VARIAN INC
10-12G, 1999-02-12
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<PAGE>
 
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- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                              WASHINGTON, DC 20549
 
                                ---------------
 
                                    FORM 10
 
                  GENERAL FORM FOR REGISTRATION OF SECURITIES
                     PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR 12(g) OF
                      THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
                                ---------------
 
                                  Varian, Inc.
             (Exact Name of Registrant as specified in Its Charter)
 
               Delaware                                 77-0501995
                                                     (I.R.S. Employer
    (State or Other Jurisdiction of                Identification No.)
    Incorporation or Organization)
 
 
            3050 Hansen Way
 
         Palo Alto, California                          94304-1000
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)                (Zip Code)
 
 
                                ---------------
 
              Registrant's telephone number, including area code:
 
                                 (650) 493-4000
 
       Securities to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
 
                                      None
 
       Securities to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
 
                     Common Stock, par value $.01 per share
                                (Title of Class)
 
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<PAGE>
 
Item 1. Business.
 
The information required by this item is contained under the sections
"Business," "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations," "Risk Factors, and in the Combined Financial Statements
of Instruments Business of Varian Associates, Inc.
 
Item 2. Financial Information.
 
The information required by this item is contained under the sections
"Summary - Summary Financial Data," "Risk Factors," "Selected Financial Data,"
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations," "Market Risk" and "Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial
Statements."
 
Item 3. Properties.
 
The information required by this item is contained under the section
"Business - Properties."
 
Item 4. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.
 
The information required by this item is contained under the section "Ownership
of IB Common Stock."
 
Item 5. Directors and Executive Officers.
 
The information required by this item is contained under the sections
"Management - Board of Directors" and " - Executive Officers."
 
Item 6. Executive Compensation.
 
The information required by this item is contained under the section
"Management - Compensation of Directors," " - Executive Officer Compensation,"
" - Stock Options," and " - Change in Control Agreements."
 
Item 7. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.
 
The information required by this item is contained under the sections "The
Distribution - Relationship Among VMS, VSEA and IB After the Distribution" and
"Management - Change in Control Agreements."
 
Item 8. Legal Proceedings.
 
The information required by this item is contained under the section
"Business - Legal Proceedings."
 
Item 9. Market Price of and Dividends on the Registrant's Common Equity and
Related Stockholder
    Matters.
 
The information required by this item is contained under the sections "Risk
Factors - No Dividends Anticipated," "The Distribution - Listing and Trading of
IB Common Stock," " - Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement" and "Description
of the Capital Stock."
 
Item 10. Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities.
 
On January 7, 1999, as part of its original incorporation, the Registrant
issued one share of its common stock, for a total consideration of $1,000, to
Varian Associates, Inc., which is and will be the Registrant's sole stockholder
until the date of the distribution. This transaction was exempt from
registration under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, in
that such transaction did not involve a public offering.
 
Item 11. Description of Registrant's Securities to be Registered.
The information required by this item is contained under the section
"Description of the Capital Stock - General" and " - Common Stock."
<PAGE>
 
Item 12. Indemnification of Directors and Officers.
 
The information required by this item is contained under the section
"Limitation of Liability and Indemnification Matters."
 
Item 13. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
 
The information required by this item is identified in the sections "Index to
Financial Statements - Instruments Business of Varian Associates, Inc." and
"Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements."
 
Item 14. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and
Financial Matters.
 
None.
 
Item 15. Financial Statements and Exhibits.
 
(a) Financial Statements
 
  (1) Combined Financial Statements: The information required by this item is
      contained in the "Index to Financial Statements and Financial Statement
      Schedule."
 
  (2) Combined Financial Statement Schedule: The following financial
      statement schedule of the Registrant for fiscal years 1998, 1997, and
      1996, and the related Report of Independent Accountants are filed as a
      part of this Registration Statement and should be read in conjunction
      with the Combined Financial Statements of the Registrant.
 
Schedule
 
  - Report of Independent Accountants on Finacial Statement Schedule
 
  - 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.
 
(b)Exhibits
 
The following documents are filed as exhibits hereto:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 Exhibit
 No.    Description
 ------------------
 <C>     <S>
 2.1     Distribution Agreement among Varian Associates, Inc., Varian Semiconductor
         Equipment Associates, Inc. and Varian, Inc. dated as of January 14, 1999.
 3.1     Form of Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Varian, Inc. to be in
         effect upon the effectiveness of the Distribution.
 3.2     Form of By-Laws of Varian, Inc. to be in effect upon the effectiveness of
         the Distribution.
 4.1     Specimen Common Stock Certificate.*
 4.2     Form of Rights Agreement.*
 10.1    Form of Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement among Varian Associates,
         Inc., Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. and Varian, Inc.
 10.2    Form of Intellectual Property Agreement among Varian Associates, Inc.,
         Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. and Varian, Inc.
 10.3    Form of Tax Sharing Agreement among Varian Associates, Inc., Varian
         Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. and Varian, Inc.
 10.4    Form of Transition Services Agreement among Varian Associates, Inc.,
         Varian
         Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. and Varian, Inc.
 10.5    Form of Change in Control Agreement for CEO and Senior Executives.*
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 Exhibit
 No.    Description
 ------------------
 <C>     <S>
 10.6    Form of Indemnity Agreement with Directors and Executive Officers.*
 10.7    Varian, Inc. Omnibus Stock Plan.
 10.8    Varian, Inc. Management Incentive Plan.
 21      Subsidiaries of the Registrant.
 27      Financial Data Schedule.
</TABLE>
- -------
* To be filed by amendment.
<PAGE>
 
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+Information contained herein is subject to completion or amendment. A         +
+Registration Statement on Form 10 relating to these securities has been filed +
+with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This Information Statement shall +
+not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these  +
+securities.                                                                   +
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
 
                 SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED FEBRUARY 12, 1999
 
Information Statement
 
                                  Varian, Inc.
 
                                  Common Stock
                          (par value $0.01 per share)
 
This Information Statement is being furnished in connection with the
distribution (the "Distribution") by Varian Associates, Inc., a Delaware
corporation ("Varian"), to holders of record of the common stock of Varian, par
value $1 per share ("Varian Common Stock"), at the close of business on March
  , 1999 (the "Distribution Record Date") of one share of common stock, par
value $0.01 per share (the "IB Common Stock"), of Varian, Inc., a Delaware
corporation ("IB"), for each share of Varian Common Stock owned on the
Distribution Record Date. At the same time Varian will distribute to such
holders one share of common stock, par value $0.01 per share ("VSEA Common
Stock"), of Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc., a Delaware
corporation ("VSEA"), for each share of Varian Common Stock owned on the
Distribution Record Date. See "The Distribution - Manner of Effecting the
Distribution."
 
IB and VSEA are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Varian. On or prior to the
Distribution, Varian will effectuate certain transactions (the "Internal
Transfers") intended to allocate assets and liabilities relating to (i) the
manufacture and sale of health care systems, including linear accelerators,
simulators, brachytherapy systems and related data management systems and x-ray
components (the "Health Care Systems Business") to Varian; (ii) the manufacture
and sale of analytical and research instruments and vacuum products (the
"Instruments Business") to IB and (iii) the manufacture and sale of ion
implantation processing systems used in the manufacture of integrated circuits
(the "Semiconductor Equipment Business") to VSEA. As of the Distribution,
Varian will change its name to "Varian Medical Systems, Inc." (Varian after the
Distribution being referred to herein as "VMS").
 
The Distribution will be effective on or about April    , 1999 (the
"Distribution Date"), subject to satisfaction of certain conditions. Stock
distribution statements reflecting ownership of IB Common Stock and VSEA Common
Stock will be mailed as soon as practicable after the Distribution. No
consideration will be paid by Varian's stockholders for shares of IB Common
Stock and VSEA Common Stock received by them in the Distribution, nor will they
be requested to surrender or exchange Varian Common Stock in order to receive
IB Common Stock and VSEA Common Stock.
 
There is currently no public market for the IB Common Stock, although it is
expected that a "when issued" trading market will develop after the
Distribution Record Date. Application has been made to quote the IB Common
Stock on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol "VARI." Each share of IB
Common Stock will be accompanied by one right (a "Right") to purchase
participating preferred stock of IB.
 
Stockholders of Varian are being asked to approve the Distribution at the
Combined Annual and Special Meeting of Stockholders of Varian on February 18,
1999. No proxies are being solicited in connection with this Information
Statement.
 
These securities have not been approved or disapproved by the Securities and
Exchange Commission or any state securities commission nor has the Securities
and Exchange Commission or any state securities commission passed upon the
accuracy or adequacy of this information. Any representation to the contrary is
a criminal offense.
 
See "Risk Factors" beginning on page 10 for a discussion of certain factors
that should be considered by recipients of IB Common Stock.
 
This Information Statement does not constitute an offer to sell or the
solicitation of an offer to buy any securities.
 
Stockholders of Varian with inquiries related to the Distribution should
contact First Chicago Trust Company of New York, the Distribution Agent for the
Distribution, at 1-800-519-3111 or the Secretary of Varian at 650-493-4000.
 
The date of this Information Statement is March     , 1999.
<PAGE>
 
Cautionary Statement for Purposes of "Safe Harbor" Provisions of The Private
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
 
This Information Statement contains forward-looking statements within the
meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 concerning,
among other things, IB's prospects, developments and business strategies for
its operations, all of which are subject to risks and uncertainties. These
forward-looking statements are identified by their use of such terms and
phrases as "intends," "intend," "intended," "goal," "estimate," "estimates,"
"expects," "expect," "expected," "project," "projects," "projected,"
"projections," "plans," "anticipates," "anticipate," "anticipated," "should,"
"designed to," "foreseeable future," "believe," "believes" and "scheduled" and
in many cases are followed by a cross reference to "Risk Factors."
 
When a forward-looking statement includes a statement of the assumptions or
bases underlying the forward-looking statement, the management of IB cautions
that, while it believes such assumptions or bases to be reasonable and makes
them in good faith, assumed facts or bases almost always vary from actual
results, and the differences between assumed facts or bases and actual results
can be material, depending upon the circumstances. Where, in any forward-
looking statement, IB or its management expresses an expectation or belief as
to future results, such expectation or belief is expressed in good faith and
believed to have a reasonable basis, but there can be no assurance that the
statement of expectation or belief will result or be achieved or accomplished.
 
The actual results of IB may differ significantly from the results discussed in
the forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such a difference
include (i) the factors discussed under "Risk Factors" and particularly, in
cases where the forward-looking statement is followed by a cross reference to
"Risk Factors," the factors discussed in the section or sections under "Risk
Factors" that are referred to in the cross reference, (ii) the factors
discussed under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations," "Forecasted Capitalization," and "Business," and
(iii) the following factors: product demand and market acceptance risks; the
effect of general economic conditions and foreign currency fluctuations; the
impact of competitive products and pricing; new product development and
commercialization; the continued improvement of the various instruments
markets; the ability to increase operating margins on higher sales; the impact
of economic conditions in Korea and other Asian markets on sales in those
areas; successful implementation by IB and certain third parties of corrective
actions to address the impact of the Year 2000; completion of the Distribution
on the current schedule within current budgets; the ability to sell certain
surplus assets in connection with the Distribution; the ability of IB to
realize anticipated cost savings resulting from the Distribution; and other
risks detailed from time to time in the filings of IB with the Securities and
Exchange Commission (the "Commission"). IB undertakes no obligation to publicly
update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise.
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                          Page
                                                                          ----
<S>                                                                       <C>
Summary..................................................................    4
Introduction.............................................................    9
Risk Factors.............................................................   10
The Distribution.........................................................   20
Selected Financial Data..................................................   30
Management's Discussion And Analysis Of Financial Condition And Results
 Of Operations...........................................................   31
Market Risk..............................................................   38
Forecasted Capitalization................................................   40
Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements........................   41
Business.................................................................   44
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            Page
                                                                            ----
<S>                                                                         <C>
Management.................................................................   50
The IB Omnibus Stock Plan..................................................   57
The IB Management Incentive Plan...........................................   62
Ownership of IB Common Stock...............................................   65
Financing..................................................................   67
Description of the Capital Stock...........................................   68
Limitation of Liability and Indemnification Matters........................   70
Delaware Law and Certain Charter and By-Law Provisions.....................   70
Available Information......................................................   75
Index to Financial Statements..............................................  F-1
</TABLE>
 
                                       3
<PAGE>
 
 
                                    SUMMARY
 
The following is a summary of certain information contained elsewhere in this
Information Statement. Reference is made to, and this summary is qualified by,
the more detailed information set forth in this Information Statement, which
should be read in its entirety. Unless the context otherwise requires, (i)
references in this Information Statement to "IB" refer to IB and its
subsidiaries after giving effect to the Internal Transfers and the Distribution
and (ii) references in this Information Statement to the "Instruments Business"
refer to the historical business and operations of the Instruments Business
conducted by Varian prior to the Distribution.
 
                                       IB
 
IB, a newly-formed, wholly-owned subsidiary of Varian, will own and operate the
Instruments Business after the Distribution. IB develops, manufactures, sells
and services a variety of scientific instruments and equipment. IB is a major
supplier of analytical and research instruments and related equipment for
studying the chemical composition of a myriad of substances, including metals,
inorganic materials, organic compounds, polymers, natural substances and
biochemicals. IB also develops, manufactures, sells and services nuclear
magnetic resonance spectrometers for probing the structural properties of
molecules and for producing non-invasive three-dimensional images of biomedical
materials. IB also develops, manufactures, sells and services high vacuum
products that serve a wide range of industrial and scientific applications,
such as high-energy physics, surface analysis, scientific and industrial
coating processes, analytical instrumentation and semiconductor manufacturing.
IB is also a state-of-the-art contract manufacturer of advanced electronic
assemblies and subsystems such as printed circuit boards. IB operates in 70
countries and at October 2, 1998 had approximately 3,000 employees.
 
The principal executive offices of IB will be located at 3120 Hansen Way, Palo
Alto, California 94304-1030. Its telephone number at that address is (650)
[    ]
 
                                THE DISTRIBUTION
 
Distributing Company...... Varian Associates, Inc., a Delaware corporation.
                           Concurrently with the Distribution, Varian will
                           change its name to "Varian Medical Systems, Inc."
                           (Varian after the Distribution being referred to
                           herein as "VMS").
 
Distributed Companies..... Varian, Inc. and Varian Semiconductor Equipment
                           Associates, Inc., each a Delaware corporation and
                           currently a wholly-owned subsidiary of Varian.
 
Distribution Ratio........ Each stockholder of record of Varian as of the
                           close of business on the Distribution Record Date
                           will receive one share of IB Common Stock and one
                           share of VSEA Common Stock for each share of Varian
                           Common Stock held on the Distribution Record Date
                           and will retain the shares of Varian Common Stock
                           held by such stockholder immediately prior to the
                           Distribution (Varian Common Stock after the
                           Distribution being referred to herein as "VMS
                           Common Stock"). No consideration will be paid by
                           Varian stockholders for shares of IB Common Stock
                           and VSEA Common Stock to be received in the
                           Distribution. See "The Distribution - Manner of
                           Effecting the Distribution."
 
Shares to be               Approximately 29.9 million shares of IB Common
Distributed............... Stock and VSEA Common Stock (based on 29,909,061
                           shares of Varian Common Stock outstanding on
                           December 21, 1998). The shares to be distributed
                           will constitute 100% of the outstanding shares of
                           IB Common Stock and VSEA Common Stock.
 
Distribution Record        Close of business on March  , 1999
Date......................
 
                                       4
<PAGE>
 
Distribution Date......... April   , 1999. On or prior to the Distribution
                           Date, the shares of IB Common Stock and VSEA Common
                           Stock to be distributed in the Distribution will be
                           delivered to First Chicago Trust Company of New
                           York, as Distribution Agent (the "Distribution
                           Agent"). The Distribution Agent will mail stock
                           distribution statements reflecting ownership of
                           shares of IB Common Stock and VSEA Common Stock as
                           soon as practicable after the Distribution. See
                           "The Distribution - Manner of Effecting the
                           Distribution."
 
Conditions to the          Under the terms of the Distribution Agreement dated
Distribution.............. as of January 14, 1999 among Varian, IB and VSEA
                           (the "Distribution Agreement"), the Distribution is
                           conditioned upon, among other things, (i) the
                           Internal Revenue Service having issued a ruling
                           (the "Tax Ruling") in response to Varian's request
                           in form and substance satisfactory to the Board of
                           Directors of Varian (see " - Tax Consequences"
                           below), (ii) stockholder approval of the
                           Distribution at the Combined Annual and Special
                           Meeting of Stockholders of Varian (the "Meeting")
                           to be held on February 18, 1999 and (iii) the
                           Registration Statement on Form 10, of which this
                           Information Statement is a part (the "Registration
                           Statement") having been declared effective by the
                           Commission. Even if all conditions are satisfied,
                           Varian has reserved the right to abandon, defer or
                           modify the Distribution at any time prior to the
                           Distribution Date. The Varian Board will not waive
                           the requirement of receipt of a favorable Tax
                           Ruling unless Varian receives an opinion of counsel
                           that no gain or loss will be recognized by the
                           holders of Varian Common Stock as a result of the
                           Distribution and no gain or loss will be recognized
                           by Varian upon the Distribution under the Internal
                           Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). In
                           addition, the Varian Board will not waive any other
                           condition to the Distribution or make any changes
                           in the terms of the Distribution after the
                           Distribution is approved by Varian's stockholders
                           unless the Varian Board determines that such
                           waivers or changes would not be materially adverse
                           to Varian's stockholders. In determining whether
                           any such waivers or changes would be materially
                           adverse to Varian's stockholders, the Varian Board
                           will consider, as appropriate, advice from its
                           outside financial and legal advisors as well as the
                           recommendation of management as to the potential
                           impact of such waivers or changes on Varian and
                           Varian's stockholders. See "The Distribution -
                            Conditions; Termination."
 
Reasons for the            The Distribution is designed to separate three
Distribution.............. types of businesses that have different dynamics
                           and business cycles, serve different markets and
                           customers, are subject to different competitive
                           forces and must be managed with different long-term
                           and short-term strategies and goals. The
                           Distribution will allow the management of IB to
                           focus on its own business, organize its capital
                           structure, evaluate its growth opportunities,
                           achieve market recognition, rationalize its
                           organizational structure and design equity-based
                           compensation programs targeted to its own
                           performance.
 
Internal Transfers........ On or prior to the Distribution Date, Varian
                           intends to consummate certain internal mergers and
                           stock and asset transfers intended to allocate
                           assets and liabilities relating to (i) the Health
                           Care Systems Business to VMS, (ii) the
                           Semiconductor Equipment Business to VSEA and (iii)
                           the Instruments
 
                                       5
<PAGE>
 
                           Business to IB (the "Internal Transfers"). See "The
                           Distribution - Internal Mergers and Transfers" and
                           "Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial
                           Statements."
 
Relationship Among VMS,
IB and VSEA After the
Distribution..............
                           For purposes of governing certain ongoing
                           relationships among VMS, VSEA and IB after the
                           Distribution and to provide mechanisms for an
                           orderly transition, Varian, IB and VSEA have
                           entered into or will enter into certain agreements.
                           Such agreements include: (i) the Distribution
                           Agreement providing for, among other things, the
                           Internal Transfers, the Distribution and cross-
                           indemnification provisions, (ii) the Tax Sharing
                           Agreement (as defined), (iii) the Employee Benefits
                           Allocation Agreement (as defined), (iv) the
                           Transition Services Agreement (as defined) and (v)
                           the Intellectual Property Agreement (as defined)
                           (such agreements other than the Distribution
                           Agreement are referred to herein collectively as
                           the "Ancillary Agreements"). See "The
                           Distribution - Relationship Among VMS, VSEA and IB
                           After the Distribution."
 
Financing................. Varian is required to renegotiate the terms of its
                           outstanding unsecured term loans (the "Term Loans")
                           to permit 50% of these loans to be assumed by IB in
                           connection with the Distribution. The Term Loans
                           contain covenants that limit future borrowings and
                           the payment of cash dividends and require the
                           maintenance of certain levels of working capital
                           and operating results of the borrower. In addition,
                           certain short-term notes payable of Varian and its
                           subsidiaries (the "Notes Payable") may, as a result
                           of the Internal Transfers and debt allocation
                           provisions of the Distribution Agreement, remain
                           outstanding as direct and indirect obligations of
                           IB as of the Distribution Date. Based on the
                           outstanding indebtedness of Varian under the Term
                           Loans and Notes Payable as of October 2, 1998 and
                           Varian's projected operating results, certain other
                           transactions and scheduled debt repayments through
                           the Distribution Date, it is anticipated that at
                           the Distribution Date, IB will have between $50
                           million and $100 million of outstanding
                           indebtedness under the Term Loans and Notes
                           Payable. Based on the assumptions stated in such
                           section, the allocation of indebtedness to IB at
                           the Distribution Date should approximate the
                           amounts reflected in "Forecasted Capitalization."
                           See "The Distribution" and "Financing."
 
                           IB may enter into a credit facility for working
                           capital and other general corporate purposes. The
                           credit facility may contain certain representations
                           and warranties; conditions; affirmative, negative
                           and financial covenants; and events of default
                           customary for such facilities. It is not expected
                           that IB will have any outstanding borrowings under
                           its credit facility as of the Distribution. See
                           "Financing."
 
Tax Consequences.......... Varian has conditioned the Distribution on receipt
                           of the Tax Ruling from the Internal Revenue Service
                           to the effect, among other things, that receipt of
                           shares of IB Common Stock and VSEA Common Stock by
                           stockholders of Varian will be tax-free. The Varian
                           Board will not waive the requirement of receipt of
                           a favorable Tax Ruling from the Internal Revenue
                           Service unless Varian receives an opinion of
                           counsel that no gain or loss will be recognized
 
                                       6
<PAGE>
 
                           by the holders of Varian Common Stock as a result
                           of the Distribution and no gain or loss will be
                           recognized by Varian upon the Distribution. For a
                           description of the consequences to IB and the
                           holders of Varian Common Stock if the Distribution
                           were not to qualify as tax-free, see "RiskFactors -
                            Federal Income Tax Considerations."
 
Distribution Agent........ First Chicago Trust Company of New York (the
                           "Distribution Agent")
 
                           IB AFTER THE DISTRIBUTION
 
Board of Directors........ The following five individuals are expected to be
                           the members of the Board of Directors of IB as of
                           the close of business on the Distribution Date:
                           Allen J. Lauer, John G. McDonald, Wayne R. Moon,
                           D.E. Mundell and Elizabeth E. Tallett. Certain of
                           the foregoing currently serve as directors of
                           Varian and will resign from Varian's Board of
                           Directors effective as of the Distribution Date.
                           See "Management - Board of Directors."
 
Trading Market............ There is currently no public market for the IB
                           Common Stock although a "when issued" trading
                           market is expected to develop after the
                           Distribution Record Date. IB has applied for
                           quotation of the IB Common Stock on the Nasdaq
                           National Market under the symbol "VARI." See
                           "RiskFactors - No Current Public Market for IB
                           Common Stock" and "The Distribution - Listing and
                           Trading of IB Common Stock."
 
 
Certain Provisions of
Certificate of
Incorporation, By-Laws
and Rights Plan...........
                           Certain provisions of the Certificate of
                           Incorporation and By-Laws of IB which will be in
                           effect at the time of the Distribution may have the
                           effect of making more difficult an acquisition of
                           control of IB in a transaction not approved by IB's
                           Board of Directors. In addition, IB will adopt a
                           stockholder rights plan (the "Rights Plan"), which,
                           under certain circumstances, would significantly
                           dilute the interest in IB of persons seeking to
                           acquire control of IB without the prior approval of
                           IB's Board of Directors. See "Risk Factors -
                            Certain Anti-takeover Features," "Description of
                           the Capital Stock - Rights Plan" and "Delaware Law
                           and Certain Charter and By-Law Provisions."
 
                                  RISK FACTORS
 
Stockholders should consider carefully the specific investment considerations
set forth under "Risk Factors," as well as the other information set forth in
this Information Statement.
 
                                       7
<PAGE>
 
                             SUMMARY FINANCIAL DATA
 
The following table presents summary historical financial data of the
Instruments Business. The information set forth below should be read in
conjunction with "Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements,"
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations" and the historical financial statements and notes thereto of the
Instruments Business included elsewhere in this Information Statement. The
unaudited pro forma statement of earnings data for the fiscal year ended
October 2, 1998, set forth below was prepared to give effect to the
Distribution as if it had occurred on September 27, 1997, and the unaudited pro
forma balance sheet data at October 2, 1998 was prepared to give effect to the
Distribution as if it had occurred on October 2, 1998, and does not purport to
represent what the Instruments Business' operating results or financial
position would have been or to project its operating results or financial
position for any future date or period. The statement of earnings data set
forth below for the fiscal years ended October 2, 1998, September 26, 1997 and
September 27, 1996 and the balance sheet data at October 2, 1998 and September
26, 1997 are derived from, and are qualified by reference to, the audited
financial statements of the Instruments Business included elsewhere in this
Information Statement. The statement of earnings data for the fiscal years 1995
and 1994 and the balance sheet data at fiscal year end 1996, 1995 and 1994 are
derived from unaudited financial data of the Instruments Business not included
in this Information Statement.
 
The historical financial information may not be indicative of the Instruments
Business' future performance and does not necessarily reflect what the
financial position and results of operations of the Instruments Business would
have been had the Instruments Business operated as a separate, stand-alone
entity during the periods presented.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                              Fiscal
                              Years
                            --------------------------------------------------
                             Pro Forma
                                  1998    1998    1997    1996    1995    1994
                            ------------------ ------- ------- ------- -------
         (Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)
<S>                         <C>        <C>     <C>     <C>     <C>     <C>
Statement of Earnings Data
Sales......................     $557.8  $557.8  $541.9  $504.4  $459.4  $425.7
Operating Earnings before
 Taxes.....................     $ 35.1  $ 39.2  $ 26.8  $ 11.5  $  2.7  $ 20.3
Taxes on earnings..........     $ 14.2  $ 15.8  $ 12.6  $  5.3  $  0.7  $ 10.0
Net Earnings...............     $ 20.9  $ 23.4  $ 14.2  $  6.2  $  2.0  $ 10.3
Pro Forma Net Earnings Per
 Share(/1/)................     $ 0.70  $ 0.78  $ 0.47  $ 0.20  $ 0.06  $ 0.30
Balance Sheet Data at Year
 End
Total assets...............     $412.1  $404.1  $357.9  $301.0  $282.0  $272.6
Long-term debt (excluding
 current portion)..........     $ 52.0  $   --  $   --  $   --  $   --  $   --
</TABLE>
- -------
(1) The computation of pro forma net earnings per share is based on the
    weighted average number of shares of Varian Common Stock outstanding during
    the respective periods, reflecting the anticipated ratio of one share of IB
    Common Stock for each share of Varian Common Stock outstanding at the time
    of the Distribution.
 
                                       8
<PAGE>
 
                                  INTRODUCTION
 
On         , 1999, the Varian Board of Directors declared a dividend payable to
each stockholder of record at the close of business on the Distribution Record
Date of one share of IB Common Stock and one share of VSEA Common Stock for
each share of Varian Common Stock held by such stockholder at the close of
business on the Distribution Record Date. As a result of the Distribution, 100%
of the outstanding shares of IB Common Stock and VSEA Common Stock will be
distributed to Varian stockholders on a pro rata basis. The Distribution will
be made on or about April    , 1999.
 
Stockholders of Varian with questions concerning the Distribution should
contact the Distribution Agent at 1-800-519-3111 or Varian Associates, Inc.,
Corporate Secretary, 3050 Hansen Way, Palo Alto, California 94304, telephone
number (650) 493-4000. After the Distribution Date, stockholders of IB with
inquiries related to their investment in IB should contact Varian, Inc., 3120
Hansen Way, Palo Alto, California 94304, telephone (650) [    ].
 
No person is authorized by Varian or IB to give any information or to make any
representations other than those contained in this Information Statement and,
if given or made, such information or representations must not be relied upon
as having been authorized.
 
                                       9
<PAGE>
 
                                  RISK FACTORS
 
The following factors, in conjunction with the other information included in
this Information Statement, should be carefully considered.
 
Lack of Recent Operating History as Separate Entities
 
Upon consummation of the Distribution, IB will own and operate the Instruments
Business which does not have a recent operating history as a separate entity.
 
After the Distribution, IB will be a smaller and less diversified company than
Varian was prior to the Distribution. The ability of IB to satisfy its
obligations and maintain profitability will be solely dependent upon its own
future performance, and IB will not be able to rely on the capital resources
and cash flows of the other two businesses. The future performance and cash
flows of IB will be subject to prevailing economic conditions and to financial,
business and other factors affecting its business operations, including factors
beyond its control.
 
The division of Varian may result in some temporary dislocation and
inefficiencies to the business operations, as well as the organization and
personnel structure, of IB, and will also result in the duplication of certain
personnel, administrative and other expenses required for the operation of
independent companies. In addition, although after the Distribution IB will
continue to be managed primarily by its current operating management, the
management of IB has not previously operated its business as a separate public
company. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the transition will not
alter or disrupt the management and/or operations of IB.
 
Potential Responsibility for Liabilities Not Expressly Assumed
 
The Distribution Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements allocate among VMS,
VSEA and IB responsibility for various indebtedness, liabilities and
obligations. See "The Distribution - Relationship Among VMS, VSEA and IB after
the Distribution." It is possible that a court would disregard this contractual
allocation of indebtedness, liabilities and obligations among the parties and
require VMS, VSEA or IB or their respective subsidiaries to assume
responsibility for obligations allocated to another party, particularly if such
other party were to refuse or was unable to pay or perform any of its allocated
obligations.
 
Potential Indemnification Liabilities
 
Under the terms of the Distribution Agreement and certain of the Ancillary
Agreements, each of VMS, VSEA and IB has agreed to indemnify the other parties
(and certain related persons) from and after consummation of the Distribution
with respect to certain indebtedness, liabilities and obligations, which
indemnification obligations could be significant. The availability of such
indemnities will depend upon the future financial strength of the companies. No
assurance can be given that the relevant company will be in a position to fund
such indemnities. In addition, the Distribution Agreement generally provides
that if a court prohibits a company from satisfying its indemnification
obligations, then such indemnification obligations will be shared equally
between the two other companies. See "The Distribution - Relationship Among
VMS, VSEA and IB After the Distribution."
 
