated and reducing the effective cost of ownership of such systems.

 

Products

 

Varian Semiconductor designs, markets, manufactures and services ion implantation systems required to build the transistors that are the basis of integrated circuits. Ion implanters are used because of their ability to implant selected elements into the silicon wafers at precise locations and depths by bombarding the silicon surface with a precisely controlled beam of electrically charged ions of specific atomic mass and energy. These ions are embedded into the silicon crystal structure, changing the electrical properties of the silicon. The precision of ion implantation techniques permits customers to achieve the necessary control of this doping process to construct up to 500 billion transistors of uniform characteristics on a 300mm wafer using state-of-the-art processes. Since these transistors are the starting point of all subsequent process steps, repeatability, uniformity and yield are extremely important.

 

Varian Semiconductor offers a full range of ion implanters addressing each implant sector. The implant sectors are categorized within the industry as medium current, high current or high energy, based upon the energy ranges of the ion implantation system specified in electron-volts or “eV”: high current implanters are generally expected to operate at energy ranges between 200eV to 60keV; medium current at energy ranges between 20keV to 900keV; and high energy at energy ranges of 500keV to 3MeV. The relative sizes of each sector depends upon the growth of the number of applications in each sector, the productivity of the implant systems in performing that application and the migration of application requirements into the capability ranges of other sectors and device nodes.

 

Varian Semiconductor currently offers the following products:

 

Medium Current

 

Recognized as the industry benchmark for medium current performance and productivity, Varian Semiconductor’s single wafer VIISta 810XP series ion implanters provide superior overall throughput, precision doping capability and unmatched contamination control. These systems excel at threshold voltage (“Vt”), channel, retrograde well, pocket, and halo implants. Varian Semiconductor’s other medium current systems include the VIISta 810HP, VIISta 810XE and VIISta 900 XP ion implanters. In addition, Varian Semiconductor continues to provide support for its older generation VIISta and legacy medium current ion implanters still in use by its customers.

 

The number of medium current applications increases as more applications, such as some well applications, can be productively processed on medium current systems. To achieve higher device speeds, chip designers often increase manufacturing process complexity by utilizing multiple transistor designs in the same integrated circuit. An example of this is the use of multiple device Vt’s, which require separate medium current steps in the same integrated circuits for each Vt desired. This increase in the number of applications tends to be offset by the increasing productivity of medium current systems.

 

High Current

 

The high current VIISta HCP series single wafer ion implanter provides the highest productivity and best contamination performance. In addition, these systems feature implant angle accuracy, beam steering correction

 

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and high-tilt angle capability – all of which are required for advanced device fabrication. The VIISta HCP has excellent process control capability for advanced ultra shallow junction applications, and can be used for source/drain, source/drain extension, gate doping, pre-amorphization, and materials modification applications. Varian Semiconductor’s other high current systems include the VIISta HC ion implanter. In addition, Varian Semiconductor continues to provide support for its older generation VIISta and legacy high current ion implanters still in use by its customers.

 

The high current sector is expected to grow relative to the overall implant market due to an increase in the number of implant steps needed to produce many advanced semiconductors. Due to the very low energies and high dose concentrations that are necessary for increased transistor speed and lower device power consumption, the productivity of high current systems tends to decline with advancing technology nodes, requiring more high current implanters. Most advanced devices require single wafer systems, and single wafer high current is expected to grow to nearly 75% of the high current market in calendar year 2006. Varian Semiconductor was the first to introduce single wafer systems to this market sector through its VIISta platform.

 

High Energy

 

The high energy VIISta 3000 series features true zero degree implant and low contamination. The VIISta 3000 series products are the only single wafer high energy implanters available on the market today, an advantage for semiconductor manufacturers that need increased device packing density in high-performance devices. The VIISta 3000HP has outstanding process accuracy, offers excellent productivity, uniformity, angle control and medium current back-up flexibility. The high energy products cover retrograde well, triple well, buried layers, and pocket applications. Varian Semiconductor’s high energy offerings are the VIISta 3000HP and the VIISta 3000 ion implanter. In addition, Varian Semiconductor continues to provide support for its legacy high energy ion implanters still in use by its customers.

 

VIISta PLAD

 

The VIISta PLAD is a multi-chamber tool built on a platform common with Varian Semiconductor’s VIISta family of implanters, the only truly complete platform available that covers all implant segments. The VIISta PLAD implants the entire wafer simultaneously by positioning the wafer directly in a chamber containing plasma of the desired species. A pulsed DC voltage applied to the wafer draws ions from the plasma at a precisely controlled energy, resulting in extremely fast high-dose implants. Pulsing the bias voltage allows the system to automatically neutralize any charge buildup on the wafer surface between pulses and measure the ion dose per pulse using a Faraday for closed-loop in-situ dose control. With throughput up to six times greater than beamline or modified-source beamline technologies, the VIISta PLAD has become an attractive solution for critical low-energy, high-dose applications, such as DRAM (dynamic random access memory) polysilicon gate doping.

 

VIISta Platform

 

The VIISta 900XP series, VIISta HCP series and VIISta 3000 series are based on the same platform, thereby providing a high degree of commonality in subsystems and overall architecture. The VIISta platform provides customers with a great deal of flexibility in managing overall bay productivity, resulting in a reduction in customers’ time to first silicon, greater productivity across all applications, and an increase on their return on investment. Varian Semiconductor has shipped more than 500 VIISta systems. The VIISta platform of ion implanters is the only single wafer platform solution for all production applications available. All of the VIISta products feature the Varian Control System (“VCS”), the Varian Positioning Systems (“VPS”), the VIISta IHC source, the VIISta single wafer endstation and dual magnet beamline architecture. This high degree of commonality across the VIISta platform facilitates process matching throughout the system set, and provides flexibility in managing capacity, product mix changes, spare parts and training. All of the VIISta systems are 200mm and 300mm compatible.

 

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Customer Support and Services

 

Varian Semiconductor provides customer support services designed to maximize the productivity of its customers’ equipment and to increase uptime through the effective management of machine maintenance, parts inventory and support services. All of these services provide a direct link to Varian Semiconductor’s manufacturing facility and research centers.

 

Varian Semiconductor provides a wide range of programs from a complete turnkey solution that supports the fab’s ion implant performance to economical service plans for those who require less support. These programs are customized to specific customer requirements, provide dedicated labor to maintain and troubleshoot the ion implanter, and make available on-call 24/7 service for around-the-clock support.

 

For parts management, Varian Semiconductor has strategically placed around the world approximately 30 parts banks that support more than 200 customer fabs. The use of a global enterprise resource planning system provides Varian Semiconductor with a distribution structure that efficiently manages inventory, delivery and logistics services. Varian Semiconductor also offers a comprehensive consumable and non-consumable parts program that can be tailored to individual fab needs to minimize its customers’ cost of ownership from the ordering of individual piece parts over its eCommerce site, vShop, to complete stocking and inventory management programs like Fab Specific Parts Programs.

 

Through VEDoc, an electronic documentation system, customers can easily access information about their ion implanters. All assembly drawings, schematics, parts lists, maintenance and operation manuals, and video-illustrated maintenance procedures are available in a CD-ROM format. Varian Semiconductor’s commitment to customer service also includes training.

 

Marketing and Sales

 

Varian Semiconductor markets, sells, installs and services ion implantation systems directly to semiconductor industry manufacturers and has sold ion implantation products to most of the 20 largest semiconductor manufacturers in the world. Varian Semiconductor’s sales objective is to work closely with customers to secure purchases of multiple systems as customers expand capacity, update existing facilities, introduce new manufacturing processes or build new wafer manufacturing facilities. Varian Semiconductor seeks to build customer loyalty and to achieve a high level of repeat business by offering highly reliable products that give its customers a competitive edge, comprehensive field support and responsive parts replacement and service programs.

 

Varian Semiconductor has historically sold at least half of its systems in any particular period to a relatively small number of customers, some of which include Chartered Semiconductor Manufacturing, Limited

(“Chartered”), Elpida Memory, Inc. (“Elpida”), Hynix Semiconductor, Inc. (“Hynix”), Hynix-ST Semiconductor Limited (“Hynix-ST”), Infineon Technologies AG (“Infineon”), Intel Corporation (“Intel”), Micron Technology, Inc. (“Micron”), Promos Technologies, Inc. (“Promos”), Samsung Electronics Company Limited (“Samsung”), Sony Corporation (“Sony”), STMicroelectronics, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation, Limited (“TSMC”), Texas Instruments, Inc. (“Texas Instruments”), United Microelectronics Corporation (“UMC”), and Winbond Electronics Corporation (“Windbond”). Some of these customers have individually accounted for more than 10% of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenue in some periods. Varian Semiconductor expects that sales of its products to relatively few customers will continue to account for a high percentage of its revenue in the foreseeable future.

 

Revenue from Varian Semiconductor’s ten largest customers in fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004 accounted for approximately 63%, 66% and 60% of total revenue, respectively, including the non-recurring royalties in fiscal year 2005 of $18.9 million received from Applied Materials, Inc. (“Applied Materials”). In fiscal year 2006, revenue from three customers accounted for 11%, 10% and 10%, respectively, of Varian Semiconductor’s total

 

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revenue. In fiscal year 2005, revenue from two customers accounted for 20% and 14% of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenue. In fiscal year 2004, revenue from two customers accounted for 14% and 10% of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenue.

 

None of Varian Semiconductor’s customers has entered into a long-term agreement requiring it to purchase Varian Semiconductor’s products. Although Varian Semiconductor’s largest customers have varied from year to year, the loss of a significant customer or a reduction in orders from any significant customer, including reductions due to market, economic or competitive conditions in the semiconductor industry or in the industries that manufacture products utilizing integrated circuits, could adversely affect Varian Semiconductor’s business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, sales of Varian Semiconductor’s systems depend, in significant part, upon the decision of a prospective customer to increase manufacturing capacity in an existing fab facility, to introduce a new manufacturing process or to transfer a manufacturing process to a new fab facility, all of which typically involve a significant capital commitment. Due to these and other factors, Varian Semiconductor’s products typically have a lengthy sales cycle during which Varian Semiconductor may expend substantial funds and management effort.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s ability to respond with prompt and effective field support is critical to Varian Semiconductor’s sales efforts. Due to substantial operational and financial commitments, customers who purchase ion implantation systems require assurance that the manufacturer can provide the necessary installation and operational support. Varian Semiconductor’s strategy of supporting its installed base through its customer support and research and development groups has served to encourage the use of Varian Semiconductor’s systems in production applications and has accelerated penetration of certain key accounts. Varian Semiconductor believes that its marketing efforts are enhanced by the technical expertise of its research and development personnel, who provide customer process support and participate in a number of industry forums.

 

Varian Semiconductor markets, sells, distributes and services its current products directly. Varian Semiconductor has five sales and service offices located in the U.S., five in Europe and 24 in Asia Pacific, for a total of 34 worldwide. Varian Semiconductor’s sales, marketing and service engineers are linked through Varian Semiconductor’s information technology systems, allowing Varian Semiconductor to review bookings and sales forecasts globally against detailed account management plans. By modeling parts usage by equipment type, installed base distribution, freight, routes, and specific customs regulations, Varian Semiconductor has developed an infrastructure of parts distribution and warehousing around the world.

 

International sales accounted for 78%, 78% and 80% of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenues in fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004, respectively, and more specifically, sales to the Asia Pacific region have accounted for 67%, 68% and 68% of total revenues in fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004, respectively. Please refer to the footnotes to the financial statements for additional information on the geographic distribution of revenues and long-lived assets.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s business is not seasonal in nature, but it is cyclical based on the capital equipment investment expenditures of major semiconductor manufacturers. These expenditure patterns are based on many factors, including anticipated market demand for integrated circuits, the development of new technologies and global economic conditions.

 

Backlog

 

Varian Semiconductor had backlog of $255.1 million and $166.6 million at the end of fiscal years 2006 and 2005, respectively. Varian Semiconductor includes in its backlog only those orders for which it has accepted purchase orders and assigned system shipment dates within the following twelve months. Orders are typically subject to cancellation or rescheduling by customers. Due to possible changes in system delivery schedules, cancellation of orders and delays in systems shipments, Varian Semiconductor’s backlog at any particular date is not necessarily an accurate predictor of revenue for any succeeding period.

 

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Manufacturing

 

Varian Semiconductor manufactures its products at its facility in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Varian Semiconductor benefits from the use of advanced manufacturing methods and technologies, including lean manufacturing, demand flow technology, statistical process control and solids modeling.

 

Varian Semiconductor purchases various unique raw materials from multiple suppliers worldwide. Varian Semiconductor closely monitors future markets and supply stream to ensure continuous availability. Additionally, some long lead agreements with suppliers are employed to provide a strategic safety stock at supplier locations.

 

Varian Semiconductor concentrates on product design characterization, high-level assembly and tests to reduce cycle time and improve its responsiveness in an inherently cyclical capital equipment market. Varian Semiconductor believes that outsourcing non-core competency assemblies enables it to minimize its fixed costs and capital expenditures while also providing the flexibility to increase or decrease production capacity. Varian Semiconductor purchases materials and components that are either standard products or built to Varian Semiconductor’s specifications. This strategy also allows Varian Semiconductor to focus on product differentiation through system design and quality control. Varian Semiconductor’s manufactured subsystems incorporate advanced technologies in robotics, vacuum and microcomputers. Varian Semiconductor works closely with its suppliers to achieve mutual cost reductions through joint design efforts. Varian Semiconductor manufactures most of its systems in clean-room environments that are similar to the clean-rooms used by semiconductor manufacturers for wafer fabrication. This procedure is intended to reduce installation and production qualification times and the amount of particulates and other contaminants in the assembled system, which in turn improves yield and reduces downtime for the customer.

 

Quality efforts at Varian Semiconductor begin with product development. Varian Semiconductor uses three dimensional computer-aided design, finite element analysis and other computer-based modeling methods to engineer and validate new designs. Product design is tested throughout all stages of development and validated through use of a “phase-gate” product introduction process before the first production system is built. Concurrent engineering programs help integrate new designs into manufacturing quickly and successfully.

 

Competition

 

The semiconductor capital equipment market is highly competitive and is characterized by a small number of large companies. The larger companies include Applied Materials, Tokyo Electron Limited (“Tokyo Electron”), KLA-Tencor Corporation (“KLA-Tencor”), Nikon Corporation, Canon, Inc., Novellus Systems, Inc. (“Novellus”), Lam Research Corporation, (“Lam”), and Hitachi High Technologies Corporation. Varian Semiconductor faces significant competition in the ion implantation market sector. Within this sector, multiple implant suppliers participate in one or more implant sectors. Generally, for each system selection, Varian Semiconductor is competing with one or more major competitors. As reported by Gartner Dataquest for calendar year 2005, the revenue market share for ion implantation equipment is Varian Semiconductor 39%, Axcelis Technologies, Inc. (“Axcelis”) 15%, Applied Materials 18%, Sumitomo Eaton Nova Corporation 17%, Nissin Electric Company, Limited 10%, and Ulvac Technologies, Inc. 1%.

 

Significant competitive factors in the ion implantation market include strategic relationships, cost of ownership, performance reliability, customer support, distribution and financial viability. In addition to these factors, significant competitive characteristics in the semiconductor capital equipment market include flexibility, size of manufacturer, installed customer base and breadth of product line. Products designed for one sector may compete against products offered by competitors’ systems in another sector. Due to the constant innovation that has characterized semiconductor manufacturers, competitors and potential new market entrants, it is possible that the application needs and manufacturing technologies used can change, disrupting historical trends in the market significantly. Varian Semiconductor believes it competes favorably in each of these categories, and in order to remain competitive, Varian Semiconductor recognizes it may require significant financial resources in order to

 

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offer a broad range of products, to maintain customer service and support centers worldwide and to invest in product and process research and development.

 

Research and Development

 

The semiconductor manufacturing industry is subject to rapid technological change requiring new product introductions and enhancements. Varian Semiconductor’s ability to remain competitive in this market will depend in part upon its ability to develop new and enhanced systems and to introduce these systems at competitive prices and on a timely and cost-effective basis. Accordingly, Varian Semiconductor devotes a significant portion of its personnel and financial resources to research and development programs and seeks to maintain close relationships with its customers to remain responsive to their product needs.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s current research and development efforts are directed at development of new systems and processes and improving existing system capabilities. Varian Semiconductor currently focuses its research and development efforts on the enhancement of its VIISta platform. The VIISta platform is designed to cover the complete range of implants required for the next several generations of integrated circuits. The VIISta single wafer platform allows customers to use a single platform for all implant applications including high current, medium current and high energy.

 

Expenditures by Varian Semiconductor for research and development during fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004 were $90.6 million, $77.7 million and $67.7 million, respectively. Varian Semiconductor expects in future years that research and development expenditures will continue to represent a substantial percentage of operating expenses. In addition to developing new high current and high energy products, Varian Semiconductor continues to focus on maintaining its leadership position in the market for medium current implanters.

 

Patent and Other Proprietary Rights

 

Varian Semiconductor pursues a policy of seeking patent, copyright and trade secret protection in the U.S. and other countries for developments, improvements and inventions originating within its organization that are incorporated in Varian Semiconductor’s products or that fall within its fields of interest. As of December 6, 2006, Varian Semiconductor owned approximately 141 patents in the U.S., 208 patents in other countries, and had 654 patent applications on file with various patent agencies worldwide. Varian Semiconductor intends to file additional patent applications as appropriate.

 

Varian Semiconductor relies on a combination of copyright, trade secret and other laws, and contractual restrictions on disclosure, copying and transferring title to protect its rights. Varian Semiconductor has trademarks, both registered and unregistered, that are maintained and enforced to provide customer recognition for its products in the marketplace. Varian Semiconductor also has agreements with third parties that provide for licensing of patented or proprietary technology. These agreements include royalty-bearing licenses and technology cross-licenses. The termination of certain of such licenses could have a material adverse effect on Varian Semiconductor’s business.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s competitors, like companies in many high-technology businesses, routinely review the products of others for possible conflict with their own patent rights. There has also been substantial litigation regarding patent and other intellectual property rights in semiconductor-related industries. Varian Semiconductor, its customers or suppliers could be subject to additional claims of patent infringement, and any such claim could require that Varian Semiconductor pay substantial damages or remove certain features from its products or both.

 

Pursuant to the dispute resolution provisions of an Agreement dated January 1, 1992 (“the Agreement”) between Varian Semiconductor and Applied Materials, Varian Semiconductor in September 2002 filed an arbitration demand with the American Arbitration Association asserting that Applied Materials breached the Agreement by

 

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failing to pay royalties on products Varian Semiconductor believed were covered by the Agreement’s patent license to Applied Materials. In its arbitration demand, Varian Semiconductor sought to recover back royalties, interest and attorneys’ fees. On May 2, 2003, the arbitration panel issued its decision that certain of Applied Materials’ products were subject to royalty obligations under the Agreement, and on September 1, 2004, the arbitration panel ruled that the patents at issue in the arbitration were valid and enforceable. Applied Materials made an initial payment of $22.0 million for back royalties and interest on October 4, 2004 and a final payment of $2.6 million for back interest and royalties on November 8, 2004. Applied Materials also is required to pay quarterly unit-based royalty payments to Varian Semiconductor on future sales of certain products found to be within the scope of the Agreement through expiration of the Agreement on March 20, 2007.

 

The royalty-bearing license agreements produced approximately $9.5 million in royalties in fiscal year 2006, $27.7 million in royalties in fiscal year 2005 and $7.9 million in royalties in fiscal year 2004. The last of the principal patents covered by these licenses will expire on July 9, 2007.

 

Environmental Matters

 

For a discussion of environmental matters, see “Risk Factors,” in Item 1A and “Environmental Liabilities” in Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

 

Company History

 

On April 2, 1999, Varian Semiconductor was spun-off from Varian Associates, Inc. (“VAI”). Varian Semiconductor’s business was operated as the Semiconductor Equipment Business (“SEB”) of VAI.

 

On April 2, 1999, VAI contributed the SEB to Varian Semiconductor, then distributed to the holders of record of VAI common stock, one share of common stock of Varian Semiconductor for each share of VAI common stock owned.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s role in the semiconductor manufacturing market can be traced to VAI’s pioneering work in ultra-high vacuum technology. In the 1960’s, this technology was applied to many physics and space research projects requiring ultra-high vacuum environments. This technology proved critical in the semiconductor manufacturing process. SEB was successful in developing methods for controlling electron beams and ions in ultra-high vacuum environments and in depositing materials onto silicon wafers to create switching devices.

 

SEB entered the ion implantation business in fiscal year 1975 through the acquisition of Extrion Corporation, in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Since then, Varian Semiconductor has developed a complete line of medium and high current ion implanters and added the high energy product line in fiscal year 1998. These systems introduce precise quantities of dopant materials into silicon wafers, creating desired electrical characteristics. In June 1997, SEB sold its Thin Film Systems (“TFS”) business, which made physical vapor deposition equipment, also known as sputtering systems, to Novellus. In July 1998, SEB acquired the high energy ion implantation equipment product line of Genus, Inc.

 

Employees

 

As of November 24, 2006, Varian Semiconductor had 1,588 full-time employees worldwide—1,198 in North America, 309 in Asia Pacific and 81 in Europe. None of Varian Semiconductor’s employees based in the U.S. are subject to collective bargaining agreements and Varian Semiconductor has never experienced a work stoppage, slowdown or strike. None of Varian Semiconductor’s employees is represented by a labor union and Varian Semiconductor considers its employee relations to be good.

 

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Executive Officers

 

The current executive officers of Varian Semiconductor are listed below. Executive officers are elected on an annual basis and serve at the discretion of the Board of Directors.

 

Name and Title


   Age

  

Business Experience


Gary E. Dickerson

Chief Executive Officer

   49    Mr. Dickerson has served as Varian Semiconductor’s Chief Executive Officer and a Director of Varian Semiconductor since October 2004. Prior to joining Varian Semiconductor, Mr. Dickerson was President and Chief Operating Officer of KLA-Tencor from July 2002 to April 2004. From July 1999 to June 2002, he served as Chief Operating Officer of KLA-Tencor. Previously at KLA-Tencor, Mr. Dickerson was the Executive Vice President of the Customer Group from July 1997 to June 1999, Group Vice President for the Wafer Inspection Group from January 1996 to June 1997, and General Manager of the Wisard Division from July 1994 to December 1995.

Robert J. Halliday

Executive Vice President

and Chief Financial Officer

   52    Mr. Halliday has served as Varian Semiconductor’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since October 2006. From October 2004 to October 2006 he served as Executive Vice President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer. From November 2002 to October 2004, Mr. Halliday served as Varian Semiconductor’s Vice President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer. From March 2001 to November 2002, Mr. Halliday served as Varian Semiconductor’s Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Prior to joining Varian Semiconductor, Mr. Halliday was Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Unica Corporation, a software company. Previously, Mr. Halliday was at Ionics, Inc., a manufacturer of water treatment capital equipment. At Ionics, Inc., he was Chief Operating Officer in 2000; Vice President of the Consumer Water Group from 1996 to 2000; and Chief Financial Officer from 1990 to 2000. Mr. Halliday has been a director of Zoll Medical Corporation since July 2003.

Robert J. Perlmutter, Ph.D.

Executive Vice President,

Implant Business Units

   49    Dr. Perlmutter has served as Varian Semiconductor’s Executive Vice President of Implant Business Units since October 2006. Prior to joining Varian Semiconductor, Dr. Perlmutter was a Group Vice President of KLA-Tencor from July 2006 to October 2006. From October 2001 to June 2006, he served as Vice President and General Manager of KLA-Tencor’s WIN Division - responsible for the brightfield and darkfield patterned wafer inspection product lines. Previously at KLA-Tencor, Dr. Perlmutter was Vice President and General Manager of the Surfscan Division from October 1999 to October 2001. From September 1995 to September 1999, Dr. Perlmutter served as a Sr. Director and then, Vice President of Engineering for KLA-Tencor’s Reticle and Photomask Inspection Division.

Stanley K. Yarbro

Executive Vice President,

Sales and Worldwide Field

Operations

   57    Mr. Yarbro has served as Varian Semiconductor’s Executive Vice President, Sales and Worldwide Field Operations since November 2004. Prior to joining Varian Semiconductor, Mr. Yarbro was Group Vice President of Field Operations at KLA-Tencor from July 1999 to October 2004. He also held the positions of President at Park Scientific, Limited from 1994 to 1999, Vice President of

 

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Name and Title


   Age

  

Business Experience


          Sales and Marketing at Spectra Physics, Inc. from 1986 to 1992, and Director of Marketing, along with other sales management positions, at Perkin-Elmer, Inc. from 1979 to 1986.

Yong-Kil Kim

Executive Vice President,

General Manager, Asia Pacific

Operations, President of Varian

Korea Ltd.

   49    Mr. Kim has served as Varian Semiconductor’s Executive Vice President since October 2004. He has served as Varian Semiconductor’s Vice President and General Manger of its Asia Pacific Operations since May 2000 and President of Varian Korea, Limited since April 1999. From April 1997 to March 1999, he served as Executive Vice President of Varian Korea, Limited. From July 1994 to March 1997, he was Director of Sales and Marketing for the Asia Pacific Region. Mr. Kim joined VAI in August 1989 and held various managerial positions in Applications, Marketing and Sales. Previously, Mr. Kim worked for IBM’s T.J. Watson Research Center in Yorktown Heights, New York, from July 1988 to August 1989, and earlier at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, Massachusetts from 1983 to July 1988.

