Acquisition

Oxford Instruments PLC
29 October 2001

29 October 2001

For immediate release

            Oxford Instruments plc adds to its Analytical business

Oxford Instruments plc, the advanced instrumentation company, announces today
that its wholly owned subsidiary, Oxford Instruments Measurement Systems LLC
has acquired substantially all the assets of CMI International (CMI).

Excluding acquisition costs, the total consideration payable for the assets of
CMI will be $2.15 million in cash. The management accounts of CMI for the 9
months to 30th September 2001 show an operating profit close to break even on
a turnover of $9 million. Net assets acquired at completion are estimated to
be $2.3 million. The acquisition is expected to be earnings enhancing in 2002/
03.

CMI, a privately owned company established over 15 years ago and based in
Chicago, is the market leader in the USA for the design, manufacture, sale and
service of instruments for the accurate measurement of thin metallic coatings.
The main industries served include electronic components, automotive, metal
finishing, semiconductor, data storage and vacuum coating.

The initial priorities are to increase the depth of management, strengthen
internal processes and create a sound base from which to grow the business.
This will be achieved with the help of appropriate complementary engineering,
manufacturing and distribution strengths in Oxford Instruments. Many of CMI's
products are based on X-ray technology, an area where Oxford Instruments is
already a leader.

Andrew Mackintosh, Chief Executive of Oxford Instruments plc, said: 'CMI is a
business we have known for many years which has an outstanding reputation and
a leadership position in its market. The acquisition creates for us additional
growth opportunities, both in CMI's customer base and for our existing
analytical instrumentation business. I am also delighted that Tom Leone,
founder of CMI, is staying with the business to participate in its future
success.'

Enquiries:

Oxford Instruments plc                                01865 881437

Andrew Mackintosh

Martin Lamaison

Citigate Dewe Rogerson                                020 7638 9571

Patrick Toyne-Sewell

Notes to editors

Oxford Instruments

Oxford Instruments is a global leader in advanced instrumentation. It is a
recognised world leader in several technologies, including the application of
superconductivity, the creation of low temperatures, the production and
detection of X-rays and in neurological measurements. The Company's products
are used around the world in healthcare, semiconductor processing, scientific
research, industrial chemical analysis and quality control. Its customers
include most of the world's major international companies as well as the
leading hospitals and research institutes.