Debt Leverage After the Distribution
 
Immediately following the Distribution, IB will have somewhat greater debt
leverage than Varian had prior to the Distribution. As of October 2, 1998,
Varian had total long and short-term debt of approximately $158 million and
total stockholders' equity of approximately $558 million. Based on Varian's
outstanding indebtedness as of October 2, 1998 and projected operating results,
certain other transactions and scheduled debt repayments through the
anticipated Distribution Date, on a pro forma basis giving effect to the
Distribution, IB would have total long-term debt (including current portion) of
approximately $58 million and total stockholders' equity of approximately $205
million. The allocation of indebtedness to IB reflects, in substantial part,
its expected capital requirements and cash flows. See "Forecasted
Capitalization."
 
                                       10
<PAGE>
 
The degree to which IB is leveraged could have important consequences,
including the following: (i) IB's ability to obtain additional financing in the
future for working capital, capital expenditures, product development,
acquisitions, general corporate purposes or other purposes may be impaired;
(ii) a portion of IB's and its subsidiaries' cash flow from operations must be
dedicated to the payment of the principal of and interest on its indebtedness;
(iii) the Term Loans of IB will contain, and any credit agreement of IB
following the Distribution may contain, certain restrictive financial and
operating covenants, including, among others, requirements that IB satisfy
certain financial ratios; (iv) a portion of IB's borrowings may be at floating
rates of interest, causing IB to be vulnerable to increases in interest rates;
(v) IB's degree of leverage may make it more vulnerable in a downturn in
general economic conditions and (vi) IB's degree of leverage may limit its
flexibility in responding to changing business and economic conditions. In
addition, in a lawsuit by an unpaid creditor or representative of creditors,
such as a trustee in bankruptcy, a court may be asked to void the Distribution
(in whole or in part) as a fraudulent conveyance and to require that the
stockholders return some or all of the shares of VSEA Common Stock and/or IB
Common Stock to VMS or require each of IB, VSEA and VMS to fund certain
liabilities of the other companies for the benefit of creditors. See " -
Fraudulent Transfer Considerations; Legal Dividend Requirements."
 
Federal Income Tax Considerations
 
Varian has conditioned the Distribution on the receipt of a favorable Tax
Ruling. The Board of Directors of Varian will not waive the requirement of
receipt of a favorable Tax Ruling unless Varian receives an opinion of counsel
that no gain or loss will be recognized by the holders of Varian Common Stock
as a result of the Distribution and no gain or loss will be recognized by
Varian upon the Distribution. See "The Distribution - Federal Income Tax
Aspects of the Distribution." Such rulings, while generally binding upon the
Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS"), are subject to certain factual
representations and assumptions. If such factual representations and
assumptions were incorrect in any material respect, such ruling would be
jeopardized. IB is not aware of any facts or circumstances that would cause
such representations and assumptions to be untrue. Varian, IB and VSEA have
agreed to certain restrictions on their future actions to provide further
assurances that the Distribution will qualify as tax-free. See "The
Distribution - Relationship Among VMS, VSEA and IB After the Distribution - Tax
Sharing Agreement."
 
If one or both of the distributions comprising the Distribution fail to qualify
as a tax-free spin-off under Section 355 of the Code, then VMS will recognize
gain equal to the difference between the fair market value of the stock of the
nonqualifying company or companies and Varian's adjusted tax basis in such
stock. If VMS were to recognize gain on one or both of the distributions, such
gain and the resulting tax liability likely would be very substantial.
 
Furthermore, if either distribution were not to qualify as a tax-free spin-off
under Section 355 of the Code, each holder of Varian Common Stock who receives
shares of IB Common Stock and VSEA Common Stock in the Distribution would be
treated as if such stockholder received a taxable distribution in an amount
equal to the fair market value of the IB Common Stock or VSEA Common Stock
received, which would result in (i) a dividend to the extent of such
stockholder's pro rata share of Varian's current and accumulated earnings and
profits, (ii) a reduction in such stockholder's basis in Varian Common Stock to
the extent the amount received exceeds such stockholder's share of earnings and
profits and (iii) gain from the exchange of Varian Common Stock to the extent
the amount received exceeds both such stockholder's share of earnings and
profits and such stockholder's basis in such common stock.
 
Section 355(e), which was added to the Code in 1997, generally provides that a
company that distributes shares of a subsidiary in a spin-off that is otherwise
tax-free will incur federal income tax liability if 50% or more, by vote or
value, of the capital stock of either the company making the distribution or
the spun-off subsidiary is acquired (a "50% Ownership Shift") by one or more
persons acting pursuant to a plan or series of related transactions that
includes the spin-off. There is a presumption that any acquisition of 50% or
more, by vote or value, of the capital stock of the company or the subsidiary
that occurs within two years before or after the spin-off is pursuant to a plan
that includes the spin-off. However, the presumption may be rebutted by
establishing that the spin-off and the acquisition are not part of a plan or
series of related transactions. Among the factual representations made by
Varian to the IRS in connection with the requested Tax Ruling is the
representation that each of the distributions is not part of such a plan or
series of related transactions. If VMS, IB or VSEA were to undergo a 50%
Ownership Shift, particularly if such 50% Ownership
 
                                       11
<PAGE>
 
Shift occurred within two years after the Distribution Date, there can be no
assurance that the IRS will not assert that such ownership shift occurred
pursuant to a plan or series of related transactions and therefore that the
Distribution is taxable under Section 355(e).
 
If a distribution is taxable solely under Section 355(e), VMS will recognize
gain equal to the difference between the fair market value of the stock of VSEA
and IB and Varian's adjusted tax basis in such stock. However, holders of
Varian Common Stock would not recognize gain or loss as a result of the
Distribution. If VMS were to recognize gain on the distributions, such gain and
the resulting tax liability likely would be very substantial.
 
The Tax Sharing Agreement will allocate responsibility for the possible
corporate tax burden resulting from the Distribution. Each of VMS, IB and VSEA
will be responsible for any corporate taxes resulting from the Distribution
attributable to action taken or permitted by that entity or its affiliates
after the Distribution. If the Distribution is found to be taxable but none of
VMS, IB and VSEA has done anything to cause the Distribution to be taxable,
each company generally will be liable for one-third of those taxes. See "The
Distribution - Relationship Among VMS, VSEA and IB After the Distribution - Tax
Sharing Agreement."
 
No Current Public Market for IB Common Stock
 
There is not currently a public market for the IB Common Stock, although a
"when-issued" trading market is expected to develop after the Distribution
Record Date. There can be no assurance as to the prices at which trading in IB
Common Stock will occur after the Distribution. Until the IB Common Stock is
fully distributed and an orderly market develops, the prices at which trading
in such stock occurs may fluctuate significantly. IB has applied for quotation
of the IB Common Stock on the Nasdaq National Market. See "The Distribution -
Listing and Trading of IB Common Stock."
 
No Dividends Anticipated
 
Following the Distribution, IB does not anticipate paying dividends on the IB
Common Stock. The Term Loans of IB will contain, and any credit agreement of IB
following the Distribution may contain, provisions that limit the ability of IB
(and/or its subsidiaries) to pay cash dividends. Any determination to pay cash
dividends in the future will be at the discretion of the Board of Directors of
IB and will be dependent upon IB's results of operations, financial condition,
contractual restrictions and other factors deemed relevant at that time by IB's
Board of Directors. See "Financing."
 
Certain Anti-takeover Features
 
The Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws of IB that will be in effect at
the time of the Distribution will contain several provisions that may make the
acquisition of control of IB more difficult or expensive. The Certificate of
Incorporation and By-Laws, among other things, will (i) classify the Board of
Directors into three classes, with directors of each class serving for a
staggered three-year period, (ii) provide that directors may be removed only
for cause and only upon the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a
majority of the outstanding shares of IB Common Stock entitled to vote for such
directors, (iii) permit the remaining directors (but not IB's stockholders) to
fill vacancies and newly created directorships on the Board, (iv) eliminate the
ability of stockholders to act by written consent and (v) require the vote of
stockholders holding at least 66 2/3% of the outstanding shares of IB Common
Stock to amend, alter or repeal the By-Laws and certain provisions of the
Certificate of Incorporation, including the provisions described in the
foregoing clauses (i) through (iv) and this clause (v). Such provisions would
make the removal of incumbent directors more difficult and time-consuming and
may have the effect of discouraging a tender offer or other takeover attempt
not previously approved by the Board of Directors. Under the Certificate of
Incorporation which will be in effect at the time of the Distribution, the
Board of Directors of IB also has the authority to issue shares of preferred
stock in one or more series and to fix the powers, preferences and rights of
any such series without stockholder approval. The Board of Directors of IB
could, therefore, issue, without stockholder approval, preferred stock with
voting and other rights that could adversely affect the voting power of the
holders of IB Common Stock and could make it more difficult for a third party
to gain control of IB. In addition, IB will adopt a stockholder rights plan
prior to the Distribution Date, which,
 
                                       12
<PAGE>
 
under certain circumstances, would significantly dilute the equity interest in
IB of persons seeking to acquire control of IB without the prior approval of
IB's Board of Directors. See "Description of the Capital Stock - Rights Plan"
and "Delaware Law and Certain Charter and By-Law Provisions."
 
Certain Consent Requirements
 
Consummation of the Distribution and related transactions could result in a
violation of Varian's existing debt and other contractual arrangements or
require the consent of a third party to effect the necessary transfers of such
arrangements to IB and its subsidiaries. In a substantial number of situations,
an amendment, consent or waiver from third parties will be required. It is a
condition of the Distribution that these amendments, consents or waivers have
been obtained, except for those the failure of which to be obtained would not
have a material adverse effect on VMS, VSEA or IB. Although Varian believes
that no single agreement for which an amendment, consent or waiver is being
sought is material, the failure of Varian or IB to receive a significant number
of such amendments, waivers or consents with respect to contractual
arrangements relating to the Instruments Business could have a material adverse
effect on the ability of IB to continue to conduct its business as currently
being conducted.
 
Fraudulent Transfer Considerations; Legal Dividend Requirements
 
If a court in a lawsuit by an unpaid creditor or representative of creditors,
such as a trustee in bankruptcy, were to find that at the time Varian effected
the Distribution, Varian, VMS, VSEA or IB, as the case may be, (i) was
insolvent, (ii) was rendered insolvent by reason of the Distribution, (iii) was
engaged in a business or transaction for which Varian's, VMS's, VSEA's or IB's,
as the case may be, remaining assets constituted unreasonably small capital or
(iv) intended to incur, or believed it would incur, debts beyond its ability to
pay such debts as they matured, such court may be asked to void the
Distribution (in whole or in part) as a fraudulent conveyance and require that
the stockholders return some or all of the shares of VSEA Common Stock and IB
Common Stock to Varian, or require VMS, VSEA or IB, as the case may be, to fund
certain liabilities of the other companies for the benefit of creditors. The
measure of insolvency for purposes of the foregoing will vary depending upon
the jurisdiction whose law is being applied. Generally, however, each of
Varian, VMS, VSEA and IB, as the case may be, would be considered insolvent if
the fair value of its assets were less than the amount of its liabilities or if
it incurred debt beyond its ability to repay such debt as it matures. In
addition, under Section 170 of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the
"DGCL") (which is applicable to Varian in the Distribution), a corporation
generally may make distributions to its stockholders only out of its surplus
(net assets minus capital) and not out of capital.
 
Varian's Board of Directors and management believe that (i) Varian, and each of
VMS, VSEA and IB, will be solvent before and after the Distribution (in
accordance with the foregoing definitions), will be able to repay its debts as
they mature following the Distribution and will have sufficient capital to
carry on its businesses and (ii) the Distribution will be made entirely out of
surplus, as provided under Section 170 of the DGCL.
 
Transitioning to New Information Technology Infrastructure
 
VMS, IB and VSEA currently share a common information technology ("IT")
infrastructure. This IT infrastructure is essential to the daily operation of
the companies' marketing, manufacturing, distribution, billing and collections
and financial reporting processes.
 
After the Distribution, IB will establish a separate IT infrastructure as
appropriate for its separate business and will transition to this new IT
infrastructure from the currently shared IT infrastructure. During this
transition, certain IT services will be provided by Varian pursuant to the
Transition Services Agreement described herein. This transition is not unlike
transitions carried out previously by Varian in the process of divesting
discontinued operations and/or integrating the operations of newly acquired
companies. Consequently, management of IB believes that Varian possesses the
skills and resources to design and implement and assist IB in transitioning to
the new IT infrastructure. However, these activities are inherently complex and
because of their significance to IB's business, unforeseen problems or errors
in the transition to this new IT infrastructure could adversely affect the
business and results of operations of IB. Assessment and correction of Year
2000 problems could complicate transition to this new infrastructure. See "Risk
Factors - Potential Impact of the Year 2000 Issue."
 
                                       13
<PAGE>
 
Technological Change and New Products
 
The markets for IB's products are characterized by changing technology,
evolving industry standards and new product introductions and enhancements.
While many of IB's products are based on more mature technologies, IB's future
success will depend in part upon its ability to enhance its existing products
with new technologies, to develop and introduce new products and technologies
and to successfully expand its aftermarket support services for such new or
enhanced products in order to meet changing customer requirements and serve
broader industry segments. IB has devoted significant resources to the
enhancement of its existing products, the development of new products and
technologies and the expansion of its maintenance and aftermarket support
activities. Due to the risks inherent in transitioning to new products, IB will
be required to accurately forecast demand for new products while managing the
transition from older products. If new products have reliability or quality
problems, reduced orders, higher manufacturing costs, delays in acceptance of
and payment for new products and additional service and warranty expenses may
result. There can be no assurance that IB will successfully develop and
manufacture new products, or that new products introduced by it will be
accepted in the marketplace. If IB does not successfully introduce new
products, IB's results of operations will be materially adversely affected. See
"Business - Competition."
 
Product Liability
 
IB's business exposes it to potential product liability claims that are
inherent in the manufacturing, marketing and sale of its products, and IB may
face substantial liability for damages resulting from the faulty design or
manufacture of its products. Varian maintains limited product liability
insurance coverage in an amount it deems sufficient for each of its businesses.
Such insurance is subject to deductibles and self-insured retentions. Product
liability insurance is expensive and in the future may not be available on
acceptable terms or in sufficient amounts or may be unavailable. Although IB
will obtain insurance coverage after the Distribution, the amount of such
insurance coverage has not yet been determined and no assurance can be given
that it will be adequate. A successful claim brought against IB in excess of
its insurance coverage or any material claim for which insurance coverage is
denied or limited and for which indemnification is not available could have a
material adverse effect on IB's business, results of operations and financial
condition. There can be no assurance that IB would have sufficient resources to
satisfy any liability resulting from these claims.
 
Uncertainty of Market Acceptance of New Products
 
Certain of IB's products represent alternatives to traditional instruments and
methods and as a result may be slow to achieve, or may not achieve, market
acceptance, as customers may seek further validation of the efficiency and
efficacy of IB's technology. This is particularly true where the purchase of
the product requires a significant capital commitment. While many of IB's
products are based on more mature technologies, most of the enhancements to
such products are based on relatively new, emerging technologies. IB believes
that, to a significant extent, its growth prospects depend on its ability to
gain acceptance by a broader group of customers of the efficiency and efficacy
of IB's innovative technologies. There can be no assurance that IB will be
successful in obtaining such broad acceptance.
 
Dependence on Capital Spending Policies and Government Funding
 
IB products are used in environmental laboratories; pharmaceutical and chemical
industries; chemical, life science and academic research; government
laboratories; and specific areas of the health care industry. The capital
spending policies of these companies and institutions can have a significant
effect on the demand for IB's products. Such policies are based on a wide
variety of factors, including the resources available to make such purchases,
the spending priorities among various types of research equipment and the
policies regarding capital expenditures during recessionary periods. Any
decrease in capital spending by these companies or institutions could have a
material adverse effect on IB's business and results of operations.
 
A portion of IB's sales are to universities, government research laboratories,
private foundations and other institutions where funding is dependent on grants
from governmental agencies. If government funding necessary to purchase IB's
products were to become unavailable to researchers for any extended period of
time, or if overall research funding were
 
                                       14
<PAGE>
 
to decrease, IB's business and results of operations could be adversely
affected. In addition, a portion of sales of IB's products is made to various
governmental agencies. Any decline in purchases by those governmental agencies,
including, without limitation, declines as the result of budgeting limitations,
could have an adverse effect on IB's business and results of operation See
"Business - Marketing and Sales."
 
Variability of Operating Results
 
Certain of IB's products require significant capital expenditures and other
products have short delivery turnaround. The timing of sales of these products
could affect IB's quarterly earnings. A delay in a shipment in any quarter due,
for example, to an unanticipated shipment rescheduling, to cancellations by
customers or to unexpected manufacturing difficulties experienced by IB, may
cause sales in such quarter to fall significantly below IB's expectations and
may thus adversely affect IB's operating results for such quarter. Further,
IB's quarterly operating results may also vary significantly depending on a
number of other factors, including changes in pricing by IB or its competitors,
discount levels, foreign currency exchange rates, the mix of products sold, the
timing of the announcement, introduction and delivery of new product
enhancements by IB and its competitors, and general economic conditions.
Generally IB recognizes product revenues upon shipment of its products. Because
certain operating expenses of IB are based on anticipated capacity levels and a
high percentage of IB's expenses are fixed for the short term, a small
variation in the timing of recognition of revenue can cause significant
variations in operating results from quarter to quarter. There can be no
assurance that any of these factors will not have a material adverse effect on
IB's business or results of operations.
 
Competition
 
IB encounters and expects to continue to encounter intense competition in the
sale of its products. Competition in IB's markets is based upon the performance
capabilities of IB's products, technical support and after-market service, the
manufacturer's reputation as a technological leader and the selling price.
Management believes that performance capabilities are the most important of
these criteria. The markets in which IB competes are highly competitive and are
characterized by the application of advanced technology. There are numerous
companies that specialize in, and a number of larger companies that devote a
significant portion of their resources to, the development, manufacture and
sale of products that compete with those manufactured or sold by IB. Many of
IB's competitors are well-known manufacturers with a high degree of technical
proficiency. In addition, competition is intensified by the ever-changing
nature of the technologies in the industries in which IB is engaged. IB's
competitors can be expected to continue to improve the design and performance
of their products and to introduce new products with competitive price and
performance characteristics. An increase in competition could result in price
reductions and loss of market share, which could have a material adverse effect
on IB's business, financial condition or results of operations. Although IB's
management believes that IB enjoys certain technological and other advantages
over its competitors, realizing and maintaining such advantages will require
continued investment by IB in engineering, research and development, marketing
and customer service and support. There can be no assurance that IB will have
sufficient resources to continue to make such investments or that IB will be
successful in maintaining such advantages. See "Business - Competition."
 
International Sales and Manufacturing
 
The markets in which IB competes are becoming increasingly globalized.
International sales accounted for approximately 47%, 47% and 50%, respectively,
of IB's sales in fiscal years 1998, 1997 and 1996. As a result, IB's customers
increasingly require service and support on a worldwide basis. IB has
manufacturing operations in Australia, Italy and The Netherlands as well as
sales and service offices located throughout Europe, Asia and Latin America. IB
has invested substantial financial and management resources to develop an
international infrastructure to meet the needs of its customers worldwide. IB
intends to continue to expand its presence in international markets. There can
be no assurance that IB will be able to compete successfully in the
international market or to meet the service and support needs of such
customers. International sales are subject to a number of risks, including the
following: agreements may be difficult to enforce and receivables difficult to
collect through a foreign country's legal system; foreign customers may have
longer payment cycles; foreign countries may impose additional withholding
taxes or otherwise tax IB's foreign
 
                                       15
<PAGE>
 
income, impose tariffs or adopt other restrictions on foreign trade;
fluctuations in exchange rates may affect product demand and adversely affect
the profitability in U.S. dollars of products and services provided by IB in
foreign markets where payment for IB's products and services is made in the
local currency; U.S. export licenses may be difficult to obtain; and the
protection of intellectual property in foreign countries may be more difficult
to enforce. There can be no assurance that any of these factors will not have a
material adverse impact on IB's business and results of operations.
 
A portion of IB's revenue is derived from sales in Asia. Asia is experiencing a
severe economic crisis, which has been characterized by sharply reduced
economic activity and liquidity, highly volatile foreign-currency exchange and
interest rates and unstable stock markets. Until the Asian economic uncertainty
is resolved, IB's sales to Asia could be adversely affected by the region's
unstable economic conditions. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Results of Operations."
 
On January 1, 1999, the Euro was adopted as the national currency of certain
members of the European Monetary Union. The existing national currencies of the
participating countries will continue to be acceptable until January 1, 2002,
after which the Euro will be the sole legal tender for the participating
countries. Because IB sells its products in Europe, the Euro conversion raises
several economic and operational issues, such as the modification of
information systems to accommodate Euro-denominated transactions, the
recalculation of currency risk, the competitive impact of cross-border price
transparency, the continuity of material contracts and potential tax and
accounting consequences. IB has made changes in its information systems to be
able to conduct Euro-denominated transactions (although full information system
capability for financial reporting in Euro will not be accomplished until
October 2001). IB does not expect any change in currency risk due to its
existing hedging practices. IB is still evaluating the potential impact of
price transparency for its products. Based on its evaluation to date, IB does
not expect the Euro conversion to have a material adverse effect on its
business, results of operations or financial condition.
 
Foreign Currency Risks
 
Varian has historically entered into forward exchange contracts in respect of
the Instruments Business to mitigate the effects of operational (sales orders
and purchase commitments) and balance sheet exposures to fluctuations in
foreign currency exchange rates. IB's forward exchange contracts generally
range from one to three months in original maturity, and no forward exchange
contract has an original maturity greater than one year. At October 2, 1998, IB
had forward exchange contracts to sell foreign currencies totaling $31.4
million and to buy foreign currencies totaling $23.5 million. See "Market
Risk."
 
Uncertain Protection of Patent and Other Proprietary Rights
 
IB places considerable importance on obtaining and maintaining patent,
copyright and trade secret protection for significant new technologies,
products and processes because of the length of time and expense associated
with bringing new products through the development process and to the
marketplace.
 
IB intends to continue to file applications as appropriate for patents covering
new products and manufacturing processes. No assurance can be given that
patents now owned or that will issue from any pending or future patent
applications owned by, or licensed to, IB or that the claims allowed under any
issued patents, will be sufficiently broad to protect its technology position
against competitors. In addition, no assurance can be given that any issued
patents owned by, or licensed to, IB will not be challenged, invalidated or
circumvented, or that the rights granted thereunder will provide competitive
advantages to it. IB could incur substantial costs and diversion of management
resources in defending itself in suits brought against it or in suits in which
it may assert its patent rights against others. If the outcome of any such
litigation is unfavorable to IB, its business and results of operations could
be materially adversely affected. In addition, the laws of some foreign
countries do not protect proprietary rights to the same extent as do the laws
of the United States.
 
There may also be pending or issued patents of which IB is not aware held by
parties not affiliated with IB that relate to its products or technologies. In
the event that a claim relating to proprietary technology or information is
asserted against IB, it may need to acquire licenses to, or contest the
validity of, a competitor's proprietary technology. There can be no assurance
that any license required under any such competitor's proprietary technology
would be made available
 
                                       16
<PAGE>
 
on acceptable terms or that IB would prevail in any such contest. If the
outcome of any such contest is unfavorable to IB, its business and results of
operations could be materially adversely affected. From time to time, IB has
received notices from, and has issued notices to, third parties alleging
infringement of patent or other intellectual property rights relating to its
products. Such claims are often, but not always, settled by mutual agreement on
a satisfactory basis without litigation.
 
IB relies on a combination of copyright, trade secret and other laws, and
contractual restrictions on disclosure, copying and transferring title,
including confidentiality agreements with its vendors, strategic partners, co-
developers, employees, consultants and other third parties, to protect its
proprietary rights. There can be no assurance that such protections will prove
adequate and that contractual agreements will not be breached, that IB will
have adequate remedies for any such breaches, or that its trade secrets will
not otherwise become known to or independently developed by others. IB has
trademarks, both registered and unregistered, that are maintained and enforced
to provide customer recognition for its products in the marketplace. There can
be no assurance that IB's trademarks will not be used by unauthorized third
parties. IB also have agreements with third parties that provide for licensing
of patented or proprietary technology. These agreements include royalty-bearing
licenses and technology cross-licenses. See "Business - Patent and Other
Proprietary Rights."
 
Environmental Liabilities
 
IB's operations are subject to various foreign, federal, state and/or local
laws regulating the discharge of materials into the environment or otherwise
relating to the protection of the environment. This includes 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 such operations.
 
Varian has been named by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or 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 Varian is alleged to have shipped
manufacturing waste for recycling or disposal. Varian 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 Varian facilities (including facilities
disposed of in connection with Varian's sale of its Electron Devices business
during fiscal year 1995, and the sale of its Thin Film Systems ("TFS") business
during fiscal year 1997). Expenditures by Varian for environmental
investigation and remediation amounted to $5 million in fiscal year 1998,
compared with $2 million in fiscal year 1997 and $5 million in fiscal year
1996.
 
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. As of October 2, 1998, Varian nonetheless estimated that the future
exposure for environmental investigation and remediation costs for these sites
and facilities ranged in the aggregate from $22 million to $49 million. The
time frame over which these costs are expected to be incurred varies with each
site or facility, ranging up to approximately 30 years as of October 2, 1998.
Management of Varian believes that no amount in the foregoing range of
estimated future costs is more probable of being incurred than any other amount
in such range and therefore Varian accrued $22 million in estimated
environmental costs as of October 2, 1998. The amount accrued has not been
discounted to present value.
 
As to other sites and facilities, Varian has gained sufficient knowledge to be
able to better estimate the scope and costs of future environmental activities.
As of October 2, 1998, Varian estimated that the future exposure for
environmental investigation and remediation costs for these sites and
facilities ranged in the aggregate from $40 million to $74 million. The time
frame over which Varian expects to incur these costs varies with each site and
facility, ranging up to approximately 30 years as of October 2, 1998. As to
each of these sites and facilities, management of Varian determined that a
particular amount within the range of estimated costs was a better estimate of
the future environmental liability than any other amount within the range, and
that the amount and timing of these future costs were reliably determinable.
Together, these amounts totaled $51 million at October 2, 1998. Varian
accordingly accrued $22 million,
 
                                       17
<PAGE>
 
which represents its best estimate of the future costs discounted at 4%, net of
inflation. This reserve is in addition to the $22 million described in the
preceding paragraph.
 
The Distribution Agreement provides that each of VMS, IB and VSEA 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 a discussion of IB's
environmental liabilities, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Environmental Matters."
 
The foregoing amounts are only estimates of anticipated future environmental
related costs, and the amounts actually spent 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 and facilities involved. IB believes that most of these
cost ranges will narrow as investigation and remediation activities progress.
 
IB'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, and IB has 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 IB
cannot now predict.
 
Reliance on Suppliers
 
Certain of the components and subassemblies included in IB's products are
obtained from a limited group of suppliers, or in some cases a single-source
supplier, including packaging materials, superconducting magnets, integrated
circuits, microprocessors, microcomputers and certain detector and data
analysis modules. The loss of any of these suppliers, including any single-
source supplier, would require obtaining one or more replacement suppliers as
well as potentially requiring a significant level of product development to
incorporate new parts into IB's products. IB believes that alternative sources
for such components may generally be obtained when necessary, although the need
to change suppliers or to alternate between suppliers might cause material
delays in delivery or significantly increase its costs. Although Varian has
historically obtained and IB expects to obtain limited insurance to protect
against loss due to business interruption from these and other sources, there
can be no assurance that such coverage will be adequate or that such coverage
will continue to remain available on acceptable terms, if at all. Although IB
seeks to reduce its dependence on these limited source suppliers, disruptions
or loss of certain of these sources, including the ones referenced above, could
have a material adverse effect on IB's business and results of operations and
could result in damage to customer relationships. See "Business - Raw
Materials."
 
Dependence on Key Personnel
 
IB's future success depends to a significant extent on the continued service of
certain of its key managerial, technical and engineering personnel, and its
continuing ability to attract, train and retain highly qualified engineering,
technical and managerial personnel. Competition for such personnel is intense,
particularly in the labor markets around the IB facilities in Palo Alto,
California. The available pool of qualified candidates is limited and there can
be no assurance that IB can retain its key engineering, technical and
managerial personnel or that it can attract, train, assimilate or retain other
highly qualified engineering, technical and managerial personnel in the future.
The loss of any of IB's key personnel or the inability of IB to hire, train or
retain qualified personnel could have a material adverse effect on IB's
business, results of operations and financial condition.
 
Risk of Business Interruption
 
IB conducts a portion of its activities at facilities located in seismically
active areas that have experienced major earthquakes in the past. Varian
currently maintains limited earthquake insurance on these facilities. After the
Distribution, it is likely that IB will not carry earthquake insurance on its
facilities due to its prohibitive cost and limited available coverage. In the
event of a major earthquake or other disaster affecting IB's facilities, the
operations and operating results of IB could be adversely affected.
 
 
                                       18
<PAGE>
 
Potential Impact of the Year 2000 Issue
 
The "Year 2000" problem refers to computer programs and other equipment with
embedded microprocessors ("non-IT systems") which use only the last two digits
to refer to a year, and which therefore might not properly recognize a year
that begins with "20" instead of the familiar "19." As a result, those computer
programs and non-IT systems might be unable to operate or process accurately
certain date-sensitive data before or after January 1, 2000. Because IB relies
heavily on computer programs and non-IT systems, and on third parties which
themselves rely on computer programs and non-IT systems, the Year 2000 problem
if not addressed could adversely affect IB's business, results of operations or
financial condition.
 