Gary L. Loser

Vice President, Secretary and

General Counsel

   56    Mr. Loser has served as Varian Semiconductor’s Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel since April 1999. Prior to joining Varian Semiconductor, Mr. Loser was Senior Business Counsel and Senior Intellectual Property Counsel for the GE Plastics operating component of General Electric Company (“General Electric”) from 1992 to 1999. Previously, Mr. Loser held various other positions in General Electric’s legal department during his 17 years with General Electric.

Thomas C. Baker

Vice President, Finance,

Corporate Controller

   41    Mr. Baker has served as Varian Semiconductor’s Vice President of Finance since October of 2006. From June 2003 to October 2006, Mr. Baker was Varian Semiconductor’s Corporate Controller and served as Operations Controller and Assistant Controller from February 2001 to June 2003. Mr. Baker was Chief Financial Officer of Chelton Microwave, a manufacturer of microwave components, from 1996 to 2001. Prior to that, he was Corporate Controller of Robertson-Ceco Corporation, a leading manufacturer of metal buildings.

Walter F. Sullivan

Vice President, Customer

Operations and Quality

   55    Mr. Sullivan has served as Varian Semiconductor’s Vice President, Customer Operations since November 2002. Mr. Sullivan was Varian Semiconductor’s Vice President, Customer Operations and Chief Information Officer from November 1999 through November 2002. From 1995 to November 1999, he was Vice President, Customer Support of the Semiconductor Equipment Business at VAI.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors.

 

The semiconductor industry is cyclical, and a slowdown in demand for Varian Semiconductor’s semiconductor manufacturing equipment may negatively affect financial results.

 

The semiconductor industry historically has been cyclical in nature and has experienced periodic downturns. The industry may experience volatility in product pricing and in product demand. Volatility may result in significant reductions and delays in the purchase of semiconductor manufacturing equipment and the construction of new fab facilities. If such significant reductions and delays in purchasing occur and Varian Semiconductor has procured materials prior to the receipt of the customer purchase order, significant inventory charges could be

 

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incurred, thereby negatively impacting Varian Semiconductor’s financial results. In addition, even though Varian Semiconductor’s revenues may fluctuate significantly from period to period, in order to remain competitive, Varian Semiconductor continues to invest in research and development and to maintain its worldwide customer service and support capabilities. These investments in the business may adversely affect Varian Semiconductor’s financial results.

 

Varian Semiconductor faces intense competition in the semiconductor equipment industry.

 

Significant competitive factors in semiconductor equipment manufacturing include the strength of customer relationships, pricing, technological performance and timing, distribution capabilities and financial viability. Varian Semiconductor believes that in order to remain competitive in this industry, it will need to devote significant financial resources to research and development, to offer and market a broad range of products, and maintain and enhance customer service and support centers worldwide. The semiconductor equipment industry is increasingly dominated by large manufacturers who have resources to support customers worldwide, and some of Varian Semiconductor’s competitors have substantially greater financial resources and more extensive engineering, manufacturing, marketing, service and support than does Varian Semiconductor. With fewer resources, Varian Semiconductor may not be able to match the product offerings or customer service and technical support offered by its competitors. In addition, there are several smaller companies that provide innovative technology that may have performance advantages over Varian Semiconductor’s systems. If these manufacturers continue to improve their product performance and pricing, enter into strategic relationships, expand their current targeted geographic territory or consolidate with large equipment manufacturers, sales of Varian Semiconductor’s products may be adversely affected.

 

Varian Semiconductor derives a substantial portion of its revenues from a small number of customers, and its business may be harmed by the loss of any one significant customer.

 

From time to time within the same accounting period, Varian Semiconductor has sold significant percentages of its systems to its major customers, some of which include Chartered, Elpida, Hynix, Hynix-ST, Infineon, Intel, Micron, Promos, Samsung, Sony, STMicroelectronics, TSMC, Texas Instruments, UMC and Winbond. During some quarters, some of these customers have individually accounted for more than 10% of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenue. Varian Semiconductor expects that sales of its products to relatively few customers will continue to account for a high percentage of its revenue in the foreseeable future. Furthermore, Varian Semiconductor may have difficulty attracting additional large customers because its sales depend, in large part, upon the decision of a prospective customer to increase manufacturing capacity in an existing fabrication facility or to transfer a manufacturing process to a new fabrication facility, both of which typically involve a significant capital commitment. Once a semiconductor manufacturer has selected a particular supplier’s capital equipment, the manufacturer generally relies upon that equipment for the specific production line application. Consequently, Varian Semiconductor may experience difficulty in selling to a prospective customer if that customer initially selects a competitor’s capital equipment.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s quarterly results of operations are likely to fluctuate, and as a result, Varian Semiconductor may fail to meet the expectations of its investors and securities analysts, which may cause the price of its common stock to decline.

 

Varian Semiconductor has experienced and expects to continue to experience significant fluctuations in its quarterly financial results. From time to time, customers may accelerate, postpone or cancel shipments, or production difficulties may delay shipments. A cancellation, delay in shipment or delay in customer acceptance of the product upon installation in any quarter may cause revenue in such quarter to fall significantly below expectations, which could cause the market price of Varian Semiconductor’s common stock to decline. Varian Semiconductor’s financial results also fluctuate based on gross profit realized on sales. Gross profit as a percentage of revenue may vary based on a variety of factors, including the mix and average selling prices of products sold, costs to manufacture and customize systems and inventory management. In addition, a number of

 

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other factors may impact Varian Semiconductor’s quarterly financial results, including, but not limited to the following:

 

    changing global economic conditions and worldwide political instability;

 

    general conditions in the semiconductor equipment industry;

 

    the extent that customers use Varian Semiconductor’s products and services in their business;

 

    unexpected procurement or manufacturing difficulties;

 

    pricing of key components;

 

    fluctuations in foreign exchange rates;

 

    a technical change that Varian Semiconductor is unable to address with its products;

 

    a failure to achieve continued market acceptance of Varian Semiconductor’s key products;

 

    ability to develop, introduce and market new, enhanced and competitive products in a timely manner;

 

    introduction of new products by Varian Semiconductor’s competitors;

 

    strategic technology investment decisions;

 

    legal or technical challenges to Varian Semiconductor’s products and technology;

 

    adverse weather conditions at its manufacturing facilities or customers’ facilities;

 

    changes in the effective tax rate; and

 

    new or modified accounting regulations.

 

Because Varian Semiconductor’s operating expenses are based on anticipated capacity levels and a high percentage of Varian Semiconductor’s expenses are relatively fixed, a fluctuation in the timing of recognition of revenue and the level of gross profit from a single transaction could cause financial results to vary significantly from quarter to quarter.

 

It is difficult for Varian Semiconductor to predict the quarter in which it will be recognizing revenue from large product orders.

 

Varian Semiconductor customarily sells a relatively small number of systems within any period. Consequently, Varian Semiconductor’s revenue and financial results could be negatively impacted for a particular quarter if anticipated orders from even a few customers are not received in time to permit shipment and/or there are delays in customer acceptance of the product upon installation. Generally, Varian Semiconductor recognizes all or a portion of the revenue from a product upon shipment provided title and risk of loss has passed to the customer, evidence of an arrangement exists, fees are contractually fixed or determinable, collectibility is reasonably assured through historical collection results and regular credit evaluations, and there are no uncertainties regarding customer acceptance. [Please refer to the full revenue recognition policy in Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in the Critical Accounting Policies and Significant Judgments and Accounting Estimates section.] As a result, it is often difficult to determine the timing of product revenue recognition. In addition, Varian Semiconductor’s product order backlog at the beginning of each quarter may not include all systems needed to achieve expected revenues for that quarter. Because Varian Semiconductor may build systems according to forecast, the absence of a significant backlog for an extended period of time could adversely affect financial results.

 

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Varian Semiconductor’s future business depends, in part, on its ability to successfully introduce and manage the transition to new products, and Varian Semiconductor may not succeed in accomplishing these goals.

 

Varian Semiconductor believes that its future success will depend on its ability to develop, manufacture and successfully introduce new systems and product lines with improved capabilities and to continue enhancing existing products; in particular, products that respond to the trend toward single wafer processing and 300mm wafer processing at more advanced nodes. Varian Semiconductor derives virtually all of its revenue from sales and servicing of systems and related products and services. Varian Semiconductor must accurately forecast the demand for new products while managing the transition from older products. In addition, Varian Semiconductor may be unable to complete the development or meet the technical specifications of new systems or enhancements or to manufacture and ship these systems or enhancements in volume and on time, which may harm its reputation and business. If any of Varian Semiconductor’s new products have reliability or quality problems, Varian Semiconductor may incur additional warranty and service expenses, experience a decline in product orders or incur higher manufacturing costs to correct such problems, all of which could adversely affect financial results.

 

Varian Semiconductor is subject to the risks of operating internationally and it derives a substantial portion of its revenues from outside the U.S.

 

International revenue accounts for a substantial portion of Varian Semiconductor’s revenue. Because Varian Semiconductor relies on sales to customers in Asia Pacific for a significant portion of its revenue, its business is very likely to be adversely impacted by economic downturns and instability in that region. Varian Semiconductor’s business in Asia Pacific is affected by demand in each country. In addition, international sales are subject to risks, including, but not limited to:

 

    changes in legal and regulatory requirements;

 

    political and economic instability and acts of terrorism;

 

    difficulties in accounts receivable collection;

 

    natural disasters or public health crises;

 

    difficulties in staffing for cultural diversity and managing international operations;

 

    foreign trade disputes; and

 

    fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.

 

If Varian Semiconductor is unable to protect its proprietary rights adequately, it may lose its ability to compete effectively in the semiconductor equipment industry.

 

Varian Semiconductor relies on obtaining and maintaining patent, copyright and trade secret protection for significant new technologies, products and processes and obtaining key licenses because of the length of time and expense associated with bringing new products through the development process to market. Varian Semiconductor intends to continue to file applications as appropriate for patents covering new products and manufacturing processes. However, Varian Semiconductor cannot provide assurance of the following:

 

    that patents will be issued from any pending or future patent applications owned by, or licensed to, Varian Semiconductor;

 

    that the claims allowed under any issued patents will be sufficiently broad to protect Varian Semiconductor’s technology position against competitors;

 

    that any issued patents owned by or licensed to Varian Semiconductor will not be challenged, invalidated or circumvented; and

 

    that the rights granted under Varian Semiconductor’s patents will provide it with competitive advantages.

 

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Varian Semiconductor also has agreements with third parties for licensing of patented or proprietary technology. These agreements include royalty-bearing licenses and technology cross-licenses.

 

In addition, Varian Semiconductor maintains and enforces its trademarks to increase customer recognition of its products. If its trademarks are used by unauthorized third parties, Varian Semiconductor’s business may be harmed. Varian Semiconductor also relies on contractual restrictions on disclosure, copying and transferring title, including confidentiality agreements with vendors, strategic partners, co-developers, employees, consultants and other third parties to protect its proprietary rights. If these contractual agreements are breached, Varian Semiconductor may not have adequate remedies for any such breaches. Varian Semiconductor also cannot provide assurance that its trade secrets will not otherwise become known to or be independently developed by others.

 

Patent claims may be expensive to pursue, defend or settle and may substantially divert Varian Semiconductor’s resources and the attention of management.

 

Varian Semiconductor could incur substantial costs and diversion of management resources in defending patent suits brought against it or in asserting its patent rights against others. If the outcome of any such litigation is unfavorable to Varian Semiconductor, its business may be harmed. Varian Semiconductor may not be aware of pending or issued patents held by third parties that relate to its products or technologies. In the event that a claim is asserted against Varian Semiconductor, it may need to acquire a license to or contest the validity of a competitor’s patent. Varian Semiconductor cannot be certain that it could acquire such a license on commercially acceptable terms, if at all, or that it would prevail in such a proceeding. From time to time Varian Semiconductor has received notices from and has issued notices to such third parties alleging infringement of patent and other intellectual property rights relating to its products. If Varian Semiconductor is subject to future claims of patent infringement, it may be required to make substantial settlement or damage payments and may have to devote substantial resources to reengineering its products.

 

Varian Semiconductor depends on limited groups of suppliers or single source suppliers, the loss of which could impair its ability to manufacture products and systems.

 

Varian Semiconductor obtains some of the components and subassemblies included in its products from a limited group of suppliers, or in some cases a single source supplier. The loss of any supplier (or the temporary inability of any supplier to meet Varian Semiconductor’s production requirements, including any single source supplier) would require obtaining one or more replacement suppliers and may also require devoting significant resources to product development to incorporate new parts from other sources into Varian Semiconductor’s products. The need to change suppliers or to alternate between suppliers might cause delays in delivery or significantly increase Varian Semiconductor’s costs. Although Varian Semiconductor has insurance to protect against loss due to business interruption from some sources as necessary, Varian Semiconductor cannot provide assurance that such coverage will be adequate or that it will remain available on commercially acceptable terms. Although Varian Semiconductor seeks to reduce its dependence on these limited source suppliers, disruption or loss of these sources could negatively impact its business and damage customer relationships.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s outsource providers may fail to perform as it expects

 

Outsource providers have an increasing role in Varian Semiconductor’s manufacturing operations, research and development initiatives and in transactional and administrative functions. Although Varian Semiconductor aims at selecting reputable providers and securing their performance on terms documented in written contracts, it is possible that one or more of these providers could fail to perform as Varian Semiconductor expects and such failure could have an adverse impact on Varian Semiconductor’s business. In addition, the expansive role of outsource providers has required and will continue to require Varian Semiconductor to implement changes to its existing operations and to adopt new procedures to deal with and manage the performance of these outsource providers. Any delay or failure in the implementation of our operational changes and new procedures could adversely affect Varian Semiconductor’s customer relationships and /or have a negative effect on Varian Semiconductor’s operating results.

 

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Varian Semiconductor’s indemnification obligations under the Distribution Related Agreements could be substantial, and Varian Semiconductor may not be fully indemnified in accordance with the Distribution Related Agreements for the expenses it incurs.

 

Under the terms of the Distribution Related Agreements, each of Varian Medical Systems, Inc. (“VMS”) (formerly VAI), Varian, Inc. (“VI”) and Varian Semiconductor has agreed to indemnify the other parties, and certain related persons, from and after the spin-off with respect to certain indebtedness, liabilities and obligations, which could be significant. The availability of such indemnities will depend upon the future financial strength of the companies. There is a risk that one or more of these companies will not be able to satisfy their indemnification obligations. In addition, the Distribution Related Agreements generally provide that if a court prohibits a company from satisfying its indemnification obligations, then such obligations will be shared equally by the other companies.

 

Failure to comply with present or future environmental regulations could subject Varian Semiconductor to penalties and environmental remediation costs.

 

Varian Semiconductor is subject to a variety of foreign, federal, state and local laws regulating the discharge of materials into the environment and the protection of the environment. These regulations include discharges into the soil, water and air and the generation, handling, storage, and transportation and disposal of waste and hazardous substances. These laws increase the costs and potential liabilities associated with the conduct of Varian Semiconductor’s operations.

 

VAI has been named by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and third parties as a potentially responsible party under the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended (“CERCLA”), at eight sites where VAI is alleged to have shipped manufacturing waste for recycling or disposal. VAI is also in various stages of environmental investigation and/or remediation under the direction of, or in consultation with foreign, federal, state and local agencies at certain current or former VAI facilities. The Distribution Related Agreements provide that each of VMS, Varian Semiconductor and VI will indemnify the others for one-third of these environmental investigation and remediation costs, as adjusted for any insurance proceeds and tax benefits expected to be realized upon payment of these costs.

 

For certain of these sites and facilities, various uncertainties make it difficult to assess the likelihood and scope of further investigation or remediation activities or to estimate the future costs of such activities if undertaken. Varian Semiconductor has accrued estimated environmental investigation and remediation costs for these sites and facilities. As to other sites and facilities, sufficient knowledge has been gained to be able to reasonably estimate the scope and costs of future environmental activities. As such, Varian Semiconductor has sufficient accruals to cover Varian Semiconductor’s portion of these costs.

 

Accrued amounts are only estimates of anticipated future environmental-related costs, and the amounts actually spent may be greater than such estimates. Accordingly, Varian Semiconductor may need to make additional accruals and subsequent payments to cover its indemnification obligations that would exceed current estimates. In addition, Varian Semiconductor’s present and past facilities have been in operation for many years, and over that time in the course of those operations, such facilities have used substances which are or might be considered hazardous. Varian Semiconductor also may have generated and disposed of wastes which are or might be considered hazardous. Therefore, it is possible that additional environmental issues may arise in the future that Varian Semiconductor cannot now predict.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s ability to manage potential growth or decline, integration of potential acquisitions, and potential disposition of product lines and technologies creates risks.

 

The cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry may cause Varian Semiconductor to experience rapid growth or decline in demand for products and services. As a result, Varian Semiconductor may face significant

 

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challenges in maintaining adequate financial and business controls, materials management, management

processes, information systems and procedures on a timely basis, training, managing and appropriately sizing the work force. There can be no assurance that Varian Semiconductor will be able to perform such actions successfully.

 

An important element of Varian Semiconductor’s management strategy is to review acquisition prospects that would complement existing products, augment market coverage and distribution ability, or enhance technological capabilities. In the future, Varian Semiconductor may make acquisitions of complementary companies, products or technologies, or may reduce or dispose of certain product lines or technologies that no longer fit Varian Semiconductor’s long-term strategies. Managing an acquired business, disposing of product technologies or reducing personnel entails numerous operational and financial risks, including difficulties in assimilating acquired operations and new personnel or separating existing business or product groups, diversion of management’s attention to other business concerns, amortization of acquired intangible assets, the incurrence of debt and contingent liabilities and potential loss of key employees or customers of acquired or disposed operations, among others. Varian Semiconductor’s success will depend, to a significant extent, on the ability of its executive officers and other members of its senior management to identify and respond to these challenges effectively. In addition, any acquisitions could result in dilutive issuances of equity securities. There can be no assurance that Varian Semiconductor will be able to achieve and manage successfully any such growth, decline, integration of potential acquisitions, disposition of product lines or technologies, or reduction in personnel, or that management, personnel or systems will be adequate to support continued operations. Any such inabilities or inadequacies may have a material adverse effect on Varian Semiconductor’s business, operating results, financial condition, cash flows and/or the price of Varian Semiconductor common stock.

 

Varian Semiconductor manufactures its products at one primary manufacturing facility and is thus subject to risk of disruption.

 

Varian Semiconductor has one primary manufacturing facility, located in Gloucester, Massachusetts, and its operations are subject to disruption for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to natural disasters, work stoppages, operational facility constraints and terrorism. Such disruption may cause delays in shipments of products to Varian Semiconductor’s customers and may result in cancellation of orders or loss of customers and could seriously harm Varian Semiconductor’s business.

 

If Varian Semiconductor loses key employees or is unable to attract and retain key employees, it may be unable to pursue business opportunities.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s future success depends to a significant extent on the continued service of key managerial, technical and engineering personnel. Competition for such personnel is intense, particularly in the labor markets around Varian Semiconductor’s facilities in Massachusetts. The available pool of qualified

candidates is limited, and Varian Semiconductor may not be able to retain its key personnel or to attract, train, assimilate or retain other highly qualified engineers and technical and managerial personnel in the future. The loss of these persons or Varian Semiconductor’s inability to hire, train or retrain qualified personnel could harm Varian Semiconductor’s business and results of operations.

 

Varian Semiconductor has anti-takeover defenses that could delay or prevent an acquisition and could adversely affect the price of its common stock.

 

Provisions of Varian Semiconductor’s certificate of incorporation and by-laws and of Delaware law could delay, defer or prevent an acquisition or change in control of Varian Semiconductor or otherwise adversely affect the price of its common stock. For example, Varian Semiconductor’s Board of Directors is classified into three classes, and stockholders do not have the right to call special meetings of stockholders. Varian Semiconductor’s certificate of incorporation also permits its Board of Directors to issue shares of preferred stock without stockholder approval. In addition to delaying or preventing an acquisition, the issuance of a substantial number of

 

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preferred shares could adversely affect the price of the common stock. Varian Semiconductor has also adopted a stockholders’ rights plan which could significantly dilute the equity interests of a person seeking to acquire control of Varian Semiconductor without the approval of the Board of Directors.

 

Varian Semiconductor does not anticipate paying dividends on its common stock in the future.

 

Varian Semiconductor has not paid and does not anticipate paying dividends on its common stock. Varian Semiconductor’s Board of Directors has discretion to make decisions to pay dividends to common stockholders in the future. The decision will depend on a number of factors, including results of operations, financial conditions and contractual restrictions that the Board, in its opinion, deems relevant.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s financial results may be adversely impacted by higher than expected tax rates or exposure to additional income tax liabilities.

 

As a global company, Varian Semiconductor’s effective tax rate is highly dependent upon the geographic composition of worldwide earnings and tax regulations governing each region. Varian Semiconductor is subject to income taxes in both the U.S. and various foreign jurisdictions, and significant judgment is required to determine worldwide tax liabilities. Varian Semiconductor’s effective tax rate could be adversely affected by changes in the distribution of earnings between countries with differing statutory tax rates, in the valuation of deferred tax assets, in tax laws or by material audit assessments, which could affect profitability. For example, recent U.S. legislation governing taxation of extraterritorial income repealed certain export subsidies that were prohibited by the World Trade Organization and enacted different tax provisions. These new tax provisions are not expected to fully offset the loss of the repealed tax provisions and, as a result, Varian Semiconductor’s U.S. tax liability may increase. In addition, Varian Semiconductor’s effective tax rate has benefited from the research and development (“R & D”) tax credit which expired on December 31, 2005. If the R & D credit is not extended, Varian Semiconductor’s tax liability may increase. Further, the carrying value of deferred tax assets, which are predominantly in the U.S., is dependent on Varian Semiconductor’s ability to generate future taxable income in the U.S. In addition, the amount of income taxes paid is subject to ongoing audits in various jurisdictions, and a material assessment by a governing tax authority could affect profitability.

 

Item 2. Properties.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s headquarters and manufacturing facility is located in Gloucester, Massachusetts. In addition, Varian Semiconductor has five sales and service offices located in the U.S. and 29 located outside of the U.S., including offices in France, Germany (three), the Netherlands, Japan (eight), Korea (four), Taiwan (four), China (five), Singapore and Malaysia (two). These offices and facilities aggregate approximately 638 thousand square feet, of which 197 thousand square feet is leased. Since fiscal year 1994, the manufacturing facilities have been registered to the internationally recognized ISO 9001 standard. ISO 2000 certification was obtained in fiscal year 2002, and recertification was obtained in 2005. Field support operations in Europe and Korea have been registered to the ISO 9001:2002 standard since 2003 and 2002, respectively, with Europe operations obtaining recertification in 2006.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s management does not believe there is any material, long-term, excess capacity in Varian Semiconductor’s facilities, although utilization is subject to change based on customer demand. Furthermore, Varian Semiconductor’s management believes that Varian Semiconductor’s facilities and equipment generally are well maintained, in good operating condition, suitable for Varian Semiconductor’s purposes, and adequate for its present operations.

 

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The following table reflects Varian Semiconductor’s locations by geographic segment.

 

Location


  

Property

Interest


  

Approx. Sq. Footage

of Floor Space


North America

   Own    377,000

North America

   Lease    115,000

Korea

   Own    64,000

Korea

   Lease    4,000

Japan

   Lease    23,000

Europe

   Lease    10,000

Taiwan

   Lease    23,000

Other

   Lease    22,000
         

Total

        638,000
         

 

Item 3. Legal Proceedings.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s operations are subject to various foreign, federal, state and/or local laws relating to the protection of the environment. These include laws regarding discharges into soil, water and air, and the generation, handling, storage, transportation and disposal of waste and hazardous substances. In addition, several countries are reviewing proposed regulations that would require manufacturers to dispose of their products at the end of a product’s useful life. These laws have the effect of increasing costs and potential liabilities associated with the conduct of certain operations.

 

Varian Semiconductor is currently the plaintiff in several legal disputes related to employment and contract matters. While Varian Semiconductor believes favorable judgments will be rendered with respect to such claims, the timing and amount, if any, of these judgments is uncertain.

 

From time to time, Varian Semiconductor may become involved in a number of legal actions and could incur an uninsured liability in one or more of them. Accordingly, while the ultimate outcome of these legal matters is not determinable, management believes the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the financial condition or results of operations of Varian Semiconductor.

 

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

 

No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders of Varian Semiconductor, through solicitation of proxies or otherwise, during the last quarter of fiscal year 2006.

 

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PART II

 

Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.

 

Since April 5, 1999, Varian Semiconductor’s common stock has traded on The Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “VSEA.”

 

The following table sets forth the high and low sale prices per share of Varian Semiconductor’s common stock during each quarter for the two most recent fiscal years. The share prices have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the three-for-two stock split in February 2006.

 

Fiscal Year 2005


   High

   Low

First Quarter

   $ 27.43    $ 20.48

Second Quarter

   $ 27.37    $ 20.09

Third Quarter

   $ 27.67    $ 21.70

Fourth Quarter

   $ 31.06    $ 24.56

Fiscal Year 2006


   High

   Low

First Quarter

   $ 30.96    $ 24.31

Second Quarter

   $ 35.94    $ 26.34

Third Quarter

   $ 34.43    $ 27.68

Fourth Quarter

   $ 38.04    $ 25.88

 

The reported closing price of Varian Semiconductor’s common stock on The Nasdaq Global Select Market on September 29, 2006 was $36.70 per share. The number of stockholders of record on December 1, 2006 was 2,618.

