In 2025, PCT turned 60 years old.

A look back at years of innovation and curiosity. 

In a small laboratory on the third floor of Comet’s X-ray factory in Liebefeld near Berne, Switzerland, a group of dedicated specialists embarked on a journey that would shape the future of Comet. From humble beginnings with vacuum capacitors for the broadcast industry to becoming a key player in RF power supply systems, Comet's commitment to quality and customer support has been unwavering. Explore the evolution of Comet PCT, from its origins as an alternative product line to its integral role in the company's success today.

At the same time as Gordon Moore’s observation changed the course of technology forever, Comet in Switzerland had realized that – while growing with its X-ray tube business – focusing on such a narrow area posed risks. For several years they were looking into alternative fields of business. Ideally, one that would align with Comet’s existing equipment and its engineers’ knowledge of vacuum and high-voltage technology. They finally found it in the manufacturing of vacuum capacitors, which is pretty close to that of X-ray tubes: mechanical processing, surface treatment, pre-annealing, glass-blowing/ceramic technology and pumping processes are the same, only when it comes to forming and testing, the vacuum capacitor production goes its own way. 

Already at that time, the field of Radio Frequency (RF) showed more growth potential than X-ray technology, catching the attention of Comet’s executives. In the construction of broadcasting stations, vacuum capacitors were becoming preferred over oil capacitors due to safety reasons. Despite the market offering around 150 vacuum capacitor types, Comet chose to focus on just three complex types that were not suited for mass production to maximize profits. They avoided less critical capacitors to avoid costly investments in automated manufacturing. Instead, they concentrated on high-end ceramic capacitors with variable capacity, aiming to persuade European customers to switch from glass to vacuum capacitors with competitive pricing.

Gain the semiconductor market in the 1990s

Challenged by the new situation, Comet sought to establish a presence in the US, focusing on the Semiconductor industry. This period was marked by significant growth and a wave of innovation. Numerous new vacuum capacitor variants were introduced to meet the diverse requirements of our clientele. Concurrently, our manufacturing capabilities evolved to align with these advancements. Electro polishing underwent modernization, CNC technology was implemented, and new cutting-edge machinery, including soldering furnaces and new equipment for vacuum pumping and electrical conditioning, were integrated into our operations facilities.