Failure to accurately assess and correct IB's Year 2000 problems and/or those
of its key suppliers would likely result in interruption of certain of IB's
normal business operations, which could have a material adverse effect on IB's
business, results of operations or financial condition. If IB does not
adequately identify and correct Year 2000 problems in its information systems
it could experience interruptions in its operations, including manufacturing,
order processing, receivables collection and accounting, such that there would
be delays in product shipments, lost data and a consequential impact on
revenues, expenditures and financial reporting. If IB does not adequately
identify and correct Year 2000 problems in its non-IT systems it could
experience interruptions in its manufacturing and related operations, such that
there would be delays in product shipments and a consequential impact on
revenues. If IB does not adequately identify and correct Year 2000 problems in
its previously-sold products it could experience warranty or product liability
claims by users of products which do not function correctly. If IB does not
adequately identify and correct Year 2000 problems of the significant third
parties with which it does business it could experience interruptions in the
supply of key components or services from those parties, such that there would
be delays in product shipments or service and a consequential impact on
revenues. IB does not expect to be 100% Year 2000 compliant by the end of 1999
and given the inherent complexity of the Year 2000 problem, there can be no
assurance that actual costs will not be higher than currently anticipated or
that corrective actions will not take longer than currently anticipated to
complete. Risk factors which might result in higher costs or delays include the
ability to identify and correct in a timely fashion Year 2000 problems;
regulatory or legal obligations to correct Year 2000 problems in previously-
sold products; possible liability for personal injury if a safety hazard
relating to Year 2000 problems is not identified and corrected; ability to
retain and hire qualified personnel to perform assessments and corrective
actions; the willingness and ability of critical suppliers to assess and
correct their own Year 2000 problems, including the products they supply to IB;
and the additional complexity which will likely be caused by undertaking during
fiscal year 1999 and fiscal year 2000 the separation of currently shared
enterprise information systems as a result of the Distribution.
 
Because of uncertainties as to the extent of Year 2000 problems with IB's
previously-sold products and the extent of any legal obligation of IB to
correct Year 2000 problems in those products, IB cannot yet assess its risks
with respect to those products. Because its assessments are not yet complete,
IB cannot yet conclude that the failure of critical suppliers to assess and
correct Year 2000 problems is not reasonably likely to have a material adverse
effect on its results of operations. For a discussion regarding IB's state of
readiness, costs associated with becoming Year 2000 compliant and contingency
plans relating to Year 2000, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Year 2000."
 
                                       19
<PAGE>
 
                                THE DISTRIBUTION
 
General
 
The Board of Directors of Varian has approved (subject to the satisfaction of
the conditions to the Distribution discussed under " - Conditions; Termination"
and the actual declaration of the special dividend in respect of the
Distribution) a plan to distribute the outstanding shares of IB Common Stock
and the outstanding shares of VSEA Common Stock to all holders of the
outstanding shares of Varian Common Stock. In the Distribution, each
stockholder of record of Varian as of the Distribution Record Date will receive
as special dividends one share of IB Common Stock and one share of VSEA Common
Stock for each share of Varian Common Stock held on the Distribution Record
Date and would retain the shares of Varian Common Stock held by such holder
immediately prior to the Distribution.
 
Reasons for the Distribution
 
The Board of Directors of Varian approved the Distribution for the following
principal reasons:
 
  Management Focus. Varian's three businesses have different dynamics and
  business cycles, serve different marketplaces and customer bases, are
  subject to different competitive forces and must be managed with different
  long-term and short-term strategies and goals. Varian believes that
  separating its businesses into independent public companies, each with its
  own management team and board of directors, is necessary to address current
  and future management issues and considerations that result from operating
  these diverse businesses within a single company. The separation will
  enable the management of each business to manage that business, and to
  adopt and implement strategies for that business, solely with regard to the
  needs and objectives of that business. In addition, as a result of the
  separation, the management of each business will be able to devote its full
  attention to managing that business.
 
  Capital Structure. Varian believes that the Distribution will allow each of
  the companies to organize its capital structure and allocate its resources
  to support the very different needs and goals of the particular business.
  The stock buy-back program can be discontinued, or dividends eliminated,
  freeing cash for acquisition and growth opportunities for IB and VMS and
  permitting VSEA to conserve cash for use in the cyclical downturns in its
  industry. Capital borrowings can be tailored to the specific needs of the
  various business units. Each business will be able to allocate its
  resources without considering the needs of the other businesses.
 
  Attracting and Retaining Key Employees. Varian's management believes that
  the ability to attract and retain key personnel is fundamental to its
  ability to further the technology required to maintain a leadership
  position in its business. In particular, under the existing corporate
  structure, Varian has been unable to offer equity-based compensation linked
  specifically to the performance of each separate business. The Distribution
  would enable each company to establish focused equity-based compensation
  programs that should enable each of them to better attract and retain key
  personnel.
 
  Acquisition Activities. Varian believes that growth through acquisition is
  an important ingredient of the future success of IB and VMS. Such
  acquisitions and growth would be financed in part through the issuance of
  capital stock. It is expected that the Distribution will increase the
  availability and decrease the cost of raising equity capital. Varian's
  management believes that, as a result of the Distribution, each company
  will have a more attractive currency, its stock, through which to make
  acquisitions.
 
  Investor Understanding. Debt and equity investors and securities analysts
  should be able to better evaluate the financial performance of each company
  and their respective strategies, thereby enhancing the likelihood that each
  will achieve appropriate market recognition. The stock of each of the three
  companies will also appeal to investors with differing investment
  objectives and risk tolerance, and will allow potential investors to focus
  their investments more directly to the areas of their primary interest.
 
  Cost Savings. Each company should be able to rationalize better its
  organizational structure after the Distribution. Accordingly, the
  administrative and organizational costs of each company, taken together,
  should be reduced from the aggregate levels experienced by Varian prior to
  the Distribution.
 
                                       20
<PAGE>
 
Manner of Effecting the Distribution
 
The distribution of IB Common Stock and VSEA Common Stock will be made on the
Distribution Date to stockholders of record as of the Distribution Record Date.
Varian will declare a special dividend to stockholders of record of Varian as
of the Distribution Record Date of shares of IB Common Stock and of shares of
VSEA Common Stock.
 
On or prior to the Distribution Date, all outstanding shares of IB Common Stock
and VSEA Common Stock will be delivered to the Distribution Agent. As soon as
practicable after the IB Common Stock and VSEA Common Stock have been
distributed, stock distribution statements reflecting ownership of shares of IB
Common Stock and VSEA Common Stock will be mailed by the Distribution Agent to
holders of record as of the Distribution Record Date to reflect the
distribution of one share of IB Common Stock and one share of VSEA Common Stock
for each share of Varian Common Stock held on the Distribution Record Date. All
such shares will be fully paid and nonassessable and the holders thereof will
not be entitled to preemptive rights. The shares of IB Common Stock and VSEA
Common Stock to be transferred to Varian's stockholders in the Distribution
will be initially issued to Varian as consideration for the transfer of the
Instruments Business and the Semiconductor Equipment Business, respectively.
 
No holder of Varian Common Stock will be required to pay any cash or other
consideration for the shares of IB Common Stock and VSEA Common Stock received
in the Distribution or to surrender or exchange shares of Varian Common Stock
in order to receive shares of IB Common Stock or VSEA Common Stock.
 
The Board of Directors of IB will adopt the Rights Plan before the
Distribution. Stock distribution statements evidencing shares of the IB Common
Stock issued in the Distribution will therefore include the same number of
Rights issued under the Rights Plan. See "Description of the Capital Stock -
Rights Plan."
 
Federal Income Tax Aspects of the Distribution
 
Varian has conditioned the Distribution on the receipt of the Tax Ruling from
the IRS under Sections 355 and 368 of the Code, in form and substance
satisfactory to the Board of Directors of Varian. The Tax Ruling is expected to
be substantially to the following effect:
 
  (1) No gain or loss will be recognized by (and no amount will otherwise be
  included in the income of) any holder of Varian Common Stock as a result of
  the Distribution.
 
  (2) The aggregate basis of the Varian Common Stock, IB Common Stock and
  VSEA Common Stock in the hands of each holder of Varian Common Stock will
  be the same as the basis of Varian Common Stock held by the holder
  immediately before the Distribution, allocated in proportion to the fair
  market value of each.
 
  (3) The holding period of the VSEA Common Stock and IB Common Stock
  received in the Distribution by each holder of Varian Common Stock will
  include the period during which such holder held Varian Common Stock with
  respect to which the Distribution is made, provided that such common stock
  is held as a capital asset by such holder on the Distribution Date.
 
  (4) No gain or loss will be recognized by Varian upon the Distribution.
 
Application has been made to the IRS for the Tax Ruling. As of the date hereof,
the IRS has not yet issued the Tax Ruling. Varian believes and has been advised
by its outside tax advisors that the positions asserted by Varian in requesting
the Tax Ruling are consistent with the Code and the rules and regulations
promulgated thereunder. However, there is no certainty that the IRS will issue
a favorable ruling. The receipt of the Tax Ruling from the IRS, in form and
substance satisfactory to the Board of Directors of Varian, is a condition to
the Distribution.
 
The Tax Ruling, while generally binding upon the IRS, will be based on certain
factual representations and assumptions. If such factual representations and
assumptions were incorrect in any material respect, the holdings of such ruling
would be jeopardized. Varian is not aware of any facts or circumstances that
would cause such representations and assumptions to be incorrect in any
material respect. Each of Varian, IB and VSEA has agreed to certain
restrictions
 
                                       21
<PAGE>
 
on their future actions to provide further assurances that Section 355 of the
Code will apply to the Distribution. See " - Relationship Among VMS, VSEA and
IB After the Distribution - Tax Sharing Agreement."
 
The Board of Directors of Varian has reserved the right to waive the receipt of
such Tax Ruling as a condition to consummation of the Distribution. The Board
of Directors of Varian will not waive the requirement of receipt of a favorable
Tax Ruling from the IRS unless Varian receives an opinion of counsel that (1)
no gain or loss will be recognized by any holder of Varian Common Stock as a
result of the Distribution and (2) no gain or loss will be recognized by Varian
upon the Distribution (the "Tax Opinion"). See " - Conditions; Termination." In
the event the Board of Directors of Varian waives the receipt of the Tax Ruling
and proceeds to consummate the Distribution based on the Tax Opinion, the Tax
Opinion would represent that tax counsel's best judgment, but would not be
binding on the IRS or any court. Because certain requirements of Section 355 of
the Code, including those pertaining to business purpose and absence of a
device for distribution of earnings and profits, as well as the requirements of
Section 355(e), discussed below, are dependent on factual interpretations, are
to a significant extent subjective in nature and have a relative absence of
authority addressing their application to the particular facts presented by the
Distribution, there can be no absolute assurance that the IRS or a court would
not reach a conclusion different from the conclusion in the Tax Opinion.
 
If one or both of the distributions comprising the Distribution fail to qualify
as a tax-free spin-off under Section 355 of the Code, then VMS will recognize
gain equal to the difference between the fair market value of the stock of the
nonqualifying company or companies and Varian's adjusted tax basis in such
stock. If VMS were to recognize gain on one or more of the distributions, such
gain and the resulting tax liability likely would be very substantial.
 
Furthermore, if either distribution were not to qualify as a tax-free spin-off
under Section 355 of the Code, each holder of Varian Common Stock who receives
shares of IB Common Stock and VSEA Common Stock in the Distribution would be
treated as if such stockholder received a taxable distribution in an amount
equal to the fair market value of the IB Common Stock or VSEA Common Stock
received, which would result in (i) a dividend to the extent of such
stockholder's pro rata share of Varian's current and accumulated earnings and
profits, (ii) a reduction in such stockholder's basis in Varian Common Stock to
the extent the amount received exceeds such stockholder's share of earnings and
profits and (iii) gain from the exchange of Varian Common Stock to the extent
the amount received exceeds both such stockholder's share of earnings and
profits and such stockholder's basis in such common stock.
 
Section 355(e), which was added to the Code in 1997, generally provides that a
company that distributes shares of a subsidiary in a spin-off that is otherwise
tax-free will incur federal income tax liability if 50% or more, by vote or
value, of the capital stock of either the company making the distribution or
the spun-off subsidiary is acquired (a "50% Ownership Shift") by one or more
persons acting pursuant to a plan or series of related transactions that
includes the spin-off. Stock acquired by certain related persons is aggregated
in determining whether the 50% test is met. There is a presumption that any
acquisition of 50% or more, by vote or value, of the capital stock of the
company or the subsidiary that occurs within two years before or after the
spin-off is pursuant to a plan that includes the spin-off. However, the
presumption may be rebutted by establishing that the spin-off and the
acquisition are not part of a plan or series of related transactions. Among the
factual representations made by Varian to the IRS in connection with the
requested Tax Ruling is the representation that each of the distributions is
not part of such a plan or series of related transactions. If VMS, IB or VSEA
were to undergo a 50% Ownership Shift, particularly if such 50% Ownership Shift
occurred within two years after the Distribution Date, there can be no
assurance that the IRS will not assert that such ownership shift occurred
pursuant to a plan or series of related transactions and therefore that the
Distribution is taxable under Section 355(e).
 
If a distribution is taxable solely under Section 355(e), VMS will recognize
gain equal to the difference between the fair market value of the stock of VSEA
and IB and Varian's adjusted tax basis in such stock. However, holders of
Varian Common Stock would not recognize gain or loss as a result of the
distributions. If VMS were to recognize gain on the distributions, such gain
and the resulting tax liability likely would be very substantial.
 
VMS, IB and VSEA will enter into the Tax Sharing Agreement to allocate
responsibility for the possible corporate tax burden resulting from the
Distribution. Neither VMS, IB, nor VSEA has agreed to indemnify holders of
Varian
 
                                       22
<PAGE>
 
Common Stock for any taxes or other losses should either or both of the
distributions fail to qualify under Section 355 of the Code. The Tax Sharing
Agreement will provide that each of VMS, IB and VSEA will be responsible for
any such corporate taxes to the extent that such taxes are attributable to
action taken or permitted by that entity or its affiliates after the
Distribution that is inconsistent with the tax treatment contemplated in the
Tax Ruling. Under the Tax Sharing Agreement, if either distribution is found to
be taxable but none of VMS, IB and VSEA has done anything to cause the
distribution to be taxable, each company generally will be liable for one-third
of those taxes. See " - Relationship Among VMS, VSEA and IB After the
Distribution - Tax Sharing Agreement."
 
Current Treasury regulations require each holder of Varian Common Stock who
receives IB Common Stock or VSEA Common Stock pursuant to the Distribution to
attach to his or her federal income tax return for the year in which the
Distribution occurs a detailed statement setting forth such data as may be
appropriate in order to show the applicability of Section 355 of the Code to
the Distribution. Varian will convey the appropriate information to each holder
of record of Varian Common Stock as of the Distribution Record Date.
 
The foregoing summary of federal income tax consequences does not purport to
cover all federal income tax consequences of the Distribution. The tax
consequences may differ for stockholders that are not U.S. citizens or
residents or that are otherwise subject to special treatment under the Code.
Each stockholder should consult its own tax advisor regarding the federal,
foreign, state and local tax consequences of the Distribution in its particular
circumstances, including the application of state, local and foreign tax laws.
 
Listing and Trading of IB Common Stock
 
There is not currently a public market for IB Common Stock. It is presently
anticipated that IB Common Stock may commence trading on a "when-issued" basis
after the Distribution Record Date. The term "when-issued" means that shares
can be traded by Varian stockholders prior to the time that they receive the
shares of IB Common Stock and VSEA Common Stock in the Distribution. Prices at
which IB Common Stock may trade prior to the Distribution on a "when-issued"
basis or after the Distribution cannot be predicted. Until the IB Common Stock
is fully distributed and an orderly market develops, the prices at which
trading in such stock occurs may fluctuate significantly. The prices at which
IB Common Stock trades will be determined by the marketplace and may be
influenced by many factors, including, among others, the depth and liquidity of
the market for such stock, investor perception of IB and the industry in which
it participates, IB's dividend policy and general economic and market
conditions. Such prices may also be affected by certain provisions of the
Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws of IB in effect at the time of the
Distribution, which will have an anti-takeover effect. See "Delaware Law and
Certain Charter and By-Law Provisions."
 
Shares of IB Common Stock distributed to Varian's stockholders will be freely
transferable, except for shares of IB Common Stock received by persons who may
be deemed to be "affiliates" of IB under the Securities Act of 1933 (the
"Securities Act"). Persons who may be deemed to be affiliates of IB after the
Distribution generally include individuals or entities that control, are
controlled by, or are under common control with, IB and may include certain
officers and directors of IB, as well as principal stockholders of IB. Persons
who are affiliates of IB will be permitted to sell their shares of IB Common
Stock only pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities
Act or an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act.
 
IB has applied for quotation of the IB Common Stock on the Nasdaq National
Market. IB initially will have approximately 5,992 stockholders of record based
upon the number of stockholders of record of Varian as of December 15, 1998.
For certain information regarding options to purchase IB Common Stock that will
be outstanding after the Distribution, see "Management," and "The IB Omnibus
Stock Plan."
 
Conditions; Termination
 
Under the terms of the Distribution Agreement, the Distribution is conditioned
upon, among other things, (i) the IRS having issued the Tax Ruling in response
to Varian's request in form and substance satisfactory to the Varian Board;
(ii) stockholder approval of the Distribution; (iii) the Internal Transfers
having been consummated in all material respects; (iv) the IB Common Stock
having been approved for quotation on the Nasdaq National Market or listing on
a national stock exchange; (v) the VSEA Common Stock having been approved for
quotation on the Nasdaq National Market or
 
                                       23
<PAGE>
 
listing on a national stock exchange; (vi) the Registration Statements filed by
IB and VSEA with the Commission having become effective; (vii) Varian, IB and
VSEA having executed and delivered the Ancillary Agreements and such agreements
being in full force and effect; (viii) no governmental authority having issued
an injunction or other order, decree or ruling or enacted or promulgated a
statute, rule, regulation or executive order that materially restricts,
prohibits or prevents consummation of the Distribution and (ix) Warburg Dillon
Read LLC having delivered an updated fairness opinion to Varian's Board of
Directors. Even if all conditions are satisfied, Varian's Board of Directors
has reserved the right to abandon, defer or modify the Distribution at any time
prior to the Distribution Date. However, the Varian Board will not waive the
requirement of receipt of a favorable Tax Ruling from the IRS unless Varian
receives an opinion of counsel substantially to the effect that (1) no gain or
loss will be recognized by any holder of Varian Common Stock as a result of the
Distribution and (2) no gain or loss will be recognized by Varian upon the
Distribution. In addition, Varian's Board of Directors will not waive any other
condition to the Distribution or make any changes in the terms of the
Distribution after the Distribution is approved by Varian's stockholders unless
Varian's Board of Directors determines that such waivers or changes would not
be materially adverse to Varian's stockholders. In determining whether any such
waivers or changes would be materially adverse to Varian's stockholders,
Varian's Board of Directors will consider, as appropriate, advice from its
outside financial and legal advisors as well as the recommendation of
management as to the potential impact of such waivers or changes on Varian and
Varian's stockholders.
 
Future Management
 
Following the Distribution it is intended that IB will continue to conduct the
Instruments Business in substantially the same manner in which it is currently
operated. Allen J. Lauer, who is currently Executive Vice President of Varian,
will serve as President and Chief Executive Officer of IB following the
Distribution. The other executive officers of IB following the Distribution
will be primarily drawn from the current management of Varian. See
"Management - Executive Officers."
 
Internal Mergers and Transfers
 
On or prior to the Distribution Date, Varian will effectuate certain
transactions intended to allocate assets and liabilities relating to the Health
Care Systems Business to VMS, assets and liabilities relating to the
Semiconductor Equipment Business to VSEA and assets and liabilities relating to
the Instruments Business to IB. See " - Distribution Agreement." On the
Distribution Date, following the completion of the foregoing transactions,
Varian will distribute the IB Common Stock and VSEA Common Stock to the holders
of Varian Common Stock on the Distribution Record Date.
 
Relationship Among VMS, VSEA and IB After the Distribution
 
For the purpose of governing certain of the ongoing relationships among VMS,
VSEA and IB after the Distribution and to provide mechanisms for an orderly
transition, Varian, IB and VSEA have entered or will enter into various
agreements, and will adopt policies, as described in this section. Varian, IB
and VSEA believe that the agreements are fair to each of the parties. The
services to be provided by each of the companies pursuant to the various
agreements described below will be billed at their fully burdened cost to the
provider and in each case the terms of these agreements have been reviewed by
individuals who will have senior management positions at IB, VMS or VSEA after
the Distribution.
 
The Distribution Agreement and the forms of the Ancillary Agreements have been
filed as exhibits to the Registration Statement in respect of the registration
of the IB Common Stock under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
(the "Exchange Act") of which this Information Statement is a part. See
"Available Information." The following descriptions include a summary of all
material terms of these agreements, but do not purport to be complete and are
qualified by reference to the texts of such agreements, which are incorporated
herein by reference.
 
Distribution Agreement
 
The Distribution Agreement provides for the terms of the Distribution, the
conditions to the Distribution (see "- Conditions; Termination"), the various
actions to be taken prior to the Distribution (see " - Internal Mergers and
 
                                       24
<PAGE>
 
Transfers") and the relationships among the parties subsequent to the
Distribution. The Distribution Agreement provides that, from and after the
Distribution Date, (i) IB shall assume, pay, perform and discharge all
Instruments Liabilities (as defined in the Distribution Agreement) in
accordance with their terms, (ii) VMS shall assume, pay, perform and discharge
all Health Care Systems Liabilities (as defined in the Distribution Agreement)
in accordance with their terms and (iii) VSEA shall assume, pay, perform and
discharge all Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities (as defined in the
Distribution Agreement) in accordance with their terms.
 
 
In addition, the Distribution Agreement provides for cross-indemnities that
require (i) IB to indemnify VMS and VSEA (and their respective subsidiaries,
directors, officers, employees and agents and certain other related parties)
against all losses arising out of or in connection with Instruments Liabilities
or the breach of the Distribution Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement by IB,
(ii) VMS to indemnify IB and VSEA (and their respective subsidiaries,
directors, officers, employees and agents and certain other related parties)
against all losses arising out of or in connection with the Health Care Systems
Liabilities or the breach of the Distribution Agreement or any Ancillary
Agreement by VMS and (iii) VSEA to indemnify IB and VMS (and their respective
subsidiaries, directors, officers, employees and agents and certain other
related parties) against all losses arising out of or in connection with the
Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities or the breach of the Distribution Agreement
or any Ancillary Agreement by VSEA, and, in each case, for contribution in
certain circumstances. Each of IB, VMS and VSEA also agrees to indemnify each
other for one-third of the costs and expenses associated with liabilities that
are unrelated to their businesses, including certain discontinued operations
and environmental liabilities associated with Varian's Palo Alto facilities.
 
Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, each of the parties has agreed to use
commercially reasonable efforts to take or cause to be taken all action, and do
or cause to be done all things, reasonably necessary or appropriate to
consummate the transactions contemplated by the Distribution Agreement. As
such, the Distribution Agreement provides that if any contemplated pre-
Distribution transfers have not been effected on or prior to the Distribution
Date, the parties will cooperate to effect such transfers as promptly
thereafter as practicable. The entity retaining any asset or liability which
should have been transferred prior to the Distribution Date will continue to
hold that asset for the benefit of the party entitled thereto or that liability
for the account of the party required to assume it, and must take such other
action as may be reasonably requested by the party to whom such asset was to be
transferred or by whom such liability was to be assumed in order to place such
party, insofar as reasonably possible, in the same position as would have
existed had such asset or liability been transferred or assumed as contemplated
by the Distribution Agreement.
 
The Distribution Agreement (i) requires that Varian renegotiate the Term Loans,
(ii) requires that Varian contribute cash to VSEA so that at the time of the
Distribution VSEA will have $100 million in cash and cash equivalents and a Net
Worth (as defined in the Distribution Agreement) of at least $150 million, and
its Consolidated Debt (as defined in the Distribution Agreement) will not
exceed $5 million, (iii) requires that IB assume 50% of the outstanding
indebtedness under the Term Loans and have transferred to it such portion of
the indebtedness under the Notes Payable and such amount of cash and cash
equivalents, so that as of the time of the Distribution IB and VMS will each
have Net Debt (as defined in the Distribution Agreement) equal to approximately
50% of the aggregate Net Debt of IB and VMS, subject to such adjustments as may
be necessary to provide VMS with a Net Worth of between 40% and 50% of the
aggregate Net Worth of VMS and IB, (iv) governs the conduct of the post-
Distribution audit to be undertaken to ascertain the Net Worth of VMS, IB and
VSEA upon consummation of the Distribution, (v) requires that post-Distribution
payments be made between the parties if, and to the extent that, as of the time
of the Distribution (a) VMS has a Net Worth that is less than 40% or more than
50% of the aggregate Net Worth of VMS and IB, (b) VSEA has Consolidated Debt
exceeding $5 million, or less than $100 million of cash and cash equivalents or
a Net Worth of less than $150 million or (c) VSEA has more than $100 million of
cash and cash equivalents and a Net Worth of at least $150 million or VSEA has
a Net Worth in excess of $225 million and (vi) entitles IB to receive
approximately 50% of the estimated proceeds, if any, to be received by VMS
after the Distribution from the sale of Varian's long-term leasehold interest
at certain of its Palo Alto facilities, together with certain related buildings
and other corporate assets and requires IB to pay approximately 50% of any
estimated transaction expenses to be paid by VMS after the Distribution (in
each case reduced for estimated taxes payable or tax benefits received from all
sales and transaction expenses).
 
                                       25
<PAGE>
 
The Distribution Agreement also provides for the execution and delivery of
certain other agreements governing the relationship among IB, VMS and VSEA at
and following the Distribution. See " - Employee Benefits Allocation
Agreement," " - Tax Sharing Agreement," " - Transition Services Agreement," and
" - Intellectual Property Agreement."
 
Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement
 
On or prior to the Distribution Date, Varian, IB and VSEA will enter into an
employee benefits allocation agreement (the "Employee Benefits Allocation
Agreement") providing for the allocation of certain liabilities and
responsibilities with respect to employee compensation, benefits and labor
matters. The allocation of responsibility and adjustments to be made pursuant
to the Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement are substantially consistent with
the existing rights of Varian's employees under Varian's various compensation
plans, with the understanding that each party will have sole responsibility for
determining the benefits it will provide its employees following the
Distribution. The Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement will generally provide
that, effective as of the Distribution Date, each of IB and VSEA will, or will
cause one or more of its subsidiaries to, assume or retain, as the case may be,
all liabilities of Varian, to the extent unpaid as of the Distribution Date,
under Varian's employee benefit plans, policies, arrangements, contracts and
agreements, including collective bargaining agreements, with respect to
employees who on or after the Distribution Date will be employees of IB or its
subsidiaries or VSEA or its subsidiaries. The Employee Benefits Allocation
Agreement will also provide that VMS generally will, or will cause one of its
subsidiaries to, assume or retain, as the case may be, all liabilities under
Varian's employee benefit plans, policies, arrangements, contracts and
agreements, including collective bargaining agreements, with respect to
employees who on or after the Distribution Date will be employees of VMS or its
subsidiaries. The Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement will also provide that
each of IB, VSEA and VMS will generally indemnify the others for one-third of
the administrative costs associated with liabilities to individuals who were
former Varian employees as of the Distribution Date.
 
Defined Contribution Plans
 
Active participation in the Varian Associates, Inc. Retirement and Profit-
Sharing Program (the "Varian Profit-Sharing Plan") by IB and VSEA employees
will terminate on the Distribution Date.
 
Effective as of the Distribution Date, IB will establish a defined contribution
plan for the benefit of its employees. As promptly as practicable after the
Distribution, VMS will cause to be transferred to the IB defined contribution
plan the account balances in, and the liabilities of, the Varian Profit-Sharing
Plan to each employee of IB who elects to so transfer. IB will assume the
administrative costs associated with the Varian Profit-Sharing Plan accounts of
IB employees who do not elect a transfer. IB, VSEA and VMS will also each
indemnify the others for one-third of the administrative costs associated with
the accounts of individuals who were former Varian employees as of the
Distribution Date or whose employment will terminate pursuant to severance
agreements in connection with the Distribution.
 
Non-U.S. Employee Benefits
 
Non-U.S. employee benefits will be subject to the general principles of the
Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement. To the extent practicable, IB or its
subsidiaries will each assume or retain, as the case may be, any and all
pension liabilities and attendant plans and their assets related to the
employees of IB or its subsidiaries post-Distribution. If a person is employed
by a non-U.S. subsidiary of IB but the associated liabilities are held by
another of VMS, IB or VSEA, the entity employing the employees will indemnify
the entity holding the liabilities. IB, VSEA and VMS will also each indemnify
the others for one-third of the employee benefit liabilities associated with
former employees of non-U.S. subsidiaries.
 
Stock Options and Other Awards
 
Stock options and restricted stock awards (collectively, "stock awards") of
Varian are currently outstanding under Varian's 1982 Non-Qualified Stock Option
Plan and the Varian Omnibus Stock Plan (collectively, the "Plans"). The
treatment after the Distribution of stock awards that are outstanding prior to
the Distribution is designed to preserve, as a general matter, the economic
value of each stock award. In addition, the treatment of outstanding stock
awards of
 
                                       26
<PAGE>
 
individuals who will continue their employment with IB is designed to provide
an incentive for such employees to remain employed with IB and to benefit by
their efforts to increase the market value of the IB Common Stock.
 
Treatment of Awards Held by Employees of IB
 
It is expected that the Varian stock options held by those individuals who will
become employees of IB will be replaced with substitute stock options to
purchase IB Common Stock under the IB Omnibus Stock Plan discussed below under
"The IB Omnibus Stock Plan." Although such individuals are not contractually
required to surrender their Varian stock options, it is expected that such
individuals will do so in order to have their stock options relate to shares of
the company with which they are employed after the Distribution, to preserve
unvested options and to maintain the ability to exercise stock options that
would otherwise expire due to termination of their employment with Varian. The
surrender of such stock options will be encouraged by Varian and IB because
Varian's and IB's management believe the efforts of key employees should be
directed toward enhancing the value of their employer's stock.
 