 

Varian Semiconductor has never declared or paid cash dividends on its common stock and does not expect to pay any cash dividends on its common stock in the foreseeable future.

 

On October 22, 2004, Varian Semiconductor’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase, from time to time, of up to $100 million of Varian Semiconductor’s common stock on the open market. The first purchases under this plan were made during the first quarter of fiscal year 2006. On August 1, 2006, the Board of Directors of Varian Semiconductor amended the share repurchase program to increase the amount of funds that may be expended in repurchasing Varian Semiconductor’s common stock from $100 million to $200 million. The program does not have a fixed expiration date. During fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor spent $108.9 million on the repurchase of 3,747,555 shares at a weighted-average price per share of $29.03.

 

See Item 12 of Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for information required by Item 201(d) of Regulation S-K.

 

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The following table provides information about purchases by Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. (“Varian Semiconductor”) during the quarter ended September 29, 2006 of equity securities that are registered by Varian Semiconductor pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934:

 

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

Period


 

(a)

Total Number
of Shares (or
Units)
Purchased


 

(b)

Average
Price Paid
per Share
(or Unit)


 

(c)

Total Number of
Shares (or Units)
Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced
Plans or Programs(1)


 

(d)

Maximum Number (or Approximate
Dollar Value) of Shares (or Units)
that May Yet Be Purchased Under
the Plans or Programs

(in thousands)(2)


July 1 – July 28, 2006

  1,203,622   $ 27.67   1,203,622   $ 12,918

July 29 – August 25, 2006

  247,222   $ 33.79   247,222   $ 104,565

August 26 – September 29, 2006

  376,523   $ 35.51   376,523   $ 91,194

Total:(3)

  1,827,367   $ 30.11   1,827,367   $ 91,194

(1)   Varian Semiconductor repurchased an aggregate of 3,747,555 shares of its common stock pursuant to the repurchase program that was publicly announced on October 22, 2004 (the “Program”).

 

(2)   On October 22, 2004, Varian Semiconductor’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase, from time to time, of up to $100 million of Varian Semiconductor’s common stock on the open market. On August 1, 2006, Varian Semiconductor’s Board of Directors amended the Program by increasing the amount of funds that may be expended in repurchasing common stock from $100 million to $200 million. The program does not have a fixed expiration date.

 

(3)   In addition to the repurchases made during the fiscal year ended September 29, 2006, Varian Semiconductor has repurchased 683,504 shares at total cost of $26.5 million between September 30, 2006 and December 1, 2006, the latest practicable date prior to the filing date.

 

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Ite m 6. Selected Financial Data.

 

The information included in the following table reflects selected consolidated summary financial data for each of the last five fiscal years. This data should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto, and with “Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” below.

 

     Fiscal Year

     20061

   20052

   2004

   2003

   20023

     (amounts in millions, except per share amounts)

Consolidated Statements of Income Data:

                                  

Revenue

   $ 730.7    $ 600.5    $ 530.1    $ 362.5    $ 335.4

Gross profit

   $ 309.5    $ 268.7    $ 239.8    $ 151.4    $ 139.2

Net income

   $ 94.7    $ 72.0    $ 61.1    $ 10.8    $ 9.0

Weighted average shares outstanding—basic

     56.4      55.2      54.1      51.3      49.8

Weighted average shares outstanding—diluted

     57.2      56.4      55.5      52.8      52.2

Net income per share—basic

   $ 1.68    $ 1.30    $ 1.13    $ 0.21    $ 0.18

Net income per share—diluted

   $ 1.66    $ 1.28    $ 1.10    $ 0.21    $ 0.17

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data

                                  

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 258.9    $ 193.4    $ 218.6    $ 310.5    $ 307.8

Investments

   $ 290.6    $ 280.6    $ 173.9    $ 40.0    $ —  

Total assets

   $ 938.4    $ 862.8    $ 749.5    $ 598.6    $ 596.4

Working capital

   $ 564.1    $ 640.5    $ 533.6    $ 431.9    $ 385.7

Long term liabilities

   $ 24.3    $ 25.5    $ 25.3    $ 20.2    $ 11.7

Total liabilities

   $ 183.5    $ 173.7    $ 173.4    $ 124.6    $ 160.1

Stockholders’ equity

   $ 754.8    $ 689.1    $ 576.1    $ 474.0    $ 436.2

(1)   Fiscal year 2006 results included a $9.0 million discrete income tax benefit and $1.6 million of related interest income, net income of $10.0 million after tax or $0.17 per diluted share in total, related to the completion of a routine tax examination by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. In fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor adopted the provisions of FAS 123(R), which resulted in $12.9 million net expense or $0.22 per diluted share.

 

(2)   Fiscal year 2005 results included non-recurring pre-tax royalty revenue of $18.9 million and interest income of $5.7 million, net income of $17.0 million after tax or $0.30 per diluted share, relating to a settlement of a patent license agreement with Applied Materials.

 

(3)   Fiscal year 2002 results included non-recurring pre-tax royalty and license revenue of $27.8 million and a gain of $5.1 million in other income, net income of $22.1 million after tax or $0.44 per diluted share, relating to the Settlement and License Agreement with Lam.

 

This selected financial data should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in “Item 15—Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.”

 

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QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA

(Unaudited)

 

Selected Quarterly Results of Operations

 

The following tables set forth unaudited quarterly consolidated statements of income data for each of the eight fiscal quarters in the period ended September 29, 2006. The quarterly data should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

     2006

     First
Quarter


    Second
Quarter


   Third
Quarter


   Fourth
Quarter


   Total
Year


     (amounts in millions, except per share amounts)

Revenue

   $ 160.9     $ 170.5    $ 186.2    $ 213.1    $ 730.7

Cost of revenue

     97.4       100.3      105.1      118.4      421.2
    


 

  

  

  

Gross profit

     63.5       70.2      81.1      94.7      309.5

Operating expenses

     49.9       53.7      50.7      52.3      206.6
    


 

  

  

  

Operating income

     13.6       16.5      30.4      42.4      102.9

Net interest and other income

     5.4       4.9      6.4      5.7      22.4
    


 

  

  

  

Income before income taxes

     19.0       21.4      36.8      48.1      125.3

(Benefit from) provision for income taxes

     (3.3 )     6.6      12.1      15.2      30.6
    


 

  

  

  

Net income

   $ 22.3     $ 14.8    $ 24.7    $ 32.9    $ 94.7
    


 

  

  

  

Weighted average shares outstanding—basic

     56.3       56.9      56.8      55.6      56.4

Weighted average shares outstanding—diluted

     57.1       57.7      57.5      56.4      57.2

Net income per share—basic

   $ 0.40     $ 0.26    $ 0.43    $ 0.59    $ 1.68

Net income per share—diluted

   $ 0.39     $ 0.26    $ 0.43    $ 0.58    $ 1.66
     2005

     First
Quarter


    Second
Quarter


   Third
Quarter


   Fourth
Quarter


   Total
Year


     (amounts in millions, except per share amounts)

Revenue

   $ 148.4     $ 139.1    $ 166.7    $ 146.3    $ 600.5

Cost of revenue

     72.3       80.8      96.2      82.5      331.8
    


 

  

  

  

Gross profit

     76.1       58.3      70.5      63.8      268.7

Operating expenses

     46.0       44.3      45.7      47.5      183.5
    


 

  

  

  

Operating income

     30.1       14.0      24.8      16.3      85.2

Net interest and other income

     10.5       2.3      3.0      3.4      19.2
    


 

  

  

  

Income before income taxes

     40.6       16.3      27.8      19.7      104.4

Provision for income taxes

     12.6       5.2      8.5      6.1      32.4
    


 

  

  

  

Net income

   $ 28.0     $ 11.1    $ 19.3    $ 13.6    $ 72.0
    


 

  

  

  

Weighted average shares outstanding—basic

     54.8       54.9      55.2      56.1      55.2

Weighted average shares outstanding—diluted

     55.8       56.0      56.4      57.3      56.4

Net income per share—basic

   $ 0.51     $ 0.20    $ 0.35    $ 0.24    $ 1.30

Net income per share—diluted

   $ 0.50     $ 0.20    $ 0.34    $ 0.24    $ 1.28

 

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Table of Contents
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains certain forward-looking statements. For purposes of the safe harbor provisions under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, any statements using the terms “believes,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans” or similar expressions, are forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. There are a number of important factors that could cause Varian Semiconductor’s actual results to differ materially from those indicated by forward-looking statements made in this report and presented by management from time to time. Some of the important risks and uncertainties that may cause Varian Semiconductor’s financial results to differ are described in Item 1A. “Risk Factors.”

 

Overview

 

Varian Semiconductor is the leading supplier of ion implantation equipment used in the fabrication of semiconductor chips. Varian Semiconductor designs, manufactures, markets and services semiconductor processing equipment for virtually all of the major semiconductor manufacturers in the world. The VIISta ion implanter products are designed to leverage single wafer processing technology for the full range of semiconductor implant applications. Varian Semiconductor has shipped more than 3,600 systems worldwide.

 

Varian Semiconductor provides support, training, and after-market products and services that help its customers obtain high utilization and productivity, reduce operating costs, and extend capital productivity of investments through multiple product generations. In fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor was ranked number one in customer satisfaction in VLSI Research Inc.’s customer survey for all large suppliers of wafer processing equipment, an honor received in nine of the past ten years.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s business is cyclical. The business depends upon semiconductor manufacturers’ expectations and resulting capacity investments for future integrated circuit demand. In fiscal year 2004 Varian Semiconductor experienced an increase in business activity owing to a generally strengthening economy and increased demand for semiconductor equipment. During calendar year 2005, there was an 11% decline in worldwide ion implanter sales. However, due to market share gains, Varian Semiconductor’s fiscal year 2005 revenue increased 13% over fiscal year 2004 as customers migrated to single wafer systems, which favor Varian Semiconductor’s product offerings. Single wafer systems are now preferred over batch systems as they process wafers in such a way that results in higher yields for advanced device manufacturers. During fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor believes its 22% revenue increase over fiscal year 2005 was the result of both increases in worldwide ion implanter sales as well as Varian Semiconductor’s continued market share gains for the calendar year 2006.

 

Wafer size and market.    The migration from 200mm to 300mm began at the end of the 1990s and 300mm fabs now represent more than half of semiconductor expansions. Most advanced devices below 130nm are produced on 300mm wafers. Varian Semiconductor believes the increase in shipments from 200mm to 300mm will continue and is evidence that Varian Semiconductor’s tools meet the newest technology requirements. Memory manufacturers typically produce integrated circuits used for DRAM, flash, etc. which store and retrieve information, while logic manufacturers typically produce integrated circuits used to process data. Significant purchasing fluctuations from memory, logic and foundry fabs could lead to significant fluctuations in Varian Semiconductor’s revenues, even if the total ion implant market remains flat.

 

The first table below shows Varian Semiconductor’s calendar year 2005, 2004 and 2003 market share, as reported by Gartner Dataquest in April 2006, April 2005 and April 2004. Market share estimates are calculated on a subset of revenue, and information reported by Gartner Dataquest may not be consistent on a company by company basis. The second table below shows the total available market for ion implanter sales in calendar years 2005, 2004 and 2003, also reported by Gartner Dataquest in April 2006, April 2005 and April 2004. The total available market represents an estimated worldwide total revenue for ion implanters sold by all companies which sell ion implanters during each of the calendar years.

 

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Table of Contents

Market Share

 

     Calendar Year Ended

 
     December 31,
2005


    December 31,
2004


    December 31,
2003


 

By market

                  

Medium current

   58 %   52 %   61 %

High current

   38 %   22 %   16 %

High energy

   10 %   10 %   18 %

Overall

   39 %   31 %   31 %
                    

 

Total Available Market

 

     Calendar Year Ended

     December 31,
2005


   December 31,
2004


   December 31,
2003


     (in millions)

By market

                    

Medium current

   $ 330    $ 447    $  248

High current

     598      595      373

High energy

     194      223      133
    

  

  

Overall

   $ 1,122    $ 1,265    $  754
    

  

  

 

Market Share and Total Available Market.    Market share and total available market research data is also published by VLSI Research Inc. In April 2006, VLSI Research Inc. reported that Varian Semiconductor’s overall market share was 41% and that the total available market was $1,070 million for calendar year 2005. Varian Semiconductor’s increase in high current and medium current market share has led to increased revenues, as the total available market for ion implanter sales decreased by 11% during calendar year 2005, compared to calendar year 2004. Varian Semiconductor’s increase in high current market share is a result of the industry shift to single wafer implanters at advanced technology nodes (65nm and below). Varian Semiconductor began developing single wafer high current tools during 1994 and believes it is currently the industry leader. In addition, Varian Semiconductor continues to invest in research and development to maintain its medium current market share lead. High energy implanters are the smallest component of the total available market for ion implanter sales and Varian Semiconductor maintained its market share. Please refer to Item 1. “Business” of this document for additional information on the technology and markets for ion implantation equipment.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Significant Accounting Estimates

 

Varian Semiconductor’s discussion and analysis of its financial condition and results of operations are based upon Varian Semiconductor’s consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) in the U.S. The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires Varian Semiconductor to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. On a continual basis, Varian Semiconductor evaluates its estimates, including those related to revenues, inventories, accounts receivable, long-lived assets, income taxes, warranty obligations, deferred revenue, post-retirement benefits, contingencies, stock-based compensation and foreign currencies. Varian Semiconductor operates in a highly cyclical and competitive industry that is influenced by a variety of diverse factors including, but not limited to, technological advances, product life cycles, customer and supplier lead times, and geographic and macroeconomic trends. Estimating product demand beyond a relatively short forecasting horizon is difficult and prone to forecasting error due to the cyclical nature and inherent lack of visibility in the industry. Varian Semiconductor bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to

 

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be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. See also the factors discussed in Item 1A. “Risk Factors.”

 

Varian Semiconductor believes that the following sets forth the critical accounting policies used by Varian Semiconductor in the preparation of its consolidated financial statements.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

Product revenue includes established products, new products, upgrades and spare parts.

 

Varian Semiconductor recognizes revenue from product sales upon shipment, provided title and risk of loss has passed to the customer, evidence of an arrangement exists, fees are contractually fixed or determinable, collectibility is reasonably assured through historical collection results and regular credit evaluations, and there are no uncertainties regarding customer acceptance.

 

For established and new products, a portion of the total purchase price is typically not due until installation occurs and the customer accepts the product. For established products, the lesser of the amount allocated to the equipment or the contractual amount due upon delivery is recorded as product revenue upon delivery. The amount deferred is recognized as revenue upon customer acceptance. For new products, revenue allocated to the equipment is recognized upon customer acceptance. Revenue related to spare parts and upgrade sales is recognized upon the later of delivery or when the title and risk of loss passes to the customer.

 

Products are classified as established products if post-delivery acceptance provisions and the installation process have been determined to be routine, due to the fact that the acceptance provisions are generally a replication of pre-shipment procedures, and there is a demonstrated history of achieving predetermined installation cost targets. The majority of products are designed and manufactured to meet contractual customer specifications. To ensure customer specifications are satisfied, the systems are tested at Varian Semiconductor’s manufacturing facility prior to shipment. To the extent that customers’ conditions cannot be replicated in Varian Semiconductor’s facilities, or if there is not a demonstrated history of meeting newer customer specifications, then the product is treated as new for revenue recognition purposes. Varian Semiconductor has predetermined criteria for changing the classification of a new product to an established product. A new product must achieve a set number of acceptances and a set target for installation cost. Once the criteria have been achieved for a new product, the product is considered established.

 

Service revenue includes revenue from maintenance and service contracts, extended warranties, paid service and system installation services. Revenue related to maintenance and service contracts is recognized ratably over the duration of the contracts. Extended warranty revenue is deferred and recognized ratably over the applicable warranty term. Revenue related to paid service is recorded when earned and revenue related to installation is recorded upon fulfillment of the service obligation and customer acceptance. It takes approximately three to six weeks for Varian Semiconductor technicians to complete the installation of Varian Semiconductor products and perform tests agreed to with customers. Certain customers formally document their acceptance of Varian Semiconductor’s products at this time. Other customers elect to perform additional internal testing prior to formal acceptance, and this process generally takes eight to twelve weeks.

 

Royalty and license revenue is recognized when contractual obligations are met, and in the case of royalties, upon receipt of a royalty report from the customer, evidence of an arrangement exists, fees are fixed or determinable and collection is reasonably assured. When fees are not fixed or determinable, revenue is recorded when payments become due.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s transactions frequently include the sale of systems and services under multiple element arrangements. Revenue under these arrangements is allocated to all elements, except systems, based upon the fair

 

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value of those elements. The amount allocated to installation is based upon hourly rates at the estimated time to complete the service. The fair value of all other elements is based upon the price charged when these amounts are sold separately and unaccompanied by other elements. The amount of revenue allocated to systems is done on a residual method basis. Under this method, the total value of the arrangement is allocated first to the undelivered elements based on their fair values, with the remainder being allocated to systems revenue.

 

Inventory and Purchase Order Commitments

 

Varian Semiconductor values its inventory at the lower of cost or market. The determination of lower of cost or market requires that Varian Semiconductor make significant assumptions about future demand for products and the transition to new product offerings from legacy products. Estimating product demand beyond a relatively short forecasting horizon is difficult and prone to forecasting error due to the cyclical nature and inherent lack of visibility in the industry. Varian Semiconductor also provides for losses on those open purchase order commitments in which Varian Semiconductor’s estimated obligation to receive inventory under the commitments exceeds expected production demand. These assumptions include, but are not limited to, future manufacturing schedules, customer demand, supplier lead time and technological and market obsolescence. Once inventory is written down and a new cost basis has been established, it is not written back up if demand increases. If market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, additional inventory provisions may be required. If market conditions are more favorable than those projected by management, and specific inventory previously written down is subsequently sold, gross profit would improve by the amount of the specific write-down reversed in the period the inventory is sold. In the case of purchase order commitments, more favorable market conditions or successful negotiations with suppliers will result in a reduction of provisions in the period the excess purchase order commitments are reduced.

 

Valuation Allowance on Deferred Tax Assets and Income Tax Provision

 

Varian Semiconductor records a valuation allowance against deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not that a portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. On a quarterly basis, Varian Semiconductor evaluates both the positive and negative evidence bearing upon the realizability of its deferred tax assets. Varian Semiconductor considers future taxable income, ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies, and the ability to utilize tax losses and credits in assessing the need for a valuation allowance. A valuation allowance related to certain state tax credit carryforwards has been recorded. Management has concluded that it is more likely than not that these credits will not be utilized since historically the annual amount of state credits generated exceeds the amount of credits that can be used. Should Varian Semiconductor determine that it is not able to realize all or part of its other deferred tax assets in the future, a valuation allowance would be required resulting in an expense recorded within the provision for income taxes in the statement of income in the period in which such determination was made. It is possible that the amount of the deferred tax asset considered realizable could be reduced in the near term if future taxable income is reduced. Varian Semiconductor’s effective tax rate is affected by levels of taxable income in domestic and foreign tax jurisdictions, U.S. tax credits generated and utilized for research and development expenditures, U.S. foreign income exclusion, investment tax credits and other tax incentives specific to domestic and foreign operations. In the normal course of business, Varian Semiconductor and its subsidiaries are examined by various tax authorities, including the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”). The IRS conducted an examination for the tax years 1999 through 2003 as part of its routine examinations of Varian Semiconductor’s income tax returns. Fieldwork for the examination was completed in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2005 and submitted to the Congressional Joint Committee on Taxation (“Joint Committee”) for final approval. Varian Semiconductor was notified of Joint Committee approval in the first quarter of fiscal year 2006. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor recognized a discrete income tax benefit of $9.0 million related to the favorable conclusion of this multi-year examination by the IRS. In addition, Varian Semiconductor recorded $1.6 million of interest income related to various income tax refunds that were released by the IRS at the conclusion of this examination.

 

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Table of Contents

Product Warranties

 

Varian Semiconductor provides for the estimated cost of product warranties, the amount of which is based primarily upon historical information, at the time product revenue is recognized. While Varian Semiconductor engages in extensive product quality programs and processes including actively monitoring and evaluating the quality of its component supplies, Varian Semiconductor’s warranty obligation is affected by product failure rates, utilization levels, material usage, service delivery costs incurred in correcting a product failure, and supplier warranties on parts delivered to Varian Semiconductor. Should actual product failure rates, utilization levels, material usage, service delivery costs incurred in correcting a product failure, or supplier warranties on parts differ from Varian Semiconductor’s estimates, revisions to the estimated warranty liability would be required.

 

Results of Operations

 

Fiscal Year

 

Varian Semiconductor’s fiscal year is a 52- or 53-week period that ends on the Friday nearest September 30. Fiscal year 2006 was comprised of a 52-week period ended on September 29, 2006. Fiscal year 2005 was comprised of a 52-week period ended on September 30, 2005. Fiscal year 2004 was comprised of a 52-week period ended on October 1, 2004.

 

 

Fiscal Year 2006 Compared to Fiscal Year 2005 and

Fiscal Year 2005 Compared to Fiscal Year 2004

 

Revenue

 

The following table sets forth revenue by revenue stream and territory for fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004:

 

     Fiscal Year Ended

   Fiscal Year 2005 to
Fiscal Year 2006


    Fiscal Year 2004 to
Fiscal Year 2005


 
     September 29,
2006


   September 30,
2005


   October 1,
2004


   Change

    Percent
Change


    Change

    Percent
Change


 
     (Amounts in thousands)  

Revenue

                                                 

Product

   $ 642,038    $ 488,719    $ 456,217    $ 153,319     31 %   $ 32,502     7 %

Service

     79,222      84,078      65,947      (4,856 )   -6 %     18,131     27 %

Royalty and license

     9,454      27,724      7,945      (18,270 )   -66 %     19,779     249 %
    

  

  

  


 

 


 

Revenue

   $ 730,714    $ 600,521    $ 530,109    $ 130,193     22 %   $ 70,412     13 %
    

  

  

  


 

 


 

Revenue by territory:

                                                 

Asia Pacific

   $ 491,121    $ 408,582    $ 358,591    $ 82,539     20 %   $ 49,991     14 %

North America*

     161,129      134,778      107,476      26,351     20 %     27,302     25 %

Europe

     78,464      57,161      64,042      21,303     37 %     (6,881 )   -11 %
    

  

  

  


 

 


 

Revenue

   $ 730,714    $ 600,521    $ 530,109    $ 130,193     22 %   $ 70,412     13 %
    

  

  

  


 

 


 


*   North America revenue for the first nine months of fiscal year 2005 included $18.9 million in past due royalties from Applied Materials.

 

Product

 

Varian Semiconductor’s product sales increased by 31% during fiscal year 2006 after a 7% increase during fiscal year 2005. The fiscal year 2006 increases were mainly due to a unit increase in system sales of 33%, primarily related to high current system sales, and an increase in sales of parts. Varian Semiconductor believes that market share gains, particularly in the high current sector, and an overall increase in industry spending, were the primary

 

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reasons for Varian Semiconductor’s increase in sales in fiscal year 2006. In fiscal year 2005, Varian Semiconductor’s product sales increased by 7% due to a unit increase in system sales of 3%, a shift towards VIISta systems, which typically have higher selling prices than legacy systems, and an increase in sales of parts and upgrades.

 

Service

 

Service revenue decreased by 6% in fiscal year 2006 as compared to fiscal year 2005, primarily as a result of the reduction in fair value of system installations. Generally, installation revenue is influenced by shipment volume of systems, product mix, customer mix, timing of customer acceptance and the fair value of installations. As products mature and the installation requires less effort to complete, the fair value of installation revenue per system is reduced, which contributes to the reduction in service revenue. Service contract revenues partially offset this decrease by increasing 8% from fiscal year 2005 to fiscal year 2006, primarily as a result of sales of service contracts with new systems. System installation revenues increased by 92% in fiscal year 2005 compared to fiscal year 2004. The increase in service revenue from fiscal year 2004 to fiscal year 2005 was primarily the result of an increase in the number of system installations as the fair value of the installations decreased only slightly. Service contract revenues also increased from fiscal year 2004 to fiscal year 2005 by 12%, primarily as a result of sales of service contracts with new systems.

 

Royalty and License

 

In fiscal year 2005, Varian Semiconductor received payments from Applied Materials of $18.9 million for past due royalties. Applied Materials is also required to make quarterly unit-based royalties payments to Varian Semiconductor on future sales of certain products found to be within the scope of the Agreement through the expiration of the Agreement in March 2007. Varian Semiconductor recognized an additional $6.4 million during fiscal year 2006 as royalty revenue related to this agreement.

 

Pursuant to the terms of a Settlement and License Agreement between Lam and Varian Semiconductor, Lam was required to make quarterly cash payments of $1.25 million through the first quarter of fiscal year 2005 for future use of the patents. These quarterly cash payments were recognized as revenue in fiscal years 2005 and 2004.

 

Customers

 

Revenue from Varian Semiconductor’s ten largest customers in fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004 accounted for approximately 63%, 66% and 60% of revenue, respectively. Varian Semiconductor expects that sales of its products to relatively few customers will continue to account for a high percentage of its revenue in the foreseeable future. In fiscal year 2006, revenue from three customers accounted for 11%, 10% and 10%, respectively, of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenue. In fiscal year 2005, revenue from two customers accounted for 20% and 14% of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenue. In fiscal year 2004, revenue from two customers accounted for 14% and 10% of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenue.

