By Kari Williamson

Varian stockholders have voted to approve the merger by an overwhelming majority.

Gary Dickerson, CEO of Varian Semiconductor, says: "Gaining shareholder approval is a significant step in the process to combine the strengths of both companies and enhance our innovation, customer focus, operational excellence and talent so that we are better positioned to reach our goals."

Varian says it expects the merger to be completed during the second half of 2011.

The closing of the merger between the superconductor and solar PV companies is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain other closing conditions, including, without limitation, the approval of the US Department of Justice under the Hart Scott Rodino Act.