Such substitute options will be designed to preserve the economic value of the
related Varian stock options, and the vesting and expiration dates and other
terms of the related awards will remain in effect under the IB substitute stock
options. In order to obtain such substitute stock options, the employees will
be required to surrender their unexercised Varian stock options. Replacement of
surrendered Varian stock options is believed to be beneficial to IB and its
stockholders because it will allow IB to provide meaningful compensation
incentives to its key employees. Since, except for option price and number of
shares, all terms and conditions of Varian stock options will apply to the
substitute stock options, the vesting provisions of the substitute options are
expected to provide a continuing incentive for key employees to remain in the
employ of IB after the Distribution. If an IB employee does not elect to
receive a substitute option, the unvested portion of the employee's Varian
option will expire upon the Distribution Date and the employee will generally
have three months to exercise the vested portion for VMS Common Stock.
 
The option exercise price of substitute IB stock options will be determined by
multiplying the exercise price of the Varian stock option by a fraction, the
numerator of which will be the closing price of IB Common Stock on the
Distribution Date and the denominator of which will be the closing price of
Varian Common Stock on the Distribution Date. The number of shares of IB Common
Stock subject to substitute options will be determined by multiplying the
number of shares of Varian Common Stock covered by the Varian stock option by a
fraction, the numerator of which will be the closing price of Varian Common
Stock on the Distribution Date and the denominator of which will be the closing
price of IB Common Stock on the Distribution Date. If the Distribution Date is
not a trading day for the New York Stock Exchange or the Nasdaq National
Market, the foregoing prices will be calculated based on the closing price for
the trading day immediately preceding the Distribution Date.
 
Unvested Varian restricted stock held by continuing employees of IB will vest
immediately prior to the Distribution.
 
As of December 15, 1998, there were approximately 966,491 shares of Varian
Common Stock subject to outstanding stock options held by individuals who will
be employees of IB. It is impossible to predict with certainty how many shares
of IB Common Stock will be subject to substitute IB stock options after the
Distribution Date, since it is expected that some Varian stock options held by
individuals who will become employees of IB will be exercised prior to the
Distribution Date. The balance of unexercised Varian stock options will be
adjusted according to the formula described above, but the stock prices upon
which the adjustment will be based will not be known until the Distribution
Date. Stockholders of IB are, however, likely to experience some dilutive
impact from the above-described adjustments.
 
Treatment of Awards Held by Employees Whose Employment will Terminate in
Connection with the Distribution
 
Employees of Varian whose employment will terminate in connection with the
Distribution (other than seven employees whose employment will terminate
pursuant to severance agreements) will be permitted to elect to exchange their
Varian stock options for stock options with respect to VMS Common Stock, VSEA
Common Stock and IB Common Stock. Individuals who so elect will have one-third
of the unexercised portion of their Varian stock options exchanged for
 
                                       27
<PAGE>
 
each of VMS stock options, VSEA stock options and IB stock options. The seven
employees whose employment will terminate pursuant to severance agreements will
receive this exchange on a mandatory basis. Employees whose options are
exchanged in this manner will have the unvested portion of their Varian options
as of the Distribution Date vested immediately prior to the Distribution or, if
later, immediately prior to termination of the employment of such employees.
 
As of December 15, 1998, there were approximately 521,145 shares of Varian
Common Stock subject to outstanding stock options held by employees whose
employment will terminate in connection with the Distribution (excluding stock
options held by Mr. O'Rourke, a current director of Varian who is expected to
serve as a director of VSEA following the Distribution). It is impossible to
predict with certainty how many shares of IB Common Stock will be subject to
these stock options after the Distribution Date, since it is expected that some
Varian stock options held by these individuals will be exercised prior to the
Distribution Date. In addition, the balance of unexercised Varian stock options
will be adjusted according to the formula described above, but the stock prices
upon which the adjustment will be based will not be known until the
Distribution Date. Stockholders of IB are, however, likely to experience some
dilutive impact from the above-described adjustments.
 
Treatment of Awards Held by Directors
 
Varian stock options held by directors of Varian will be adjusted in the same
manner as Varian stock options held by employees whose employment will
terminate in connection with the Distribution; provided that the unvested
portion of their Varian options will not vest immediately prior to the
Distribution. Accordingly, these individuals will be permitted to exchange
their Varian stock options for stock options with respect to VMS Common Stock,
VSEA Common Stock and IB Common Stock.
 
As of December 15, 1998, there were approximately 791,000 shares of Varian
Common Stock subject to outstanding stock options held by current directors
(including Mr. O'Rourke). It is impossible to predict with certainty how many
shares of IB Common Stock will subject to these stock options after the
Distribution Date, since it is expected that some Varian stock options held by
these individuals will be exercised prior to the Distribution Date. In
addition, the balance of unexercised Varian stock options will be adjusted
pursuant to the formula described above, but the stock prices upon which the
adjustment will be based will not be known until the Distribution Date.
Stockholders of IB are, however, likely to experience some dilutive impact from
the above-described adjustments.
 
Tax Sharing Agreement
 
Varian, IB and VSEA will enter into a tax sharing agreement (the "Tax Sharing
Agreement") that defines the parties' rights and obligations with respect to
federal, state, foreign and other income or franchise taxes relating to
Varian's businesses for tax periods prior to, including and following the
Distribution and with respect to certain other tax matters. In general, VMS
will be responsible for consolidated federal income taxes, consolidated or
combined state income taxes and separate state income taxes of Varian and its
subsidiaries through the Distribution Date. Liability through the Distribution
Date will be determined based on a closing of the books. Liability for foreign
income taxes and non-income taxes will generally be allocated to the legal
entity on which such taxes are imposed, except for taxes transferred on the
closing balance sheets. Adjustments to the reported tax liability for tax
periods through the Distribution Date will be shared equally by the three
companies.
 
In general, and except as provided below, taxes resulting from the Distribution
will be the responsibility of the legal entity on which such taxes are imposed.
However, each of VSEA and IB will be responsible for any such taxes resulting
from income or gain from the Distribution to the extent that such taxes are
attributable to action taken or permitted by that entity or its affiliates
after the Distribution that is inconsistent with the tax treatment contemplated
in the Tax Ruling requested from the IRS. Each of VMS, IB and VSEA will
covenant and agree not to take or permit certain actions inconsistent or
potentially inconsistent with the requested Tax Ruling before January 1, 2002,
unless such action has been consented to by the other companies or approved by
a supplemental ruling from the IRS or an unqualified opinion of independent
nationally recognized tax counsel acceptable to each of the companies. These
agreements could restrict the ability of VMS, IB or VSEA to engage in certain
corporate transactions, redeem stock, dispose of assets
 
                                       28
<PAGE>
 
except in the ordinary course of business, or be the target of an acquisition
transaction, during that period. Adjustments to the anticipated income taxes
resulting from the Distribution that are not attributable to action
inconsistent with the Tax Ruling will be shared equally by the three companies.
Furthermore, if with respect to VMS, IB or VSEA, the aggregate taxes shown on
the initial tax returns filed after the Distribution (or the amounts paid with
respect to such taxes) relating to periods prior to the Distribution Date
exceed the aggregate amounts accrued with respect thereto on the closing
balance sheets, by more than $1,000,000, the company with the unanticipated tax
burden may propose a sharing of such amounts among the three companies. If the
three companies cannot agree to a fair and equitable sharing of the excess
taxes, the matter will be submitted to a mutually acceptable nationally
recognized accounting firm for resolution. See " - Federal Income Tax Aspects
of the Distribution."
 
Transition Services Agreement
 
On or prior to the Distribution Date, Varian, IB and VSEA will enter into a
Transition Services Agreement providing for (i) the sharing of facilities and
equipment for a temporary period not to exceed one year, (ii) the provision of
employees and sharing of certain third-party services to provide treasury, tax,
accounting, payroll, human resources and similar and related functions for a
temporary period not to exceed one year and (iii) the provision of information
services personnel for a period extending until June 30, 2000. Compensation for
all services and facilities provided under the Transition Services Agreement
will be on a fully burdened cost reimbursement basis. The management of each of
VMS, VSEA and IB presently expects that its company will be able to provide
these services for itself after the applicable transition period without
additional material expense, although no assurance can be given that this will
be the case. Each party has the right to terminate certain transition services
arrangements upon a material breach by the other party thereto.
 
Intellectual Property Agreement
 
On or prior to the Distribution Date, Varian, IB and VSEA will enter into an
Intellectual Property Agreement providing for allocation among these companies
and their respective subsidiaries and associated companies of rights in the
Intellectual Property (as defined in the Distribution Agreement), including
patents, copyrights, trademarks, software and trade secrets, owned by Varian
prior to the Distribution and for the licensing of certain of such Intellectual
Property thereafter. The Intellectual Property Agreement is to provide VMS, IB
and VSEA, and their respective subsidiaries and associated companies, with
those continuing rights and licenses in such Intellectual Property following
the Distribution Date necessary for the continued conduct of their respective
businesses.
 
Under the terms of the Intellectual Property Agreement, the Intellectual
Property that relates primarily to the Instruments Business and the
Semiconductor Equipment Business will be transferred to IB and VSEA,
respectively, with VMS retaining the Intellectual Property that relates
primarily to the Health Care Systems Business. Each company will grant a non-
exclusive, perpetual, royalty-free license under the Intellectual Property that
it owns to the other two companies for use in their respective fields. More
specifically, as of the Distribution Date, each of VMS, IB and VSEA will hold
certain rights in the mark "VARIAN," the "VA" logo and other rights to various
trademarks, service marks, and trade names containing the word "VARIAN."
 
                                       29
<PAGE>
 
                            SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
 
The following table presents selected historical financial data of the
Instruments Business. The information set forth below should be read in
conjunction with "Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements,"
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations" and the historical financial statements and notes thereto of the
Instruments Business included elsewhere in this Information Statement. The
statement of earnings data set forth below for the fiscal years ended October
2, 1998, September 26, 1997 and September 27, 1996 and the balance sheet data
at October 2, 1998 and September 26, 1997 are derived from, and are qualified
by reference to, the audited financial statements of the Instruments Business
included elsewhere in this Information Statement The statement of earnings data
for the fiscal years 1995 and 1994 and the balance sheet data at fiscal year
end 1996, 1995 and 1994 are derived from unaudited financial data of the
Instruments Business not included in this Information Statement.
 
The historical financial information may not be indicative of the Instruments
Business' future performance and does not necessarily reflect what the
financial position and results of operations of the Instruments Business would
have been had the Instruments Business operated as a separate, stand-alone
entity during the periods presented.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   Fiscal
                                                    Years
                             -------------------------------------------------
                                  1998      1997      1996      1995      1994
                             --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
                             (Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)
<S>                          <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>
Statement of Earnings Data
Sales....................... $   557.8 $   541.9 $   504.4 $   459.4 $   425.7
Operating Earnings before
 Taxes......................      39.2      26.8      11.5       2.7      20.3
Taxes on earnings...........      15.8      12.6       5.3       0.7      10.0
Net Earnings................      23.4      14.2       6.2       2.0      10.3
Pro Forma Net Earnings Per
 Share(/1/)................. $    0.78 $    0.47 $    0.20 $    0.06 $    0.30
Balance Sheet Data At Year
 End
Total assets................ $   404.1 $   357.9 $   301.0 $   282.0 $   272.6
Long-term debt.............. $      -- $      -- $      -- $      -- $      --
</TABLE>
- -------
(1) The computation of pro forma net earnings per share is based on the
    weighted average number of shares of Varian Common Stock outstanding during
    the respective periods, reflecting the anticipated ratio of one share of IB
    Common Stock for each share of Varian Common Stock outstanding at the time
    of the Distribution.
 
                                       30
<PAGE>
 
               MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
                      CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
This discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations
is based upon and should be read in conjunction with the combined financial
statements of the Instruments Business and notes thereto included elsewhere in
this Information Statement, as well as the information contained under
"Business" and "Risk Factors." The combined financial statements of the
Instruments Business generally reflect the results of operations, financial
position and cash flows of the operations expected to be transferred to IB in
connection with the Internal Transfers and Distribution. Accordingly, the
Instruments Business' combined financial statements have been carved out from
the consolidated financial statements of Varian using the historical results of
operations and historical basis of the assets and liabilities of the
Instruments Business. The combined financial statements include, among other
things, allocations of certain Varian corporate assets (including pension
assets), liabilities (including profit-sharing and pension benefits) and
expenses (including legal, accounting, employee benefits, insurance services,
information technology services, treasury and other Varian corporate overhead)
to the Instruments Business using the allocation methodology described in Note
1 of the Notes to the Instruments Business Combined Financial Statements. The
combined financial statements do not reflect any changes that may occur in the
financing and operations of IB as a result of the Distribution.
 
Results Of Operations
 
Fiscal Year
 
IB's fiscal years reported are the 52- or 53-week periods which ended on the
Friday nearest September 30. Fiscal year 1998 comprises the 53-week period
ended on October 2, 1998. Fiscal years 1997 and 1996 comprise the 52-week
periods ended on September 26, 1997 and September 27, 1996, respectively.
 
Fiscal Year 1998 Compared to Fiscal Year 1997
 
Sales. IB's sales of $558 million in fiscal year 1998 were 3% higher than its
sales of $542 million in fiscal year 1997. Fiscal year 1998 sales were driven
largely by IB's Analytical Instruments and NMR Instruments lines. The effect of
the stronger U.S. dollar and a softening Asian market slowed sales growth
during fiscal year 1998. Geographically, sales in North America of $312 million
and Europe of $163 million in fiscal year 1998 represented increases of 3% and
15%, respectively, as compared to fiscal year 1997, while sales in Asia of $57
million in fiscal year 1998 declined 18% as compared to fiscal year 1997. IB
expects its sales in the United States and Europe to continue to grow but is
uncertain as to the timing of any economic recovery, or increased sales, in
Asia. Overall, IB expects single-digit sales growth in fiscal year 1999.
However, IB may experience lower operating earnings in fiscal year 1999
depending on the extent and timing of restructuring plans currently being
developed.
 
Gross Profit. IB's gross profit of $221 million in fiscal year 1998 was 40% of
sales, compared to $211 million, or 39% of sales, in fiscal year 1997. The
increase in gross profit as a percentage of sales from fiscal year 1997 to
fiscal year 1998 was primarily attributable to improved operating efficiencies.
 
Research and Development. Research and development expenses of $30 million in
fiscal year 1998 were 5% of sales compared to $32 million, or 6% of sales, in
fiscal year 1997. This decrease reflected the shift away from outside
consultants and the Ginzton Research Center to in-house employees.
 
Marketing. Marketing expenses of $114 million in fiscal year 1998 and $110
million in fiscal year 1997, were 20% of sales in fiscal years 1998 and 1997,
as increases in expenses in the United States in fiscal year 1998 were offset
by lower foreign marketing expenses due to the strengthening U.S. dollar.
 
General and Administrative. General and administrative expenses of $39 million,
or 7% of sales, in fiscal year 1998, decreased from $42 million, or 8% of
sales, in fiscal year 1997. The decrease in general and administrative expenses
in fiscal year 1998 was due primarily to improved employee productivity and the
effect of the stronger U.S. dollar on IB's expenses outside the United States.
 
 
                                       31
<PAGE>
 
Taxes on Earnings. IB's effective income tax rate was 40.2% in fiscal year
1998, compared to 47.0% in fiscal year 1997. These rates were higher than the
U.S. federal statutory rate because IB had significant earnings in high-tax
foreign countries. The fiscal year 1997 rate was greater than the fiscal year
1998 rate due to the larger portion of high-taxed foreign earnings in fiscal
year 1997. Future tax rates may vary from the historic rates depending on the
worldwide allocation of earnings and tax planning strategies.
 
Net Earnings. Net earnings of $23 million ($0.78 pro forma per share) in fiscal
year 1998 increased from the $14 million ($0.47 pro forma per share) earned in
fiscal year 1997. The increase in net earnings was due primarily to revenue
growth in excess of marketing and general and administrative expenses and the
other factors described above.
 
Fiscal Year 1997 Compared to Fiscal Year 1996
 
Sales. IB's sales of $542 million in fiscal year 1997 were 7% higher than its
sales of $504 million in fiscal year 1996. All of IB's product lines
contributed to the higher sales in fiscal year 1997. Geographically, sales in
fiscal year 1997 in North America of $302 million and Asia of $70 million both
increased 11% from fiscal year 1996, while sales in Europe of $142 million
declined 3% in fiscal year 1997.
 
Gross Profit. IB's gross profit of $211 million in fiscal year 1997 was 39% of
sales, compared to $194 million, or 38% of sales, in fiscal year 1996. The
increase in gross profit was attributable primarily to improved sales volume
and relatively constant fixed costs.
 
Research and Development. Research and development expenses of $32 million in
fiscal year 1997 were 6% of sales compared to $30 million, or 6% of sales, in
fiscal year 1996. The increase in research and development expenses, in
absolute terms, was primarily due to increased consultancy costs.
 
Marketing. Marketing expenses of $110 million in fiscal year 1997 were 20% of
sales compared to $107 million, or 21% of sales in fiscal year 1996. The
increase in marketing expenses, in absolute terms, was primarily due to
increased new product introductions and new sales offices in Latin America.
 
General and Administrative. General and administrative expenses of $42 million
were 8% of sales in fiscal year 1997, compared to $45 million, or 9% of sales,
in fiscal year 1996. The decrease in general and administrative expenses was
due primarily to a reduction in corporate overhead expenses.
 
Taxes on Earnings. IB's effective income tax rate was 47.0% in fiscal year
1997, compared to 46.1% in fiscal year 1996. These rates were higher than the
U.S. federal statutory rate because IB had significant earnings in high-tax
foreign countries.
 
Net Earnings. Net earnings of $14 million ($0.47 pro forma per share) in fiscal
year 1997 increased from the $6 million ($0.20 pro forma per share) earned in
fiscal year 1996. The increase in net earnings was due primarily to revenue
growth in excess of marketing and general and administrative expenses and the
other factors described above.
 
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 130, "Reporting
Comprehensive Income." SFAS No. 130 establishes standards for reporting and
display of comprehensive income and its components in a full set of general-
purpose financial statements. It is effective for IB's 1999 fiscal year. The
impact of the implementation of SFAS No. 130 on the combined financial
statements of IB has not yet been determined.
 
In June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures About Segments of an
Enterprise and Related Information." SFAS No. 131 changes current practice
under SFAS No. 14 by establishing a new framework on which to base segment
reporting (referred to as the "management" approach) and also requires interim
reporting of segment information. It is effective for IB's 1999 fiscal year.
The impact of the implementation of SFAS No. 131 on the reporting of IB's
segment information has not yet been determined.
 
                                       32
<PAGE>
 
In June 1998, the FASB issued SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities." SFAS No. 133 establishes a new model for
accounting for derivatives and hedging activities and is effective for IB's
2000 fiscal year. The impact of the implementation of SFAS No. 133 on the
combined financial statements of IB has not yet been determined.
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
IB's debt has historically been incurred or managed at the parent level. In
connection with the Distribution, a portion of Varian's debt will be assumed by
IB. IB will not be able to rely on the earnings, assets or cash flows of VMS or
VSEA after the Distribution to service this debt nor, however, will its
earnings, assets or cash flows be used to contribute to the capital
requirements of those entities.
 
The debt to be assumed by or transferred to IB at the time of the Distribution
will consist of between $50 and $100 million of Term Loans and Notes Payable,
based on Varian's outstanding indebtedness as of October 2, 1998 and projected
operating results, certain other transactions and scheduled debt repayments
through the Distribution Date. See "Forecasted Capitalization." As of October
2, 1998, interest rates on Varian's outstanding Term Loans ranged from 6.70% to
7.29%, and the weighted average interest rate on these Term Loans was 7.03%. As
of October 2, 1998, interest rates on Varian's outstanding Notes Payable ranged
from 1.50% to 49.00%, and the weighted average interest rate on these Notes
Payable was 1.96%. While IB will assume 50% of the Term Loans, the specific
Term Loans and Notes Payable, if any, that IB will assume in connection with
the Distribution will be determined in accordance with the Distribution
Agreement. See "The Distribution - Distribution Agreement." The Term Loans
currently contain covenants that limit future borrowings and the payment of
cash dividends and require the maintenance of certain levels of working capital
and operating results. In connection with the assumption of the Term Loans by
IB, the lender may revise existing or impose additional restrictive covenants.
IB may enter into one or more credit facilities for working capital and other
general corporate purposes after the Distribution. Any such credit facility may
contain certain representations and warranties, conditions, affirmative,
negative and financial covenants and events of default customary for such
facilities. IB does not expect that it will have any outstanding borrowings
under any such credit facility as of the Distribution.
 
Varian has used a centralized cash management system to finance its operations.
Cash deposits from the businesses are transferred to Varian on a daily basis,
and Varian funds Varian's required disbursements. As a result, IB reported no
cash and cash equivalents, at October 2, 1998 and September 26, 1997,
respectively. Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, it is anticipated that IB
will be entitled to receive a cash contribution from Varian in such amount so
that as of the time of the Distribution, IB will have Net Debt equal to
approximately 50% of the aggregate Net Debt of IB and VMS, subject to such
adjustments as may be necessary to provide VMS with a Net Worth of between 40%
and 50% of the aggregate Net Worth of IB and VMS. Further, IB is entitled to
receive approximately 50% of the estimated proceeds, if any, to be received by
VMS after the Distribution from the sale of Varian's long-term leasehold
interest at certain of its Palo Alto facilities, together with certain related
buildings and other corporate assets and required to pay approximately 50% of
any estimated transaction expenses to be paid by VMS after the Distribution (in
each case reduced for estimated taxes payable or tax benefits received from all
sales and transaction expenses). See "The Distribution - Distribution
Agreement."
 
IB generated $37 million of cash from operations in fiscal year 1998, compared
to $17 million in fiscal year 1997 and $23 million in fiscal year 1996. Fiscal
year 1998 net earnings plus non-cash charges for depreciation totaling $41
million, which was offset by a decrease of $7 million in liabilities and a $5
million decrease in customer advances, respectively, between fiscal year 1997
and fiscal year 1998, accounted for most of the cash generated.
 
IB used $54 million of cash for investing activities in fiscal year 1998,
primarily for the acquisition of Chrompack International B. V., the remaining
minority interest in Varian Iberica, S. L., as well as the replacement of
machinery and equipment. This compares to $52 million used for investing
activities in fiscal year 1997, primarily for the acquisitions of a product
line from each of Rainin Instruments Company, Inc. and Otsuka Electronics (USA)
Inc., as well as the replacement of machinery and equipment. IB used $22
million for investing activities in fiscal year 1996, primarily for capital
expenditures.
 
                                       33
<PAGE>
 
IB currently has no plans to materially modify or expand its facilities or to
make other material capital expenditures. Restructuring plans are currently
being developed and are expected to result in additional costs and
expenditures, the timing and amount of which have not yet been determined. In
addition, the Distribution Agreement provides that IB is responsible for
certain litigation described under "Business - Legal Proceedings" and further
provides that IB will indemnify VSEA and VMS for one-third of the costs,
expenses and other liabilities of Varian relating to certain discontinued
operations of Varian, including certain environmental liabilities. See " -
 Environmental Matters."
 
IB's liquidity is affected by many factors, some based on the normal ongoing
operations of the business and others related to the uncertainties of the
industry and global economies. Although IB's cash requirements will fluctuate
based on the timing and extent of these factors, IB's management believes that
cash generated from operations, together with IB's borrowing capability, will
be sufficient to satisfy commitments for capital expenditures and other cash
requirements for the current fiscal year and fiscal year 2000.
 
Environmental Matters
 
IB's operations are subject to various foreign, federal, state and/or local
laws regulating the discharge of materials into the environment or otherwise
relating to the protection of the environment. This includes 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 their useful life. These laws have the effect of
increasing costs and potential liabilities associated with the conduct of such
operations.
 
Varian has been named by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or third
parties as a potentially responsible party under CERCLA at eight sites where
Varian is alleged to have shipped manufacturing waste for recycling or
disposal. Varian 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 Varian facilities (including facilities disposed of in connection with
Varian's sale of its Electron Devices business during fiscal year l995 and the
sale of its TFS business during fiscal year 1997). Expenditures by Varian for
environmental investigation and remediation amounted to $5 million in fiscal
year 1998, compared with $2 million in fiscal year 1997 and $5 million in
fiscal year 1996.
 
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. As of October 2, 1998, Varian nonetheless estimated that the future
exposure for environmental-related investigation and remediation costs for
these sites and facilities ranged in the aggregate from $22 million to $49
million. The time frame over which these costs are expected to be incurred
varies with each site and facility, ranging up to approximately 30 years as of
October 2, 1998. Management of Varian believes that no amount in the foregoing
range of estimated future costs is more probable of being incurred than any
other amount in such range and therefore Varian had accrued $22 million in
estimated environmental costs as of October 2, 1998. The amount accrued has not
been discounted to present value.
 
As to other sites and facilities, Varian has gained sufficient knowledge to be
able to better estimate the scope and costs of future environmental activities.
As of October 2, 1998, Varian estimated that the future exposure for
environmental related investigation and remediation costs for these sites and
facilities ranged in the aggregate from $40 million to $74 million. The time
frame over which these costs are expected to be incurred varies with each site
and facility, ranging up to approximately 30 years as of October 2, 1998. As to
each of these sites and facilities, management of Varian determined that a
particular amount within the range of estimated costs was a better estimate of
the future environmental liability than any other amount within the range, and
that the amount and timing of these futures costs were reliably determinable.
Together, these amounts totaled $51 million at October 2, 1998. Accordingly,
Varian had accrued $22 million as of October 2, 1998, which represents its best
estimate of the future costs discounted at 4%, net of inflation. This accrual
is in addition to the $22 million described in the preceding paragraph.
 
Under the Distribution Agreement, IB has agreed to indemnify VMS and VSEA for
one-third of these environmental investigation and remediation costs, as
adjusted for any insurance proceeds and tax benefits expected to be realized
upon
 
                                       34
<PAGE>
 
the payment of these costs. Accordingly, IB had recorded $8 million as its
portion of these estimated future costs for environmental liabilities as of
October 2, 1998.
 
The foregoing amounts are only estimates of anticipated future environmental
related costs, and the amounts actually spent 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 and facilities involved. IB believes that most of these
cost ranges will narrow as investigation and remediation activities progress.
 
IB believes that its reserves are adequate, but as the scope of its obligation
becomes more clearly defined, these reserves may be modified and related
charges against earnings 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 IB's financial statements, the likelihood of such
occurrence is considered remote. Based on information currently available to
IB's management and its best assessment of the ultimate amount and timing of
environmental related events, IB's management believes that the costs of these
environmental related matters are not reasonably likely to have a material
adverse effect on the consolidated financial statements of IB.
 
Year 2000
 
General. The "Year 2000" problem refers to computer programs and other
equipment with embedded microprocessors ("non-IT systems") which use only the
last two digits to refer to a year, and which therefore might not properly
recognize a year that begins with "20" instead of the familiar "19." As a
result, those computer programs and non-IT systems might be unable to operate
or process accurately certain date-sensitive data before or after January 1,
2000. Because IB relies heavily on computer programs and non-IT systems, and
relies on third parties which themselves rely on computer programs and non-IT
systems, the Year 2000 problem, if not addressed, could adversely effect IB's
business, results of operations or financial condition.
 
State of Readiness. IB has initiated a comprehensive assessment of potential
Year 2000 problems with respect to (1) internal systems, (2) products and (3)
significant third parties with which IB does business.
 
IB has substantially completed its assessment of potential Year 2000 problems
in internal systems, which systems have been categorized as follows, in order
of importance: (a) enterprise information systems; (b) enterprise networking
and telecommunications; (c) factory-specific information systems; (d) non-IT
systems; (e) computers and packaged software; and (f) facilities systems. With
respect to enterprise information systems, Varian in 1994 initiated replacement
of its existing systems with a single company-wide system supplied by SAP
America, Inc., which system is designed and tested by SAP for Year 2000
capability. Installation of that system has been staged to replace first those
existing systems that are not Year 2000 capable. Installation of the new SAP
system is approximately 70% complete, with 90% completion expected by July 1999
and full completion expected by the end of 1999. Upgrade of enterprise
information systems is approximately 61% complete, with 80% completion expected
by July 1999 and 100% completion expected by December 1999; upgrade of
networking and telecommunications systems is approximately 95% complete, with
100% completion expected by July 1999; upgrade of factory-specific information
systems is approximately 70% complete, with 91% completion expected by July
1999 and 93% completion expected by December 1999; and upgrade of non-IT
systems, computers and packaged software, and facilities systems are
approximately 80% complete, with 100% completion expected by July 1999. IB has
initiated an assessment of potential Year 2000 problems in its current and
previously-sold products. With respect to current products, that assessment and
corrective actions are complete, and IB believes that all of its current
products are Year 2000 capable; however, that conclusion is based in part on
Year 2000 assurances or warranties from suppliers of computer programs and non-
IT systems which are integrated into or sold with IB's current products.
 
With respect to previously-sold products, IB does not intend to assess Year
2000 preparedness of every product it has ever sold, but rather is focusing its
assessments on products that will be under written warranties or are still
relatively early in their useful life, are more likely to be dependent on non-
IT systems that are not Year 2000 capable, and/or cannot be easily upgraded
with readily available externally-utilized computers and packaged software.
These assessments are expected to be substantially completed by July 1999.
Where IB identifies previously-sold products that are not
 
                                       35
<PAGE>
 
Year 2000 capable, IB intends in some cases to develop and offer to sell
upgrades or retrofits, identify corrective measures which the customer could
itself undertake or identify for the customer other suppliers of upgrades or
retrofits. There may be instances where IB will be required to repair and/or
upgrade such products at its own expense. Schedules for completing those
corrective actions vary considerably among IB's businesses and products, but
are generally expected to be substantially completed by July 1999.
 
IB is still assessing potential Year 2000 problems of third parties with which
IB has material relationships, which will be primarily suppliers of products or
services. These assessments will identify and prioritize critical suppliers,
review those suppliers' written assurances on their own assessments and
correction of Year 2000 problems and develop appropriate contingency plans for
those suppliers which might not be adequately prepared for Year 2000 problems.
These assessments are expected to be substantially completed by April 1999.
 
Costs. As of October 2, 1998, IB estimates that it had incurred approximately
$700,000 to assess and correct Year 2000 problems. Although difficult to
assess, based on its assessment to date, IB estimates that it will incur
approximately $550,000 in additional costs to assess and correct Year 2000
problems, which costs are expected to be incurred throughout fiscal year 1999
and the first half of fiscal year 2000. All of these costs have been and will
continue to be expensed as incurred.
 