 

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Shipment Mix

 

Varian Semiconductor’s tools are used primarily for 200mm and 300mm wafer size implants. In addition, Varian Semiconductor’s tools are used in both major markets – memory and logic – for integrated circuits. Shipments to foundry manufacturers are allocated based upon Varian Semiconductor’s estimate of usage for either memory or logic. The following table sets forth tool shipments by wafer size and market, as a percent of total tool shipments, for fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004. Percentages are based on the number of tools shipped during the respective period.

 

     Fiscal Year Ended

    Fiscal 2005 to
Fiscal 2006


    Fiscal 2004 to
Fiscal 2005


 
     September 29,
2006


    September 30,
2005


    October 1,
2004


    Percent
Change


    Percent
Change


 

By wafer size

                              

300 mm

   75 %   55 %   44 %   36 %   25 %

200 mm

   25 %   45 %   56 %   -44 %   -20 %
    

 

 

           

Shipments

   100 %   100 %   100 %            
    

 

 

           

By market

                              

Memory

   60 %   72 %   46 %   -17 %   57 %

Logic

   40 %   28 %   54 %   43 %   -48 %
    

 

 

           

Shipments

   100 %   100 %   100 %            
    

 

 

           

 

Cost of Product Revenue

 

Cost of product revenue was $371.1 million and gross margin was 42% for fiscal year 2006, compared to the cost of product revenue of $280.4 million and gross margin of 43% for fiscal year 2005. For fiscal year 2004, cost of product revenue was $249.1 million and gross margin was 45%. The slight decrease in gross margin from fiscal year 2005 to fiscal year 2006 was primarily due to the fact that parts and upgrades sales, which have higher margins than systems, were a lower percentage of product sales in fiscal year 2006 than in fiscal year 2005. In addition, during fiscal year 2006 there were increased product transition costs and market share penetrations, where the initial costs to support the first system in the fab are higher than for follow-on business. Gross margin decreased from fiscal year 2004 to fiscal year 2005 due to higher levels of field support and distribution costs associated with the larger installed base of systems in new fabs. Cost of product revenue in fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004 was favorably impacted by $1.7 million, $1.7 million and $0.9 million, respectively, from the sale of certain inventory for which the carrying value had been reduced in previous periods. Cost of product revenue for fiscal year 2006 included $1.1 million of equity-based compensation costs recorded upon the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS No. 123 (R)”) as of October 1, 2005.

 

Cost of Service Revenue

 

Cost of service revenue was $50.1 million and gross margin was 37% for fiscal year 2006, compared to $51.4 million and gross margin of 39% for fiscal year 2005 and $41.2 million and gross margin of 38% for fiscal year 2004. The decrease in cost of service revenue for fiscal year 2006 was primarily due to a decrease in installation costs. The decrease in service margins in fiscal year 2006 was related to decreased margins on installations and the mix of customers for both contracts and paid service. The increase in cost of service revenue and gross margin from fiscal year 2004 to fiscal year 2005 was related to the increased number of installations. The fair value of installations is assessed periodically and is largely based upon the historical experience of the effort and cost to complete installations. The fair value of tool installation is determined at the time of tool shipment. As products have matured and the installation requires less effort to complete, the fair value of installation revenue per installation is reduced. Based upon the results of the first quarter 2006, the fair value was reduced for certain products shipped in the remaining quarters of fiscal year 2006 thus reducing the gross margin. Generally, installation revenue is influenced by shipment volume of systems, product mix, customer mix, timing of

 

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customer acceptances and the fair value of installations. Cost of service revenue for fiscal year 2006 included $1.0 million of equity-based compensation costs recorded upon the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R) as of October 1, 2005.

 

Research and Development

 

Research and development expenses were $90.6 million for fiscal year 2006, compared to $77.7 million for fiscal year 2005 and $67.7 million for fiscal year 2004, an increase of $12.9 million, or 17% from fiscal year 2005 to fiscal year 2006, and an increase of $10.0 million, or 15% from fiscal year 2004 to fiscal year 2005. The increases in research and development spending are attributable to Varian Semiconductor’s rapid development cycle and continuing efforts to improve productivity and technical development of its products. The year-over-year increase was a result of increased labor and material spending associated with the development of new products, particularly for new generation high current implanters. In addition to developing new high current products, Varian Semiconductor continues to focus on maintaining its leadership position in the market for medium current implanters. Research and development expense for fiscal year 2006 included $3.7 million of equity-based compensation costs recorded upon the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R) as of October 1, 2005.

 

Marketing, General and Administrative

 

Marketing, general and administrative expenses were $116.1 million for fiscal year 2006, compared to $104.9 million for fiscal year 2005 and $85.6 million for fiscal year 2004, an increase of $11.2 million, or 11% from fiscal year 2005 to fiscal year 2006, and an increase of $19.3 million, or 23% from fiscal year 2004 to fiscal year 2005. The increase in expense from fiscal year 2005 to fiscal year 2006 was primarily the result of the expensing of stock based compensation. Increased product marketing expenses, service expenses, and IT expenses also contributed to the increase. These increases were partially offset by decreases in marketing expenses related to the customer evaluations and demonstration of new generation products, and decreases in legal expenses. The increase in expense from fiscal year 2004 to fiscal year 2005 was the result of increased marketing expenses related to the customer evaluations and demonstration of new generation products and increases in the cost of variable compensation programs that partially fluctuate with profitability, as well as increased legal expenses associated with patent enforcement actions. Marketing, general and administrative expenses for fiscal year 2006 included $13.2 million of equity-based compensation costs recorded upon the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R) as of October 1, 2005. Additionally, the first quarter of fiscal year 2005 included a $3.5 million charge, largely non-cash, associated with the retirement of the President and Chief Operating Officer of Varian Semiconductor.

 

Restructuring Costs

 

During fiscal year 2005, Varian Semiconductor recognized $0.9 million in restructuring costs. The restructuring costs related to reductions in headcount and facilities in Europe. There were no restructuring costs recognized during fiscal year 2004. The restructuring reserve balance of $0.2 million as of September 30, 2005, was paid during fiscal year 2006, and there were no additional charges in fiscal year 2006.

 

Interest Income and Interest Expense

 

During fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor earned $21.5 million in net interest income, compared to $16.3 million for fiscal year 2005 and $4.3 million for fiscal year 2004. Interest income in fiscal year 2006 included $1.6 million related to the release of tax refunds by the IRS upon the conclusion of a multi-year tax examination. Interest income in fiscal year 2005 included $5.7 million in interest on the past due royalties received from Applied Materials. In addition, interest income, during both fiscal years 2006 and 2005, increased due to higher cash balances and rates, along with an increased portfolio of investments. At September 29, 2006, Varian Semiconductor had $98.2 million in cash equivalents whose interest was exempt from taxation by the IRS. The rates of return on these cash equivalents were approximately 33% lower than rates earned on comparable fully-taxable cash equivalents.

 

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Other Income (Expense), Net.

 

During fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor recorded other income of $0.9 million, primarily related to a gain on the sale of certain non-operating real estate owned by Varian Semiconductor. During fiscal year 2005, Varian Semiconductor recorded other income of $2.8 million, primarily related to the reduction of an estimated loss contingency of $2.7 million associated with patent infringement and antitrust litigation. During fiscal year 2004, Varian Semiconductor recorded other expense of $0.9 million, primarily related to the cancellation of capital projects. Other income, net also includes foreign currency exchange gains and losses.

 

Provision for Income Taxes

 

Varian Semiconductor’s effective income tax rate was 24% in fiscal year 2006, 31% in fiscal year 2005 and 32% in fiscal year 2004. Exclusive of the effects of the discrete tax benefit received in the first quarter of fiscal year 2006, as discussed in the following paragraph, and other one time items, the effective tax would have been 32% for the fiscal year 2006. The rate is lower than the U.S. federal statutory rate in fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004, principally due to credits and lower-taxed foreign income. Future tax rates may vary from these historic rates depending on the worldwide composition of earnings and the continuing availability of income tax credits, as well as the potential resolution of tax contingencies. On October 22, 2004, the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 (“AJCA”) was signed into law. The AJCA phases out the benefits from the extraterritorial exclusion in fiscal years 2005 and 2006, and provides a new deduction for income from domestic production activities. This deduction became effective for Varian Semiconductor in fiscal year 2006. The AJCA also creates a temporary incentive for U.S. companies to repatriate accumulated foreign earnings by providing an elective 85% dividends received deduction for certain dividends from controlled foreign corporations. Varian Semiconductor completed its evaluation of the foreign repatriation provisions and decided not to repatriate foreign earnings under these provisions as it would not be beneficial to Varian Semiconductor.

 

In the normal course of business, Varian Semiconductor and its subsidiaries are examined by various tax authorities, including the IRS. The IRS conducted an examination for the tax years 1999 through 2003 as part of its routine examinations of Varian Semiconductor’s income tax returns. The IRS completed fieldwork for this examination of Varian Semiconductor in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2005 and submitted its report to the Joint Committee for final approval. Varian Semiconductor was notified of Joint Committee approval in the first quarter of fiscal year 2006. Related to the conclusion of this examination, Varian Semiconductor recorded a discrete tax benefit of $9.0 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2006.

 

Net Income

 

As a result of the foregoing factors, for fiscal year 2006 Varian Semiconductor recorded net income of $94.7 million, compared to net income of $72.0 million for fiscal year 2005 and $61.1 million for fiscal year 2004. The net income per diluted share was $1.66 for fiscal year 2006, compared to net income per diluted share of $1.28 for fiscal year 2005 and $1.10 for fiscal year 2004.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Varian Semiconductor generated $140.6 million of cash from operations during fiscal year 2006, compared to $73.0 million during fiscal year 2005. Cash provided by operations in fiscal year 2006 was derived primarily from net income of $94.7 million, less non-cash expenses such as stock based compensation of $18.9 million, depreciation and amortization of $13.0 million, and the tax benefit from stock options exercised and employee stock purchase plan issuances of $10.8 million. Also contributing to cash from operations were a decrease in other current assets of $14.7 million and an increase in accounts payable of $12.6 million. The cash flow effects of net income, non-cash items and the changes in other current assets and accounts payable were partially offset by increases in inventory of $11.8 million and decreases in accrued expenses of $5.9 million. The decrease in other current assets is primarily related to the receipt of refunds from the IRS associated with the conclusion of a

 

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multi-year tax examination. The increase in accounts payable and inventory is related to a higher manufacturing build schedule for the first quarter of fiscal year 2007 as opposed to the schedule for the first quarter of fiscal year 2006. Additionally, increases in inventory are also due to increased field inventory primarily for new customers. In fiscal year 2005, cash provided by operations was derived primarily from net income of $72.0 million, depreciation and amortization of $12.8 million, the tax benefit from stock options exercised and employee stock purchase plan issuances of $9.9 million, an increase in accrued expenses of $6.9 million and a decrease in other current assets of $5.7 million. The cash flow effects of net income, non-cash items and the changes in accrued expenses and other current assets were partially offset by increases in inventory of $34.6 million. Increases in inventory were due to increased customer evaluation systems and field inventory primarily for new customers. In fiscal year 2004, cash provided by operations was derived primarily from net income of $61.1 million, and increases in deferred revenue of $30.8 million, depreciation and amortization of $13.0 million and accounts payable of $11.6 million. The cash flow effects of net income and the increases in deferred revenue, depreciation and amortization and accounts payable were partially offset by increases in accounts receivable of $59.8 million and inventory of $48.4 million.

 

During fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor used $9.1 million for the net purchase of investments and $12.0 million for the purchase of property, plant and equipment. In fiscal year 2005, Varian Semiconductor used $109.6 million for the net purchase of investments and $12.4 million for the purchase of property, plant and equipment. In fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor’s net purchase of investments was lower than in fiscal year 2005 due to the repurchase of $108.9 million of its stock and the relative attractiveness of rates of return on cash equivalents. In fiscal year 2004, Varian Semiconductor used $134.9 million for the net purchase of short-term investments and $11.6 million of cash for the purchase of property, plant and equipment.

 

During fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor used $54.5 million of cash for financing activities. Varian Semiconductor repurchased $108.9 million of its stock during the fiscal year as part of its authorized share repurchase program. This was partially offset by the issuance of stock upon the exercise of stock options and under the employee stock purchase plan of $50.3 million and the excess tax benefit from stock based compensation of $4.5 million. During fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor’s Board of Directors amended the share repurchase program by increasing the amount of funds that may be expended in repurchasing common stock from $100 million to $200 million. The program does not have a fixed expiration date. During fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor repurchased 3.7 million shares at a weighted-average price per share of $29.03. During fiscal year 2005, Varian Semiconductor generated $23.4 million of cash from financing activities, primarily due to the issuance of stock upon the exercise of stock options and under the employee stock purchase plan of $27.7 million, partially offset by repayments of short- and long-term borrowings. During fiscal year 2004, $24.1 million of cash was generated by financing activities, primarily due to $26.2 million from the issuance of stock upon the exercise of stock options, partially offset by repayments of short- and long-term borrowings.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s liquidity is affected by many factors, some based on the normal operations of the business and others related to the uncertainties of the industry and global economies. Varian Semiconductor believes that cash, cash equivalents and investments of $549.5 million at September 29, 2006 will be sufficient to satisfy working capital requirements, commitments for capital expenditures, any future common stock repurchases and other purchase commitments, environmental contingencies and cash requirements for the foreseeable future.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

Varian Semiconductor does not have any relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, such as entities often referred to as structured finance or special purpose entities, which would have been established for the purpose of facilitating off-balance-sheet arrangements or other contractually narrow or limited purposes. As such, Varian Semiconductor is not exposed to any financing, liquidity, market or credit risk that could arise if Varian Semiconductor had engaged in such relationships.

 

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Contractual Obligations

 

Under GAAP, some obligations and commitments are not required to be included in the consolidated balance sheets and statements of income. These obligations and commitments, while entered into in the normal course of business, may have a material impact on liquidity. Other than the principal portion of the loan payments, which is included in the balance sheet, the following commitments as of September 29, 2006 have not been included in the consolidated balance sheets and statements of income included under Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”.

 

     Commitments by Period

     Total

   Less than
1 year


   1-3 Years

   3-5 Years

   After 5
Years


     (amounts in thousands)

Operating leases

   $ 1,964    $ 1,456    $ 478    $ 30    $  —  

Loan principal and interest

     4,906      785      1,570      1,570      981

Purchase order commitments

     78,683      78,683      —        —        —  
    

  

  

  

  

Total commitments

   $ 85,553    $ 80,924    $ 2,048    $ 1,600    $  981
    

  

  

  

  

 

As of September 29, 2006 and September 30, 2005, Varian Semiconductor’s subsidiary in Japan had two credit facilities available with two different financial institutions. At September 29, 2006, maximum available borrowings under each of the two facilities were as follows: Yen 1,000,000,000 ($8.5 million) and Yen 500,000,000 ($4.3 million). The loans are unsecured and contain no restrictive covenants, although each loan is guaranteed by Varian Semiconductor. The interest rate for the Yen 1,000,000,000 credit facility is based on the short-term prime rate and was approximately 1.675% at September 29, 2006 and 1.375% at September 30, 2005. The interest rate for the Yen 500,000,000 facility is the 3-month Tokyo interbank offered rate (TIBOR) + 1.00% and was approximately 1.44% at September 29, 2006. There were no outstanding borrowings under either facility at September 29, 2006 or September 30, 2005.

 

Varian Semiconductor also has borrowing capacity in Europe and Taiwan. Varian Semiconductor’s subsidiary in Europe maintains a credit facility that includes overdraft protection of Euro 2.5 million which at September 29, 2006 translated to $3.2 million. Interest accrues at the Euro base rate + 1.5% and was approximately 5.25% at September 29, 2006. Varian Semiconductor’s subsidiary in Taiwan maintains a credit facility of $1.0 million. Any outstanding borrowings under the Taiwan facility accrue interest at the local base rate + 2.0% plus taxes, which was approximately 7.7% at September 29, 2006, and are payable on demand. Both credit facilities are unsecured and contain no restrictive covenants, although each facility is guaranteed by Varian Semiconductor. There were no outstanding borrowings as of September 29, 2006 or September 30, 2005 under either facility.

 

In February 2003, Varian Semiconductor purchased its previously leased facility located in Newburyport, Massachusetts. The purchase price consisted of cash payments totaling $3.4 million, the assumption of the seller’s outstanding loan of $5.1 million and the transfer of other prepaid assets of $0.8 million. The loan has a fixed interest rate of 9.05% with monthly payments of principal and interest until the loan matures in January 2013. The loan may be prepaid in full, but not in part, at any time after November 5, 2006. Prepayment would require Varian Semiconductor to pay a prepayment penalty equal to the greater of two percent of the outstanding principal balance or the excess of the present value of all future loan payments over the outstanding principal balance of the loan. The loan is secured by the property. The $3.7 million carrying amount of the loan had an estimated fair value of $3.9 million at September 29, 2006. The fair value of the loan was estimated using a discounted cash flow analysis. The interest rate was estimated based on current market conditions and Varian Semiconductor’s financial condition at September 29, 2006. As of September 29, 2006, Varian Semiconductor also has a standby letter of credit outstanding for $1.9 million as a guarantee for the debt on this facility.

 

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Transactions with Affiliates and Related Parties

 

Operations prior to April 2, 1999 had been part of the former VAI, now known as VMS. On April 2, 1999, VAI contributed its SEB to Varian Semiconductor, then distributed to the holders of record of VAI common stock one share of common stock of Varian Semiconductor for each share of VAI common stock owned on March 24, 1999. At the same time, VAI contributed its Instruments Business (“IB”) to VI and distributed to the holders of record of VAI common stock one share of common stock of IB for each share of VAI common stock owned on March 24, 1999. VAI retained its Health Care Systems business and changed its name to VMS effective as of April 2, 1999. These transactions were accomplished under the terms of a Distribution Agreement by and among Varian Semiconductor, VAI, hereafter referred to as VMS for periods following the spin-off and VI (the “Distribution Agreement”). For purposes of providing an orderly transition and to define certain ongoing relationships between and among Varian Semiconductor, VMS and VI after the spin-off, Varian Semiconductor, VMS and VI also entered into the Distribution Related Agreements.

 

The Distribution Related Agreements provide that from and after the spin-off, VMS, VI, and Varian Semiconductor will indemnify each and their respective subsidiaries, directors, officers, employees and agents against all losses arising in connection with shared liabilities (including certain environmental and legal liabilities). All shared liabilities will be managed and administered by VMS and expenses and losses, net of proceeds and other receivables, will be borne one-third each by VMS, VI, and Varian Semiconductor. The Distribution Related Agreements also provide that Varian Semiconductor shall assume all of its liabilities, other than shared liabilities (including accounts payable, accrued payroll and pension liabilities) in accordance with their terms. During fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004, Varian Semiconductor was charged $1.4 million, $1.2 million and $1.6 million, respectively, by VMS in settlement of these obligations.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In May 2005, the FASB issued SFAS No. 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections.” This statement replaces APB Opinion No. 20, “Accounting Changes”, and SFAS No. 3, “Reporting Accounting Changes in Interim Financial Statements,” and changes the requirements for the accounting for and reporting of a change in accounting principle. This statement applies to all voluntary changes in accounting principles. It also applies to

changes required by an accounting pronouncement in the unusual instance that the pronouncement does not include specific transition provisions. When a pronouncement includes specific transition provisions, those provisions should be followed. SFAS No. 154 requires retrospective application to prior periods’ financial statements of voluntary changes in accounting principles. SFAS No. 154 is effective for accounting changes and corrections of errors made during Varian Semiconductor’s fiscal year 2007, beginning on September 30, 2006. Varian Semiconductor does not believe the adoption of SFAS No. 154 will have a material impact on its financial statements.

 

In June 2006, the FASB ratified the consensus reached by the EITF on Issue No. 06-3, “How Taxes Collected from Customers and Remitted to Governmental Authorities Should Be Presented in the Income Statement (That Is, Gross versus Net Presentation)” (“EITF 06-3”). EITF 06-3 states that a company should disclose its accounting policy regarding the gross or net presentation of certain taxes. If taxes included in gross revenues are significant, a company should disclose the amount of such taxes for each period for which an income statement is presented (i.e., both interim and annual periods). Taxes within the scope of EITF 06-3 are those that are imposed on and concurrent with a specific revenue-producing transaction, such as sales tax or value-added tax. Taxes assessed on an entity’s activities over a period of time, such as gross receipts taxes, are not within the scope of the issue. EITF 06-3 will be effective for Varian Semiconductor’s second quarter of fiscal year 2007. The disclosures required under EITF 06-3, which may be presented on an aggregate basis, are effective retrospectively for all periods presented. Varian Semiconductor is in the process of evaluating whether the adoption of EITF 06-3 will have a material impact on its financial statements.

 

In July 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109.” This interpretation clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income

 

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taxes recognized in an enterprise’s financial statements in accordance with FASB Statement No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” This interpretation prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. This interpretation also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition. This interpretation will be effective for Varian Semiconductor for its fiscal year 2008. Varian Semiconductor is in the process of evaluating whether the adoption of this interpretation will have a material impact on its financial statements.

 

In September 2006, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108 (“SAB 108”), which expresses the staff’s views regarding the process of quantifying financial statement misstatements. SAB 108 requires companies to consider current and prior year errors and effects on all financial statements when evaluating the materiality of any misstatement. It will be effective for Varian Semiconductor’s fiscal year 2007. Varian Semiconductor does not believe the adoption of SAB 108 will have a material impact on its financial statements.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements.” This statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in GAAP, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. This statement applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements, the FASB having previously concluded in those accounting pronouncements that fair value is the relevant measurement attribute. Accordingly, this statement does not require any new fair value measurements. However, for some entities, the application of this statement will change current practice. This statement will be effective for Varian Semiconductor’s fiscal year 2009. Varian Semiconductor is still in the process of evaluating the impact of this statement on its financial statements.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans—an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106, and 132(R).” This statement requires employers that sponsor defined benefit plans to recognize the funded status of a benefit plan on its balance sheet; recognize gains, losses and prior service costs or credits that arise during the period that are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax; measure defined benefit plan assets and obligations as of the date of the employer’s fiscal year-end balance sheet; and disclose in the notes to financial statements additional information about certain effects on net periodic benefit cost for the next fiscal year that arise from delayed recognition of the gains or losses, prior service costs or credits, and transition asset or obligation. Most provisions of statement will be effective for Varian Semiconductor for its fiscal year 2007, except for the requirement to measure benefits and obligations as of the employers fiscal year end, which will be effective for Varian Semiconductor’s fiscal year 2009. Varian Semiconductor is in the process of evaluating whether the adoption of this statement will have a material impact on its financial statements.

 

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

 

Foreign Currency Exchange Risk

 

As a multinational company, Varian Semiconductor faces exposure to adverse movements in foreign currency exchange rates. This exposure may change over time as Varian Semiconductor’s business practices evolve and could impact Varian Semiconductor’s financial results. However, a 10% change in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar against other major currencies would not have a material effect on Varian Semiconductor’s results of operations. Historically, Varian Semiconductor’s primary exposures have resulted from non-U.S. dollar-denominated sales and purchases in Asia Pacific and Europe. Varian Semiconductor does not enter into forward exchange contracts for trading purposes. Varian Semiconductor’s forward exchange contracts generally range from one to nine months in original maturity. No forward exchange contract exceeds one year in original maturity.

 

Varian Semiconductor hedges currency exposures that are associated with certain of its assets and liabilities denominated in various non-U.S. dollar currencies. The aggregate exchange losses for the fiscal years ended 2006, 2005 and 2004 were $146,000, $46,000 and $126,000, respectively.

 

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Forward exchange contracts outstanding are summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

     September 29, 2006

   September 30, 2005

     Notional
Value


   Contract
Rate


   Fair
Value


   Notional
Value


   Contract
Rate


   Fair
Value


Foreign currency purchase contracts:

                                     

Japanese Yen

   $ 4,133    117.60    $ 4,132    $ —      —      $ —  

Korean Won

     2,251    947.68      2,254      8,839    1,034.63      8,699

New Taiwan Dollar

     2,227    32.83      2,215      638    32.60      625

Singapore Dollar

     1,239    1.57      1,224      —      —        —  

Israeli Shekel

     51    4.30      51      —      —        —  

Euro

     —      —        —        1,002    0.80      967
    

       

  

       

Total foreign currency purchase contracts

   $ 9,901         $ 9,876    $ 10,479         $ 10,291
    

       

  

       

Foreign currency sell contracts:

                                     

Japanese Yen

   $ 10,265    117.72    $ 10,272    $ 21,268    110.89    $ 20,868

Korean Won

     3,232    961.90      3,286      10,637    1,051.30      10,417

Euro

     205    0.78      203      89    0.83      89

Israeli Shekel

     203    4.37      206      860    4.50      840

British Pound

     78    0.53      77      395    0.55      381

New Taiwan Dollar

     61    32.91      61      410    33.21      409
    

       

  

       

Total foreign currency sell contracts

   $ 14,044         $ 14,105    $ 33,659         $ 33,004
    

       

  

       

Total contracts

   $ 23,945         $ 23,981    $ 44,138         $ 43,295
    

       

  

       

 

Varian Semiconductor uses derivative instruments to protect its foreign operations from fluctuations in earnings and cash flows caused by volatility in currency exchange rates. Varian Semiconductor hedges its current exposures and a portion of its anticipated foreign currency exposures with hedging instruments having terms of up to twelve months.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s international sales, except for those in Japan, are primarily denominated in the U.S. dollar. For foreign currency-denominated sales, however, the volatility of the foreign currency markets represents risk to Varian Semiconductor. Upon forecasting the exposure, Varian Semiconductor enters into hedges with forward sales contracts whose critical terms are designed to match those of the underlying exposure. These hedges are evaluated for effectiveness at least quarterly using the change in value of the forward contracts to the change in value of the underlying transaction, with the effective portion of the hedge accumulated in other comprehensive income. Any measured ineffectiveness is included immediately in other income and expense in the consolidated statements of operations. There was an immaterial amount of ineffectiveness recognized during the fiscal years ended September 29, 2006 and September 30, 2005. There were seven forward foreign exchange sell contracts designated as hedges of anticipated product sales in Japanese Yen outstanding at September 29, 2006 totaling an equivalent of $35.5 million. In addition, there were three forward foreign exchange purchase contracts totaling an equivalent of $11.7 million offsetting three of the forward sell contracts. At September 30, 2005, there were four forward foreign exchange sell contracts outstanding designated as hedges of anticipated product sales in Japanese Yen totaling an equivalent of $30.4 million. In addition, there were four forward foreign exchange purchase contracts totaling an equivalent of $9.3 million offsetting the four forward sell contracts.