This estimate of future costs has not been reduced by expected recoveries from
certain third parties, which are subject to indemnity, reimbursement or
warranty obligations for Year 2000 problems. In addition, IB expects that
certain costs will be offset by revenues generated by the sale of upgrades and
retrofits and other customer support services relating to Year 2000 problems.
However, there can be no assurance that IB's actual costs to assess and correct
Year 2000 problems will not be higher than the foregoing estimate.
 
Risks. Failure of IB or its key suppliers to accurately assess and correct Year
2000 problems would likely result in interruption of certain of IB's normal
business operations, which could have a material adverse effect on IB's
business, results of operations or financial condition. If IB does not
adequately identify and correct Year 2000 problems in its information systems,
it could experience an interruption in its operations, including manufacturing,
order processing, receivables collection and accounting, such that there would
be delays in product shipments, lost data and a consequential impact on
revenues, expenditures and financial reporting. If IB does not adequately
identify and correct Year 2000 problems in its non-IT systems, it could
experience an interruption in its manufacturing and related operations, such
that there would be delays in product shipments and a consequential impact on
revenues. If IB does not adequately identify and correct Year 2000 problems in
previously-sold products, it could experience warranty or product liability
claims by users of products which do not function correctly. If IB does not
adequately identify and correct Year 2000 problems of the significant third
parties with which it does business, it could experience an interruption in the
supply of key components or services from those parties, such that there would
be delays in product shipments or services and a consequential impact on
revenues.
 
Management of IB believes that appropriate corrective actions have been or will
be accomplished within the cost and time estimates stated above. Although IB
does not expect to be 100% Year 2000 compliant by the end of 1999, IB does not
currently believe that any Year 2000 non-compliance in IB's information systems
would have a material adverse effect on IB's business, results of operations or
financial condition. However, given the inherent complexity of the Year 2000
problem, there can be no assurance that actual costs will not be higher than
currently anticipated or that corrective actions will not take longer than
currently anticipated to complete. Risk factors which might result in higher
costs or delays include the ability to identify and correct in a timely fashion
Year 2000 problems; regulatory or legal obligations to correct Year 2000
problems in previously-sold products; ability to retain and hire qualified
personnel to perform assessments and corrective actions; the willingness and
ability of critical suppliers to assess and correct their own Year 2000
problems, including the products they supply to IB; and the additional
complexity which will likely be caused by undertaking during fiscal year 1999
and fiscal year 2000 the separation of currently shared enterprise information
systems as a result of the Distribution. See "Risk Factors - Transitioning to
New Information Technology Infrastructure."
 
Because of uncertainties as to the extent of Year 2000 problems with IB's
previously-sold products and the extent of any legal obligation of IB to
correct Year 2000 problems in those products, IB cannot yet assess risks to IB
with respect to
 
                                       36
<PAGE>
 
those products. Because its assessments are not yet complete, IB also cannot
yet conclude that the failure of critical suppliers to assess and correct Year
2000 problems is not reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on
IB's results of operations.
 
Contingency Plans. With respect to IB's enterprise information systems, IB has
a contingency plan if the SAP system is not fully installed before December 31,
1999. That plan primarily involves installation where necessary of a Year 2000
capable upgrade of existing information systems pending complete installation
of the SAP system. That upgrade is currently in acceptance testing, and, if
functional, will be held for contingency purposes.
 
With respect to products and significant third parties, IB intends, as part of
its on-going assessment of potential Year 2000 problems, to develop contingency
plans for the more critical problems that might not be corrected December 31,
1999. It is currently anticipated that the focus of these contingency plans
will be the possible interruption of supply of key components or services from
third parties.
 
                                       37
<PAGE>
 
                                  MARKET RISK
 
Foreign Currency Exchange Risk
 
As a global concern, IB faces exposure to adverse movements in foreign currency
exchange rates. This exposure may change over time as IB's business practices
evolve and could have a material adverse impact on IB's financial results.
Historically, IB's primary exposures have related to non-U.S. dollar
denominated sales and purchases throughout Europe and Asia. The Euro was
adopted as a common currency for members of the European Monetary Union on
January 1, 1999. IB is evaluating, among other issues, the impact of the Euro
conversion on its foreign currency exposure. Based on its evaluation to date,
IB does not expect the Euro conversion to create any change in its currency
exposure due to IB's existing hedging practices.
 
At the present time, Varian hedges its currency exposures in respect of the
Instruments Business that are associated with certain assets and liabilities
denominated in non-functional currencies and with anticipated foreign currency
cash flows. Varian does not enter into forward exchange contracts for trading
purposes. IB's forward exchange contracts generally range from one to three
months in original maturity, and no forward exchange contract has an original
maturity greater than one year.
 
Forward exchange contracts outstanding and their unrealized gains and losses as
of October 2, 1998 are summarized as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                     Notional
                                        Value   Notional Unrealized
                                    Purchased Value Sold Gain/(Loss) Fair Value
                                    --------- ---------- ----------  ----------
                                             (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                 <C>       <C>        <C>         <C>
Japanese yen.......................   $    --    $ 1,637       $  5        $ 31
French francs......................        --     11,550         --        (467)
Canadian dollars...................        --      7,042        206         260
British pounds.....................    12,044      4,050        537         515
Italian lira.......................        --      4,196         --        (217)
German marks.......................        --      1,955         --        (100)
Spanish pesetas....................        --        691         --         (38)
Korean won.........................        --        283         --           1
Australian dollars.................     6,396         --         --          23
Swiss francs.......................       246         --         --          10
Swedish kronor.....................     4,789         --         --          (5)
                                      -------    -------       ----        ----
  Total............................   $23,475    $31,404       $748        $ 13
                                      =======    =======       ====        ====
</TABLE>
 
The fair value of forward exchange contracts generally reflects the estimated
amounts that IB would receive or pay to terminate the contracts at the
reporting date, thereby taking into account and approximating the current
unrealized and realized gains or losses of open contracts. The notional amounts
of forward exchange contracts are not a measure of IB's exposure.
 
Interest Rate Risk
 
Although payments under certain of the operating leases for IB's facilities are
tied to market indices, IB is not exposed to material interest rate risk
associated with its operating leases.
 
                                       38
<PAGE>
 
           SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT CAPITALIZATION FORECAST ASSUMPTIONS
 
The following financial forecast of the capitalization of IB is based on
forecasts and assumptions by Varian's management concerning events and
circumstances that are expected to occur subsequent to the latest historical
balance sheet date but prior to and including April 1, 1999 (the anticipated
Distribution Date), including future results of operations and other events.
For purposes of the forecasted capitalization at April 1, 1999, net earnings in
the first six months of fiscal year 1999 are assumed to approximate the same
level as in the last six months of fiscal year 1998. In addition, restructuring
plans are currently being developed and may result in additional charges to
IB's equity. Assumptions with respect to events that will occur between October
3, 1998 and April 1, 1999 include the following:
 
 .  Receipt of a cash contribution from Varian of $8 million and the assumption
   of long-term debt (including current portion) of $58 million from Varian.
 
 .  Amendment of IB's Certificate of Incorporation to give IB authorized capital
   stock of (i) 99,000,000 shares of IB Common Stock of which approximately
   29,909,061 shares will be issued and outstanding upon the Distribution
   (based upon the number of shares of Varian Common Stock outstanding as of
   December 15, 1998) and (ii) 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock, $.01 par
   value per share, none of which will be issued and outstanding upon the
   Distribution.
 
In Varian's management's judgment, the listed assumptions and forecasts reflect
those material events or transactions that occurred since October 3, 1998 or
are expected to occur prior to the anticipated Distribution Date, other than
the potential restructuring charge discussed in the first paragraph above.
There have been no changes in accounting principles anticipated in this
capitalization forecast nor are any such changes currently contemplated.
 
Limitations On Projections And Forecasts
 
The assumptions and estimates underlying the projected and forecasted data and
information in this Information Statement are inherently uncertain and,
although considered reasonable by management of Varian, are subject to
significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties, many of which are
beyond the control of Varian and its subsidiaries. Accordingly, there can be no
assurance that the projected and forecasted financial results will be realized.
In fact, actual results in the future usually will differ from the forecasted
financial results and the differences may be material.
 
Neither IB nor any of its subsidiaries intends after the date of this
Information Statement to update any forecasted or projected financial data or
information contained in this Information Statement and the absence of such an
update should not be construed as any indication regarding the views or beliefs
of management of Varian (or of IB after the Distribution) concerning the
forecasted or projected data or information contained in this Information
Statement
 
                                       39
<PAGE>
 
                           FORECASTED CAPITALIZATION
 
The following table sets forth the combined capitalization of IB as of October
2, 1998 on a historical basis, forecasted at April 1, 1999 (the anticipated
Distribution Date), and as adjusted to give effect to the Distribution and the
other transactions contemplated by the Distribution Agreement. The significant
assumptions used below have been described in "Summary of Significant
Capitalization Forecast Assumptions" on the preceding page. The following data
is qualified in its entirety by the financial statements of the Instruments
Business and other information contained elsewhere in this Information
Statement.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   Forecasted
                                        October 2,   At April
                                              1998         1,   Pro Forma After
                                        Historical  1999(/1/) Distribution(/1/)
                                        ---------- ---------- -----------------
                                                 (Dollars in millions)
<S>                                     <C>        <C>        <C>
Cash and cash equivalents..............     $   --     $   --            $  8.0
                                            ======     ======            ======
Notes payable..........................     $   --     $   --            $   --
                                            ======     ======            ======
Long-term Debt, including current
 portion...............................     $   --     $   --            $ 58.0
                                            ------     ------            ------
Equity:
  Divisional Equity....................     $243.5     $   --            $   --
  Common stock, par value $.01 per
   share:
   authorized - 99,000,000 shares
   issued and outstanding - none
   historical and 29,909,061
   pro forma...........................         --        0.3               0.3
  Preferred stock, par value $.01 per
   share:
   authorized - 1,000,000 shares
   issued and outstanding - none
   historical or pro forma.............
  Capital in Excess of Par Value.......                 254.2             204.2
                                            ------     ------            ------
    Total Equity.......................      243.5      254.5             204.5
                                            ------     ------            ------
      Total Capitalization.............     $243.5     $254.5            $262.5
                                            ======     ======            ======
</TABLE>
- -------
(1) See "Summary of Significant Capitalization Forecast Assumptions" on the
    preceding page.
 
                                       40
<PAGE>
 
               PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements of the
Instruments Business, which will become Varian, Inc. following the
Distribution, set forth below consist of a pro forma balance sheet as of
October 2, 1998 and a pro forma statement of earnings for the year ended
October 2, 1998. The pro forma balance sheet was prepared to give effect to the
Distribution as if it had occurred on October 2, 1998 and the pro forma
statement of earnings was prepared to give effect to the Distribution as if it
had occurred on September 27, 1997. The unaudited pro forma balance sheet set
forth below does not purport to represent what the Instruments Business'
financial position actually would have been had the Distribution occurred on
the date indicated or to project the Instruments Business' financial position
for any future date. The unaudited pro forma statement of earnings set forth
below does not purport to represent what the Instruments Business' operations
actually would have been or to project the Instruments Business' operating
results for any future period. The unaudited pro forma adjustments are based
upon currently available information and certain assumptions that the
Instruments Business' management believes are reasonable. The unaudited pro
forma statements should be read in conjunction with "Management's Discussion
and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and the
historical financial statements of the Instruments Business and the notes
thereto appearing elsewhere in this Information Statement.
 
                                       41
<PAGE>
 
              Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Balance Sheet
 
                                October 2, 1998
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    IB        Pro Forma  IB Pro
                                            Historical Adjustments(/1/)   Forma
                                            ---------- ----------------  ------
                                                  (Dollars in millions)
<S>                                         <C>        <C>               <C>
Assets
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents.................      $   --          $   8.0  $  8.0
Other current assets......................       241.7               --   241.7
                                                ------          -------  ------
Total current assets......................       241.7              8.0   249.7
Property, Plant and Equipment, net........        94.7               --    94.7
Other Assets..............................        67.7               --    67.7
                                                ------          -------  ------
Total Assets..............................      $404.1          $   8.0  $412.1
                                                ======          =======  ======
Liabilities And Stockholders' Equity
Current Liabilities
Notes payable and current portion of long-
 term debt................................      $   --          $   6.0  $  6.0
Other current liabilities.................       149.6               --   149.6
                                                ------          -------  ------
Total Current Liabilities.................       149.6              6.0   155.6
Long-term Debt............................          --             52.0    52.0
Other liabilities.........................        11.0               --    11.0
                                                ------          -------  ------
Total Liabilities.........................       160.6             58.0   218.6
Equity....................................       243.5            (50.0)  193.5
                                                ------          -------  ------
Total Liabilities and Equity..............      $404.1          $   8.0  $412.1
                                                ======          =======  ======
</TABLE>
 
         Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Balance Sheet
 
(1) Assumes a cash contribution by Varian to IB of $8.0 million and the
    assumption by IB of $58.0 million in long-term debt, including current
    portion, from Varian in connection with the Distribution.
 
                                       42
<PAGE>
 
          Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement Of Earnings
 
                                Fiscal Year 1998
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   IB        Pro Forma  IB Pro
                                           Historical Adjustments(/1/)   Forma
                                           ---------- ----------------  ------
                                                 (Dollars in millions,
                                               except per share amounts)
<S>                                        <C>        <C>               <C>
Sales.....................................     $557.8            $  --  $557.8
                                               ------            -----  ------
Operating Costs and Expenses
Cost of sales.............................      336.4               --   336.4
Research and development..................       29.6               --    29.6
Marketing.................................      113.9               --   113.9
General and administrative................       38.7               --    38.7
                                               ------            -----  ------
Total operating costs and expenses........      518.6               --   518.6
                                               ------            -----  ------
Operating Earnings........................       39.2               --    39.2
Interest expense..........................         --             (4.1)   (4.1)
                                               ------            -----  ------
Operating Earnings before Taxes...........       39.2             (4.1)   35.1
Taxes on earnings.........................       15.8             (1.6)   14.2
                                               ------            -----  ------
Net Earnings..............................     $ 23.4            $(2.5) $ 20.9
                                               ======            =====  ======
Pro Forma Net Earnings Per Share(/2/).....     $ 0.78                   $ 0.70
                                               ======                   ======
</TABLE>
 
     Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement Of Earnings
 
(1) Reflects pro forma adjustment for interest expense on $58.0 million of
    long-term debt at an estimated annual rate of interest of 7.03%. A change
    of 25 basis points in this estimated annual rate of interest would impact
    pro forma interest expense by $145,000. The pro forma adjustment for income
    taxes is based upon statutory income tax rates.
 
(2)  The computation of pro forma net earnings per share is based on the
     weighted average number of shares of Varian Common Stock outstanding
     during fiscal year 1998, reflecting the anticipated ratio of one share of
     IB Common Stock for each share of Varian Common Stock outstanding at the
     time of the Distribution.
 
                                       43
<PAGE>
 
                                    BUSINESS
 
General
 
IB, a newly-formed, wholly-owned subsidiary of Varian, will own and operate the
Instruments Business after the Distribution. References in this section to "IB"
refer to IB and its subsidiaries after giving effect to the Internal Transfers
and the Distribution. References in this section to the "Instruments Business"
refer to the historical business and operations of the Instruments Business
conducted by Varian prior to the Distribution.
 
Overview
 
IB develops, manufactures, sells and services a variety of scientific
instruments and equipment. IB is a major supplier of analytical and research
instruments and related equipment for studying the chemical composition of a
myriad of substances, including metals, inorganic materials, organic compounds,
polymers, natural substances and biochemicals. IB also develops, manufactures,
sells and services nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers for probing the
structural properties of molecules and for producing non-invasive three-
dimensional images of biomedical materials. IB also develops, manufactures,
sells and services high vacuum products that serve a wide range of industrial
and scientific applications, such as high-energy physics, surface analysis,
scientific and industrial coating processes, analytical instrumentation and
semiconductor manufacturing. IB is also a state-of-the-art contract
manufacturer of advanced electronic assemblies and subsystems such as printed
circuit boards. IB operates in 70 countries and at October 2, 1998 had
approximately 3,000 employees.
 
Products
 
IB's products can be broadly classified into the following categories:
analytical instruments, nuclear magnetic resonance instruments, vacuum products
and electronic components assembly.
 
Analytical Instruments
 
Analytical Instruments includes Chromatography Systems and Optical Spectroscopy
Instruments operations, which manufacture liquid and gas chromatographs, gas
chromatograph/mass spectrometers, ultraviolet/visible/near-infrared
spectrometers, atomic absorption spectrometers, inductively coupled plasma
spectrometers, inductively coupled plasma/mass spectrometers, data management
systems and small disposable tools used to prepare chemical samples for
analysis. These products are used in environmental monitoring and analysis,
biological and biochemical research, and quality control and research in such
industries as pharmaceuticals, foods, metals, chemicals and petroleum as well
as in independent test laboratories. They are employed in analyzing chemical
substances including metals, inorganic materials, organic compounds, polymers,
natural substances and biochemicals.
 
The Chromatography Systems operation ("CS") is a major international supplier
of gas and liquid chromatographs, data management systems and gas
chromatograph/mass spectrometer systems, as well as sample preparation products
and other consumable supplies. Chromatography is a technique that separates a
mixture of substances by taking advantage of the characteristics specific to
each component. CS's systems are used for chemical analysis, industrial
hygiene, pollution monitoring, pharmaceutical analysis and drug discovery and
monitoring applications. CS supplies a complete line of products to provide all
analytical and preparative requirements. CS's manufacturing facilities are
located in Walnut Creek, California, Woburn, Massachusetts, Middelburg, The
Netherlands and Harbor City, California.
 
The Optical Spectroscopy Instruments operation ("OSI") is a leading worldwide
supplier of atomic absorption, inductively coupled plasma, inductively coupled
plasma/mass spectrometers and ultraviolet/ visible/near infrared
spectrophotometers - instruments that are used to measure compounds and some 66
different metals in various substances. Optical spectroscopy is a method of
chemical analysis based on the absorption, or emission, by matter of
electromagnetic radiation of a specific wavelength or frequency. OSI's
manufacturing facility is located in Melbourne, Australia.
 
 
                                       44
<PAGE>
 
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Instruments
 
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Instruments ("NMRI") is a leading worldwide supplier
of nuclear magnetic resonance ("NMR") spectrometers for advanced biomolecular,
chemical and material science research, as well as for the more routine
analytical work typically performed in industrial and academic environments.
NMRI's manufacturing facilities are located in Palo Alto, California, and Fort
Collins, Colorado.
 
NMR spectroscopy gives researchers the ability to determine the structure of
many biomolecules including proteins, nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and
carbohydrates. NMRI's systems are used in a variety of laboratories, including
those conducting basic research and larger facilities that are creating new
pharmaceuticals. NMRI's systems can be found in all major pharmaceutical
companies worldwide, where they are key tools in developing new drugs to fight
disease.
 
Approximately 80% of NMRI's systems are used for analysis on liquids, 15% on
solids and 5% on imaging (producing pictures). The imaging capability of NMR
allows researchers to non-invasively capture a cross-sectional view of an
object, for example the brain, to map and understand its various parts. Solid
sample NMR research allows researchers to determine the microstructure of
crystals, plastics, rubbers, ceramics, polymers and other solids.
 
Vacuum Products
 
Vacuum Products is a worldwide supplier of products used to create, maintain
and contain a vacuum environment. These include vacuum pumps, helium leak
detectors and related instruments and gauges, which are used in many commercial
and scientific applications, including industrial processes, semiconductor
manufacturing, high-energy physics, surface analysis and space research. Vacuum
Products' manufacturing facilities are located in Lexington, Massachusetts and
Torino, Italy.
 
Vacuum Products offers four types of vacuum pumps: primary, diffusion, turbo-
molecular and ion. Primary pumps include rotary vane and dry diaphragm
mechanical pumps, sorption pumps and dry scroll pumps. Diffusion pumps include
the Very High Speed-Series products. Turbo-molecular pumps provide a high
speed/compression ratio in a compact package. Ion pumps, used to achieve ultra-
high vacuum environments, are used primarily to create ultra-high vacuum in a
variety of applications, from electron microscopes to linear accelerators.
 
Vacuum Products also has been a worldwide leader in helium mass spectrometer
leak detectors since the 1960s. These products are used in many commercial and
scientific applications, including industrial processes, analytical instruments
and high-energy physics.
 
Vacuum Products also produces an extensive line of vacuum instruments and
gauges. Its gauge controllers and gauge tubes are designed for industrial use,
where simplicity of operation and rugged design are important, as well as for
research applications.
 
Electronic Components Assembly
 
Tempe Electronics Center ("TEC") is a contract electronic manufacturer of
printed wiring assemblies. It supplies components to each of Varian's
businesses; however, 80% of its sales are to customers other than Varian.
Services range from design layout to total system integration, shipping to end
customers and repair depot facilities. TEC has expertise in high-mix
manufacturing, producing up to 1,800 different products each month. In addition
to printed wiring assemblies, TEC performs electronic subassembly contract
manufacturing and integrates complete systems. TEC serves a wide range of
industries, including telecommunications, medical, network products, gaming,
industrial controls, avionics and satellite communications. TEC's manufacturing
facilities are located in Tempe, Arizona.
 
Marketing and Sales
 
In the United States, IB markets the largest portion of its products directly
through its own sales and distribution organizations, although certain products
are marketed through independent distributors and sales representatives. Sales
 
                                       45
<PAGE>
 
to major markets outside the United States are generally made by IB's foreign-
based sales and service staff, although some sales are made directly from the
United States to foreign customers. In certain foreign countries, sales are
made through various representative and distributorship arrangements. IB owns
or leases sales and service offices in strategic regional locations in the
United States and in foreign countries through its foreign sales subsidiaries
and distribution operations. None of IB's products are distributed through
retail outlets.
 
The markets in which IB competes are globalized. International sales accounted
for 47%, 47% and 50% of sales for fiscal years 1998, 1997 and 1996,
respectively. As a result, IB's customers increasingly require service and
support on a worldwide basis. In addition to the United States, IB has
manufacturing operations in Australia, Italy and The Netherlands as well as
sales and service offices located throughout Europe, Asia and Latin America. IB
has invested substantial financial and management resources to develop an
international infrastructure to meet the needs of its customers worldwide. IB
intends to continue to expand its presence in international markets.
 
Demand for IB's products is dependent upon the size of the markets for its
products, the level of capital expenditures of IB's customers, the rate of
economic growth in IB's major markets and competitive considerations. IB
believes that demand for its products does not exhibit any significant seasonal
pattern. No single customer accounted for 10% or more of IB's sales in fiscal
1998.
 
Virtually all new analytical methods and tests originate in academic research
in universities and medical schools. If the utility of a new method or test is
demonstrated by fundamental research, it often will then be used by
pharmaceutical investigators, biotechnology companies, teaching hospitals or
specialized clinical laboratories in an investigatory mode. In some cases,
these new techniques eventually emerge in routine, high-volume clinical testing
at hospitals and research labs. Generally, devices used at each stage from
research to routine clinical applications employ the same fundamental processes
but may differ in operating features such as number of tests performed per hour
and degree of automation. By serving several customer groups with differing
needs related through common science and technology, IB has the opportunity to
broadly apply and leverage its expertise. IB's customers are continually
searching for processes and systems that can perform tests faster, more
efficiently and at lower costs. IB believes that its focus on automated and
high throughput systems positions it to capitalize on this need.
 
Backlog
 
IB's recorded backlog was $125 million at October 2, 1998 and $132 million at
September 26, 1997. It is IB's general policy to include in backlog only
purchase orders or production releases that have firm delivery dates within one
year. Recorded backlog may not result in sales because of cancellations or
other factors. It is anticipated that all orders included in the October 2,
1998 backlog will be delivered before the close of fiscal year 1999.
 
Competition
 
Competition in IB's markets is based upon the performance capabilities of IB's
products, technical support and after-market service, the manufacturer's
reputation as a technological leader and the selling price. Management believes
that performance capabilities are the most important of these criteria. The
markets in which IB competes are highly competitive and are characterized by
the application of mature but advanced technology. There are numerous companies
that specialize in, and a number of larger companies that devote a significant
portion of their resources to, the development, manufacture and sale of
products that compete with those manufactured or sold by IB. Many of IB's
competitors are well-known manufacturers with a high degree of technical
proficiency. In addition, competition is intensified by the ever-changing
nature of the technologies in the industries in which IB is engaged. The
markets for IB's products are characterized by specialized manufacturers that
often have strength in narrow segments of these markets. While the absence of
reliable statistics makes it difficult to determine IB's relative market
position in its industry segments, IB is confident it is one of the principal
manufacturers in its primary fields. See "Risk Factors - Technological Change
and New Products."
 
Each of IB's major businesses competes with many companies that address the
same markets. In Analytical Instruments, IB competes with Hewlett-Packard,
Waters Corporation, Perkin-Elmer, Thermo Electron, Shimadzu Corporation and
 
                                       46
<PAGE>
 
numerous local suppliers. NMRI has two major competitors: Bruker and JEOL. In
Vacuum Products, the primary competitors are Edwards High Vacuum, Pfeiffer,
Leybold-Balzers and Alcatel. High-mix numerous local suppliers. NMRI has two
major competitors: Bruker and JEOL. In Vacuum Products, the primary competitors
are Edwards High Vacuum, Pfeiffer, Leybold-Balzers and Alcatel. High-mix
contract manufacturers that compete with the Tempe Electronics Center include
EFTCX Corporation, Xetel Corporation, CMC Industries, Sigmatron International
and Smartflex Systems. See "Risk Factors - Competition."
 
Manufacturing
 
IB's principal manufacturing activities consist of precision assembly, test,
calibration and machining activities. IB subcontracts a portion of its
assembly, machining and printed circuit board assembly and testing. All other
assembly, test and calibration functions are performed by IB. Some critical
assembly activities are performed in clean-room environments at IB's
facilities.
 
IB believes that the ability to manufacture reliable products in a cost-
effective manner is critical to meeting the "just-in-time" delivery and other
demanding requirements of its original equipment manufacturer ("OEM") and end-
use customers. IB monitors and analyzes product lead times, warranty data,
process yields, supplier performance, field data on mean time between failures,
inventory turns, repair response time and other indicators so that it can
continuously improve its manufacturing processes. IB has adopted a total
quality management process.
 
IB has ten manufacturing facilities located throughout the world. Analytical
Instruments has manufacturing facilities in Walnut Creek, California, Woburn,
Massachusetts, Middelburg, The Netherlands, Harbor City, California, and
Melbourne, Australia. NMRI has manufacturing facilities in Palo Alto,
California, and Fort Collins, Colorado. Vacuum Products has manufacturing
facilities in Lexington, Massachusetts, and Torino, Italy. Tempe Electronics
Center has manufacturing facilities in Tempe, Arizona.
 
In 1993, the member states of the European Union ("EU") began implementation of
their plan for a new unified EU market with reduced trade barriers and
harmonized regulations. The EU adopted a significant international quality
standard, the International Organization for Standardization Series 9000
Quality Standards ("ISO 9000"). All of IB's manufacturing facilities have been
certified as complying with the requirements of ISO 9001.
 
Raw Materials
 
There are no specialized raw materials that are particularly essential to the
operation of IB's business. IB's manufacturing operations require a wide
variety of raw materials, electronic and mechanical components, chemical and
biochemical materials and other supplies, some of which are occasionally found
to be in short supply.
 
Many components used in IB's products, including proprietary analog and digital
circuitry, are manufactured by IB. Other components, including packaging
materials, superconducting magnets, integrated circuits, microprocessors,
microcomputers and certain detector and data analysis modules, are acquired
from other manufacturers. Most of the raw materials, components and supplies
purchased by IB are available from a number of different suppliers; however, a
number of items are purchased from limited or single sources of supply, and
disruption of these sources could have a temporary adverse effect on shipments
and the financial results of IB. IB believes alternative sources could
ordinarily be obtained to supply these materials, but a prolonged inability to
obtain certain materials or components could have an adverse effect on IB's
financial condition or results of operations and could result in damage to its
relationships with its customers. See "Risk Factors - Reliance on Suppliers."
 
Research and Development
 
IB is actively engaged in basic and applied research, development and
engineering programs designed to develop new products and to improve existing
products. During fiscal years 1998, 1997 and 1996, IB spent $29.6 million,
$32.0 million and $29.9 million, respectively (net of customer funding), on
company-sponsored research, development and engineering activities.
 
 
                                       47
<PAGE>
 
Although IB intends to continue to conduct extensive research and development
activities, there can be no assurance that it will be able to develop and
market new products on a cost-effective and timely basis, that such products
will compete favorably with products developed by others or that IB's existing
technology will not be superseded by new discoveries or developments. See "Risk
Factors - Uncertainty of Market Acceptance of New Products."
 
Customer Support and Service
 
IB believes that its customer service and support are an integral part of its
competitive strategy. As part of its support services, IB's technical support
staff provides, typically at no additional cost, individual assistance in
solving analysis problems, integrating vacuum components, designing circuit
boards, etc., depending on the business. IB offers training courses and
periodically sends its customers information on applications development. IB's
products generally include a 90-day to one-year warranty, installation and
certain user training, all at no additional cost. Service contracts may be
purchased by customers to cover equipment no longer under warranty. Service
work not performed under warranty or service contract is performed on a time
and materials basis. IB installs and services its products primarily through
its own field service organization.
 
Patent and Other Proprietary Rights
 
As a leader in the manufacture and sale of analytical and research instruments
and vacuum products, IB has pursued a policy of seeking patent, copyright,
trademark and trade secret protection in the United States and other countries
for developments, improvements and inventions originating within its
organization that are incorporated in IB's products or that fall within its
fields of interest. As of October 2, 1998, IB owned approximately 205 patents
in the United States and approximately 260 patents throughout the world, and
had approximately 272 patent applications on file with various patent agencies
worldwide. IB intends to file additional patent applications as appropriate.
 
IB relies on a combination of copyright, trade secret and other laws, and
contractual restrictions on disclosure, copying and transferring title to
protect its proprietary rights. IB has trademarks, both registered and
unregistered, that are maintained and enforced to provide customer recognition
for its products in the marketplace. IB 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.
While IB places considerable importance on its licensed technology, IB does not
believe that the loss of any license would have a material adverse effect on
IB's business.
 