 

There were approximately $0.7 million net unrealized gains on these forward Yen contracts as of September 29, 2006. There were approximately $1.2 million in net unrealized gains on these forward Yen contracts as of September 30, 2005. The fair value of forward exchange contracts generally reflects the estimated amounts that Varian Semiconductor would receive or pay to terminate the contracts at the reporting date. The notional amounts of forward exchange contracts are not a measure of Varian Semiconductor’s exposure.

 

37


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Interest Rate Risk

 

Although payments under certain of Varian Semiconductor’s overseas borrowing facilities are tied to market indices, Varian Semiconductor is not exposed to material interest rate risk from these borrowing facilities. Varian Semiconductor has no material cash flow exposure due to rate changes for cash equivalents and short-term investments. Varian Semiconductor maintains cash investments primarily in U.S. Treasury, government agency and investment-grade corporate and municipal securities, as well as short-term time deposits with investment grade financial institutions. Cash equivalents at September 29, 2006 and September 30, 2005 were $234.1 million and $182.1 million, respectively. At September 29, 2006, Varian Semiconductor’s short-term investments were $154.8 million and consisted primarily of U.S. Treasury, government agency and corporate bonds and

certificates of deposit with ratings of AA or better. At September 30, 2005, Varian Semiconductor’s short-term investments were $280.6 million and consisted primarily of U.S. Treasury, government agency and corporate bonds and certificates of deposit with ratings of AA or better. At September 29, 2006, Varian Semiconductor’s long-term investments were $135.8 million and consisted of the same types of securities as its short-term portfolio. Varian Semiconductor reported no long-term investments at September 30, 2005.

 

In February 2003, Varian Semiconductor purchased its facility located in Newburyport, Massachusetts. As part of the purchase price, Varian Semiconductor assumed the seller’s outstanding loan of $5.1 million. The loan has a fixed interest rate of 9.05% with monthly payments of principal and interest until the loan matures in January 2013. The loan may be prepaid in full, but not in part, at any time after November 5, 2006. The loan is secured by the property. The $3.7 million remaining principal amount of the loan had an estimated fair value of $3.9 million at September 29, 2006. The fair value of the loan was estimated using a discounted cash flow analysis. The interest rate was estimated based on current market conditions and Varian Semiconductor’s financial condition at September 29, 2006.

 

Commodity Price Risk

 

Varian Semiconductor is not exposed to material commodity price risk.

 

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

 

The response to this item is submitted as a separate section to this report. See “Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.”

 

Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.

 

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

The management of Varian Semiconductor, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures of Varian Semiconductor as of September 29, 2006. The term “disclosure controls and procedures,” as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), means controls and other procedures of a company that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to Varian Semiconductor’s management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Management recognizes that any controls

 

38


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and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives and management necessarily applies its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. Based on the evaluation of Varian Semiconductor’s disclosure controls and procedures as of September 29, 2006, Varian Semiconductor’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of such date, Varian Semiconductor’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

No change in Varian Semiconductor’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) occurred during the fiscal quarter ended September 29, 2006 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, Varian Semiconductor’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

Management of Varian Semiconductor is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act. Management, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, assessed the effectiveness of Varian Semiconductor’s internal control over financial reporting as of September 29, 2006. In their evaluation, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) in Internal Control—Integrated Framework.

 

Based on management’s evaluation using the COSO criteria, management concludes that Varian Semiconductor maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 29, 2006. This evaluation has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears herein.

 

Item 9B. Other Information.

 

None.

 

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PART III

 

Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant.

 

The response to this item is contained in part under the caption “Executive Officers” in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and in part in Varian Semiconductor’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on February 5, 2007 (the “2007 Proxy Statement”) under the caption “Election of Directors,” which section is incorporated herein by this reference.

 

Item 11. Executive Compensation.

 

The response to this item is contained in the 2007 Proxy Statement under the caption “Executive Compensation,” which section is incorporated herein by this reference.

 

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.

 

The response to this item is contained in the 2007 Proxy Statement under the caption “Principal Stockholders” and “Equity Compensation Plan Information,” which sections are incorporated herein by this reference.

 

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.

 

The response to this item is contained in the 2007 Proxy Statement under the caption “Transactions with Related Parties,” which section is incorporated herein by this reference.

 

Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services.

 

The response to this item is contained in the 2007 Proxy Statement under the caption “Independent Accountants’ Fees,” which section is incorporated herein by this reference.

 

40


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PART IV

 

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.

 

The following documents are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:

 

(1) Consolidated Financial Statements: (see index on page F-1 of this report)

 

    Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

    Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 29, 2006 and September 30, 2005

 

    Consolidated Statements of Income for fiscal years ended September 29, 2006, September 30, 2005 and October 1, 2004

 

    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for fiscal years ended September 29, 2006, September 30, 2005 and October 1, 2004

 

    Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Income for fiscal years ended September 29, 2006, September 30, 2005 and October 1, 2004

 

    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

(2) Consolidated Financial Statement Schedule: (see index on page F-1 of this report)

 

The following financial statement schedule of Varian Semiconductor and its subsidiaries for fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004 is filed as a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of Varian Semiconductor and its subsidiaries.

 

    Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

 

All other required schedules are omitted because of the absence of conditions under which they are required or because the required information is given in the financial statements or the notes thereto.

 

(3) The list of Exhibits filed as a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K are set forth in the Exhibit Index immediately preceding such Exhibits, and is incorporated herein by this reference.

 

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SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

By:

 

/s/    ROBERT J. HALLIDAY        


   

Robert J. Halliday

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 

Date: December 7, 2006

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Signature


  

Title


 

Date


/s/    GARY E. DICKERSON        


Gary E. Dickerson

  

Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)

  December 7, 2006

/s/    ROBERT J. HALLIDAY        


Robert J. Halliday

  

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)

  December 7, 2006

/s/    THOMAS C. BAKER        


Thomas C. Baker

  

Vice President, Finance (Principal Accounting Officer)

  December 7, 2006

/s/    RICHARD A. AURELIO        


Richard A. Aurelio

  

Chairman of the Board

  December 6, 2006

/s/    ROBERT W. DUTTON        


Robert W. Dutton

  

Director

  December 6, 2006

/s/    DENNIS G. SCHMAL        


Dennis G. Schmal

  

Director

  December 6, 2006

/s/    ELIZABETH E. TALLETT        


Elizabeth E. Tallett

  

Director

  December 6, 2006

/s/    XUN CHEN        


Xun Chen

  

Director

  December 5, 2006

 

42


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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

          Incorporated by Reference

Exhibit

No.


  

Description


   Form

   SEC Filing
Date


   Exhibit
Number


  

Filed

with this

10-K


2.1    Distribution Agreement among Varian Associates, Inc., Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. and Varian, Inc. dated as of January 14, 1999.    10-12(g)    02/12/1999    2.1       
3.1    Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.    10-12(g)    02/12/1999    3.1       
3.2    By-Laws of Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.    10-12(g)/a    03/08/1999    3.2       
4.1    Specimen Common Stock Certificate.    10-12(g)/a    03/08/1999    4.1       
4.2    Rights Agreement between First Chicago Trust Company of New York and the Registrant, dated as of February 19, 1999.    10-12(g)/a    03/08/1999    4.2       
4.3    Amendment dated as of October 15, 2001 to the Rights Agreement between First Chicago Trust Company of New York and Registrant, dated as of February 19, 1999, to appoint EquiServe Trust Company, N.A.    10-K    12/20/2001    10.12     
4.4    Amendment No. 2 dated as of October 25, 2004 to the Rights Agreement (as amended) between EquiServe Trust Company, N.A. and the Registrant.    10-K    12/14/2004    4.4       
10.1    Form of Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement among Varian Associates, Inc., Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. and Varian, Inc.    10-12(g)    02/12/1999    10.1       
10.2    Form of Intellectual Property Agreement among Varian Associates, Inc., Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc., and Varian, Inc.    10-12(g)    02/12/1999    10.2       
10.3    Form of Tax Sharing Agreement among Varian Associates, Inc., Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. and Varian, Inc.    10-12(g)    02/12/1999    10.3       
10.4    Form of Transition Services Agreement among Varian Associates, Inc., Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. and Varian, Inc.    10-12(g)    02/12/1999    10.4       
10.5    Form of Change in Control Agreement for Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board.    8-K    10/15/2004    10.3       
10.6    Form of Indemnity Agreement with Directors and Executive Officers.    10-12(g)/a    03/08/1999    10.8       
10.7    Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. Amended and Restated 2006 Stock Incentive Plan    8-K    03/13/2006    10.6       
10.8    Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. 2006 Management Incentive Plan.              10.8      X
10.9    Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan    8-K    04/06/2006    10.1       
10.10    Agreement dated as of July 24, 1998, between Varian Associates, Inc. and High Voltage Engineering Europa B.V.    10-12(g)    02/12/1999    10.9       

 

43


Table of Contents
          Incorporated by Reference

Exhibit

No.


  

Description


   Form

   SEC Filing
Date


   Exhibit
Number


  

Filed

with this

10-K


10.11    Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan.    10-K    12/20/2001    10.11     
10.12    Purchase and Sale Agreement made as of November 27, 2002, by and between Berkshire-Newburyport Limited Partnership and Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.    10-Q    02/05/2003    10.1       
10.13    First Amendment to Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of January 6, 2003, by and between Berkshire-Newburyport Limited Partnership and Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.    10-Q    02/05/2003    10.2       
10.14    Second Amendment to Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of January 28, 2003, by and between Berkshire-Newburyport Limited Partnership and Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.    10-Q    02/05/2003    10.3       
10.15    Form of Change in Control Agreement for Chief Financial Officer.    8-K    10/15/2004    10.4       
10.16    Form of Change in Control Agreement for Certain Designated Executives.    8-K    10/15/2004    10.5       
10.17    Form of Nonstatutory Stock Option Agreement for Directors    8-K    03/13/2006    10.1       
10.18    Form of Nonstatutory Stock Option Agreement for Officers    8-K    03/13/2006    10.2       
10.19    Form of Nonstatutory Stock Option Agreement for Employees    8-K    03/13/2006    10.3       
10.20    Form of Restricted Stock Agreement for Officers    8-K    03/13/2006    10.4       
10.21    Form of Restricted Stock Agreement for Employees    8-K    03/13/2006    10.5       
10.22    Form of Deferred Stock Units Agreement for Directors    8-K    03/17/2006    10.1       
10.23    Offer Letter from the Registrant to Gary E. Dickerson, as amended.    10-Q    08/05/2005    10.2       
10.24    Retirement Agreement and General Release, dated as of December 8, 2004 between Ernest L. Godshalk, III, and Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.    10-K    12/14/2004    10.19     
10.25    VSEA Expatriate Assignment Offer Letter, 2005, from the Registrant to Yong-Kil Kim.    10-Q    08/05/2005    10.1       
10.26    Retirement Agreement and General Release, dated as of December 8, 2005 between Alan P. Sheng and Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.    10-K    12/13/2005    10.21     
10.27    Agreement and General Release, dated as of January 2, 2006 between John E. Aldeborgh and Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.    8-K    01/03/2006    10.1       
10.28    Letter Agreement, dated as of January 2, 2006 between Richard A. Aurelio and Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.    8-K    01/03/2006    10.2       
10.29    Form of Amendment to all Change in Control Agreements    10-K    12/13/2005    10.22     

 

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Table of Contents
          Incorporated by Reference

Exhibit

No.


  

Description


   Form

   SEC Filing
Date


   Exhibit
Number


  

Filed

with this

10-K


10.30    Form of Restricted Stock Agreement for Officers with Performance Vesting    10-K         10.30    X
14.1    Code of Business Conduct and Ethics    10-K         14.1      X
21.1    Subsidiaries of the Registrant.    10-K         21.1      X
23.1    Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.    10-K         23.1      X
31.1    Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.    10-K         31.1      X
31.2    Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.    10-K         31.2      X
32.1    Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.    10-K         32.1      X
32.2    Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.    10-K         32.2      X

 

45


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VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SCHEDULES

 

The following financial statements of the Registrant and its subsidiaries are required to be included in Item 8:

 

     Page

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   F-2

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 29, 2006 and September 30, 2005

   F-4

Consolidated Statements of Income for fiscal years ended September 29, 2006, September 30, 2005 and October 1, 2004

  

F-5

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for fiscal years ended September 29, 2006, September 30, 2005 and October 1, 2004

  

F-6

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Income for fiscal years ended September 29, 2006, September 30, 2005 and October 1, 2004

  

F-7

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

   F-8
The following financial statement schedule of the Registrant and its subsidiaries for fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004 should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Registrant and its subsidiaries:     

Financial Statement Schedule

    

Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

   S-1

 

All other required schedules are omitted because of the absence of conditions under which they are required or because the required information is given in the financial statements or the notes thereto.

 

F-1


Table of Contents

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of

Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.:

 

We have completed integrated audits of Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.’s 2006 and 2005 consolidated financial statements and of its internal control over financial reporting as of September 29, 2006 and an audit of its 2004 consolidated financial statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Our opinions, based on our audits, are presented below.

 

Consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the index appearing under Item 15(1) present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. and its subsidiaries at September 29, 2006 and September 30, 2005, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 29, 2006 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the index appearing under Item 15(2) presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit of financial statements includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

As discussed in Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for stock-based compensation in fiscal 2006.

 

Internal control over financial reporting

 

Also, in our opinion, management’s assessment, included in Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A, that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 29, 2006 based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), is fairly stated, in all material respects, based on those criteria. Furthermore, in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 29, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the COSO. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express opinions on management’s assessment and on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We conducted our audit of internal control over financial reporting in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. An audit of internal control over financial reporting includes obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, evaluating management’s assessment, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control, and performing such other procedures as we consider necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinions.

 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in

 

F-2


Table of Contents

accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

/s/ PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP

 

Boston, Massachusetts

December 6, 2006

 

F-3


Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

     September 29,
2006


    September 30,
2005


 
     (amounts in thousands,
except share data)
 
ASSETS                 

Current assets

                

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 258,891     $ 193,426  

Short-term investments

     154,810       280,646  

Accounts receivable, net

     125,992       123,612  

Inventories

     133,929       127,374  

Deferred income taxes

     31,592       30,865  

Other current assets

     18,102       32,796  
    


 


Total current assets

     723,316       788,719  

Long-term investments

     135,777       —    

Property, plant and equipment, net

     62,249       58,435  

Goodwill

     12,280       12,280  

Other assets

     4,744       3,385  
    


 


Total assets

   $ 938,366     $ 862,819  
    


 


LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY                 

Current liabilities

                

Current portion of long-term debt

   $ 466     $ 426  

Accounts payable

     45,937       33,272  

Accrued expenses

     54,070       59,280  

Product warranty

     8,934       8,323  

Deferred revenue

     49,840       46,958  
    


 


Total current liabilities

     159,247       148,259  

Long-term accrued expenses and other liabilities

     17,300       16,271  

Deferred income taxes

     3,722       5,477  

Long-term debt

     3,270       3,736  
    


 


Total liabilities

     183,539       173,743  
    


 


Commitments, contingencies and guarantees (Note 22)

                

Stockholders’ equity

                

Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; 5,000,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding

     —         —    

Common stock, $0.01 par value; 150,000,000 shares authorized; 59,308,544 shares issued and 55,560,989 outstanding at September 29, 2006; 57,020,757 shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2005

     593       570  

Capital in excess of par value

     453,229       382,255  

Less: Cost of 3,747,555 shares of common stock held in treasury at
September 29, 2006

     (108,910 )     —    

Retained earnings

     411,014       316,330  

Deferred compensation

     —         (9,366 )

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

     (1,099 )     (713 )
    


 


Total stockholders’ equity

     754,827       689,076  
    


 


Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

   $ 938,366     $ 862,819  
    


 


 

The accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.

 

F-4


Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

 

     Fiscal Year Ended

 
     September 29,
2006


    September 30,
2005


    October 1,
2004


 
     (amounts in thousands, except per share data)  

Revenue

                        

Product

   $ 642,038     $ 488,719     $ 456,217  

Service

     79,222       84,078       65,947  

Royalty and license

     9,454       27,724       7,945  
    


 


 


Total revenue

     730,714       600,521       530,109  
    


 


 


Cost of revenue

                        

Product

     371,114       280,447       249,072  

Service

     50,070       51,367       41,197  
    


 


 


Total cost of revenue

     421,184       331,814       290,269  
    


 


 


Gross profit

     309,530       268,707       239,840  
    


 


 


Operating expenses

                        

Research and development

     90,604       77,661       67,715  

Marketing, general and administrative

     116,063       104,883       85,615  

Restructuring

     —         914       —    
    


 


 


Total operating expenses

     206,667       183,458       153,330  
    


 


 


Operating income

     102,863       85,249       86,510  

Interest income

     22,323       16,989       5,236  

Interest expense

     (809 )     (641 )     (959 )

Other income (expense), net

     918       2,765       (923 )
    


 


 


Income before income taxes

     125,295       104,362       89,864  

Provision for income taxes

     30,611       32,352       28,756  
    


 


 


Net income

   $ 94,684     $ 72,010     $ 61,108  
    


 


 


Weighted average shares outstanding—basic

     56,403       55,220       54,128  

Weighted average shares outstanding—diluted

     57,193       56,396       55,467  

Net income per share—basic

   $ 1.68     $ 1.30     $ 1.13  

Net income per share—diluted

   $ 1.66     $ 1.28     $ 1.10  

 

The accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.

 

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VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

     Fiscal Year Ended

 
     September 29,
2006


    September 30,
2005


    October 1,
2004


 
     (amounts in thousands)  

Cash flow from operating activities:

                        

Net income

   $ 94,684     $ 72,010     $ 61,108  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

                        

Depreciation and amortization

     12,971       12,805       12,992  

Amortization of investment premiums

     646       1,663       1,049  

Deferred income taxes

     (2,482 )     (2,312 )     1,089  

Stock-based compensation

     18,916       4,115       47  

Tax benefit from stock-based compensation

     10,825       9,915       14,946  

Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation

     (4,529 )     —         —    

Changes in assets and liabilities:

                        

Accounts receivable

     (1,528 )     (191 )     (59,840 )

Inventories

     (11,827 )     (34,616 )     (48,434 )

Other current assets

     14,694       5,686       (2,373 )

Accounts payable

     12,595       (839 )     11,572  

Accrued expenses

     (5,898 )     6,929       6,940  

Product warranty

     1,227       763       915  

Deferred revenue

     1,829       (2,242 )     30,812  

Other

     (1,511 )     (694 )     (296 )
    


 


 


Net cash provided by operating activities

     140,612       72,992       30,527  
    


 


 


Cash flows from investing activities:

                        

Purchase of property, plant and equipment

     (11,987 )     (12,386 )     (11,584 )

Proceeds from sales and maturities of investments

     345,897       145,030       27,083  

Purchase of investments

     (355,043 )     (254,580 )     (162,002 )
    


 


 


Net cash used in investing activities

     (21,133 )     (121,936 )     (146,503 )
    


 


 


Cash flows from financing activities:

                        

Proceeds from the issuance of common stock upon exercise of options and issuance of stock under the employee stock purchase plan

     50,321       27,665       26,157  

Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation

     4,529       —         —    

Repurchase of common stock

     (108,910 )     —         —    

Repayment of notes payable and long-term debt

     (426 )     (4,274 )     (2,089 )
    


 


 


Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

     (54,486 )     23,391       24,068  
    


 


 


Effects of exchange rates on cash

     472       401       5  
    


 


 


Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     65,465       (25,152 )     (91,903 )

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     193,426       218,578       310,481  
    


 


 


Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 258,891     $ 193,426     $ 218,578  
    


 


 


Supplemental information to the cash flow:

                        

Cash payments (receipts) for income taxes, net of refunds

   $ 16,296     $ 14,509     $ 9,546  

Cash payments for interest

   $ 361     $ 427     $ 531  

Non-cash transfers of engineering and demonstration tools from inventory to equipment, net

   $ 5,607     $ 6,597     $ 7,124  

 

The accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.

 

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Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

 

    Number of
Common
Shares
Outstanding


    Common
Stock


  Capital in
Excess of
Par
Value


    Treasury
Stock


    Retained
Earnings


  Deferred
Compensation


    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss


    Total
Stockholders’
Equity


 
    (shares and amounts in thousands)  

Balance at October 3, 2003

  52,467     $ 525   $ 290,268     $ —       $ 183,212   $ —       $ (38 )   $ 473,967  

Components of comprehensive income:

                                                         

Net income

  —         —       —         —         61,108     —         —         61,108  

Unrealized loss on investments

  —         —       —         —         —       —         (119 )     (119 )

Unrealized gain on cash flow hedging instruments

  —         —       —         —         —       —         1       1  
                                                     


Total compehensive income

  —         —       —         —         —       —         —         60,990  
                                                     


Deferred compensation related to restricted shares

  —         —       169       —         —       (169 )     —         —    

Amortization of stock-based compensation

  —         —       —         —         —       20       —         20  

Issuance of common stock through stock option and stock purchase plans, including income tax benefit of $14,946

  2,147       21     41,082       —         —       —         —         41,103  
   

 

 


 


 

 


 


 


Balance at October 1, 2004

  54,614       546     331,519       —         244,320     (149 )     (156 )     576,080  

Components of comprehensive income:

                                                         

Net income

  —         —       —         —         72,010     —         —         72,010  

Unrealized loss on investments

  —         —       —         —         —       —         (1,770 )     (1,770 )

Realized gain on cash flow hedging instruments reclassified to income

  —         —       —         —         —       —         (869 )     (869 )

Unrealized gain on cash flow hedging instruments

  —         —       —         —         —       —         2,082       2,082  
                                                     


Total compehensive income

  —         —       —         —         —       —         —         71,453  
                                                     


Deferred compensation related to restricted shares

  390       4     10,083       —         —       (10,087 )     —         —    

Amortization of stock-based compensation

  —         —       —         —         —       870       —         870  

Stock-based compensation expense

  —         —       3,093       —         —       —         —         3,093  

Issuance of common stock through stock option and stock purchase plans, including income tax benefit of $9,915

  2,018       20     37,560       —         —       —         —         37,580  
   

 

 


 


 

 


 


 


Balance at September 30, 2005

  57,021       570     382,255       —         316,330     (9,366 )     (713 )     689,076  

Components of comprehensive income:

                                                         

Net income

  —         —       —         —         94,684     —         —         94,684  

Unrealized gain on investments

  —         —       —         —         —       —         658       658  

Realized gain on investments reclassified to income

  —         —       —         —         —       —         (229 )     (229 )

Unrealized loss on cash flow hedging instruments

  —         —       —         —         —       —         (815 )     (815 )
                                                     


Total compehensive income

  —         —       —         —         —       —         —         94,298  
                                                     


Deferred compensation adjustment

  —         —       (9,366 )     —         —       9,366       —         —    

Acquistion of treasury shares

  (3,748 )     —       —         (108,910 )     —       —         —         (108,910 )

Stock-based compensation expense

  —         —       18,916       —               —         —         18,916  

Issuance of common stock under stock plans including, income tax benefit of $10,825

  2,288       23     61,424       —         —       —         —         61,447  
   

 

 


 


 

 


 


 


Balance at September 29, 2006

  55,561     $ 593   $ 453,229     $ (108,910 )   $ 411,014   $ —       $ (1,099 )   $ 754,827  
   

 

 


 


 

 


 


 


 

The accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.

 

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Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Note 1.    Company

 

Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. (“Varian Semiconductor”) designs, manufactures, markets and services semiconductor processing equipment used in the fabrication of integrated circuits to customers located both in the United States (“U.S.”) and in international markets. Varian Semiconductor faces risk factors similar to all companies in the semiconductor manufacturing equipment market including, but not limited to, competition, market downturn, technological change, international operations and related foreign currency risks and the ability to recruit and retain key employees.

 

Note 2.    Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Fiscal Year

 

Varian Semiconductor’s fiscal year is a 52- to 53-week period that ends on the Friday nearest September 30. Fiscal year 2006 is comprised of a 52-week period ended on September 29, 2006. Fiscal year 2005 is comprised of a 52-week period ended on September 30, 2005. Fiscal year 2004 is comprised of a 52-week period ended on October 1, 2004.