IB's competitors, like companies in many high-technology businesses, routinely
review the products of others for possible conflict with their own patent
rights. Although IB has from time to time received notices of claims from
others alleging patent infringement, IB believes that there are no pending
patent infringement claims that might have a material adverse effect on the
business of IB. See "Risk Factors - Uncertain Protection of Patent and Other
Proprietory Rights."
 
Environmental Matters
 
For a discussion of environmental matters, see "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Environmental
Matters."
 
Employees
 
At October 2, 1998, IB had a total of approximately 3,033 full-time and
temporary employees worldwide - 1,905 in North America, 532 in Western Europe,
125 in Asia, 386 in Australia and 85 in Latin America. IB's employees based in
certain foreign countries may, from time to time, be subject to collective
bargaining agreements. IB's OSI employees based in Australia conducted a strike
in 1997, which was quickly resolved. Those employees are subject to a
collective bargaining agreement that is scheduled for renewal in early 1999. IB
currently considers its employee relations to be good.
 
IB's success depends to a significant extent upon a limited number of key
employees and other members of senior management of IB. The loss of the service
of one or more of these key employees could have a material adverse effect
 
                                       48
<PAGE>
 
on IB. The success of IB's future operations depends in large part on IB's
ability to recruit and retain engineers and technicians, as well as marketing,
sales, service and other key personnel, who in each case are in great demand.
IB's inability to attract and retain the personnel it requires could have a
material adverse effect on IB's results of operations.
 
Properties
 
IB has manufacturing, warehouse, research and development, sales, service and
administrative facilities which have an aggregate floor space of 661,000 and
506,500 square feet located in the United States and abroad, respectively, for
a total of 1,167,500 square feet worldwide. Of these facilities, aggregate
floor space of approximately 332,750 square feet is leased, and the remainder
is owned by IB. The management of IB does not believe that there is any
material long-term excess capacity in its facilities, although utilization is
subject to change based on customer demand. The management of IB believes that
the Instruments Business' facilities and equipment generally are well
maintained, in good operating condition and suitable for IB's purposes and
adequate for present operations.
 
IB has ten manufacturing facilities located throughout the world. IB's
facilities are located in Palo Alto, California, Walnut Creek, California,
Harbor City, California, Woburn, Massachusetts, Lexington, Massachusetts, Fort
Collins, Colorado, Tempe, Arizona, Melbourne, Australia, Middelburg, The
Netherlands, and Torino, Italy.
 
IB has 70 sales and service facilities located throughout the world, sixty-one
of which are located outside the United States, including facilities located in
Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, Korea,
Mexico, The Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, the United Kingdom
and Venezuela.
 
Legal Proceedings
 
Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, IB has agreed to indemnify VSEA and VMS
for any costs, liabilities or expenses with respect to any legal proceedings
relating to the Instruments Business. In addition, IB has agreed to pay for
one-third of the costs, liabilities and expenses of VSEA and VMS with respect
to certain legal proceedings relating to discontinued operations of Varian. See
"The Distribution - Distribution Agreement."
 
IB is also involved in certain other legal proceedings arising in the ordinary
course of its business. While there can be no assurances as to the ultimate
outcome of any litigation involving IB, IB's management does not believe any
pending legal proceeding will result in a judgment or settlement that will have
a material adverse effect on IB's financial position, results of operations or
cash flow.
 
 
                                       49
<PAGE>
 
                                   MANAGEMENT
 
Board Of Directors
 
As of the Distribution Date, the five persons identified below are expected to
constitute the board of directors of IB (the "IB Board"). Each individual
listed below (other than Allen J. Lauer) is currently a director of Varian and
will resign from the Board of Directors of Varian effective as of the
Distribution Date. The IB Board will be divided into three classes. Directors
for each class will be elected at the annual meeting of stockholders held in
the year in which the term for such class expires and will serve thereafter for
three years.
 
The following table sets forth names, in alphabetical order, and information
about the five persons who are expected to serve as directors of IB after the
Distribution:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         Initial
 Name, Age and Current                      Term
 Principal Occupation                    Expires Information
 ---------------------                ---------  -----------
 <C>                                  <C>        <S>
 Allen J. Lauer, 61..................      2000  Mr. Lauer is the Executive
  Executive Vice President of Varian             Vice President of Varian
                                                 responsible for the
                                                 Instruments Business. In more
                                                 than 30 years with Varian, Mr.
                                                 Lauer has served in numerous
                                                 key management roles. He was
                                                 named a corporate Vice
                                                 President of Varian in 1981,
                                                 was elevated to Senior Vice
                                                 President of Varian in 1989,
                                                 and became Executive Vice
                                                 President of Varian in 1990.
 John G. McDonald, 61................      2001  Professor McDonald is The
  The Industrial Bank of Japan                   Industrial Bank of Japan
  Professor of Finance at Stanford               Professor of Finance at
  University's Graduate School of                Stanford University's Graduate
  Business                                       School of Business, where he
                                                 has served on the faculty
                                                 since 1968. He is a director
                                                 of Golden State Vintners,
                                                 Inc., Scholastic Corporation
                                                 and TriNet Corporate Realty
                                                 Trust, Inc., and is an
                                                 independent trustee of eight
                                                 mutual funds managed by
                                                 Capital Research & Management
                                                 Co. and its affiliates.
                                                 Professor McDonald has been a
                                                 director of Varian since 1988.
 Wayne R. Moon, 58 ..................      2001  Mr. Moon is Chairman of the
  Chairman of the Board and Chief                Board and Chief Executive
  Executive Officer of Blue Shield of            Officer of Blue Shield of
  California                                     California (a health care
                                                 company), positions he has
                                                 held since 1993. From 1990 to
                                                 1993, he served as President
                                                 and Chief Operating Officer of
                                                 Kaiser Foundation Health Plan,
                                                 Inc. and Kaiser Foundation
                                                 Hospitals (health maintenance
                                                 organizations). Mr. Moon has
                                                 been a director of Varian
                                                 since 1995.
 D.E. Mundell, 67....................      2002  Mr. Mundell is Chairman of the
  Chairman of the Board of ORIX USA              Board of ORIX USA Corporation
  Corporation                                    and Advisor (a board-level
                                                 position) to ORIX Corporation
                                                 (both financial services
                                                 companies), positions he has
                                                 held since 1991. He is
                                                 director of Beazer Homes USA,
                                                 Inc. and Stockton Holdings,
                                                 Ltd. Mr. Mundell has been a
                                                 director of Varian since 1992.
 Elizabeth E. Tallett, 49............      2002  Ms. Tallett is President and
  President and Chief Executive                  Chief Executive Officer of
  Officer of Dioscor, Inc., and of               Dioscor, Inc. (a
  Ellard Pharmaceuticals Inc.                    biopharmaceutical company),
                                                 positions she has held since
                                                 1996. Ms. Tallett is also
                                                 President and Chief Executive
                                                 Officer of Ellard
                                                 Pharmaceuticals Inc. (a
                                                 pharmaceutical company),
                                                 positions she has held since
                                                 1998. From 1992 to 1996, Ms.
                                                 Tallett served as President
                                                 and Chief Executive Officer of
                                                 Transcell Technologies, Inc.
                                                 (a biotechnology company). Ms.
                                                 Tallett is a director of The
                                                 Principal Mutual Life
                                                 Insurance Company, Coventry
                                                 Health Care Inc. and
                                                 Integrated America Inc., and
                                                 is Chairman of the Board of
                                                 Huma Scan, Inc. She has been a
                                                 director of Varian since 1996.
</TABLE>
 
                                       50
<PAGE>
 
Compensation Of Directors
 
Each director who is not an IB employee will receive an annual retainer fee of
$20,000, plus $1,000 for each IB Board and committee meeting attended. The non-
employee Chairman of the IB Board will receive a retainer fee of $90,000 (in
lieu of any other annual retainer or committee chair fee), and directors
chairing standing committees of the IB Board will each receive a retainer fee
of $5,000. Under the IB Omnibus Stock Plan, each director who is not an IB
employee will also receive, upon initial appointment or election to the IB
Board, a non-qualified stock option to acquire 10,000 shares of IB Common
Stock, and will receive annually thereafter a non-qualified stock option to
acquire 5,000 shares of IB Common Stock. In lieu of these grants, any non-
employee Chairman will receive upon initial appointment a non-qualified stock
option to acquire 50,000 shares of IB Common Stock. Such stock options will be
granted with an exercise price equal to the fair market value of IB Common
Stock on the date of grant, becoming exercisable immediately on the date of
grant and having a ten-year term. Directors who are IB employees will receive
no compensation for their services as directors.
 
Committees of the IB Board Of Directors
 
The business of IB will be managed under the direction of the IB Board. The IB
Board will have Audit and Compensation Committees. Members of the Audit and
Compensation Committees will not be employees of IB.
 
Audit Committee
 
The Audit Committee's principal functions will be to review the scope of the
annual audit of IB by its independent auditors, review the annual financial
statements of IB and the related audit report as prepared by the independent
auditors, recommend the selection of independent auditors each year and review
any non-audit fees paid to the independent auditors. The members of the Audit
Committee on the Distribution Date are expected to be the following non-
employee directors: John G. McDonald (Chairman), Wayne R. Moon, D.E. Mundell
and Elizabeth E. Tallett.
 
Compensation Committee
 
The Compensation Committee will administer the stock and cash incentive plans
of IB and in this capacity it will make option grants or awards under these
plans. In addition, the Compensation Committee will determine the compensation
of the President and Chief Executive Officer and the other senior executives.
The Compensation Committee will also recommend the establishment of policies
dealing with various compensation and employee benefit plans for IB. The
members of the Compensation Committee on the Distribution Date are expected to
be the following non-employee directors: John G. McDonald, Wayne R. Moon, D.E.
Mundell (Chairman) and Elizabeth E. Tallett.
 
                                       51
<PAGE>
 
Executive Officers
 
Set forth below is certain information with respect to the persons who are
expected to serve as executive officers of IB immediately following the
Distribution. Those persons listed below who are currently officers of Varian
will relinquish their positions with Varian effective as of the Distribution
Date.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    Business Experience Prior
                                                    to
                                                    Becoming an Executive
 Name and Title                                 Age Officer of IB
 --------------                                 --- -------------------------
 <C>                                            <C> <S>
 Allen J. Lauer................................  61 Mr. Lauer is the Executive
  President and Chief Executive Officer             Vice President of Varian
                                                    responsible for the
                                                    Instruments Business. In
                                                    more than 30 years with
                                                    Varian, Mr. Lauer has
                                                    served in numerous key
                                                    management roles. He was
                                                    named a corporate Vice
                                                    President of Varian in
                                                    1981, was elevated to
                                                    Senior Vice President of
                                                    Varian in 1989, and became
                                                    Executive Vice President of
                                                    Varian in 1990.
 Garry W. Rogerson.............................  46 Mr. Rogerson is Vice
  Vice President, Analytical Instruments            President of Varian's
                                                    Analytical Instruments
                                                    business, which includes
                                                    the Chromatography Systems
                                                    business and Optical
                                                    Spectroscopy Instruments
                                                    business, a position he has
                                                    held since 1998. Mr.
                                                    Rogerson has been Vice
                                                    President and General
                                                    Manager of Varian's
                                                    Chromatography Systems
                                                    business (which is expected
                                                    to be a continuing
                                                    responsibility)
                                                    since 1994. Prior to this,
                                                    Mr. Rogerson served as
                                                    Sales and Marketing Manager
                                                    for Varian's NMR
                                                    Instruments business. Mr.
                                                    Rogerson has held various
                                                    other positions in the
                                                    Instruments Business during
                                                    his 19 years with Varian.
 Raymond J. Shaw...............................  49 Mr. Shaw is Vice President
  Vice President, NMR Instruments                   and General Manager of
                                                    Varian's NMR Instruments
                                                    business, positions he has
                                                    held since 1989. Mr. Shaw
                                                    has held various other
                                                    positions in the
                                                    Instruments Business during
                                                    his 20 years with Varian.
 Arthur W. Homan...............................  39 Mr. Homan is Associate
  Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary     General Counsel and
                                                    Assistant Secretary of
                                                    Varian, positions he has
                                                    held since 1998 and 1993,
                                                    respectively. From 1993 to
                                                    1998, he served as Senior
                                                    Corporate Counsel. Mr.
                                                    Homan has held various
                                                    positions in the legal
                                                    department during his 10
                                                    years with Varian.
 James L. Colbert..............................  52 Mr. Colbert is Controller
  Controller                                        of Varian's NMR Instruments
                                                    business, a position he has
                                                    held since 1992. Mr.
                                                    Colbert has held various
                                                    other positions during his
                                                    26 years with Varian.
</TABLE>
 
                                       52
<PAGE>
 
Executive Officer Compensation
 
Summary of Compensation
 
Table I below sets forth a summary of the compensation paid by Varian for the
last three fiscal years to the individual expected to be the chief executive
officer of IB, and the four additional most highly compensated individuals
(based on their fiscal year 1998 compensation from Varian) who are expected to
be executive officers of IB immediately after the Distribution.
 
Table I
 
                           Summary Compensation Table
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      Long-Term
                                                                     Compensation
                                                            ------------------------------
                                                                   Awards         Payouts
                                                            --------------------- --------
                                Annual Compensation                    Securities
                         ---------------------------------- Restricted Underlying
                                               Other Annual      Stock   Options/     LTIP    All Other
Name and                       Salary    Bonus Compensation   Award(s)       SARs  Payouts Compensation
Principal Position       Year     ($) ($)(/1/)     ($)(/2/)   ($)(/2/)   (#)(/4/) ($)(/5/)     ($)(/6/)
- ------------------       ----  ------ -------- ------------ ---------- ---------- -------- ------------
<S>                      <C>  <C>     <C>      <C>          <C>        <C>        <C>      <C>
Allen J. Lauer           1998 338,910  232,936       33,050          0     36,000  347,454      101,096
President and Chief      1997 323,148  359,300       22,594    244,388     36,000  461,552      117,958
Executive Officer        1996 310,990  532,363       35,458    204,225     36,000  628,056       93,274
Garry W. Rogerson        1998 166,388   62,566        7,791          0      8,500   98,969       20,516
Vice President,          1997 156,024   89,372        8,796     52,369      7,200   88,644       15,487
Analytical Instruments   1996 148,564  108,864        9,307     43,763      5,500   83,344       17,419
Raymond J. Shaw          1998 164,731   63,210        5,232          0      7,500   87,125       22,853
Vice President,          1997 156,494  104,812        6,309     52,369      7,200   88,586       25,149
NMR Instruments          1996 150,522  124,416        6,164     43,763      6,000  152,048       23,438
Arthur W. Homan          1998 150,836   29,221        4,476     20,366      8,000        0       16,669
Vice President, General  1997 122,770   62,273        4,764     14,588      6,000        0       15,857
Counsel and Secretary    1996 117,233   66,372        3,057     37,125      5,000        0       12,872
James L. Colbert         1998 120,330   28,802            0          0      1,050        0       13,280
Controller               1997 115,703   33,386            0          0      1,050        0       14,655
                         1996 112,211   27,111            0          0      1,000        0       12,374
</TABLE>
- -------
(1) Consists of Varian Management Incentive Plan awards, Cash Profit-Sharing
    Plan allocations and (in some cases) special cash bonuses.
(2) Consists of amounts reimbursed for the payment of taxes on certain
    perquisites and personal benefits and (in some cases) cash payments for
    unused accrued vacation time.
(3) Consists of restricted shares of Varian Common Stock (valued at the closing
    market price on the date of grant), which shares are released from
    restrictions in three equal installments over a three-year period (the
    principal restriction being continued employment until the respective
    release dates), during which dividends, if any, are paid on such shares.
    The number and value (at $34.375 per share) of aggregate restricted stock
    holdings at the end of fiscal year 1998 were as follows: Mr. Lauer, 8,400
    shares, $288,750; Mr. Rogerson, 1,800 shares, $61,875; Mr. Shaw, 1,800
    shares, $61,875; Mr. Homan, 800 shares, $27,500; and Mr. Colbert, 0 shares,
    $0. Shares of restricted stock awarded for fiscal years 1998, 1997 and
    1996, respectively, which partially vest in under three years were as
    follows: Mr. Lauer, 0 shares, 4,200 shares and 4,200 shares; Mr. Rogerson 0
    shares, 900 shares and 900 shares; Mr. Shaw, 0 shares, 900 shares and 900
    shares; Mr. Homan, 350 shares, 300 shares and 750 shares; and Mr. Colbert,
    0 shares, 0 shares and 0 shares.
(4) Consists of shares of Varian Common Stock that may be acquired under stock
    options granted pursuant to the Varian Omnibus Stock Plan (no stock
    appreciation rights have been granted).
(5) Consists of cash payouts in fiscal years 1999, 1998 and 1997 under the
    long-term incentive feature of the Varian Omnibus Stock Plan for three-year
    cycles ended with fiscal years 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively.
(6) Consists of (a) Varian contributions (including interest) to Retirement and
    Profit-Sharing Program and Supplemental Retirement Plan (or similar plan in
    Australia for Mr. Shaw) accounts for fiscal years 1998, 1997 and 1996,
    respectively (Mr. Lauer, $98,941, $116,157 and $91,816; Mr. Rogerson,
    $19,389, $14,604 and $16,718; Mr. Shaw, $22,836, $25,134 and $23,424; Mr.
    Homan, $16,184, $15,603 and $12,677; and Mr. Colbert, $12,516, $14,020 and
    $11,861); and (b) Varian-paid premiums for group term life insurance in
    fiscal years 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively (Mr. Lauer, $2,155, $1,801
    and $1,458; Mr. Rogerson, $1,127, $883 and $701; Mr. Shaw, $17, $15 and
    $14; Mr. Homan, $485, $254 and $195; and Mr. Colbert, $764, $635 and $513).
 
                                       53
<PAGE>
 
Stock Options
 
Grant of Options
 
Table II below sets forth information with respect to grants of options to
purchase Varian Common Stock during the year ended October 2, 1998 to the
individuals listed in Table I. These grants were made pursuant to the Varian
Omnibus Stock Plan and are reflected in Table I.
 
Table II
 
                     Option/SAR Grants In Last Fiscal Year
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                             Individual Grants
                         ---------------------------------------------------
                                                                               Potential Realizable
                                              Percent of                         Value at Assumed
                                Number of Total Options/                       Annual Rates ofStock
                               Securities   SARs Granted Exercise             Price Appreciation for
                               Underlying             to  or Base                 Option Term(2)
                             Options/SARs   Employees in    Price Expiration -----------------------
Name                     Granted (#)(/1/)    Fiscal Year   ($/Sh)       Date      5% ($)     10% ($)
- ----                     ---------------- -------------- -------- ---------- ----------- -----------
<S>                      <C>              <C>            <C>      <C>        <C>         <C>
Allen J. Lauer..........           36,000           3.55  58.1563   11/20/07   1,316,671   3,336,702
Garry W. Rogerson.......            8,500           0.84  58.1563   11/20/07     310,881     787,832
Raymond J. Shaw.........            7,500           0.74  58.1563   11/20/07     274,306     695,146
Arthur W. Homan.........            8,000           0.79  58.1563   11/20/07     292,593     741,489
James L. Colbert........            1,050           0.10  58.1563   11/20/07      38,403      97,330
</TABLE>
- -------
(1) Consists of stock options, which were granted at an exercise price of 100%
    of the market price of the underlying shares on the date of grant, become
    exercisable over three years at the rate of approximately one-third each
    year and expire ten years from the date of grant. Payment of the exercise
    price may be made under a promissory note or by delivery of already-owned
    shares.
(2) The 5% and 10% assumed annual rates of stock price appreciation would
    result from per share prices of $94.73 and $150.84, respectively. Such
    assumed rates are not intended to represent a forecast of possible future
    appreciation of Varian Common Stock or total stockholder return.
 
Aggregated Option Exercises and Year-End Values
 
Table III sets forth as of October 2, 1998, for each of the individuals listed
in Table I (i) the total number of shares of Varian Common Stock received upon
exercise of options during 1998, (ii) the value realized upon such exercise
(based on the fair market value of the underlying shares of Varian Common Stock
on the exercise date), (iii) the total number of unexercised options to
purchase Varian Common Stock (exercisable and unexercisable) and (iv) the value
of such options which were in-the-money at October 2, 1998 (based on the
closing price of Varian Common Stock at October 2, 1998, $34.375).
 
                                       54
<PAGE>
 
Table III
 
              Aggregated Option/SAR Exercises In Last Fiscal Year
                     And Fiscal Year-End Option/SAR Values
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              Number of Securities      Value of Unexercised
                           Shares            Underlying Unexercised          IntheMoney
                         Acquired            Options/SARs at Fiscal    Options/SARs at Fiscal
                               on    Value        Year-End(#)               YearEnd ($)
                         Exercise Realized ------------------------- -------------------------
Name                          (#)      ($) Exercisable Unexercisable Exercisable Unexercisable
- ----                     -------- -------- ----------- ------------- ----------- -------------
<S>                      <C>      <C>      <C>         <C>           <C>         <C>
Allen J. Lauer..........        0        0     126,000        72,000     717,150             0
Garry W. Rogerson.......        0        0       6,284        15,134           0             0
Raymond J. Shaw.........        0        0      19,600        14,300      65,016             0
Arthur W. Homan.........    1,000   27,875       6,333        13,667           0             0
James L. Colbert........    1,000   19,500       1,566         2,084           0             0
</TABLE>
 
           Long-Term Incentive Plans--Awards In Last Fiscal Year(/1/)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          Estimated Future Payouts under
                             Number of     Performance or   NonStock PriceBased Plans
                         Shares, Units Other Period Until --------------------------------------
                              or Other      Maturation or  Threshold        Target      Manixmum
Name                        Rights (#)             Payout   ($)(/2/)      ($)(/2/)      ($)(/4/)
- ----                     ------------- ------------------ -----------    -----------   ---------
<S>                      <C>           <C>                <C>            <C>           <C>
Allen J. Lauer..........           N/A          1998-2000         25,604        67,423        --
Garry W. Rogerson.......           N/A          1998-2000          5,717        22,582        --
Raymond J. Shaw.........           N/A          1998-2000          5,033        19,880        --
Arthur W. Homan.........           N/A                N/A            N/A           N/A        --
James L. Colbert........           N/A                N/A            N/A           N/A        --
</TABLE>
- -------
(1) Determinations by Varian's Organization and Compensation Committee (the
    "Varian Committee") that a named executive officer may participate in the
    long-term incentive feature of the Varian Omnibus Stock Plan ("LTI") and
    might receive a payout for a specified period is an award for purposes of
    this table. Awards (i.e., the determination of participation in the LTI)
    for the 1998-2000 cycle were made in fiscal year 1998. Under the LTI, each
    named executive officer is eligible to receive compensation payable in cash
    or in Varian Common Stock, or a combination thereof, based upon Varian's
    achievement of objectives for average annual return on net assets ("RONA")
    and revenue growth ("RG") over a three-year cycle. No estimate or
    assumption made in connection with this table is intended to represent a
    forecast of possible future performance of Varian.
(2) If the minimum level of RONA or RG established by the Varian Committee at
    the beginning of the three-year cycle is achieved, the minimum amount
    payable ranges from 3% to 7.5% of annual base salary as of the end of the
    last fiscal year of the cycle. If neither RONA nor RG for the three-year
    cycle equals the applicable minimum level, no amount will be paid. The
    minimum amount payable, if any amount is paid at all, depends on each named
    executive's base salary in the last year of the cycle, and the amounts set
    forth above assume that each named executive officer's annual base salary
    at the end of fiscal year 2000 will be identical to the executive officer's
    1999 annual base salary.
(3) A "Target" award is not determinable under the LTI. The amounts shown are
    estimates of the payout for the three-year cycle assuming (a) that the RONA
    and revenues for the remaining years of the cycle are the same as RONA and
    revenues for fiscal year 1998 and (b) that each named executive officer's
    annual base salary at the end of fiscal year 2000 will be identical to his
    1999 annual base salary. The actual payment for the three-year cycle may be
    greater or less than the estimates shown in this column, depending upon the
    actual RONA and revenues for fiscal years 1998, 1999 and 2000, the actual
    base salary of the named executive officer at the end of fiscal year 2000,
    and the aggregate payout to all participants (see footnote 4 below).
(4) The maximum amount payable is not determinable or estimable prior to the
    end of the three-year cycle for the following reason: If the maximum levels
    of RONA and RG established by the Varian Committee at the beginning of the
    three-year cycle are achieved or exceeded, the maximum amount payable
    ranges from 100% to 200% of annual base salary as of the end of the last
    fiscal year of the cycle. The maximum amount payable is reduced, however,
    if the aggregate LTI payout to all participants (including the named
    executive officers) would exceed 5% (before such payouts) of Varian's pre-
    tax operating earnings in the last fiscal year of the three-year cycle.
    This variable makes the maximum amount not determinable or estimable.
 
                                       55
<PAGE>
 
Change In Control Agreements
 
Certain IB executive officers are already parties to change in control
agreements (the "Agreements") with Varian which provide for the payment of
specified compensation and benefits upon certain terminations of their
employment following a change in control of Varian. These change in control
agreements will be assumed by IB pursuant to the terms of such Agreements. Some
of these Agreements are expected to be amended to reflect the executive
officers' new and increased responsibilities with IB. In addition, IB executive
officers not already parties to Agreements with Varian may be offered similar
change in control agreements with IB.
 
Under the current Agreements, a change in control of the company is defined to
occur (a) if any individual or group becomes the beneficial owner of 30% or
more of the combined voting power of the company's outstanding securities, (b)
if "continuing directors" (defined as the directors of the company as of the
date of the Agreement and any successor to any such directors who was nominated
or selected by a majority of the directors in office at the time of his
nomination or selection and who is not affiliated or associated in any way with
an individual or group who is a beneficial owner of more than 10% of the
combined voting power of the company's outstanding securities) cease to
constitute at least a majority of the board of directors, or (c) if there
occurs a reorganization, merger, consolidation or other corporate transaction
involving the company in which the stockholders of the company do not own more
than 50% of the combined voting power of the company or other corporation
resulting from such transaction, or (d) if all or substantially all of the
company's assets are sold, liquidated or distributed. The Distribution will not
be deemed a change in control under the Agreements.
 
In the Agreements, the affected executive officers have agreed that they will
not voluntarily leave the company's employ during a tender or exchange offer,
proxy solicitation in opposition to the board of directors or other effort by
any party to effect a change in control of the company. This is intended to
assure that management will continue to act in the interest of the stockholders
rather than be affected by personal uncertainties during any attempts to effect
a change in control of the company, and to enhance the company's ability to
attract and to retain executives.
 
Each Agreement provides that if within 18 months of a change in control (i) the
company terminates the employee's employment other than by reason of his death,
disability, retirement or for cause (as defined in the Agreement) or (ii) the
employee terminates his employment for "good reason," the employee will receive
a lump sum severance payment equal to 2.50 (in the case of the senior
executives) times the sum of the employee's annual base salary plus the highest
annual bonus paid to the employee in any of the three years ending prior to the
date of termination. "Good reason" is defined as the following after a change
in control of the company: certain material changes in assignment of duties;
certain reductions in compensation; certain material changes in employee
benefits and perquisites; a change in the site of employment; the company's
failure to obtain the written assumption by its successor of the obligations
contained in the Agreement; attempted termination of employment for cause on
grounds insufficient to constitute a basis of termination for cause under the
terms of the Agreement; or the company's failure to promptly make any payment
required under the terms of the Agreement in the event of a dispute relating to
employment termination.
 
Each Agreement provides that upon termination or resignation occurring under
the circumstances described above, the employee will receive a continuation of
all insurance and other benefits on the same terms as if he remained an
employee or equivalent benefits will be provided until the earlier to occur of
commencement of substantially equivalent full-time employment with a new
employer or 24 months after the date of termination of employment with the
company. Each Agreement also provides that all stock options granted become
exercisable in full according to their terms, and that any unreleased
restricted stock be released from restrictions. Each Agreement also provides
that all outstanding long-term incentive award cycles under the Varian Omnibus
Stock Plan shall be paid out at the "target" level without pro-rating for
remaining periods under these cycles. Each Agreement further provides that in
the event that any payments and benefits received by the employee from the
company would subject that person to the excise tax contained in Section 280G
of the Code the employee will be entitled to receive an additional payment that
will place the employee in the same after-tax economic position that the
employee would have enjoyed if such excise tax had not applied.
 
                                       56
<PAGE>
 
                           THE IB OMNIBUS STOCK PLAN
 
The IB Omnibus Stock Plan is expected to be adopted by the IB Board effective
as of the Distribution.
 
Purpose of the IB Omnibus Stock Plan
 
The IB Omnibus Stock Plan is intended to promote the success of IB by providing
a vehicle under which a variety of stock-based incentive and other awards can
be granted to employees and consultants and to directors of IB who are not
employees of IB or any affiliate ("non-employee directors").
 
Description of the IB Omnibus Stock Plan
 
The following paragraphs provide a summary of the principal features of the IB
Omnibus Stock Plan and its operation. The IB Omnibus Stock Plan has been filed
as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of which this Information Statement
is a part. See "Available Information."
 
General
 
The IB Omnibus Stock Plan provides for the granting of stock options, stock
appreciation rights ("SARs"), restricted stock, performance units and
performance shares (collectively, "IB Awards") to eligible IB Omnibus Stock
Plan participants. The maximum number of shares of IB Common Stock available
for IB Awards under the IB Omnibus Stock Plan will be 4,200,000, plus such
number of shares as may be granted in substitution for other options in
connection with the Distribution.
 
Administration of the IB Omnibus Stock Plan
 
The IB Omnibus Stock Plan will be administered by the Compensation Committee of
the IB Board. The members of the Compensation Committee must qualify as "non-
employee directors" under Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act, and as "outside
directors" under Section 162(m) of the Code ("Section 162(m)") (for purposes of
qualifying the IB Omnibus Stock Plan as performance-based compensation under
Section 162(m)).
 