 

Principles of Consolidation

 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Varian Semiconductor and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All material intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. On an ongoing basis, Varian Semiconductor evaluates its estimates and assumptions including, but not limited to, deferred revenue, loss contingencies, warranty accruals, the reserve for excess and obsolete inventory, income taxes payable, deferred tax assets and allowance for doubtful accounts. Actual results may differ from those estimates.

 

Reclassifications

 

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation for comparative purposes. These include a reclassification of certain items from current liabilities into long term related to product warranty and deferred revenue.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

Product revenue includes established products, new products, upgrades and spare parts.

 

Varian Semiconductor recognizes revenue from product sales upon shipment, provided title and risk of loss has passed to the customer, evidence of an arrangement exists, fees are contractually fixed or determinable, collectibility is reasonably assured through historical collection results and regular credit evaluations, and there are no uncertainties regarding customer acceptance.

 

For established and new products, a portion of the total purchase price is typically not due until installation occurs and the customer accepts the product. For established products, the lesser of the amount allocated to the equipment or the contractual amount due upon delivery is recorded as product revenue upon delivery. The amount deferred is recognized as revenue upon customer acceptance. For new products, revenue allocated to the

 

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Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

equipment is recognized upon customer acceptance. Revenue related to spare parts and upgrade sales is recognized upon the later of delivery or when the title and risk of loss passes to the customer.

 

Products are classified as established products if post-delivery acceptance provisions and the installation process have been determined to be routine, due to the fact that the acceptance provisions are generally a replication of pre-shipment procedures, and there is a demonstrated history of achieving predetermined installation cost targets. The majority of products are designed and manufactured to meet contractual customer specifications. To ensure customer specifications are satisfied, the systems are tested at Varian Semiconductor’s manufacturing facility prior to shipment. To the extent that customers’ conditions cannot be replicated in Varian Semiconductor’s facilities or if there is not a demonstrated history of meeting newer customer specifications, then the product is treated as new for revenue recognition purposes. Varian Semiconductor has predetermined criteria for changing the classification of a new product to an established product. A new product must achieve a set number of acceptances and a set target for installation cost. Once the criteria have been achieved for a new product, the product is considered established.

 

Service revenue includes revenue from maintenance and service contracts, extended warranties, paid service and system installation services. Revenue related to maintenance and service contracts is recognized ratably over the duration of the contracts. Extended warranty revenue is deferred and recognized ratably over the applicable warranty term. Revenue related to paid service is recorded when earned and revenue related to installation is recorded upon fulfillment of the service obligation and customer acceptance. It takes approximately three to six weeks for Varian Semiconductor technicians to complete the installation of Varian Semiconductor products and perform tests agreed to with customers. Certain customers formally document their acceptance of Varian Semiconductor’s products at this time. Other customers elect to perform additional internal testing prior to formal acceptance, and this process generally takes eight to twelve weeks.

 

Royalty and license revenue is recognized when contractual obligations are met, and in the case of royalties, upon receipt of a royalty report from the customer, evidence of an arrangement exists, fees are fixed or determinable and collection is reasonably assured. When fees are not fixed or determinable, revenue is recorded when payments become due.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s transactions frequently include the sale of systems and services under multiple element arrangements. Revenue under these arrangements is allocated to all elements, except systems, based upon the fair value of those elements. The amount allocated to installation is based upon hourly rates at the estimated time to complete the service. The fair value of all other elements is based upon the price charged when these amounts are sold separately and unaccompanied by other elements. The amount of revenue allocated to systems is done on a residual method basis. Under this method, the total value of the arrangement is allocated first to the undelivered elements based on their fair values, with the remainder being allocated to systems revenue.

 

Deferred Revenue

 

Deferred revenue includes customer advances and amounts that have been billed per the contractual terms but have not been recognized as revenue. Varian Semiconductor also defers the fair value of extended warranties bundled with equipment sales as deferred revenue. Deferred revenue for extended warranties is recognized ratably over the applicable warranty term, which generally is from 13 to 24 months from the date the customer accepts the products.

 

Evaluation Tools

 

Varian Semiconductor occasionally supplies evaluation tools to potential new customers, usually for a period of three months to one year. While the tool is at the customer’s semiconductor manufacturing factory (“fab”),

 

F-9


Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Varian Semiconductor and the customer work closely together through complex processes to qualify the tool for that particular customer’s requirements. These qualification costs are included in marketing, general and administrative expenses in the period incurred. In addition, during the evaluation period, Varian Semiconductor generally reduces the carrying value of the evaluation tool ratably over a period of four years. This cost is recorded as a component of marketing, general and administrative expenses and the carrying value of the evaluation tool is included in inventory. Customer evaluations are often successful and upon fulfillment of all four revenue recognition criteria. Varian Semiconductor recognizes the revenue from the evaluation tool and remaining tool cost through revenue and cost of product revenue, respectively.

 

Stock-based Compensation

 

Effective October 1, 2005, Varian Semiconductor adopted the provisions of the Financial Accounting Standard Board (“FASB”) Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 123R, “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS No. 123(R)”). (See Note 4 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements). Under SFAS No. 123(R), Varian Semiconductor is required to record compensation cost for all share-based payments granted after the date of adoption based on the grant date fair value, estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS 123(R), and for the unvested portion of all share-based payments previously granted that remain outstanding based on the grant date fair value, estimated in accordance with the original provisions of SFAS 123. The estimated fair value of Varian Semiconductor’s stock-based awards is expensed on a straight-line basis.

 

The choice of a valuation technique, and the approach utilized to develop the underlying assumptions for that technique, involve significant judgments. These judgments reflect management’s assessment of the most accurate method of valuing the stock options Varian Semiconductor issues, based on our historical experience, knowledge of current conditions and beliefs of what could occur in the future given available information. Varian Semiconductor’s judgments could change over time as additional information becomes available, or the facts underlying the assumptions change over time. Any change in judgments could have a material impact on Varian Semiconductor’s financial statements. Varian Semiconductor believes that these estimates incorporate all relevant information and represent a reasonable approximation in light of the difficulties involved in valuing non-traded stock options.

 

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Investments

 

Varian Semiconductor considers currency on hand, demand deposits, and all highly liquid investments with a remaining maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash and cash equivalents. The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents approximate estimated fair value because of the short-term maturities of those financial instruments.

 

Short-term investments consist primarily of certificates of deposit and corporate bonds with ratings AA or better. All short-term investments have been classified as available-for-sale and are carried at fair market value, which approximates cost, due to the short period of time to maturity and the relative risk of the investments. As of September 30, 2005, Varian Semiconductor had the intent and ability to liquidate any of its investments in order to meet its liquidity needs. Accordingly, those investments with contractual maturities greater than one year from the date of acquisition were classified as short-term. As of September 29, 2006, Varian Semiconductor had the ability but no longer the intent to liquidate certain investments in order to meet its liquidity needs for the next 12 months. Accordingly, those investments with contractual maturities greater than one year from the date of acquisition have been classified as long-term.

 

F-10


Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

 

Substantially all of Varian Semiconductor’s accounts receivable balance relate to trade receivables. Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. The allowance for doubtful accounts is Varian Semiconductor’s best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in its existing accounts receivable. Varian Semiconductor maintains allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments for products and services. Accounts with known financial issues are first reviewed and specific estimates are recorded. The remaining accounts receivable balances are then grouped in categories by the amount of days the balance is past due, and the estimated loss is calculated as a percentage of the total category based upon past history. Account balances are charged off against the allowance when it is probable the receivable will not be recovered.

 

Inventory and Purchase Order Commitments

 

Varian Semiconductor values its inventory at the lower of cost or market using the first-in, first-out method. On a quarterly basis, Varian Semiconductor assesses the realizability of all inventories to determine whether adjustments for impairment are required. The determination of lower of cost or market requires that Varian Semiconductor make significant assumptions about future demand for products and the transition to new product offerings from legacy products. Estimating product demand beyond a relatively short forecasting horizon is difficult and prone to forecasting error due to the cyclical nature and inherent lack of visibility in the industry. Varian Semiconductor also provides for losses on those open purchase order commitments in which Varian Semiconductor’s estimated obligation to receive inventory under the commitments exceeds expected production demand. These assumptions include, but are not limited to, future manufacturing schedules, customer demand, supplier lead time and technological and market obsolescence. Once inventory is written down and a new cost basis has been established, it is not written back up if demand increases.

 

Property, Plant, and Equipment

 

Property, plant, and equipment are stated at cost. Major improvements are capitalized, while maintenance and repairs are expensed in the period the cost is incurred. Plant and equipment are depreciated over their estimated useful lives using the straight-line method. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives, or the remaining term of the lease, whichever is less. When assets are retired or otherwise disposed of, the assets and related accumulated depreciation are relieved from the accounts, and resulting gains or losses are included in other income (expense) in the consolidated statements of income.

 

Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets

 

At September 29, 2006 and September 30, 2005, goodwill was $12.3 million. In accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” goodwill is not amortized. Varian Semiconductor tests for the impairment of goodwill on an annual basis or whenever events or changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Varian Semiconductor tests for goodwill impairment at the entity level, as its subsidiaries do not constitute separate businesses and all possess similar economic characteristics. The test is performed by deducting the fair value of all assets and liabilities from the total estimated fair value to determine residual goodwill. As of September 29, 2006, Varian Semiconductor completed its annual goodwill impairment test and determined that no impairments existed.

 

Whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of a long-lived asset may not be recoverable, Varian Semiconductor reviews these assets for impairment. If the future undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying amount of that asset, an impairment exists. Varian Semiconductor recognizes an impairment loss based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets. Fair value is normally assessed using a discounted cash flow model.

 

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Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Product Warranties

 

Varian Semiconductor provides for the estimated cost of product warranties, the amount of which is based primarily upon historical information, at the time product revenue is recognized. While Varian Semiconductor engages in extensive product quality programs and processes including actively monitoring and evaluating the quality of its component supplies, Varian Semiconductor’s warranty obligation is affected by product failure rates, utilization levels, material usage, service delivery costs incurred in correcting a product failure, and supplier warranties on parts delivered to Varian Semiconductor. Should actual product failure rates, utilization levels, material usage, service delivery costs incurred in correcting a product failure, or supplier warranties on parts differ from Varian Semiconductor’s estimates, revisions to the estimated warranty liability would be required.

 

Environmental Liabilities

 

Liabilities are recorded when environmental assessments and/or remedial efforts are probable and the costs can be reasonably estimated. Generally, the timing of these accruals coincides with completion of a feasibility study or Varian Semiconductor’s commitment to a formal plan of action. In situations where the various uncertainties make it difficult to assess the likelihood and scope of further investigation or remediation activities or to estimate then future costs, the lower limit of an estimated range is accrued on a non-discounted basis. All other liabilities, where Varian Semiconductor has generally sufficient knowledge to estimate the scope of costs and future activities, are accrued on a discounted basis. Should new information become available and/or different assumptions are applied in the estimation of environmental liabilities, revisions to the accrued environmental liability would be required.

 

Income Taxes

 

Varian Semiconductor uses the asset and liability method of accounting for deferred income taxes. The provision for income taxes includes income taxes currently payable and those deferred as a result of temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities. A valuation allowance is provided to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount of future tax benefit when it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Projected future taxable income and ongoing tax planning strategies are considered and evaluated when assessing the need for a valuation allowance. Any increase or decrease in a valuation allowance could have a material adverse or beneficial impact on Varian Semiconductor’s income tax provision and net income in the period in which the determination is made.

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

Varian Semiconductor’s foreign subsidiaries operate and sell Varian Semiconductor’s products in various global markets. As a result, Varian Semiconductor is exposed to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Varian Semiconductor utilizes foreign currency forward exchange contracts to hedge against currency exposures that are associated with certain of its assets and liabilities denominated in various non-U.S. dollar currencies. The effect of exchange rate changes on forward exchange contracts is expected to offset the effect of exchange rate changes on the underlying hedged items. Varian Semiconductor believes these financial instruments do not subject it to speculative risk that would otherwise result from changes in currency exchange rates. Varian Semiconductor does not use derivative financial instruments for speculative or trading purposes.

 

All of Varian Semiconductor’s derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value based upon quoted market prices for comparable instruments. For derivative instruments designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges of anticipated foreign currency denominated transactions, the effective portion of the gain or loss on these

 

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VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

hedges is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in stockholders’ equity, and is reclassified into earnings when the hedged transaction affects earnings. If the transaction being hedged fails to occur, or if a portion of any derivative is ineffective, the gain or loss on the associated financial instrument is recorded immediately in earnings. For derivative instruments used to hedge existing foreign currency denominated assets or liabilities, the gain or loss on these hedges is recorded immediately in earnings to offset the changes in the fair value of the assets or liabilities being hedged. There were seven forward foreign exchange sell contracts designated as hedges of anticipated product sales in Japanese Yen outstanding at September 29, 2006 totaling an equivalent notional value of $35.5 million. In addition, there were three forward foreign exchange purchase contracts in the amount of an equivalent notional value of $11.7 million offsetting three of the seven forward sell contracts.

 

Foreign Currency Translation

 

For international operations, the U.S. dollar is the functional currency. Monetary assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars at current exchange rates. Nonmonetary assets such as inventories and property, plant, and equipment are translated at historical rates. Income and expense items are translated at effective rates of exchange prevailing during each year, except that inventories and depreciation charged to operations are translated at historical rates. Foreign exchange gains and losses are recorded in the Statement of Income in other income (expense), net.

 

Concentration of Risk

 

Financial instruments that potentially expose Varian Semiconductor to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of trade accounts receivable, cash investments and forward foreign exchange contracts. In recent fiscal years, Varian Semiconductor has sold over half of its systems to its ten largest customers, and its trade accounts receivable is primarily comprised of these respective customers. However, the concentration of credit risk is limited as the customer base is dispersed among many geographic regions and is comprised primarily of large multi-national companies. Varian Semiconductor performs ongoing credit evaluations and generally does not require collateral from its customers. As of September 29, 2006, two customers accounted for 15% and 11% of the total accounts receivable balance. As of September 30, 2005, two customers accounted for 16% and 9% of the total accounts receivable balance

 

In fiscal year 2006, revenue from three customers accounted for 11%, 10% and 10% of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenue. In fiscal year 2005, revenue from two customers accounted for 20% and 14% of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenue. In fiscal year 2004, revenue from two customers accounted for 14% and 10% of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenue.

 

Varian Semiconductor considers currency on hand, demand deposits, and all highly liquid investments with a remaining maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash and cash equivalents. The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents approximate estimated fair value because of the short-term maturities of those financial instruments. Cash equivalents at September 29, 2006 and September 30, 2005 were $234.1 million and $182.1 million, respectively. Cash and cash equivalents are invested with multiple financial institutions. Investments consist primarily of U.S. Treasury, government agency and corporate bonds and certificates of deposit with ratings AA or better. All investments have been classified as available-for-sale and are carried at fair market value due to the short period of time to maturity and the relative risk of the investments. Varian Semiconductor manages its cash equivalents and investments as a single portfolio of highly marketable securities that is intended to be available to meet Varian Semiconductor’s current cash requirements. Varian Semiconductor also places forward foreign exchange contracts with investment grade financial institutions in order to minimize currency risk exposure.

 

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VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Varian Semiconductor obtains some of the components and subassemblies that are included in its products from a limited group of suppliers, or in some cases a single source supplier. The loss of any supplier, including any single source supplier, would require obtaining one or more replacement suppliers and may also require devoting significant resources to product development to incorporate new parts from other sources into Varian Semiconductor’s products. The need to change suppliers or to alternate between suppliers might cause delays in delivery or significantly increase Varian Semiconductor’s costs. Although Varian Semiconductor has insurance to protect against loss due to business interruption from these and other sources, Varian Semiconductor cannot provide assurance that such coverage will be adequate or that it will remain available on commercially acceptable terms. Although Varian Semiconductor seeks to reduce its dependence on these limited source suppliers, disruption or loss of these sources could negatively impact its business and damage customer relationships.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In May 2005, the FASB issued SFAS No. 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections.” This statement replaces Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 20, “Accounting Changes”, and SFAS No. 3, “Reporting Accounting Changes in Interim Financial Statements,” and changes the requirements for the accounting for and reporting of a change in accounting principle. This statement applies to all voluntary changes in accounting principles. It also applies to changes required by an accounting pronouncement in the unusual instance that the pronouncement does not include specific transition provisions. When a pronouncement includes specific transition provisions, those provisions should be followed. SFAS No. 154 requires retrospective application to prior periods’ financial statements of voluntary changes in accounting principles. SFAS No. 154 is effective for accounting changes and corrections of errors made during Varian Semiconductor’s fiscal year 2007, beginning on September 30, 2006. Varian Semiconductor does not believe the adoption of SFAS No. 154 will have a material impact on its financial statements.

 

In June 2006, the FASB ratified the consensus reached by the EITF on Issue No. 06-3, “How Taxes Collected from Customers and Remitted to Governmental Authorities Should Be Presented in the Income Statement (That Is, Gross versus Net Presentation)” (“EITF 06-3”). EITF 06-3 states that a company should disclose its accounting policy regarding the gross or net presentation of certain taxes. If taxes included in gross revenues are significant, a company should disclose the amount of such taxes for each period for which an income statement is presented (i.e., both interim and annual periods). Taxes within the scope of EITF 06-3 are those that are imposed on and concurrent with a specific revenue-producing transaction, such as sales tax or value-added tax. Taxes assessed on an entity’s activities over a period of time, such as gross receipts taxes, are not within the scope of the issue. EITF 06-3 will be effective for Varian Semiconductor’s second quarter of fiscal year 2007. The disclosures required under this Issue, which may be presented on an aggregate basis, are effective retrospectively for all periods presented. Varian Semiconductor is in the process of evaluating whether the adoption of EITF 06-3 will have a material impact on its financial statements.

 

In July 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109.” This interpretation clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise’s financial statements in accordance with FASB Statement No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” This interpretation prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. This interpretation also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition. This interpretation will be effective for Varian Semiconductor for its fiscal year 2008. Varian Semiconductor is in the process of evaluating whether the adoption of this interpretation will have a material impact on its financial statements.

 

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VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

In September 2006, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108 (“SAB 108”), which expresses the staff’s views regarding the process of quantifying financial statement misstatements. This SAB requires companies to consider current and prior year errors and effects on all financial statements when evaluating the materiality of any misstatement. It will be effective for Varian Semiconductor’s fiscal year 2007. Varian Semiconductor does not believe the adoption of SAB 108 will have a material impact on its financial statements.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements.” This statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. This statement applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements, the FASB having previously concluded in those accounting pronouncements that fair value is the relevant measurement attribute. Accordingly, this statement does not require any new fair value measurements. However, for some entities, the application of this statement will change current practice. This statement will be effective for Varian Semiconductor’s fiscal year 2009. Varian Semiconductor is in the process of evaluating the impact of this statement on its financial statements.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans—an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106, and 132(R).” This statement requires employers that sponsor defined benefit plans to recognize the funded status of a benefit plan on its balance sheet; recognize gains, losses and prior service costs or credits that arise during the period that are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax; measure defined benefit plan assets and obligations as of the date of the employer’s fiscal year-end balance sheet; and disclose in the notes to financial statements additional information about certain effects on net periodic benefit cost for the next fiscal year that arise from delayed recognition of the gains or losses, prior service costs or credits, and transition asset or obligation. Most provisions of statement will be effective for Varian Semiconductor for its fiscal year 2007, except for the requirement to measure benefits and obligations as of the employers fiscal year end, which will be effective for Varian Semiconductor’s fiscal year 2009. Varian Semiconductor is in the process of evaluating whether the adoption of this statement will have a material impact on its financial statements.

 

Note 3.     Stock Split

 

On February 1, 2006, the Board of Directors declared a three-for-two stock split, effected in the form of a stock dividend, payable on February 28, 2006 to stockholders of record at the close of business on February 13, 2006. Varian Semiconductor has retained the current par value of $0.01 per share for all common shares. All references in the financial statements and notes to the number of shares outstanding, per share amounts, stock option, restricted stock and ESPP data of Varian Semiconductor’s common shares have been restated to reflect the effect of the stock split for all periods presented.

 

Stockholders’ equity as of October 3, 2003, October 1, 2004, September 30, 2005 and September 29, 2006 reflects the stock split by reclassifying from “Capital in excess of par value” to “Common stock” an amount equal to the par value of the additional shares arising from the stock split.

 

Note 4.    Stock-Based Compensation

 

Effective October 1, 2005, Varian Semiconductor adopted on a modified prospective basis the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), and related guidance, which requires the measurement and recognition of compensation expense for all share-based payment awards made to employees and directors including employee stock options, restricted stock awards and employee stock purchases related to Varian Semiconductor’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”) based on estimated fair values. Accordingly, stock-based compensation cost is measured

 

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VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

at grant date, based on the fair value of the award, and is recognized as expense on a straight-line basis over the employee’s requisite service period.

 

Varian Semiconductor adopted SFAS No. 123(R) using the modified prospective transition method, which requires the application of the accounting standard as of October 1, 2005, the first day of Varian Semiconductor’s fiscal year 2006. Under this transition method, stock-based compensation expense recognized during the fiscal year ended September 29, 2006 includes: (a) ESPP awards with the offering period commencing on July 1, 2005, based on the grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with the original provisions of SFAS No. 123, (b) stock options and restricted stock awards granted prior to, but not yet vested as of September 30, 2005, based on the grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with the original provisions of SFAS No. 123, and (c) stock options, restricted stock and ESPP awards granted, subsequent to September 30, 2005, based on the grant-date fair value, in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R). Under the modified prospective transition method, results for prior periods are not restated.

 

The estimated fair value of Varian Semiconductor’s stock-based awards, less expected forfeitures, is amortized over the awards’ vesting period on a straight-line basis. The effect of recording stock-based compensation for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2006 was as follows:

 

     Fiscal Year Ended
September 29, 2006


 
     (Amounts in thousands
except per share amounts)
 

Stock-based compensation expense by type of award:

        

Stock options

   $ 11,858  

Restricted stock

     6,169  

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

     977  

Less: Amounts capitalized as inventory

     (88 )
    


Total stock-based compensation

     18,916  

Less: Tax effect on stock-based compensation

     (6,053 )
    


Effect on net income

   $ 12,863  
    


Effect on earnings per share

        

Basic

   $ 0.23  

Diluted

   $ 0.22  

Effect of stock-based compensation on income by line item:

        

Cost of product revenue

   $ 1,112  

Cost of service revenue

     938  

Research and development expense

     3,673  

Marketing, general and administrative expense

     13,193  

Provision for income taxes

     (6,053 )
    


Total cost related to stock-based compensation

   $ 12,863  
    


 

Varian Semiconductor estimates the fair value of stock options using the Black-Scholes valuation model. Key input assumptions used to estimate the fair value of stock options include the exercise price of the award, the expected option term, the risk-free interest rate over the option’s expected term, the expected annual dividend yield and the expected stock price volatility. Varian Semiconductor has determined that a blended volatility, using Varian Semiconductor’s historical and implied volatility measures and a peer group implied volatility, will best reflect expected volatility over the expected term of the option. Varian Semiconductor believes that the valuation technique and the approach utilized to develop the underlying assumptions are appropriate in

 

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VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

calculating the fair values of Varian Semiconductor’s stock options granted during fiscal year 2006. Estimates of fair value are not intended to predict actual future events or the value ultimately realized by persons who receive equity awards.

 

The fair value of Varian Semiconductor’s stock-based awards granted during the fiscal year ended September 29, 2006 was estimated on the grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:

 

     Fiscal Year Ended
September 29, 2006


 
         Options    

        ESPP    

 

Expected life (in years)

     4.1       0.5  

Expected volatility

     38.8 %     37.9 %

Risk-free interest rate

     4.8 %     4.8 %

Expected dividend yield

     0.0 %     0.0 %

Weighted-average grant date fair value

   $ 12.92     $ 8.34  

 

Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R)

 

Prior to October 1, 2005, Varian Semiconductor accounted for its stock plans under the provisions of APB Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” (“APB No. 25”) and FASB Interpretation No. 44, “Accounting for Certain Transactions Involving Stock Compensation—an Interpretation of APB Opinion No. 25” and provided the required pro forma disclosures of SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” as amended by SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation—Transition and Disclosure”. Stock-based compensation expense related to restricted stock granted at no cost to the employees were reflected in net income.

 

The pro-forma information for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2005 and October 1, 2004 was as follows:

 

     Fiscal Year

 
     2005

    2004

 
     (amounts in thousands,
except per share amounts)
 

Net income as reported

   $ 72,010     $ 61,108  

Add: Compensation expense included in net income, net of related tax benefit

     2,864       32  

Less: Stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value method for all awards, net of related tax benefit

     (14,048 )     (10,297 )
    


 


Pro forma net income

   $ 60,826     $ 50,843  
    


 


Net income per share:

                

Basic, pro forma

   $ 1.10     $ 0.94  

Basic, as reported

   $ 1.31     $ 1.13  

Diluted, pro forma

   $ 1.07     $ 0.91  

Diluted, as reported

   $ 1.28     $ 1.10  

 

The $14.0 million in pro-forma stock-based compensation for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2005 included $2.1 million resulting from the amendment to the definition of retirement in the Omnibus Stock Plan by Varian Semiconductor’s Board of Directors on October 5, 2004 and the Retirement Agreement entered into on December 8, 2004 (see Note 20. Retirement Plans).

 

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VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The fair value of Varian Semiconductor’s stock-based awards granted during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2005 and October 1, 2004 was estimated using the following weighted-average assumptions:

 

     Fiscal Year Ended
September 30, 2005


    Fiscal Year Ended
October 1, 2004


 
         Options    

        ESPP    

        Options    

        ESPP    

 

Expected life (in years)

     4.0       0.5       3.5       0.5  

Expected volatility

     55.5 %     40.7 %     71.7 %     51.3 %

Risk-free interest rate

     3.8 %     2.6 %     3.0 %     1.0 %

Expected dividend yield

     0.0 %     0.0 %     0.0 %     0.0 %

Weighted-average grant date fair value

   $ 10.91     $ 6.63     $ 12.05     $ 6.67  

 

Stock Incentive Plan

 

The 2006 Stock Incentive Plan (“the Plan”), which replaced the Amended and Restated Omnibus Stock Plan upon shareholder approval on February 9, 2006, provides for up to 8,250,000 shares of Varian Semiconductor’s common stock for the grant of non-qualified share-based awards to eligible employees, consultants and non-employee directors of Varian Semiconductor. As of September 29, 2006, there were a total of 7,179,474 shares reserved for future issuance under the Plan.

 

Stock Options

 

Share-based awards granted under the Plan vest over a period determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. Options granted prior to November 8, 2002 have a life no longer than ten years after the date of grant. Options granted on or after November 8, 2002 have a life no longer than seven years after the date of the grant. Options granted before October 15, 2004 generally vested as to 33% one year from the grant date, and the remaining 67% vest in eight equal quarterly installments so that all options are vested at the end of three years. Options granted after October 15, 2004 generally vest as to 25% one year from date of grant, and the remaining 75% vest in twelve equal quarterly installments so that all options are vested at the end of four years.

 

The following table summarizes the stock option activity as of and for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2006:

 

     Shares

    Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price


   Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term


   Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value


                (In years)    (In thousands)

Outstanding at September 30, 2005

   6,625,004     $ 22.14            

Granted

   412,916       34.64            

Exercised

   (2,377,708 )     19.91            

Forfeited/expired/cancelled

   (113,357 )     27.87            
    

                 

Outstanding at September 29, 2006

   4,546,855       24.29    5.0    $ 56,577
    

                 

Exercisable at September 29, 2006

   2,817,686     $ 23.26    4.4    $ 38,049

 

As of September 29, 2006, the unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options was $18.9 million before estimated forfeitures. This unrecognized compensation will be recognized over an estimated weighted average amortization period of 2.5 years.

 

The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the fiscal year ended September 29, 2006 was $32.9 million, with intrinsic value defined as the difference between the market price on the date of exercise and the grant date price. The total amount of cash received from the exercise of these options was $47.3 million. The actual tax

 

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VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

benefit realized for the tax deductions from option exercises totaled $11.6 million for the year ended September 29, 2006.

 

The following table summarizes significant ranges of outstanding and exercisable options as of September 29, 2006:

 

     Options Outstanding

   Options Exercisable

Range of Exercise Prices


   Number
Outstanding


   Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life


   Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price


   Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value


   Number
Vested and
Exercisable


   Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price


   Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value


          (In years)                         

$6.57 - $18.42

   968,921    3.8    $ 14.47    $ 21,539,931    895,188    $ 14.22    $ 20,124,166

$18.43 - $23.46

   1,071,526    4.8    $ 22.64    $ 15,065,957    615,895    $ 22.61    $ 8,678,956

$23.47 - $23.57

   1,008,242    6.2    $ 23.55    $ 13,262,091    354,752    $ 23.55    $ 4,665,738

$23.58 - $35.09

   1,163,500    4.6    $ 31.20    $ 6,402,694    911,051    $ 31.67    $ 4,579,738

$35.10 - $36.70

   294,616    6.9    $ 35.66    $ 306,018    750    $ 36.17    $ 398

$36.71 - $46.00

   40,050    3.7    $ 40.83    $ —      40,050    $ 40.83    $ —  
    
              

  
         

     4,546,855    5.0    $ 24.29    $ 56,576,691    2,817,686    $ 23.26    $ 38,048,996
    
              

  
         

 

The aggregate intrinsic value in the preceding table represents the total intrinsic value, based on Varian Semiconductor’s closing stock price of $36.70 as of September 29, 2006, that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options as of that date. The total number of in-the-money options exercisable as of September 29, 2006 was 2.8 million.

 

Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units

 

Varian Semiconductor issues restricted common stock at $0.01 per share and generally 25% vests one year from the date of grant and the remaining 75% vests in twelve equal quarterly installments. Restricted stock units awarded to Directors vest upon grant. Stock compensation expense associated with restricted common stock and restricted stock units is charged for the difference between the market value on the date of grant and the issuance price, less estimated forfeitures, and is amortized over the awards’ vesting period on a straight-line basis.

 

During the fiscal year ended September 29, 2006, Varian Semiconductor awarded a total of 10,284 restricted stock units which vested upon grant.

 

The following table summarizes the restricted common stock activity as of and for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2006:

 

     Shares

    Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value


Unvested at September 30, 2005

   386,773     $ 26.31

Granted

   501,833       32.04

Vested

   (169,469 )     26.61

Forfeited/expired/cancelled

   (7,297 )     29.66
    

     

Unvested at September 29, 2006

   711,840       30.25
    

     

 

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VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

As of September 29, 2006, the unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested restricted stock was $19.4 million before estimated forfeitures. This unrecognized compensation will be recognized over an estimated weighted average amortization period of 3.3 years. The total fair value of restricted stock grants that vested during the fiscal year was $5.1 million.

 

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

 

Employees of Varian Semiconductor who elect to participate in the ESPP are able to purchase common stock at the lower of 85% of the fair market value of Varian Semiconductor’s common stock on the first or last day of the applicable offering period. Typically, each offering period lasts six months. The ESPP permits an enrolled employee to have withheld from his or her salary an amount between 1% and 10% of compensation, which is used to purchase shares of common stock and is intended to meet the requirements of Section 423 of the Internal Revenue Code. The first offering period commenced on July 1, 2002. As of September 29, 2006, there were a total of 796,938 shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the ESPP.

 

Note 5.    Cash, Cash Equivalents and Investments

 

Varian Semiconductor considers currency on hand, demand deposits, and all highly liquid investments with a remaining maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash and cash equivalents. The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents approximate estimated fair value because of the short-term maturities of those financial instruments. Cash equivalents at September 29, 2006 and September 30, 2005 were $234.1 million and $182.1 million, respectively.

 

Investments consist primarily of U.S. Treasury, government agency and corporate bonds and certificates of deposit with ratings AA or better. All investments have been classified as available-for-sale and are carried at fair market value due to the short period of time to maturity and the relative risk of the investments. As of September 30, 2005, Varian Semiconductor had the intent and ability to liquidate any of its investments in order to meet its liquidity needs. Accordingly, those investments with contractual maturities greater than one year from the date of acquisition were classified as short-term. As of September 29, 2006, Varian Semiconductor had the ability but no longer the intent to liquidate certain investments in order to meet its liquidity needs for the next 12 months. Accordingly, those investments with contractual maturities greater than one year from the date of acquisition have been classified as long-term.

 

As of September 29 2006, a net unrealized loss on investments of $1.5 million was recorded as accumulated other comprehensive loss. As of September 30 2005, a net unrealized loss on investments of $1.9 million was recorded as accumulated other comprehensive loss. As of October 1, 2004, a net unrealized loss on short-term investments of $0.2 million was recorded as accumulated other comprehensive loss.

 

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VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Varian Semiconductor has determined that the unrealized losses at September 29, 2006, as aggregated by security type in the table below, are temporary. This assessment is based upon the nature of the investments and the causes of the unrealized losses. The investments are in corporate and US Treasury and agency bonds, as stated in the investment policy. The unrealized losses relate to the decline in fair values due to differences between the securities’ interest rates at acquisition and current interest rates.

 

     In Loss Position for Less
than 12 Months


    In Loss Position for 12
Months or More


    Total

 
     Estimated
Fair Value


   Gross
Unrealized
Losses


    Estimated
Fair Value


   Gross
Unrealized
Losses


    Estimated
Fair Value


   Gross
Unrealized
Losses


 
     (Amounts in thousands)  

U.S. Treasury and agency securities

   $ 31,056    $ (76 )   $ 64,662    $ (780 )   $ 95,718    $ (856 )

Corporate bonds

     75,348      (224 )     47,400      (572 )     122,748      (796 )
    

  


 

  


 

  


     $ 106,404    $ (300 )   $ 112,062    $ (1,352 )   $ 218,466    $ (1,652 )
    

  


 

  


 

  


 

Investments by security type at September 29, 2006 were as follows:

 

     Cost

   Gross
Unrealized
Gains


   Gross
Unrealized
Losses


    Estimated
Fair Value


     (Amounts in thousands)

Bank certificates of deposit

   $ 24,319    $  —      $ —       $ 24,319

U.S. Treasury and agency securities

     110,326      34      (856 )     109,504

Corporate bonds

     157,440      120      (796 )     156,764
    

  

  


 

     $ 292,085    $  154    $ (1,652 )   $ 290,587
    

  

  


 

 

Investments by security type at September 30, 2005 were as follows:

 

     Cost

   Gross
Unrealized
Gains


   Gross
Unrealized
Losses


    Estimated
Fair Value


          (amounts in thousands)      

Bank certificates of deposit

   $ 24,343    $ —      $ —       $ 24,343

U.S. Treasury and agency securities

     132,174      1,651      (2,963 )     130,862

Corporate bonds

     126,056      127      (742 )     125,441
    

  

  


 

     $ 282,573    $ 1,778    $ (3,705 )   $ 280,646
    

  

  


 

 

The investment maturities are as follows:

 

     Estimated Fair Value

     September 29,
2006


   September 30,
2005


     (amounts in thousands)

Maturing within 1 year

   $ 154,810    $ 163,228

Maturing between 1 year and 5 years

     135,777      117,418
    

  

Total

   $ 290,587    $ 280,646
    

  

 

F-21


Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Note 6.    Accounts Receivable

 

Accounts receivable consist of the following:

 

     September 29,
2006


    September 30,
2005


 
     (amounts in thousands)  

Billed receivables

   $ 126,900     $ 124,504  

Allowance for doubtful accounts

     (908 )     (892 )
    


 


Accounts receivable, net

   $ 125,992     $ 123,612  
    


 


 

Less than $0.1 million and $0.5 million of trade accounts receivable were collected in fiscal years 2006 and 2005, respectively, that were previously included in the allowance for doubtful accounts.

 

Note 7.    Inventories

 

The components of inventories are as follows:

 

     September 29,
2006


   September 30,
2005


     (amounts in thousands)

Raw materials and parts

   $ 65,599    $ 55,789

Work in process

     36,224      21,102

Finished goods

     32,106      50,483
    

  

Total inventories

   $ 133,929    $ 127,374
    

  

 

During fiscal years 2006 and 2005, gross margin and pre-tax income was favorably impacted by $1.7 million and $1.7 million, respectively, due to the sale of certain inventory for which the carrying value had been reduced in previous periods.

 

Note 8.    Property, Plant and Equipment

 

The components of property, plant, and equipment are as follows:

 

     Useful
Life


   September 29,
2006


    September 30,
2005


 
     (in years)    (amounts in thousands)  

Land and land improvement

   —      $ 5,867     $ 5,297  

Buildings

   20      51,375       48,126  

Machinery and equipment

   2-7      102,901       97,258  

Construction in progress

   —        5,381       1,665  
         


 


            165,524       152,346  

Accumulated depreciation

          (103,275 )     (93,911 )
         


 


Property, plant and equipment, net

        $ 62,249     $ 58,435  
         


 


 

Depreciation expense was $13.0 million, $12.8 million and $13.0 million for fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004, respectively. There were no capital leases as of September 29, 2006 or September 30, 2005.

 

During fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor recognized a gain on the sale of certain non-operating real estate of $0.6 million. This gain was included in other income.

 

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Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Note 9.    Notes Payable

 

As of September 29, 2006 and September 30, 2005, Varian Semiconductor’s subsidiary in Japan had two credit facilities available with two different financial institutions. At September 29, 2006, maximum available borrowings under each of the two facilities were as follows: Yen 1,000,000,000 ($8.5 million) and Yen 500,000,000 ($4.3 million). The loans are not collateralized and contain no restrictive covenants, although each loan is guaranteed by Varian Semiconductor. The interest rate for the Yen 1,000,000,000 credit facility is based on the short-term prime rate (approximately 1.675% at September 29, 2006 and 1.375% at September 30, 2005). The interest rate for the Yen 500,000,000 facility is the 3-month Tokyo interbank offered rate (TIBOR) + 1.00% (approximately 1.44% at September 29, 2006). There were no outstanding borrowings under either facility at September 29, 2006 or September 30, 2005.

 

Varian Semiconductor also has borrowing capacity in Europe and Taiwan. Varian Semiconductor’s subsidiary in Europe maintains a credit facility that includes overdraft protection of Euro 2.5 million which at September 29, 2006 translated to $3.2 million. Interest accrues at the Euro base rate + 1.5% and was approximately 5.25% at September 29, 2006. Varian Semiconductor’s subsidiary in Taiwan maintains a credit facility of $1.0 million. Any outstanding borrowings under the Taiwan facility accrue interest at the local base rate + 2.0% plus taxes, which was approximately 7.7% at September 29, 2006, and are payable on demand. Neither credit facility is collateralized nor do they contain any restrictive covenants, although each facility is guaranteed by Varian Semiconductor. There were no outstanding borrowings as of September 29, 2006 or September 30, 2005 under either facility.

 

Note 10.    Accrued Expenses

 

The components of accrued expenses are as follows:

 

     September 29,
2006


   September 30,
2005


     (amounts in thousands)

Income taxes payable

   $ 12,414    $ 19,300

Accrued incentive

     11,887      12,519

Accrued employee benefits

     10,029      8,975

Accrued payroll

     5,408      4,323

Accrued retirement benefits

     7,494      5,890

Other

     6,838      8,273
    

  

Total accrued expenses

   $ 54,070    $ 59,280
    

  

 

Note 11.    Restructurings

 

Varian Semiconductor’s business is cyclical and depends upon the capital expenditures of semiconductor manufacturers, which in turn depend on the current and anticipated market demand for integrated circuits and products utilizing integrated circuits. The semiconductor industry has historically experienced periodic downturns and in response, Varian Semiconductor has occasionally recorded restructuring charges in connection with cost reduction initiatives implemented in response to the industry downturns. Restructuring charges typically consist of severance, benefits and outplacement services offered to terminated employees and sometimes include charges for remaining lease payments on facilities that are closed. Prior to any restructuring announcements, the restructuring is approved by the appropriate level of management necessary to commit to the specific actions of the reduction in force.

 

F-23


Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

During fiscal year 2005, Varian Semiconductor recognized approximately $0.9 million in restructuring costs. The restructuring costs related to reductions in headcount and facilities in Europe. The restructuring reserve balance of $0.2 million as of September 30, 2005, was paid during fiscal year 2006.

 

Varian Semiconductor recognized no additional restructuring costs during fiscal year 2006.

 

Note 12.    Product Warranties

 

Varian Semiconductor warrants that its products will be free from defects in materials and workmanship and will conform to its standard published specifications in effect at the time of delivery for a period of three to twelve months from the date the customer accepts the products. Additionally, Varian Semiconductor warrants that maintenance services will be performed in a workmanlike manner consistent with generally accepted industry standards for a period of 90 days from the completion of any agreed-upon services. Varian Semiconductor provides for the estimated cost of product warranties, the amount of which is based primarily upon historical information, at the time product revenue is recognized. Varian Semiconductor’s warranty obligation is affected by a number of factors, including product failure rates, utilization levels, material usage, service delivery costs incurred in correcting a product failure, and supplier warranties on parts delivered to Varian Semiconductor. Should these factors or other factors affecting warranty costs differ from Varian Semiconductor’s estimates, revisions to the estimated warranty liability would be required.

 

Product warranty activity for fiscal years 2005 and 2006 was as follows:

 

     Liability

 
     (amounts in thousands)  

Balance as of October 1, 2004

     7,841  

Accruals for warranties issued during the period

     10,323  

Increase to pre-existing warranties

     692  

Settlements made during the period

     (10,271 )
    


Balance as of September 30, 2005

   $ 8,585  

Accruals for warranties issued during the period

     12,938  

Decrease to pre-existing warranties

     (418 )

Settlements made during the period

     (11,292 )
    


Balance as of September 29, 2006

   $ 9,813  
    


Current portion of product warranty

     8,934  

Long-term portion of product warranty

     879  
    


Total warranty liability

   $ 9,813  
    


 

F-24


Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Note 13.    Deferred Revenue

 

The components of deferred revenue are as follows:

 

     September 29,
2006


   September 30,
2005


     (amounts in thousands)

Fully deferred systems, installation and acceptance revenue

   $ 31,270    $ 31,752

Extended warranties

     11,351      10,509

Maintenance and service contracts

     6,092      8,488

Other deferred revenue

     5,880      1,369
    

  

Total deferred revenue

   $ 54,593    $ 52,118
    

  

Current portion of deferred revenue

   $ 49,840    $ 46,958

Long-term portion of deferred revenue

     4,753      5,160
    

  

Total deferred revenue

   $ 54,593    $ 52,118
    

  

 

Note 14.    Long-Term Accrued Expenses and Other Long-Term Liabilities

 

Long-term accrued expenses are comprised of accruals for post-employment liabilities, environmental and other costs not expected to be expended within the next year. The current portion is recorded within accrued expenses.

 

Note 15.    Long-term Debt

 

In February 2003, Varian Semiconductor purchased its previously leased facility located in Newburyport, Massachusetts. The purchase price consisted of cash payments totaling $3.4 million, the assumption of the seller’s outstanding loan of $5.1 million and the transfer of other prepaid assets of $0.8 million. The loan has a fixed interest rate of 9.05% with monthly payments of principal and interest until the loan matures in January 2013. The loan may be prepaid in full, but not in part, at any time after November 5, 2006. Prepayment would require Varian Semiconductor to pay a prepayment penalty equal to the greater of two percent of the outstanding principal balance or the excess of the present value of all future loan payments over the outstanding principal balance of the loan. The $3.7 million carrying amount of the loan had an estimated fair value of $3.9 million at September 29, 2006. The fair value of the loan was estimated using a discounted cash flow analysis. The interest rate was estimated based on current market conditions and Varian Semiconductor’s financial condition at September 29, 2006.

 

F-25


Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The loan payments are as follows:

 

Fiscal Year


   Annual Loan
Payments


 
     (amounts in
thousands)
 

2007

   $ 785  

2008

     785  

2009

     785  

2010

     785  

2011

     785  

Thereafter

     981  
    


Total loan payments

     4,906  

Less: Amount representing interest

     (1,170 )
    


Total principal

     3,736  

Current portion of long-term debt

     (466 )
    


Long-term debt

   $ 3,270  
    


 

As of September 29, 2006, Varian Semiconductor also has a standby letter of credit outstanding for $1.9 million as a guarantee for the debt on this facility.

 

Note 16.    Forward Exchange Contracts

 

As a multinational company, Varian Semiconductor faces exposure to adverse movements in foreign currency exchange rates. This exposure may change over time as Varian Semiconductor’s business practices evolve and could have a material adverse impact on Varian Semiconductor’s financial results. Historically, Varian Semiconductor’s primary exposures have resulted from non-U.S. dollar-denominated sales and purchases in Asia Pacific and Europe. Varian Semiconductor does not enter into forward exchange contracts for trading purposes. Varian Semiconductor’s forward exchange contracts generally range from one to nine months in original maturity. No forward exchange contract exceeds one year in original maturity.

 

Varian Semiconductor hedges currency exposures that are associated with certain of its assets and liabilities denominated in various non-U.S. dollar currencies. The aggregate exchange loss for the fiscal years ended 2006, 2005 and 2004 were $146,000, $46,000 and $126,000, respectively.

 

Forward exchange contracts outstanding are summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

     September 29, 2006

   September 30, 2005

     Notional
Value


   Contract
Rate


   Fair
Value


   Notional
Value


   Contract
Rate


   Fair
Value


Foreign currency purchase contracts:

                                     

Japanese Yen

   $ 4,133    117.60    $ 4,132    $ —      —      $ —  

Korean Won

     2,251    947.68      2,254      8,839    1,034.63      8,699

New Taiwan Dollar

     2,227    32.83      2,215      638    32.60      625

Singapore Dollar

     1,239    1.57      1,224      —      —        —  

Israeli Shekel

     51    4.30      51      —      —        —  

Euro

     —      —        —        1,002    0.80      967
    

       

  

       

Total foreign currency purchase contracts

   $ 9,901         $ 9,876    $ 10,479         $ 10,291
    

       

  

       

 

F-26


Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

     September 29, 2006

   September 30, 2005

     Notional
Value


   Contract
Rate


   Fair
Value


   Notional
Value


   Contract
Rate


   Fair
Value


Foreign currency sell contracts:

                                     

Japanese Yen

   $ 10,265    117.72    $ 10,272    $ 21,268    110.89    $ 20,868

Korean Won

     3,232    961.90      3,286      10,637    1,051.30      10,417

Euro

     205    0.78      203      89    0.83      89

Israeli Shekel

     203    4.37      206      860    4.50      840

British Pound

     78    0.53      77      395    0.55      381

New Taiwan Dollar

     61    32.91      61      410    33.21      409
    

       

  

       

Total foreign currency sell contracts

   $ 14,044         $ 14,105    $ 33,659         $ 33,004
    

       

  

       

Total contracts

   $ 23,945         $ 23,981    $ 44,138         $ 43,295
    

       

  

       

 

Varian Semiconductor uses derivative instruments to protect its foreign operations from fluctuations in earnings and cash flows caused by volatility in currency exchange rates. Varian Semiconductor hedges its current exposures and a portion of its anticipated foreign currency exposures with hedging instruments having terms of up to twelve months.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s international sales are primarily denominated in the U.S. dollar. For foreign currency-denominated sales, however, the volatility of the foreign currency markets represents risk to Varian Semiconductor. Upon forecasting the exposure, Varian Semiconductor enters into hedges with forward sales contracts whose critical terms are designed to match those of the underlying exposure. These hedges are evaluated for effectiveness at least quarterly using the change in value of the forward contracts to the change in value of the underlying transaction, with the effective portion of the hedge accumulated in other comprehensive income. Any measured ineffectiveness is included immediately in other income and expense in the consolidated statements of operations. There was an immaterial amount of ineffectiveness recognized during the fiscal years ended September 29, 2006 and September 30, 2005. There were seven forward foreign exchange sell contracts designated as hedges of anticipated product sales in Japanese Yen outstanding at September 29, 2006 totaling an equivalent of $35.5 million. In addition, there were three forward foreign exchange purchase contracts totaling an equivalent of $11.7 million offsetting the seven forward sell contracts.

 

There were approximately $0.7 million of net unrealized gains on these forward Yen contracts as of September 29, 2006. There were approximately $1.2 million of net unrealized gains on these forward Yen contracts as of September 30, 2005. The fair value of forward exchange contracts generally reflects the estimated amounts that Varian Semiconductor would receive or pay to terminate the contracts at the reporting date. The notional amounts of forward exchange contracts are not a measure of Varian Semiconductor’s exposure.

 

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Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Note 17.    Income Taxes

 

Provision for income taxes:

 

     Fiscal Year Ended

 
     September 29,
2006


    September 30,
2005


    October 1,
2004


 
     (amounts in thousands)  

Current

                        

U.S. Federal

   $ 22,234     $ 27,875     $ 21,519  

State

     753       789       200  

Foreign

     10,106       6,000       5,948  
    


 


 


Total current

     33,093       34,664       27,667  
    


 


 


Deferred

                        

U.S. Federal

     (2,473 )     (1,956 )     1,377  

State

     (71 )     (56 )     (56 )

Foreign

     62       (300 )     (232 )
    


 


 


Total deferred

     (2,482 )     (2,312 )     1,089  
    


 


 


Provision for income taxes

   $ 30,611     $ 32,352     $ 28,756  
    


 


 


 

Total pre-tax income consists of the following:

 

     Fiscal Year Ended

     September 29,
2006


   September 30,
2005


   October 1,
2004


     (amounts in thousands)

U.S.

   $ 91,870    $ 90,552    $ 75,770

Foreign

     33,425      13,810      14,094
    

  

  

Total

   $ 125,295    $ 104,362    $ 89,864
    

  

  

 

The effective tax rate on income before taxes differs from the U.S. federal statutory tax rate as a result of the following:

 

     Fiscal Year Ended

 
     September 29,
2006


    September 30,
2005


    October 1,
2004


 

U.S. Federal statutory rate

   35.0 %   35.0 %   35.0 %

State taxes, net

   0.4     0.5     0.1  

Tax reserve release

   (7.2 )   —       —    

Extraterritorial income exclusion

   (2.4 )   (2.5 )   (2.3 )

Research and development tax credits

   (0.5 )   (2.5 )   (1.2 )

Foreign tax differential and net U.S. tax on foreign income

   (1.1 )   (0.2 )   (0.1 )

Domestic production deduction

   (0.6 )   —       —    

Other

   0.8     0.7     0.5  
    

 

 

Effective tax rate

   24.4 %   31.0 %   32.0 %
    

 

 

 

Varian Semiconductor has not provided for possible U.S. taxes on the undistributed income of foreign subsidiaries, as it is Varian Semiconductor’s policy to indefinitely reinvest these earnings in non-U.S. operations.