Subject to the terms of the IB Omnibus Stock Plan, the Compensation Committee
has the sole discretion to determine the employees and consultants who will be
granted IB Awards, the size and types of such IB Awards, and the terms and
conditions of such IB Awards. The Compensation Committee may delegate its
authority to grant and administer awards to one or more officers or directors
appointed by the Compensation Committee, but only the Compensation Committee
can make awards to participants who are subject to Section 16 of the Exchange
Act.
 
Eligibility to Receive Awards
 
Employees and consultants of IB and its affiliates are eligible to be selected
to receive one or more IB Awards. The actual number of individuals who will
receive IB Awards under the IB Omnibus Stock Plan cannot be determined because
eligibility for participation in the IB Omnibus Stock Plan is in the discretion
of the Compensation Committee. The IB Omnibus Stock Plan also provides for the
grant of non-qualified stock options to IB's non-employee directors. Such
options will be granted pursuant to an automatic, non-discretionary formula.
 
Options
 
The Compensation Committee may grant non-qualified stock options, incentive
stock options (which are entitled to favorable tax treatment), or a combination
thereof. The number of shares covered by each option will be determined by the
Compensation Committee, but during any fiscal year of IB, no participant may be
granted options for more than 1,000,000 shares.
 
The price of the shares of IB Common Stock subject to each stock option is set
by the Compensation Committee but cannot be less than 100% of the fair market
value (on the date of grant) of the shares covered by the option. In addition,
the exercise price of an incentive stock option must be at least 110% of fair
market value if (on the grant date) the participant owns stock possessing more
than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of IB or
any
 
                                       57
<PAGE>
 
of its subsidiaries. Nevertheless, substitute options may be granted at less
than fair market value to employees or consultants who receive such options in
connection with a corporate reorganization. Also, the aggregate fair market
value of the shares (determined on the grant date) covered by incentive stock
options which first become exercisable by any participant during any calendar
year may not exceed $100,000.
 
The exercise price of each option must be paid in full at the time of exercise.
The Compensation Committee also may permit payment through the tender of shares
of IB Common Stock that are already owned by the participant, or by any other
means which the Compensation Committee determines to be consistent with the IB
Omnibus Stock Plan's purpose. Any taxes required to be withheld must be paid by
the participant at the time of exercise.
 
Options become exercisable at the times and on the terms established by the
Compensation Committee. Options expire at the times established by the
Compensation Committee but not later than 10 years after the date of grant
(except in certain cases involving the death of the optionee). The Compensation
Committee may extend the maximum term of any option granted under the IB
Omnibus Stock Plan, subject to the preceding limits.
 
Non-Employee Director Options
 
Under the IB Omnibus Stock Plan, each non-employee director automatically will
receive, as of the later of (a) the non-employee director's appointment or
election to the IB Board, or (b) ten business days after the effective date of
the IB Omnibus Stock Plan, a non-qualified stock option to purchase 10,000
shares. Each non-employee director will also automatically receive a non-
qualified stock option to purchase 5,000 shares coincident with each subsequent
annual meeting of IB, provided the non-employee director serves continuously as
a director through the next grant date. In lieu of the above grants, any non-
employee Chairman of the IB Board automatically will receive, as of the later
of (a) the date he or she becomes Chairman or (b) ten business days after the
effective date of the IB Omnibus Stock Plan, a non-qualified stock option to
purchase 50,000 shares.
 
The exercise price of each non-employee director and Chairman option will be
100% of the fair market value (on the date of grant) of the shares covered by
the option. Nevertheless, substitute options may be granted at less than fair
market value to non-employee directors who receive such options in connection
with a corporate reorganization. Each option will become exercisable on the
grant date. All options granted to non-employee directors generally will have a
term of ten years from the date of grant. If a director terminates service on
the IB Board prior to an option's normal expiration date, the period of
exercisability of the option may be shorter, depending upon the reason for the
termination.
 
In addition, non-employee directors may elect to receive shares of IB Common
Stock under the IB Omnibus Stock Plan in lieu of cash compensation.
 
Stock Appreciation Rights
 
The Compensation Committee determines the terms and conditions of each SAR.
SARs may be granted in conjunction with an option, or may be granted on an
independent basis. The number of shares covered by each SAR will be determined
by the Compensation Committee, but during any fiscal year of IB, no participant
may be granted SARs for more than 1,000,000 shares. Upon exercise of an SAR,
the participant will receive payment from IB in an amount determined by
multiplying: (1) the difference between the fair market value of a share on the
date of exercise over the grant price (fair market value of a share on the
grant date), times (2) the number of shares with respect to which the SAR is
exercised. SARs may be paid in cash or shares of IB Common Stock, as determined
by the Compensation Committee. SARs are exercisable at the times and on the
terms established by the Compensation Committee.
 
Restricted Stock Awards
 
Restricted stock awards are shares of IB Common Stock that vest in accordance
with terms and conditions established by the Compensation Committee. The number
of shares of restricted stock granted to a participant (if any) will be
determined by the Compensation Committee, but during any fiscal year of IB, no
participant may be granted more than 100,000 shares.
 
 
                                       58
<PAGE>
 
In determining whether an award of restricted stock should be made and/or the
vesting schedule for an award, the Compensation Committee may impose whatever
conditions to vesting it determines to be appropriate. For example, the
Compensation Committee may determine to grant restricted stock only if
performance goals established by the Compensation Committee are satisfied. Any
performance goals may be applied on a company-wide or an individual business
unit basis, as determined by the Compensation Committee. See discussion below
of " - Performance Goals."
 
Performance Units And Performance Shares
 
Performance Units and Performance Shares are IB Awards which will result in a
payment to a participant only if performance goals established by the
Compensation Committee are satisfied. The initial value of each Performance
Unit and each Performance Share shall not exceed the fair market value (on the
date of grant) of a share of IB Common Stock. The applicable performance goals
will be determined by the Compensation Committee, and may be applied on a
company-wide or an individual business unit basis, as deemed appropriate in
light of the participant's specific responsibilities. See " - Performance
Goals."
 
In addition to the performance requirements discussed above, Performance Units
and Performance Shares are subject to additional limits set forth in the IB
Omnibus Stock Plan. During any fiscal year of IB, no participant shall receive
more than 100,000 Performance Units or Performance Shares.
 
Performance Goals
 
The Compensation Committee in its discretion may make performance goals
applicable to a participant with respect to an IB Award. At the Compensation
Committee's discretion, one or more of the following performance goals may
apply: EBIT, EBITDA, earnings per share, net income, operating cash flow,
return on assets, return on equity, return on sales, revenue and stockholder
return. The Compensation Committee may also use other performance goals.
 
EBIT means IB's or a business unit's income before reductions for interest and
taxes. EBITDA means IB's or a business unit's income before reductions for
interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. Earnings per share means IB's
or a business unit's net income, divided by a weighted average number of common
shares outstanding and dilutive common equivalent shares deemed outstanding.
Net income means IB's or a business unit's income after taxes. Operating cash
flow means IB's or a business unit's sum of net income plus depreciation and
amortization less capital expenditures plus certain specified changes in
working capital. Return on assets means the percentage equal to IB's or a
business unit's EBIT (but before incentive compensation), divided by IB's or a
business unit's, as applicable, average net assets. Return on equity means the
percentage equal to IB's net income, divided by average stockholders' equity.
Return on sales means the percentage equal to IB's or a business unit's EBIT
(but before incentive compensation), divided by IB's or the business unit's, as
applicable, revenue. Revenue means IB's or a business unit's sales. Stockholder
return means the total return (change in share price plus reinvestment of any
dividends) of a share of the IB Common Stock.
 
Nontransferability of IB Awards
 
IB Awards granted under the IB Omnibus Stock Plan may not be sold, transferred,
pledged, assigned, or otherwise alienated or hypothecated, other than by will
or by the applicable laws of descent and distribution.
 
Tax Aspects
 
A recipient of a stock option or SAR will not have taxable income upon the
grant of the option. For options and SARs other than incentive stock options,
the participant will recognize ordinary income upon exercise in an amount equal
to the excess of the fair market value of the shares over the exercise price
(the "appreciation value") on the date of exercise. Any gain or loss recognized
upon any later disposition of the shares generally will be capital gain or
loss.
 
Purchase of shares upon exercise of an incentive stock option will not result
in any taxable income to the participant, except for purposes of the
alternative minimum tax. Gain or loss recognized by the participant on a later
sale or other disposition will either be long-term capital gain or loss or
ordinary income depending upon whether the participant
 
                                       59
<PAGE>
 
holds the shares transferred upon the exercise for a specified period. Any
ordinary income recognized will be in the amount, if any, by which the lesser
of the fair market value of such shares on the date of exercise or the amount
realized from the sale exceeds the option price.
 
Unless the participant elects to be taxed at the time of receipt of restricted
stock, Performance Units or Performance Shares, the participant will not have
taxable income upon the receipt of the IB Award, but upon vesting will
recognize ordinary income equal to the fair market value of the shares or cash
at the time of vesting.
 
At the discretion of the Compensation Committee, the IB Omnibus Stock Plan
allows a participant to satisfy tax withholding requirements under federal and
state tax laws in connection with the exercise or receipt of an IB Award by
electing to have shares of IB Common Stock withheld, or by delivering to IB
already-owned shares, having a value equal to the amount required to be
withheld.
 
IB generally will be entitled to a tax deduction in connection with an IB Award
under the IB Omnibus Stock Plan only in an amount equal to the ordinary income
realized by the participant and at the time the participant recognizes such
income. However, IB may not be entitled to a deduction in connection with
certain substitute stock options issued in connection with the Distribution. In
addition, Section 162(m) contains special rules regarding the federal income
tax deductibility of compensation paid to IB's Chief Executive Officer and to
each of the other four most highly compensated executive officers. The general
rule is that annual compensation paid to any of these specified executives will
be deductible only to the extent that it does not exceed $1 million. However,
IB can preserve the deductibility of certain compensation in excess of $1
million if it complies with conditions imposed by Section 162(m), including the
establishment of a maximum number of shares with respect to which IB Awards may
be granted to any one employee during one year, and for IB Awards other than
options and SARs, the IB Omnibus Stock Plan sets forth performance goals which
must be achieved prior to payment of the IB Awards. The IB Omnibus Stock Plan
has been designed to permit the Compensation Committee to grant IB Awards which
satisfy the requirements of Section 162(m), thereby permitting IB to continue
to receive a federal income tax deduction in connection with such IB Awards.
 
Amendment and Termination of the IB Omnibus Stock Plan
 
The IB Board generally may amend or terminate the IB Omnibus Stock Plan at any
time and for any reason.
 
                                       60
<PAGE>
 
                        THE IB MANAGEMENT INCENTIVE PLAN
 
The IB Management Incentive Plan is expected to be adopted by the IB Board
effective as of the Distribution.
 
Background and Reasons for Adoption
 
Under Section 162(m), the federal income tax deductibility of compensation paid
to IB's Chief Executive Officer and to each of its next four most highly
compensated executive officers may be limited to the extent that it exceeds $1
million in any one year. IB can deduct compensation in excess of that amount if
it qualifies as "performance-based compensation" under Section 162(m). The IB
Management Incentive Plan is intended to permit IB to pay incentive
compensation which qualifies as performance-based compensation, thereby
permitting IB to receive a federal income tax deduction for the payment of such
incentive compensation.
 
Description of the IB Management Incentive Plan
 
The following paragraphs provide a summary of the principal features of the IB
Management Incentive Plan and its operation. The IB Management Incentive Plan
has been filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of which this
Information Statement is a part.
 
Purpose of the IB Management Incentive Plan
 
The IB Management Incentive Plan is intended to motivate IB's key employees to
increase stockholder value by (1) linking a portion of their cash compensation
to IB's financial performance, (2) providing rewards for improving IB's
financial performance and (3) helping to attract and retain key employees.
 
Administration of the IB Management Incentive Plan
 
The IB Management Incentive Plan will be administered by the Compensation
Committee. The members of the Compensation Committee must qualify as "outside
directors" under Section 162(m) (for purposes of qualifying the IB Management
Incentive Plan as performance-based compensation under such section). Subject
to the terms of the IB Management Incentive Plan, the Compensation Committee
has the sole discretion to determine the key employees who will be granted
awards, and the amounts, terms and conditions of each award. The Compensation
Committee may delegate its authority to grant and administer awards to one or
more officers or directors appointed by the Compensation Committee, but only
with respect to awards that are not intended to qualify as performance-based
compensation under Section 162(m).
 
Eligibility to Receive Awards
 
Eligibility for the IB Management Incentive Plan is determined in the
discretion of the Compensation Committee. In selecting participants for the IB
Management Incentive Plan, the Compensation Committee will choose key employees
of IB and its affiliates who are likely to have a significant impact on IB
performance.
 
Awards and Performance Goals
 
Under the IB Management Incentive Plan, the Compensation Committee will
establish (1) the performance goals which must be achieved in order for the
participant to actually be paid an award and (2) a formula or table for
calculating a participant's award, depending upon how actual performance
compares to the preestablished performance goals. A participant's award will
increase or decrease as actual performance increases or decreases. The
Compensation Committee also will determine the periods for measuring actual
performance (the "performance period"). Performance periods may last as long as
three fiscal years of IB.
 
The Compensation Committee may set performance periods and performance goals
which differ from participant to participant. For example, the Compensation
Committee may choose performance goals based on either company-wide or business
unit results, as deemed appropriate in light of the participant's specific
responsibilities. For purposes of qualifying awards as performance-based
compensation under Section 162(m), the Compensation Committee will specify
performance goals from the following list: EBIT, EBITDA, earnings per share,
net income, operating cash flow, return on assets, return on equity, return on
sales, revenue and stockholder return.
 
                                       61
<PAGE>
 
EBIT means IB's or a business unit's income before reductions for interest and
taxes. EBITDA means IB's or a business unit's income before reductions for
interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. Earnings per share means IB's
or a business unit's net income, divided by a weighted average number of common
shares outstanding and dilutive common equivalent shares deemed outstanding.
Net income means IB's or a business unit's income after taxes. Operating cash
flow means IB's or a business unit's sum of net income plus depreciation and
amortization less capital expenditures plus certain specified changes in
working capital. Return on assets means the percentage equal to IB's or a
business unit's EBIT (but before incentive compensation), divided by IB's or a
business unit's, as applicable, average net assets. Return on equity means the
percentage equal to IB's net income, divided by average stockholders' equity.
Return on sales means the percentage equal to IB's or a business unit's EBIT
(but before incentive compensation), divided by IB's or the business unit's, as
applicable, revenue. Revenue means IB's or a business unit's sales. Stockholder
return means the total return (change in share price plus reinvestment of any
dividends) of a share of IB Common Stock.
 
For any performance period, no participant may receive an award of more than
the lesser of (1) 200% of the participant's annualized salary rate on the last
day of the performance period or (2) $2 million. Also, the total of all awards
for any performance period cannot exceed 8% of IB's EBIT before incentive
compensation for the most recent completed fiscal year of IB. Awards which
exceed this overall limit will be pro-rated so that the total does not exceed
such limit.
 
Determination of Actual Awards
 
After the end of each performance period, a determination will be made as to
the extent to which the performance goals applicable to each participant were
achieved or exceeded. The actual award (if any) for each participant will be
determined by applying the formula to the level of actual performance which was
achieved. However, the Compensation Committee retains discretion to eliminate
or reduce the actual award payable to any participant below that which
otherwise would be payable under the applicable formula. Awards under the IB
Management Incentive Plan generally will be payable in cash or IB Common Stock
within 120 days after the performance period during which the award was earned.
 
Amendment and Termination of the IB Management Incentive Plan
 
The IB Board may amend or terminate the IB Management Incentive Plan at any
time and for any reason.
 
                                       62
<PAGE>
 
                          OWNERSHIP OF IB COMMON STOCK
 
IB is currently a wholly owned subsidiary of Varian. Table IV sets forth
information as to the beneficial ownership of IB Common Stock, as of the
Distribution Date (and following the Distribution) as if the Distribution took
place on December 15, 1998, by (a) each expected officer named in Table I, (b)
each expected director of IB, (c) all expected directors and executive officers
of IB as a group and (d) each person who, to IB's knowledge, beneficially owned
more than 5% of the outstanding shares. The information in Table IV is based on
the ownership of Varian Common Stock as of December 15, 1998 and the number of
shares of IB Common Stock expected to be distributed to each existing
stockholder of Varian in the Distribution.
 
Table IV
 
Directors and Officers
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         Percent of
                            Shares of IB Common Stock            Outstanding Shares
                                       expected to be                expected to be
Name                     Beneficially Owned(/1/)(/2/)       Beneficially Owned(/1/)
- ----                     ----------------------------       -----------------------
<S>                      <C>                                <C>
John G. McDonald........                       19,800(/8/)                        *
Wayne R. Moon...........                        6,836(/4/)                        *
D.E. Mundell............                       16,400(/5/)                        *
Elizabeth F. Tallett....                        5,100(/6/)                        *
Allen J. Lauer..........                      233,510(/7/)                        *
Garry W. Rogerson.......                       15,751(/8/)                        *
Raymond J. Shaw.........                       34,516(/9/)                        *
Arthur W. Homan.........                       14,842(/10/)                       *
James L. Colbert........                        4,000(/11/)                       *
All Expected Directors
 and Executive Officers
 of IB
 as a Group (9
 persons)...............                      350,755(/12/)                     1.2
 
Principal Stockholders
 
<CAPTION>
Name and Address of
Beneficial Owner
- -------------------
<S>                      <C>                                <C>
FMR Corp./Edward C.
 Johnson 3d/Abigail P.
 Johnson................                    3,051,000(/13/)                    10.2
 82 Devonshire Street
 Boston, Massachusetts
  02109
Neuberger & Berman,
 LLC....................                    2,389,150(/14/)                     8.0
 605 Third Avenue
 New York, New York
  10158
State Treasurer.........                    2,075,760(/15/)                     6.9
 State of Michigan
 c/o Director of
  Investments
 P.O. Box 1128
 Lansing, Michigan 48901
Oppenheimer Capital.....                    1,908,400(/16/)                     6.4
 World Financial Center
 New York, New York
  10281
Princeton Services,
 Inc./Merrill Lynch
 Asset Management,
 Inc....................                    1,840,000(/17/)                     6.2
Merrill Lynch Capital
 Fund, Inc..............                    1,750,000(/17/)                     5.9
 800 Scudders Mill Road
 Plainsboro, New Jersey
  08536
Sound Shore Management,
 Inc....................                    1,649,000(/18/)                     5.5
 8 Sound Shore Drive
 Greenwich, Connecticut
  06836
</TABLE>
 
                                       63
<PAGE>
 
- -------
 * The percentage of shares of IB Common Stock expected to be beneficially
   owned does not exceed one percent of the shares of IB Common Stock expected
   to be outstanding.
 (1)  For purposes of this table, a person or group of persons is deemed to
      have "beneficial ownership" of any shares of IB Common Stock which such
      person has the right to acquire within 60 days following December 15,
      1998. For purposes of computing the percentage of outstanding shares of
      IB Common Stock held by each person or group of persons named above, any
      security which such person or persons has or have the right to acquire
      within 60 days following December 15, 1998 is deemed to be outstanding,
      but is not deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of computing the
      percentage ownership of any other person. Fractional shares are rounded
      down to the nearest whole share.
 (2)  To IB's knowledge, unless otherwise indicated, the person named in the
      table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares or
      shares such voting and investment power with such person's spouse or
      children.
 (3)  Includes 16,000 shares which may be acquired under exercisable stock
      options granted pursuant to the Varian Omnibus Stock Plan.
 (4)  Includes 6,000 shares which may be acquired under exercisable stock
      options granted pursuant to the Varian Omnibus Stock Plan.
 (5)  Includes (a) 12,000 shares which may be acquired under exercisable stock
      options granted pursuant to the Varian Omnibus Stock Plan and (b) 3,400
      shares held in a trust of which Mr. Mundell is co-trustee with his wife.
 (6)  Includes 4,000 shares which may be acquired under exercisable stock
      options granted pursuant to the Varian Omnibus Stock Plan.
 (7)  Includes (a) 4,200 shares of restricted stock granted pursuant to the
      Varian Omnibus Stock Plan, (b) 162,000 shares which may be acquired on or
      within 60 days of December 15, 1998 under stock options granted pursuant
      to the Varian Omnibus Stock Plan and (c) 63,110 shares held in a trust of
      which Mr. Lauer is co-trustee with his wife.
 (8)  Includes (a) 900 shares of restricted stock granted pursuant to the
      Varian Omnibus Stock Plan and (b) 13,351 shares which may be acquired on
      or within 60 days of December 15, 1998 under stock options granted
      pursuant to the Varian Omnibus Stock Plan.
 (9)  Includes (a) 900 shares of restricted stock granted pursuant to the
      Varian Omnibus Stock Plan and (b) 26,500 shares which may be acquired on
      or within 60 days of December 15, 1998 under stock options granted
      pursuant to the Varian Omnibus Stock Plan.
(10)  Includes (a) 584 shares of restricted stock granted pursuant to the
      Varian Omnibus Stock Plan and (b) 11,666 shares which may be acquired on
      or within 60 days of December 15, 1998 under stock options granted
      pursuant to the Varian Omnibus Stock Plan.
(11) Includes 2,600 shares which may be acquired on or within 60 days of
     December 15, 1998 under stock options granted pursuant to the Varian
     Omnibus Stock Plan.
(12) Includes (a) 7,484 shares of restricted stock granted to executive
     officers pursuant to the Varian Omnibus Stock Plan, (b) 278,117 shares
     which may be acquired on or within 60 days of December 15, 1998 by
     executive officers and directors under stock options granted pursuant to
     the Varian Omnibus Stock Plan and (c) 66,510 shares as to which voting
     and/or investment power is shared (see certain of the foregoing
     footnotes). To IB's knowledge, unless otherwise indicated, the person
     named in the table has sole voting and investment power with respect to
     the shares.
(13)  According to an amendment to a Schedule 13G dated January 10, 1998, FMR
      Corp. has sole voting power over 163,100 of these shares and sole
      dispositive power over all 3,051,000 shares. Fidelity Management Trust
      Varian ("FMTC"), a wholly owned subsidiary of FMR Corp., is the
      beneficial owner of 293,000 of these shares in its capacity as investment
      manager of certain institutional accounts. Edward C. Johnson 3d and
      Abigail P. Johnson own 12.0% and 24.5%, respectively, of the voting stock
      of FMR Corp. and therefore may be deemed to have beneficial ownership of
      the shares referenced.
(14)  According to an amendment to a Schedule 13G dated February 9, 1998,
      Neuberger & Berman, LLC has sole voting power over 1,367,524 of these
      shares and shared dispositive power over all 2,389,150 shares. Also
      according to that amendment to Schedule 13G, Newberger & Berman
      Management, Inc. shares the voting and dispositive power with Neuberger &
      Berman, LLC with respect to 774,800 of such shares.
(15)  Based on a Schedule 13D dated August 12, 1997.
(16)  According to a Schedule 13G dated February 27, 1998, Oppenheimer Capital
      has shared voting and shared dispositive power over all these shares.
(17)  According to a Schedule 13G dated January 29, 1998, Princeton Services,
      Inc. and Merrill Lynch Asset Management, L.P. have shared voting power
      and shared dispositive power over all 1,840,000 shares. Also according to
      that Schedule 13G, Merrill Lynch Capital Fund, Inc. has shared voting
      power and shared dispositive power over 1,750,000 of such shares.
(18) According to a Schedule 13G dated January 15, 1998, Sound Shore
     Management, Inc. has sole voting power over 1,505,800 of such shares,
     shared voting power over 32,200 of such shares and sole dispositive power
     over all 1,649,00 shares.
 
                                       64
<PAGE>
 
                                   FINANCING
 
On an historical basis, Varian incurred or managed indebtedness at the parent
level, and IB was not allocated any of Varian's debt as Varian used a
centralized approach to cash management and the financing of its operations.
The amount of debt to be retained by VMS and assumed by or transferred to IB
and VSEA and the determination of the initial capital structures of IB, VSEA
and VMS as of the Distribution Date are based upon the goals of maximizing
combined stockholder value for Varian's present stockholders while enabling
VSEA to maintain sufficient cash flow to cover anticipated operating deficits
caused by the current downturn in the semiconductor equipment market.
 
Varian is required to renegotiate the terms of the Term Loans to permit 50% of
the outstanding indebtedness under the Term Loans to be assumed by IB in
connection with the Distribution. The Term Loans contain covenants that limit
future borrowings and the payment of cash dividends and require the maintenance
of certain levels of working capital and operating results of the borrower. In
addition, the Notes Payable may, as a result of the Internal Transfers and debt
allocation provisions of the Distribution Agreement, remain outstanding as
direct and indirect obligations of IB as of the Distribution Date.
 
Based on the outstanding indebtedness of Varian under the Term Loans and Notes
Payable as of October 2, 1998 and Varian's projected operating results, certain
other transactions and scheduled debt repayments through the Distribution Date,
it is anticipated that at the Distribution Date, IB will have between $50
million and $100 million of outstanding indebtedness under the Term Loans and
Notes Payable. It is anticipated that in connection with the Distribution, IB
will be entitled to a cash contribution from Varian so that as of the time of
the Distribution, IB will have Net Debt equal to approximately 50% of the
aggregate Net Debt of IB and VMS, subject to such adjustments as may be
necessary to provide VMS with a Net Worth of between 40% and 50% of the
aggregate Net Worth of IB and VMS. Based on the assumptions stated therein, the
allocation of indebtedness to IB at the Distribution Date should approximate
the amounts reflected in "Forecasted Capitalization." Management of IB believes
that there is sufficient financing capability in respect of IB to accomplish
the contemplated allocation of indebtedness. See "Forecasted Capitalization."
 
In connection with the Distribution, Varian intends to sell its long-term
leasehold interest in certain of its Palo Alto facilities, together with the
related buildings and other corporate assets, from which it expects to receive
proceeds of $55 million in the aggregate. In addition, Varian will be required
to pay the net expenses associated with the Internal Transfers and
Distribution, estimated at approximately $50 million. IB is entitled to receive
approximately 50% of the estimated proceeds, if any, to be received by VMS
after the Distribution from the sales of these facilities and assets and is
required to pay approximately 50% of any estimated transaction expenses to be
paid by VMS after the Distribution (in each case reduced for estimated taxes
payable or tax benefits received from all sales and transaction expenses).
 
IB may enter into a credit facility for working capital and other general
corporate purposes. The credit facility may contain certain customary financial
and operating covenants, including restrictions upon incurring indebtedness and
liens, making certain fundamental changes, selling assets and paying dividends.
It is not expected that IB will have any outstanding borrowings under its
credit facility as of the Distribution.
 
                                       65
<PAGE>
 
                        DESCRIPTION OF THE CAPITAL STOCK
 
General
 
Pursuant to IB's Certificate of Incorporation which will be in effect at the
time of the Distribution, the authorized capital stock of IB will consist of
(i) 99,000,000 shares of IB Common Stock of which approximately 29,909,061
million shares will be issued and outstanding upon consummation of the
Distribution (based on the number of shares of Varian Common Stock outstanding
as of December 15, 1998) and (ii) 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock, $.01 par
value per share ("IB Preferred Stock"), none of which will be issued and
outstanding upon consummation of the Distribution.
 
All outstanding shares of IB Common Stock are, and the shares to be issued in
the Distribution will be, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable.
 
Common Stock
 
Each holder of IB Common Stock is entitled to one vote for each share owned of
record on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders. There are no
cumulative voting rights. Accordingly, the holders of a majority of the shares
voting for the election of directors can elect all the directors if they choose
to do so, subject to any voting rights of holders of IB Preferred Stock to
elect directors. Subject to the preferential rights of any outstanding series
of IB Preferred Stock, and to the restrictions on payment of dividends imposed
by the Term Loans and any credit facilities that may be entered into by IB, the
holders of IB Common Stock will be entitled to such dividends as may be
declared from time to time by the IB Board from funds legally available
therefor, and will be entitled, after payment of all prior claims, to receive
pro rata all assets of IB upon the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of
IB. Holders of IB Common Stock have no redemption or conversion rights or
preemptive rights to purchase or subscribe for securities of IB. Certain
provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws of IB that will be
in effect at the time of the Distribution may have the effect of making more
difficult an acquisition of control of IB in a transaction not approved by the
IB Board. See "Delaware Law and Certain Charter and By-Law Provisions."
 
IB has applied for quotation of the IB Common Stock on the Nasdaq National
Market under the symbol "VARI."
 
Preferred Stock
 
The authorized capital stock of IB includes shares of Preferred Stock, none of
which are currently issued or outstanding. The IB Board is authorized to divide
the Preferred Stock into series and, with respect to each series, to determine
the preferences and rights and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions
thereof, including the dividend rights, conversion rights, voting rights,
redemption rights and terms, liquidation preferences, sinking fund provisions,
the number of shares constituting the series and the designation of such
series. The IB Board could, without stockholder approval, issue Preferred Stock
with voting and other rights that could adversely affect the voting power of
the holders of IB Common Stock and which could have certain anti-takeover
effects.
 
If, as anticipated, the IB Board adopts a rights plan, it will authorize shares
of Participating Preferred (the "Participating Preferred"). For a description
of the rights, powers and preferences of the Participating Preferred for IB,
see " - Rights Plan."
 
Rights Plan
 
It is anticipated that the IB Board will adopt the Rights Plan pursuant to
which one right (a "Right") to purchase one one-thousandth of a share of
Participating Preferred at a purchase price (substantially above the expected
current trading value for IB) to be determined, subject to adjustment, would be
distributed with the IB Common Stock in the Distribution. The Rights will be
issuable on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Rights
Plan. The Rights will expire no later than on the tenth anniversary of the
record date for the dividend in 2009. The Rights will be exercisable on the
earlier to occur of (i) the first date of public announcement (or such earlier
or later date as the IB Board may determine) that a person or "group" has
acquired beneficial ownership of 15% or more of the outstanding
 
                                       66
<PAGE>
 
IB Common Stock (an "Acquiring Person") and (ii) ten business days (or such
later date as the IB Board may determine) following the commencement of a
tender or exchange offer the consummation of which would result in a person or
group becoming an Acquiring Person.
 