 

F-28


Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

However, Varian Semiconductor may decide to repatriate a portion of these earnings to the extent that it does not incur an additional U.S. tax liability. At September 29, 2006, September 30, 2005 and October 1, 2004, such undistributed foreign income was approximately $35.2 million, $20.7 million and $18.4 million, respectively. Quantification of the deferred tax liability, if any, associated with indefinitely reinvested earnings is not practicable.

 

The components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:

 

     September 29,
2006


    September 30,
2005


 
     (amounts in thousands)  

Deferred tax assets:

                

Inventory

   $ 16,684     $ 18,599  

Product warranty

     2,874       2,983  

Deferred revenue

     3,561       4,286  

Accrued vacation and other compensation

     4,561       4,005  

Allowance for doubtful accounts

     307       303  

State tax credit carryforwards

     9,050       8,591  

Stock compensation

     3,533       —    

Other

     72       689  
    


 


Total deferred tax assets

     40,642       39,456  

Less: Valuation allowance

     (9,050 )     (8,591 )
    


 


Total net deferred tax assets

     31,592       30,865  

Deferred tax liabilities:

                

Property, plant and equipment

     (2,837 )     (4,977 )

Other

     (885 )     (500 )
    


 


Total deferred tax liabilities

     (3,722 )     (5,477 )
    


 


Net deferred tax asset

   $ 27,870     $ 25,388  
    


 


 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected tax consequences of temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts. Deferred tax assets include state tax credit carryforwards of $13.9 million, $13.2 million and $11.3 million at September 29, 2006, September 30, 2005, and October 1, 2004, respectively. These credits begin to expire in fiscal year 2007.

 

SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes,” requires that deferred tax assets be reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that a portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. On a quarterly basis, Varian Semiconductor evaluates both the positive and negative evidence bearing upon the realizability of its deferred tax assets. Varian Semiconductor considers future taxable income, ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies, and the ability to utilize tax losses and credits in assessing the need for a valuation allowance. A valuation allowance related to certain state tax credit carryforwards has been recorded. Management has concluded that it is more likely than not that these credits will not be utilized, since historically the annual amount of state credits generated exceeds the amount of credits that can be used. Should Varian Semiconductor determine that it is not able to realize all or part of its other deferred tax assets in the future, a valuation allowance would be required resulting in an expense recorded within the provision for income taxes in the Statement of Income in the period in which such determination was made. It is reasonably possible that the amount of the deferred tax asset considered realizable could be reduced in the near term if future taxable income is reduced.

 

F-29


Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

In the normal course of business, Varian Semiconductor and its subsidiaries are examined by various tax authorities, including the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”). The IRS has conducted an examination for the tax years 1999 through 2003 as part of its routine examinations of Varian Semiconductor’s income tax returns. The IRS completed fieldwork for this examination of Varian Semiconductor in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2005, and submitted to the Congressional Joint Committee on Taxation (“Joint Committee”) for final approval. Varian Semiconductor was notified of Joint Committee approval in the first quarter of fiscal year 2006. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor recognized a discrete tax benefit of $9.0 million related to the favorable conclusion of this multi-year examination. Additionally, Varian Semiconductor reduced other current assets by $11.2 million upon the receipt of an $11.2 million refund from the IRS. Included in interest income for fiscal year 2006 is $1.6 million of interest income related to the final resolution of the audit.

 

In fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004, tax deductions associated with certain exercises of stock options, activity related to Varian Semiconductor’s ESPP and vesting of certain restricted stock shares resulted in a tax benefit recorded to capital in excess of par value of $10.8 million, $9.9 million and $14.9 million, respectively. Varian Semiconductor has elected to account for the indirect benefits of stock-based compensation on the research tax credit, extraterritorial income deduction, and qualified production deduction through the income statement rather than through paid-in-capital.

 

Note 18.    Computation of Net Income Per Share

 

Basic net income per share is calculated based on net income and the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted net income per share includes additional dilution from stock issuable pursuant to the exercise of stock options outstanding and unvested restricted stock. Options to purchase common shares with exercise prices that exceeded the market value of the underlying common stock are excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share. For purposes of the diluted net income per share calculation, the additional shares issuable upon exercise of stock options are determined using the treasury stock method which, as required by SFAS No. 123(R), includes as assumed proceeds share-based compensation expense and the tax effect of such compensation.

 

A reconciliation of the numerator and denominator used in the net income per share calculations is presented as follows:

 

       Fiscal Year

       2006

     2005

     2004

       (amounts in thousands, except per share data)

Numerator

                          

Net Income

     $ 94,684      $ 72,010      $ 61,108
      

    

    

Denominator

                          

Denominator for basic income per share:

                          

Weighted average shares outstanding

       56,403        55,220        54,128

Effect of dilutive securities:

                          

Stock options and restricted common stock

       790        1,176        1,340
      

    

    

Denominator for diluted net income per share

       57,193        56,396        55,467
      

    

    

Net income per share—basic

     $ 1.68      $ 1.30      $ 1.13

Net income per share—diluted

     $ 1.66      $ 1.28      $ 1.10

 

Share amounts used to compute net income per share prior to February 28, 2006 have been adjusted to reflect the three-for-two stock split effected on that day. Please refer to Note 3.

 

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Table of Contents

VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

For fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004, 1.3 million, 1.4 million and 1.2 million potentially dilutive shares, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share.

 

Note 19.    Share Repurchase Plan

 

On October 22, 2004, Varian Semiconductor’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase, from time to time, of up to $100 million of Varian Semiconductor’s common stock on the open market. The first purchases under this plan were made during the first quarter of fiscal year 2006. On August 1, 2006, the Board of Directors of Varian Semiconductor amended the share repurchase program to increase the amount of funds that may be expended in repurchasing Varian Semiconductor’s common stock from $100 million to $200 million. The program does not have a fixed expiration date.

 

Share repurchases under the program during fiscal year 2006 were as follows:

 

     Total
Number
of Shares
Repurchased


   Total
Cost of
Repurchase


   Average
Price Paid
Per Share


   Amount
Available
for
Repurchase


     (Amounts in thousands, except share and per share
amounts)

As of September 30, 2005

                      $ 100,000

Quarter ending December 30, 2005

   796,273    $ 20,056    $ 25.17    $ 79,960

Quarter ending March 31, 2006

   —        —        —      $ 79,960

Quarter ending June 30, 2006

   1,123,915      33,777      30.02    $ 46,217

Additional authorization of $100 million—August 1, 2006

   —        —        —      $ 146,217

Quarter ending September 29, 2006

   1,827,367      55,077      30.11    $ 91,140
    
  

  

      

Total

   3,747,555    $ 108,910    $ 29.03       
    
  

  

      

 

In addition to the repurchases made during fiscal year 2006, Varian Semiconductor has repurchased 683,504 shares at total cost of $26.5 million between September 29, 2006 and December 1, 2006, the latest practicable date prior to the filing date of this annual report on Form 10-K.

 

Note 20.    Retirement Plans

 

Varian Semiconductor has a defined contribution retirement plan covering substantially all of its U.S. employees. Varian Semiconductor’s major obligation is to contribute an amount based on a percentage of each participant’s base pay. Participants are entitled, upon termination or retirement, to their portion of the retirement fund assets, which are held by a third-party custodian. In fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004, Varian Semiconductor’s retirement benefit expense was $5.9 million, $6.2 million and $4.6 million, respectively. These expenses consist of Varian Semiconductor’s defined contribution retirement plan as well as amounts paid to Varian Medical Systems, Inc. (“VMS”) in reimbursement of shared retirement costs.

 

Effective April 2, 1999, Varian Semiconductor assumed responsibility for all of the retirement plans for active employees of Varian Semiconductor; the responsibility for all others, principally retirees of Varian Associates, Inc. (“VAI”), remained with VAI and, subsequently, VMS. Liabilities for post-employment and post-retirement benefits of $4.3 million and $4.2 million have been included in the consolidated financial statements as of September 29, 2006 and September 30, 2005, respectively.

 

On October 5, 2004, Varian Semiconductor’s Board of Directors amended the definition of retirement to mean (i) for non-employee directors, the voluntary cessation of service as a director after completion of at least three

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

years of service as a director, (ii) for employees, other than executive officers as provided in clause (iii) below, the voluntary resignation from employment after completion of at least ten years of service as an employee and the attainment of age 55, and (iii) for executive officers, the voluntary resignation from employment after the attainment of a combined age and years of service as an employee of at least 65, a minimum age of 55, and completion of at least five years of service as an employee. Related to this amended definition, the first quarter of fiscal year 2005 included a $3.5 million charge, largely non-cash, associated with the retirement of the President and Chief Operating Officer of Varian Semiconductor.

 

Note 21.    Lease Commitments

 

Varian Semiconductor leases various types of warehouse and office facilities and equipment, furniture and fixtures under noncancelable lease agreements that expire at various dates. Future minimum lease payments under operating leases are as follows:

 

Fiscal Year


   Operating Leases

     (amounts in thousands)

2007

   $ 1,456

2008

     409

2009

     69

2010

     29

2011

     1
    

Total minimum lease payments

   $ 1,964
    

 

Rental expense for fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004, was $2.3 million, $2.2 million and $2.1 million, respectively.

 

Note 22.     Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees

 

Varian Semiconductor is currently a defendant in a number of legal actions and could incur an uninsured liability in one or more of them. In the opinion of management, the outcome of such litigation would not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows of Varian Semiconductor.

 

As permitted under Delaware law, Varian Semiconductor has agreements whereby it indemnifies its officers and directors for certain events or occurrences while the officer or director is, or was, serving in such capacity at the request of Varian Semiconductor. The term of the indemnification period is for the officer’s or director’s lifetime. The maximum potential amount of future payments Varian Semiconductor could be required to make under these indemnification agreements is unlimited; however, Varian Semiconductor has a Director and Officer insurance policy that limits its exposure and enables Varian Semiconductor to recover a portion of any future amounts paid. As a result of Varian Semiconductor’s insurance policy coverage, management believes the estimated fair value of these indemnification agreements is minimal. Accordingly, Varian Semiconductor has not recorded any liabilities for these agreements as of September 29, 2006.

 

Varian Semiconductor enters into indemnification agreements in the normal course of business. Pursuant to these agreements, Varian Semiconductor indemnifies, holds harmless, and agrees to reimburse the indemnified party for losses suffered or incurred by the indemnified party, generally Varian Semiconductor customers, in connection with any patent, or any copyright or other intellectual property infringement claim by any third party with respect to Varian Semiconductor products. The term of these indemnification agreements is generally

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

perpetual any time after execution of the agreement. The maximum potential amount of future payments Varian Semiconductor could be required to make under these indemnification agreements is unlimited. Management believes the estimated fair value of these agreements is minimal. Accordingly, Varian Semiconductor has not recorded any liabilities for these agreements as of September 29, 2006.

 

Varian Semiconductor also indemnifies certain customers with respect to damages, losses and liabilities they may suffer or incur relating to personal injury, personal property damage, product liability, and environmental claims relating to the use of Varian Semiconductor’s products and services or resulting from the acts or omissions of Varian Semiconductor, its employees, officers, authorized agents or subcontractors. Varian Semiconductor has general and umbrella insurance policies that limit its exposure under these indemnification obligations and guarantees. As a result of Varian Semiconductor’s insurance policy coverage, Varian Semiconductor believes the estimated fair value of these indemnification agreements is minimal. Accordingly, Varian Semiconductor has not recorded any liabilities for these agreements as of September 29, 2006.

 

Prior to the spin-off of Varian Semiconductor from VAI, Varian Semiconductor’s business was operated as the Semiconductor Equipment Business (“SEB”) of VAI. On April 2, 1999, VAI contributed its SEB to Varian Semiconductor, its Instruments Business (“IB”) to Varian, Inc. (“VI”), and changed its name to VMS. In connection with the spin-off from VAI, Varian Semiconductor, VMS and VI entered into certain agreements which include a Distribution Agreement, an Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement, an Intellectual Property Agreement, a Tax Sharing Agreement, and a Transition Services Agreement (collectively, the “Distribution Related Agreements”) whereby Varian Semiconductor agreed to indemnify VMS and VI for any costs, liabilities or expenses relating to Varian Semiconductor’s legal proceedings. Under the Distribution Related Agreements, Varian Semiconductor has agreed to reimburse VMS for one-third of the costs, liabilities, and expenses, adjusted for any related tax benefits recognized or realized by VMS, with respect to certain legal proceedings relating to discontinued operations of VMS. Varian Semiconductor believes the estimated fair value of the indemnification agreements is minimal, except as already recorded on the financial statements.

 

Varian Semiconductor’s operations are subject to various foreign, federal, state and/or local laws relating to the protection of the environment. These include laws regarding discharges into soil, water and air, and the generation, handling, storage, transportation and disposal of waste and hazardous substances. In addition, several countries are reviewing proposed regulations that would require manufacturers to dispose of their products at the end of a product’s useful life. These laws have the effect of increasing costs and potential liabilities associated with the conduct of certain operations.

 

Varian Semiconductor also enters into purchase order commitments in the normal course of business. As of September 29, 2006, Varian Semiconductor had approximately $78.7 million of purchase order commitments with various suppliers.

 

Environmental Remediation

 

VAI has been named by the United States Environmental Protection Agency or third parties as a potentially responsible party under the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, at eight sites where VAI is alleged to have shipped manufacturing waste for recycling or disposal. VAI is also involved in various stages of environmental investigation and/or remediation under the direction of, or in consultation with, foreign, federal, state and/or local agencies at certain current or former VAI facilities (including facilities disposed of in connection with VAI’s sale of its Electron Devices business during fiscal year 1995, and the sale of its Thin Film Systems business during fiscal year 1997). The Distribution Related Agreements provide that each of VMS, Varian Semiconductor and VI will indemnify the others for one-third of

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

these environmental investigation and remediation costs, as adjusted for any insurance proceeds and tax benefits expected to be realized upon payment of these costs.

 

For certain of these sites and facilities, various uncertainties make it difficult to assess the likelihood and scope of further investigation or remediation activities or to estimate the future costs of such activities if undertaken. Varian Semiconductor has accrued $1.2 million in estimated environmental investigation and remediation costs for these sites and facilities as of September 29, 2006 and $1.3 million as of September 30, 2005. As to other sites and facilities, sufficient knowledge has been gained to be able to reasonably estimate the scope and costs of future environmental activities. As such, Varian Semiconductor has accrued $4.2 million as of September 29, 2006 and $4.5 million as of September 30, 2005, which represents future costs discounted at 7%, net of inflation, to cover Varian Semiconductor’s portion of these costs. This reserve is in addition to the $1.2 million as of September 29, 2006 and $1.3 million as of September 30, 2005 previously described.

 

As of September 29, 2006, Varian Semiconductor’s environmental liability, based upon future environmental-related costs estimated by VMS as of that date and included in current and long-term accrued expenses, is calculated as follows:

 

Year


   Recurring
Costs


   Non-recurring
Costs


  

Total

Anticipated
Future Costs


     (amounts in millions)

2007

   $ 0.2    $ 0.4    $ 0.6

2008

     0.2      0.4      0.6

2009

     0.2      0.2      0.4

2010

     0.2      0.2      0.4

2011

     0.3      0.2      0.5

Thereafter

     4.1      0.9      5.0
    

  

  

Total costs

   $ 5.2    $ 2.3      7.5
    

  

      

Less Imputed interest

                   2.1
                  

Environmental liability

                 $ 5.4
                  

 

The current portion of the reserve is $0.6 million. The long-term portion of the reserve is $4.8 million, which is included in long-term accrued expenses.

 

The amounts set forth in the foregoing table are only estimates of anticipated future environmental-related costs, and the amounts actually spent in the years indicated may be greater or less than such estimates. The aggregate range of cost estimates reflects various uncertainties inherent in many environmental investigation and remediation activities and the large number of sites where VMS is undertaking such investigation and remediation activities. VMS believes that most of these cost ranges will narrow as investigation and remediation activities progress. Varian Semiconductor believes that its reserves are adequate, but as the scope of the obligations becomes more clearly defined, these reserves may be modified and related charges against income may be made.

 

Although any ultimate liability arising from environmental-related matters described herein could result in significant expenditures that, if aggregated and assumed to occur within a single fiscal year, would be material to Varian Semiconductor’s financial statements, the likelihood of such occurrence is considered remote. Based on information currently available to management and its best assessment of the ultimate amount and timing of environmental-related events, Varian Semiconductor’s management believes that the costs of these

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

environmental-related matters are not reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial statements of Varian Semiconductor.

 

Varian Semiconductor evaluates its liability for environmental-related investigation and remediation in light of the liability and financial wherewithal of potentially responsible parties and insurance companies where Varian Semiconductor believes that it has rights to contribution, indemnity and/or reimbursement. Claims for recovery of environmental investigation and remediation costs already incurred, and to be incurred in the future, have been asserted against various insurance companies and other third parties. In 1992, VAI filed a lawsuit against 36 insurance companies with respect to most of the above-referenced sites and facilities. VAI received certain cash settlements with respect to these lawsuits in prior years. VMS has also reached an agreement with an

insurance company under which the insurance company agreed to pay a portion of Varian Semiconductor’s past and future environmental-related expenditures. Although VMS intends to aggressively pursue additional insurance recoveries, Varian Semiconductor has not reduced any liability in anticipation of recovery with respect to claims made against third parties.

 

Legal Proceedings

 

Varian Semiconductor is currently the plaintiff in several legal disputes related to employment and contract matters. While Varian Semiconductor believes favorable judgments will be rendered with respect to such claims, the timing and amount, if any, of these judgments is uncertain.

 

From time to time, Varian Semiconductor may become involved in a number of legal actions and could incur an uninsured liability in one or more of them. Accordingly, while the ultimate outcome of these legal matters is not determinable, management believes the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the financial condition or results of operations of Varian Semiconductor.

 

Note 23.    Settlements and License Agreements

 

Pursuant to a settlement agreement dated March 7, 2006 between Varian Semiconductor and Nissin Ion Equipment Co., Ltd., a patent infringement litigation asserted by Varian Semiconductor against Nissin Ion was settled in the Western District of Texas without any admission of infringement or payment by Nissin Ion. This case was closed by the Court on March 20, 2006.

 

During fiscal year 2002, Varian Semiconductor and Lam Research Corporation, (“Lam”), came to an agreement on patent infringement litigation claims. As part of the agreement, Varian Semiconductor granted a license to Lam for certain patents. In return, Varian Semiconductor received a warrant to purchase 2 million shares of Lam common stock at $21.30 per share and $20.0 million. The warrant was valued at $22.8 million and was recognized as revenue in fiscal year 2002. The $20.0 million cash was paid in installments with $5.0 million paid immediately in exchange for prior use of the patents and the remaining $15.0 million in 12 quarterly payments of $1.25 million through the first quarter of fiscal year 2005 in exchange for future use of the patents.

 

Pursuant to the dispute resolution provisions of an Agreement dated January 1, 1992 (“the Agreement”) between Varian Semiconductor and Applied Materials, in September 2002 Varian Semiconductor filed an arbitration demand with the American Arbitration Association asserting that Applied Materials breached the Agreement by failing to pay royalties on products Varian Semiconductor believed were covered by the Agreement’s patent license to Applied Materials. In its arbitration demand, Varian Semiconductor sought to recover back royalties, interest and attorneys’ fees. On May 2, 2003, the arbitration panel issued its decision that certain of Applied Materials’ products were subject to royalty obligations under the Agreement, and on September 1, 2004 the arbitration panel ruled that the patents at issue in the arbitration were valid and enforceable. Applied Materials

 

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VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

made an initial payment of $22.0 million for back royalties and interest on October 4, 2004 and a final payment of $2.6 million for back interest and royalties on November 8, 2004. Applied Materials also is required to pay quarterly unit-based royalty payments to Varian Semiconductor on future sales of certain products found to be within the scope of the Agreement through expiration of the Agreement on March 20, 2007.

 

The royalty-bearing license agreements produced approximately $9.5 million in royalties in fiscal year 2006, $26.9 million in royalties in fiscal year 2005 and $7.9 million in fiscal year 2004. The last of the principal patents covered by these licenses will expire on July 9, 2007.

 

Note 24.    Other Transactions with Affiliates

 

Varian Semiconductor, VMS and VI entered into the Distribution Related Agreements for purposes of providing an orderly transition and to define certain ongoing relationships between and among Varian Semiconductor, VMS and VI after the spin-off.

 

The Distribution Related Agreements provide that, from and after the spin-off, VMS, VI and Varian Semiconductor indemnify each other and their respective subsidiaries, directors, officers, employees and agents against all losses arising in connection with shared liabilities, including certain environmental and legal liabilities. All shared liabilities are managed and administered by VMS and expenses and losses, net of proceeds and other receivables, are borne one-third each by VMS, VI and Varian Semiconductor. The Distribution Related Agreements also provide that Varian Semiconductor shall assume all of its liabilities, other than shared liabilities, including accounts payable, accrued payroll and pension liabilities, in accordance with their terms. During fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004, Varian Semiconductor was charged $1.4 million, $1.2 million and $1.6 million, respectively, by VMS in settlement of these obligations. Varian Semiconductor’s accounts payable balance due to VMS at September 29, 2006 was $0.1 million. Varian Semiconductor’s accounts payable balance due to VMS at September 30, 2005 was $0.1 million.

 

Note 25.    Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

 

     September 29,
2006


    September 30,
2005


 
     (amounts in thousands)  

Accumulated unrealized loss on investments

   $ (1,498 )   $ (1,927 )

Accumulated unrealized gain on cash flow hedging instruments

     399       1,214  
    


 


Accumulated other comprehensive loss

   $ (1,099 )   $ (713 )
    


 


 

Note 26.    Operating Segments and Geographic Information

 

Varian Semiconductor has determined that it operates in one business segment: the manufacturing, marketing and servicing of semiconductor processing equipment for ion implantation systems. Since Varian Semiconductor operates in one segment, all financial segment information required by SFAS No. 131, “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information,” can be found in the consolidated financial statements.

 

Revenue from Varian Semiconductor’s ten largest customers, in fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004, accounted for approximately 63%, 66% and 60% of total revenue, respectively, including the non-recurring royalties in fiscal year 2005 of $18.9 million received from Applied Materials. Varian Semiconductor expects that sales of its products to relatively few customers will continue to account for a high percentage of its revenue in the foreseeable future. In fiscal year 2006, revenue from three customers accounted for 11%, 10% and 10%, respectively, of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenue. In fiscal year 2005, revenue from two customers

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

accounted for 20% and 14% of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenue. In fiscal year 2004, revenue from two customers accounted for 14% and 10% of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenue.

 

Sales to Asia Pacific accounted for 67%, 68% and 68% of revenues in fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004, respectively. North American sales accounted for 22%, 22% and 20% of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenues in fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004, respectively. European sales accounted for 11%, 10% and 12% of Varian Semiconductor’s total revenues in fiscal years 2006, 2005 and 2004, respectively.

 

The following table summarizes revenue based on final destination and long-lived assets by geography:

 

     North
America


   Europe

   Japan

   Taiwan

   Korea

   Other

   Consolidated

     (amounts in thousands)

2006

                                                

Revenue

   $ 161,129    $ 78,464    $ 73,731    $ 149,330    $ 151,147    $ 116,913    $ 730,714

Long Term Assets

     56,513      465      8,820      431      11,652      1,392      79,273

2005

                                                

Revenue

   $ 134,778    $ 57,161    $ 50,634    $ 98,461    $ 196,714    $ 62,773    $ 600,521

Long Term Assets

     54,413      530      8,831      424      8,566      1,336      74,100

2004

                                                

Revenue

   $ 107,476    $ 64,042    $ 31,435    $ 109,695    $ 117,822    $ 99,639    $ 530,109

Long Term Assets

     48,807      626      8,970      353      8,226      767      67,749

 

 

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SCHEDULE II

 

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

 

For the fiscal years ended 2006, 2005, and 2004

 

(Amounts in thousands)

 

Description


  Balance at
Beginning
of Period


  Charges
to Expenses


    Reductions
to Expenses


    Deductions

    Balance
at End of
Period


        Description

  Amount

   

Allowance for Doubtful Notes & Accounts Receivable

                                       

Fiscal Year Ended 2006

  $ 892   $ 22     $ (11 )   Write-offs & adjustments   $ (5 )   $ 908

Fiscal Year Ended 2005

  $ 1,388   $ 66     $ (546 )   Write-offs & adjustments   $ 16     $ 892

Fiscal Year Ended 2004

  $ 1,992   $ —       $ (563 )   Write-offs & adjustments   $ 41     $ 1,388

Excess and Obsolete Inventory Provision

                                       

Fiscal Year Ended 2006

  $ 28,465   $ 3,967     $ (1,692 )   Inventory adjustments   $ 7,822     $ 22,918

Fiscal Year Ended 2005

  $ 29,145   $ 3,438     $ (1,660 )   Inventory adjustments   $ 2,458     $ 28,465

Fiscal Year Ended 2004

  $ 33,840   $ (34 )   $ (868 )   Inventory adjustments   $ 3,793     $ 29,145

Valuation Allowance on Deferred Tax Asset

                                       

Fiscal Year Ended 2006

  $ 8,591   $ 459     $ (459 )   State tax credit carryforwards   $ (459 )   $ 9,050

Fiscal Year Ended 2005

  $ 7,158   $ 1,433     $ (1,433 )   State tax credit carryforwards   $ (1,433 )   $ 8,591

Fiscal Year Ended 2004

  $ 5,809   $ 1,349     $ (1,349 )   State tax credit carryforwards   $ (1,349 )   $ 7,158

 

S-1