If any person or group becomes an Acquiring Person or commences a tender or
exchange offer upon consummation of which such person or group would become an
Acquiring Person, each Right not owned by such Acquiring Person or certain
related parties would entitle its holder to purchase, at the Right's then
current exercise price, shares of IB Common Stock, or, in the discretion of the
IB Board, shares of Participating Preferred, having a value equal to twice the
Right's then current exercise price. The effect would be to significantly
dilute the equity interest of the Acquiring Person. In addition, if, after a
person or group becomes an Acquiring Person, IB is involved in a merger or
other business combination transaction in which (i) the holders of all of the
outstanding IB Common Stock immediately prior to the consummation of the
transaction are not the holders of the surviving corporation's voting power or
(ii) more than 50% of IB's assets or earning power is sold or transferred, each
Right will entitle its holder to purchase, at the Right's then current exercise
price, common shares of the acquiring company having a value equal to twice the
Right's then current exercise price.
 
The purchase price payable, and the shares issuable, upon exercise of the
Rights will be subject to adjustment from time to time as specified in the
Rights Plan. IB will generally be entitled to redeem the Rights in whole, but
not in part, at $0.001 per Right at any time prior to the earlier to occur of
(i) a person becoming an Acquiring Person or (ii) expiration of the Rights.
 
Shares of Participating Preferred purchasable upon exercise of the Rights will
not be redeemable and will be designed so that each one one-thousandth of a
share has economic and voting terms similar to one share of IB Common Stock.
Each share of Participating Preferred will be entitled to a minimum
preferential quarterly dividend payment of $2.50 per share but, if greater,
will be entitled to an aggregate dividend per share of 1,000 times the dividend
declared per share of IB Common Stock. In the event of liquidation of IB, the
holders of Participating Preferred will be entitled to a minimum preferential
liquidation payment of $100.00, provided that they will be entitled to an
aggregate payment per share of at least 1,000 times the aggregate payment made
per share of IB Common Stock. Each share of Participating Preferred will have
one thousand votes, voting together with the IB Common Stock. These rights are
protected by customary anti-dilution provisions.
 
Transfer Agent and Rights Agent
 
The transfer agent for the IB Common Stock is First Chicago Trust Company of
New York. It is expected that First Chicago Trust Company of New York will also
be the Rights Agent under the Rights Plan.
 
                                       67
<PAGE>
 
              LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION MATTERS
 
The Certificate of Incorporation of IB that will be in effect at the time of
the Distribution (the "IB Charter") will provide that a director will not be
personally liable to IB or its stockholders for monetary damages for any breach
of fiduciary duty as a director, except in certain cases where liability is
mandated by the DGCL. The IB Charter and/or By-Laws of IB that will be in
effect as of the Distribution also provide for indemnification, to the fullest
extent permitted by law, of any person who is or was involved in any manner in
any pending, threatened or completed investigation, claim or other proceeding
by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director, officer, employee
or agent of IB, or, at the request of IB, is or was serving as a director,
officer, employee or agent of another entity, against all expenses,
liabilities, losses and claims incurred or suffered by such person in
connection with the investigation, claim or other proceeding. IB has entered
into, or intends to enter into, agreements to provide indemnification for
directors and certain officers in addition to the indemnification provided for
in the IB Charter and By-Laws. These agreements, among other things, will
indemnify directors and certain officers to the fullest extent permitted by law
for certain expenses (including attorneys' fees) and all losses, claims,
liabilities, judgments, fines and settlement amounts incurred by such person
arising out of or in connection with such person's service as a director or
officer of IB or another entity for which such person was serving as an officer
or director at the request of IB. Other than as described herein, there is no
pending litigation or proceeding involving a director, officer, employee or
other agent of IB or any other entity as to which indemnification is being
sought under these provisions from IB, and IB is not aware of any pending or
threatened litigation that may result in claims for indemnification under these
provisions by a director, officer, employee or other agent.
 
             DELAWARE LAW AND CERTAIN CHARTER AND BY-LAW PROVISIONS
 
Delaware Law
 
IB is subject to the provisions of Section 203 of the DGCL ("Section 203"). In
general, Section 203 prohibits a publicly held Delaware corporation from
engaging in a "business combination" with an "interested stockholder" for a
period of three years after the date of the transaction in which the person
became an interested stockholder, unless the business combination is approved
in a prescribed manner. A "business combination" includes a merger, asset sale
or other transaction resulting in a financial benefit to the interested
stockholder. An "interested stockholder" is a person who, together with
affiliates and associates, owns (or, in certain cases, within three years
prior, did own) 15% or more of the corporation's voting stock. Under Section
203, a business combination between the corporation and an interested
stockholder is prohibited unless it satisfies one of the following conditions:
(i) the board of directors must have previously approved either the business
combination or the transaction that resulted in the stockholder becoming an
interested stockholder; or (ii) on consummation of the transaction that
resulted in the stockholders becoming an interested stockholder, the interested
stockholder owned at least 85% of the voting stock of the corporation,
outstanding at the time the transaction commenced (excluding, for purposes of
determining the number of shares outstanding, shares owned by (a) persons who
are directors and also officers and (b) employee stock plans, in certain
instances); or (iii) the business combination is approved by the board of
directors and authorized at an annual or special meeting of the stockholders by
the affirmative vote of at least 66 2/3% of the outstanding voting stock which
is not owned by the interested stockholder.
 
Certain Charter and By-Law Provisions
 
The IB Charter will contain provisions that will make more difficult the
acquisition of control of IB by means of a tender offer, open market purchases,
a proxy fight or otherwise that are not approved by the IB Board. The IB By-
Laws will also contain provisions that could have an anti-takeover effect.
 
The purposes of such provisions of the IB Charter and By-Laws are to discourage
certain types of transactions, described below, which may involve an actual or
threatened change of control of IB and to encourage persons seeking to acquire
control of IB to negotiate the terms of any proposed business combination or
offer with the IB Board. The provisions are designed to reduce the
vulnerability of IB to an unsolicited proposal for a takeover that does not
contemplate the acquisition of all outstanding shares or is otherwise unfair to
stockholders of IB, or an unsolicited proposal for the restructuring or sale of
all or part of IB. IB believes that, as a general rule, such proposals would
not be in the best
 
                                       68
<PAGE>
 
interests of IB or its stockholders. These provisions will help ensure that the
IB Board, if confronted by a surprise proposal from a third party which has
acquired a block of stock, will have sufficient time to review the proposal and
appropriate alternatives to the proposal and to act in what it believes to be
the best interests of the stockholders.
 
There has been a marked increase in hostile takeover activity during the last
several years. IB believes that the provisions discussed herein may provide
some measure of protection for stockholders against certain potentially
coercive takeover tactics. Such takeover tactics include the accumulation of
substantial stock positions in public companies by third parties as a prelude
to proposing a takeover, a restructuring or sale of all or part of the company
or another similar extraordinary corporate action. Such actions are often
undertaken by a third party without advance notice to, or consultation with,
the management or board of directors of a company. In many cases, the purchaser
seeks representation on a company's board of directors in order to increase the
likelihood that its proposal will be implemented by a company. If a company
resists the efforts of the purchaser to obtain representation on the company's
board, a purchaser may commence a proxy contest to have its nominees elected to
the board of directors in place of certain directors or in place of the entire
board of directors. In some cases, a purchaser may not truly be interested in
taking over a company, but may use the threat of a proxy fight and/or a bid to
take over a company as a means of forcing the company to repurchase its equity
position at a substantial premium over market price.
 
IB believes that the threat of imminent removal of the IB management or IB
Board in such situations would severely curtail the ability of management or
the IB Board to negotiate effectively with such purchasers. Management or the
IB Board would be deprived of the time and information necessary to evaluate
the takeover proposal, to study alternative proposals and to help ensure that
the best price is obtained in any transaction involving IB that may ultimately
be undertaken. If the real purpose of a takeover bid were to force IB to
repurchase an accumulated stock interest at a premium price, management or the
IB Board would face the risk that, if it did not repurchase the purchaser's
stock interest, IB's business and management would be disrupted, perhaps
irreparably.
 
These provisions, individually and collectively, may impede or discourage a
merger, tender offer or proxy fight, even if such transaction or occurrence may
be favorable to the interests of the stockholders, and may delay or frustrate
the assumption of control by a holder of a large block of IB Common Stock and
the removal of incumbent management, even if such removal might be beneficial
to stockholders. Furthermore, these provisions may deter or could be used to
frustrate a future takeover attempt which is not approved by the incumbent
board of directors, but which the holders of a majority of the shares may deem
to be in their best interests or in which stockholders may receive a
substantial premium for their stock over prevailing market prices of such
stock. By discouraging takeover attempts these provisions might have the
incidental effect of inhibiting certain changes in management (some or all of
the members of which might be replaced in the course of a change of control)
and also the temporary fluctuations in the market price of the stock which
often result from actual and rumored takeover attempts.
 
Set forth below is a description of such provisions in the IB Charter and By-
Laws. Such description is intended as a summary only and is qualified in its
entirety by reference to the IB Charter and By-Laws, which have been filed as
exhibits to the Registration Statement. Capitalized terms used and not defined
herein are defined in the IB Charter or By-Laws.
 
Classified Boards of Directors
 
The IB Charter provides for the IB Board to be divided into three classes
serving staggered terms. The classification of directors will have the effect
of making it more difficult for stockholders to change the composition of the
board of directors in a relatively short period of time. At least two annual
meetings of stockholders, instead of one, will generally be required to effect
a change in a majority of the board of directors. Such a delay may help ensure
that the IB Board, if confronted by a stockholder's attempt to force a stock
repurchase at a premium above market price, a proxy contest or an extraordinary
corporate transaction, will have sufficient time to review the proposal and
appropriate alternatives to the proposal and to act in what they believe are
the best interests of the stockholders. IB also believes that a classified
board of directors will help to assure the continuity and stability of the IB
Board and the business strategies and policies of IB as determined by the IB
Board, because generally a majority of the directors at any given time will
have had prior experience as directors of IB.
 
                                       69
<PAGE>
 
The classified board provision could have the effect of discouraging a third
party from making a tender offer or otherwise attempting to obtain control of
IB as the case may be, even though such an attempt might be beneficial to IB
and its stockholders. The classified board provision could thus increase the
likelihood that incumbent directors will retain their positions.
 
Number of Directors; Removal; Filling Vacancies
 
The IB Charter will provide that the specific number of directors (which must
be at least three) shall be fixed by resolution of the IB Board. In addition,
the IB Charter will provide that, subject to any rights of the holders of
preferred stock, only a majority of the IB Board then in office shall have the
authority to fill any vacancies on the IB Board. Accordingly, the existing
board members could prevent any stockholder from obtaining majority
representation on the respective IB Board by enlarging the IB Board and filling
the new directorships with its own nominees.
 
Moreover, the IB Charter will provide that directors may be removed only for
cause by the affirmative vote of holders of at least a majority of the voting
power of all of the then-outstanding shares of IB Common Stock. This provision,
when coupled with the provisions of the IB Charter authorizing only the IB
Board to fill vacant directorships, would preclude stockholders from removing
incumbent directors without cause and filling the vacancies created by such
removal with their own nominees. These provisions reflect existing Delaware law
absent a contrary provision in a company's charter.
 
Limitations on Stockholder Action by Written Consent; Special Meetings
 
Under the DGCL, unless otherwise provided in the certificate of incorporation,
any action required or permitted to be taken by the stockholders of a Delaware
corporation may be taken without a meeting, without prior notice and without a
stockholder vote if a written consent setting forth the action to be taken is
signed by the holders of outstanding stock having the requisite number of
shares that would be necessary to authorize such action at a meeting at which
all shares entitled to vote thereon were present and voted. The IB Charter will
provide that stockholder action can be taken only at an annual or special
meeting of stockholders, and prohibit stockholder action by written consent in
lieu of a meeting. The IB By-Laws will provide that, subject to the rights of
holders of any series of Preferred Stock, special meetings of stockholders can
be called only by the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer, the
Vice Chairman of the Board (if any), the President or the IB Board.
Stockholders are not permitted to call a special meeting or to require that the
IB Board call a special meeting of stockholders. Moreover, the business
permitted to be conducted at any special meeting of stockholders will be
limited to the purpose or purposes of the meeting as stated in the notice of
the meeting.
 
The provisions of the IB Charter restricting stockholder action by written
consent may have the effect of delaying consideration of a stockholder proposal
until the next annual meeting unless a special meeting is called by the
Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer, the Vice Chairman of the
Board (if any), the President or pursuant to a board resolution. These
provisions would also prevent the holders of a majority of the voting power of
IB Common Stock from using the written consent procedure to take stockholder
action and from taking action by consent without giving all the stockholders
entitled to vote on a proposed action the opportunity to participate in
determining such proposed action. Moreover, a stockholder could not force
stockholder consideration of a proposal over the opposition of the IB Board by
calling a special meeting of stockholders prior to the time the IB Board
believed such consideration to be appropriate.
 
Advance Notice Provisions for Stockholder Nominations and Stockholder Proposals
 
The IB By-Laws will establish an advance notice procedure with regard to the
nomination, other than by or at the direction of the IB Board, of candidates
for election as directors (the "Nomination Procedure") and with regard to
certain matters to be brought before an annual meeting of stockholders (the
"Business Procedure").
 
Pursuant to the IB By-Laws, the Nomination Procedure provides that only persons
who are nominated by, or at the direction of, the IB Board or by a stockholder
of record who has given timely prior written notice to the Secretary prior to
the meeting at which directors are to be elected will be eligible for election
as directors. The Business Procedure provides that at an annual meeting only
such business can be conducted as has been brought before the meeting pursuant
to the notice of the meeting, by, or at the direction of, the IB Board or by a
stockholder of record who has
 
                                       70
<PAGE>
 
given timely prior written notice to the Secretary of such stockholder's
intention to bring such business before the meeting. To be timely, notice must
generally be received by not less than 60 days nor more than 90 days prior to
the first anniversary of the mailing of the proxy statement in connection with
the previous year's annual meeting. For notice of a stockholder nomination to
be made at a special meeting at which directors are to be elected to be timely,
such notice must be received not earlier than the 90th day before such meeting
and not later than the later of (1) the 60th day prior to such meeting and (2)
the tenth day after public announcement of the date of such meeting is first
made.
 
Under the Nomination Procedure, notice from a stockholder who proposes to
nominate a person at a meeting for election as director must contain certain
information about that person, including such person's consent to be nominated
and such information as would be required to be included in a proxy statement
soliciting proxies for the election of the proposed nominee, and certain
information about the stockholder proposing to nominate that person or the
beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the nomination is made. Under the
Business Procedure, notice relating to the conduct of business must contain
certain information about such business and about the stockholder who proposes
to bring the business before the meeting including a brief description of the
business the stockholder proposes to bring before the meeting, the reasons for
conducting such business at such meeting, the class and number of shares of
stock beneficially owned by such stockholder, and by the beneficial owner, if
any, on whose behalf the proposal is made, and any material interest of such
stockholder, and such beneficial owner in the business so proposed. If the
Chairman or other officer presiding at a meeting determines that a person was
not nominated in accordance with the Nomination Procedure, such person will not
be eligible for election as a director, or if he or she determines that other
business was not properly brought before such meeting in accordance with the
Business Procedure, such business will not be conducted at such meeting.
 
The purpose of the Nomination Procedure is, by requiring advance notice of
nominations by stockholders, to afford the IB Board a meaningful opportunity to
consider the qualifications of the proposed nominees and, to the extent deemed
necessary or desirable by the IB Board, to inform stockholders about such
qualifications. The purpose of the Business Procedure is, by requiring advance
notice of proposed business, to provide a more orderly procedure for conducting
annual meetings of stockholders and, to the extent deemed necessary or
desirable by the IB Board to provide the IB Board with a meaningful opportunity
to inform stockholders, prior to such meeting, of any business proposed to be
conducted at such meetings, together with any recommendation as to the IB
Board's position or belief as to action to be taken with respect to such
business, so as to enable stockholders better to determine whether they desire
to attend such meeting or grant a proxy to the IB Board as to the disposition
of any such business. Although the IB By-Laws will not give the IB Board any
power to approve or disapprove stockholder nominations for the election of
directors or of any other business desired by a stockholder to be conducted at
an annual meeting, the By-Laws may have the effect of precluding a nomination
for the election of directors or precluding the conducting of business at a
particular annual meeting if the proper procedures are not followed, and may
discourage or deter a third party from conducting a solicitation of proxies to
elect its own slate of directors or otherwise attempting to obtain control of
IB, even if the conduct of such solicitation or such attempt might be
beneficial to IB and its stockholders.
 
Amendment of Certain Charter and By-Law Provisions
 
The IB Charter will contain provisions requiring the affirmative vote of the
holders of at least 66 2/3% of the outstanding IB Common Stock to amend the
provisions of such charter pertaining to classification of the IB Board,
filling vacancies in the IB Board, removal of directors and the requirement
that stockholders can act only at annual or special meetings and not by written
consent. The IB Charter and By-Laws will also require the vote of at least 66
2/3% of the outstanding IB Common Stock for stockholders to adopt, amend or
repeal any provision of the IB By-Laws. These provisions will make it more
difficult for stockholders to change the IB Charter and By-Laws, including
changes designed to facilitate the exercise of control over IB. In addition,
the requirement for approval by at least a 66 2/3% stockholder vote will enable
the holders of a minority of IB's capital stock to prevent holders of a less
than 66 2/3% majority from amending the indicated provisions of the IB Charter
and By-Laws.
 
                                       71
<PAGE>
 
Preferred Stock
 
The IB Charter will authorize the IB Board to establish series of Preferred
Stock and to determine, with respect to any series of Preferred Stock, the
voting powers, full or limited, or no voting powers, and such designations,
preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights and
such qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof as are stated in the
board resolutions providing for such series. The number of authorized shares of
IB Preferred Stock will be 1,000,000.
 
IB believes that the availability of such Preferred Stock will provide IB with
increased flexibility in structuring possible future financing and
acquisitions, and in meeting other corporate needs which might arise. Having
such authorized shares available for issuance will allow IB to issue shares of
Preferred Stock without the expense and delay of a special stockholders'
meeting. The authorized shares of Preferred Stock, as well as shares of IB
Common Stock, will be available for issuance without further action by
stockholders, unless such action is required by applicable law or the rules of
any stock exchange on which the securities may be listed. Although the IB Board
does not have any intention at the present time of doing so, it could issue a
series of Preferred Stock that could, subject to certain limitations imposed by
the securities laws and stock exchange rules, depending on the terms of such
series, impede the completion of a merger, tender offer or other takeover
attempt. For instance, such series of Preferred Stock might impede a business
combination by including class-voting rights that would enable the holder to
block such a transaction. The IB Board will make any determination to issue
such shares based on its judgment as to the best interests of IB and its then
existing stockholders. The board, in so acting, could issue Preferred Stock
having terms which could discourage an acquisition attempt or other transaction
that some, or a majority, of the stockholders might believe to be in their best
interests or in which stockholders might receive a premium for their stock over
the then-market price of such stock. The authorized and unissued Preferred
Stock of IB as well as the authorized and unissued IB Common Stock would be
available, and the IB Charter explicitly authorizes use of capital stock, for
the above purposes.
 
In connection with the Rights Plan, the IB Board will authorize shares of
Participating Preferred. No such shares of Participating Preferred are
currently outstanding. For a description of the rights, powers and preferences
of the Participating Preferred, see "Description of the Capital Stock - Rights
Plan."
 
Common Stock
 
The IB Charter will authorize the IB Board to issue up to 99,000,000 shares of
IB Common Stock.
 
The authorized but unissued IB Common Stock will provide IB with the ability to
meet future capital needs and to provide shares for possible acquisitions and
stock dividends or stock splits. The IB Board would have the ability, in the
event of a proposed merger, tender offer or other attempt to gain control of IB
that was not approved by such board, to issue additional common stock that
would dilute the stock ownership of the acquiror.
 
Rights Plan
 
IB will enter into the Rights Plan. The Rights to be distributed in accordance
with the Rights Plan will have certain anti-takeover effects. Each of the
Rights will cause substantial dilution to a person or group that attempts to
acquire IB and thereby effect a change in the composition of the IB Board on
terms not approved by the IB Board, including by means of a tender offer at a
premium to the market price. The Rights should not interfere with any merger or
business combination approved by the IB Board, since the Rights may be redeemed
by IB, at the applicable redemption price, prior to the time that a person or
group has become an Acquiring Person. See "Description of the Capital Stock -
Rights Plan."
 
                                       72
<PAGE>
 
                             AVAILABLE INFORMATION
 
IB has filed with the Commission a Registration Statement under the Exchange
Act with respect to the IB Common Stock being received by the stockholders of
Varian Common Stock in the Distribution. This Information Statement does not
contain all of the information set forth in the Registration Statement and the
exhibits thereto, to which reference is hereby made.
 
Statements made in this Information Statement as to the contents of any
contract, agreement or other documents referred to herein are not necessarily
complete. With respect to each such contract, agreement or other documents
filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement, reference is made to such
exhibit for a more complete description of the matter involved, and each such
statement shall be deemed qualified in its entirety by such reference. The
Registration Statement and the exhibits thereto filed by IB with the Commission
may be inspected at the public reference facilities of the Commission listed
below.
 
After the Distribution, IB will be subject to the information requirement of
the Exchange Act, and in accordance therewith will file reports, proxy
statements and other information with the Commission. Such reports, proxy
statements and other information can be inspected and copied at the public
reference facilities maintained by the Commission at its principal offices at
450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549, and at its regional offices at
Northwestern Atrium Center, 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago,
Illinois 60661 and 7 World Trade Center, 13th Floor, New York, New York 10048.
Copies of such material maybe obtained at prescribed rates from the Public
Reference Section of the Commission, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.
20549. Such material may also be accessed electronically by means of the
Commission's home page on the Internet at http://www.sec.gov.
 
IB intends to furnish its stockholders with annual reports containing
consolidated financial statements (beginning with fiscal year 1999) audited by
independent accountants.
 
No person is authorized by Varian or IB to give any information or to make any
representations other than those contained in this Information Statement and,
if given or made, such information or representations must not be relied upon
as having been authorized.
 
                                       73
<PAGE>
 
         INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Instruments Business of Varian Associates, Inc.
- -----------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                        <C>
Report of Independent Accountants........................................   F-2
Combined Statements of Earnings for the three fiscal years ended October
 2, 1998.................................................................   F-3
Combined Balance Sheets at October 2, 1998 and September 26, 1997........   F-4
Combined Statements of Divisional Equity for the three fiscal years ended
 October 2, 1998.........................................................   F-5
Combined Statements of Cash Flows for the three fiscal years ended
 October 2, 1998.........................................................   F-6
Notes to Combined Financial Statements...................................   F-7
Report of Independent Accountants on Financial Statement Schedule........   S-I
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts..........................  S-II
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-1
<PAGE>
 
                       REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
 
 
The Board of Directors and Stockholders of Varian Associates, Inc.:
 
In our opinion, the accompanying combined balance sheets and the related
combined statements of earnings, divisional equity, and cash flows present
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Instruments
Business of Varian Associates, Inc. (the "Company") at October 2, 1998 and
September 26, 1997, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for
each of the three years in the period ended October 2, 1998, in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles. These financial statements are the
responsibility of the Company's management; our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our
audits of these statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards which require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable
assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit 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 the opinion expressed above.
 
                                         /s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
                                        -------------------------------
                                          PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
San Jose, California
October 31, 1998
 
                                      F-2
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
                        Combined Statements of Earnings
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            Fiscal Years
                                                     --------------------------
                                                         1998     1997     1996
                                                     -------- -------- --------
                                                     (In thousands, except per
                                                           share amounts)
<S>                                                  <C>      <C>      <C>
Sales............................................... $557,770 $541,946 $504,394
                                                     -------- -------- --------
Operating Costs and Expenses
Cost of sales.......................................  336,387  330,845  310,753
Research and development............................   29,620   31,987   29,897
Marketing...........................................  113,854  110,009  107,244
General and administrative..........................   38,745   42,303   45,053
                                                     -------- -------- --------
Total operating costs and expenses..................  518,606  515,144  492,947
                                                     -------- -------- --------
Operating Earnings before Taxes.....................   39,164   26,802   11,447
Taxes on earnings...................................   15,736   12,597    5,277
                                                     -------- -------- --------
Net Earnings........................................ $ 23,428 $ 14,205 $  6,170
                                                     ======== ======== ========
Pro Forma Net Earnings Per Share.................... $   0.78 $   0.47 $   0.20
                                                     ======== ======== ========
Shares used in pro forma per share computations.....   29,910   30,451   31,024
                                                     ======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
 
 
 
See accompanying Notes to the Combined Financial Statements.
 
                                      F-3
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
                            Combined Balance Sheets
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            Fiscal Year-End
                                                          --------------------
                                                               1998       1997
                                                          ---------  ---------
                                                              (Dollars in
                                                              thousands)
ASSETS
<S>                                                       <C>        <C>
Current Assets
Accounts receivable...................................... $ 143,836  $ 131,641
Inventories..............................................    71,575     64,797
Other current assets.....................................    26,260     24,723
                                                          ---------  ---------
Total Current Assets.....................................   241,671    221,161
                                                          ---------  ---------
Property, Plant, and Equipment...........................   219,385    201,373
Accumulated depreciation and amortization................  (124,666)  (114,448)
                                                          ---------  ---------
Net Property, Plant, and Equipment.......................    94,719     86,925
                                                          ---------  ---------
Other Assets.............................................    67,709     49,820
                                                          ---------  ---------
Total Assets............................................. $ 404,099  $ 357,906
                                                          =========  =========
LIABILITIES AND DIVISIONAL EQUITY
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable - trade................................. $  34,320  $  34,968
Accrued expenses.........................................   102,470     92,704
Product warranty.........................................     7,608      7,173
Advance payments from customers..........................     5,180      9,214
                                                          ---------  ---------
Total Current Liabilities................................   149,578    144,059
Long-Term Accrued Expenses...............................     6,862      6,245
Deferred Taxes...........................................     4,192      4,306
                                                          ---------  ---------
Total Liabilities........................................   160,632    154,610
                                                          ---------  ---------
Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 9 and 10)
Divisional Equity........................................   243,467    203,296
                                                          ---------  ---------
Total Liabilities and Divisional Equity.................. $ 404,099  $ 357,906
                                                          =========  =========
</TABLE>
 
 
See accompanying Notes to the Combined Financial Statements.
 
                                      F-4
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
                    Combined Statements of Divisional Equity
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       (Dollars
                                                                             in
                                                                     thousands)
<S>                                                                  <C>
Balance, Fiscal Year-End, 1995......................................   $150,813
Net earnings for the year...........................................      6,170
Net transfers (to) from Varian Associates, Inc......................     (2,090)
                                                                       --------
Balance, Fiscal Year-End, 1996......................................    154,893
Net earnings for the year...........................................     14,205
Net transfers (to) from Varian Associates, Inc......................     34,198
                                                                       --------
Balance, Fiscal Year-End, 1997......................................    203,296
Net earnings for the year...........................................     23,428
Net transfers (to) from Varian Associates, Inc......................     16,743
                                                                       --------
Balance, Fiscal Year-End, 1998......................................   $243,467
                                                                       ========
</TABLE>
 
 
 
 
See accompanying Notes to the Combined Financial Statements.
 
                                      F-5
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
                       Combined Statements of Cash Flows
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          Fiscal Years
                                                   ----------------------------
                                                       1998      1997      1996
                                                   --------  --------  --------
                                                     (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                                <C>       <C>       <C>
Operating Activities
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities........  $ 36,856  $ 16,627  $ 22,779
                                                   --------  --------  --------
Investing Activities
Purchase of property, plant, and equipment.......   (19,358)  (20,803)  (17,915)
Purchase of businesses, net of cash acquired.....   (34,707)  (30,998)   (4,396)
                                                   --------  --------  --------
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities............   (54,065)  (51,801)  (22,311)
                                                   --------  --------  --------
Financing Activities
Net transfers (to) from Varian Associates, Inc...    16,743    34,198    (2,090)
                                                   --------  --------  --------
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing
 Activities......................................    16,743    34,198    (2,090)
                                                   --------  --------  --------
Effects of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash.........       466       976     1,622
                                                   --------  --------  --------
Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash
 Equivalents.....................................        --        --        --
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Fiscal
 Year............................................        --        --        --
                                                   --------  --------  --------
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Fiscal Year..  $     --  $     --  $     --
                                                   ========  ========  ========
Detail of Net Cash Provided by Operating
 Activities
Net Earnings.....................................  $ 23,428  $ 14,205  $  6,170
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash
 provided by operating activities
Depreciation.....................................    17,541    19,449    15,975
Deferred taxes...................................    (2,225)     (811)     (458)
Changes in assets and liabilities
Accounts receivable..............................     2,063   (15,201)  (12,997)
Inventories......................................    (1,269)   (6,172)   (3,942)
Other current assets.............................        98      (125)    1,689
Accounts payable--trade..........................    (9,012)    7,531     2,884
Accrued expenses.................................       958     3,893      (750)
Product warranty.................................       637     1,578       714
Advance payments from customers..................    (4,511)   (3,384)    6,425
Long-term accrued expenses.......................       617       284     5,961
Other............................................     8,531    (4,620)    1,108
                                                   --------  --------  --------
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities........  $ 36,856  $ 16,627  $ 22,779
                                                   ========  ========  ========
</TABLE>
 
See accompanying Notes to the Combined Financial Statements.
 
                                      F-6
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
                     Notes to Combined Financial Statements
 
 
Note 1. Basis of Presentation
 
On August 21, 1998, the Board of Directors of Varian Associates, Inc. ("VAI")
announced a plan to reorganize into three publicly traded independent companies
by spinning off two of its businesses to stockholders in a tax-free
distribution (the "Distribution"). The Distribution is subject to final
approval by VAI's Board of Directors. Among other things, this approval is
conditioned upon the receipt of a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service that
the spin-off of the two businesses will be a tax free transaction for VAI
stockholders, VAI, the Semiconductor Equipment Business of VAI ("VSEA"), and
the Instruments Business of VAI (the "Company") and upon the approval of the
plan for the Distribution by VAI stockholders.
 
Under the plan for the Distribution, the Company and VSEA will be incorporated
as Varian, Inc. and Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.,
respectively, and will become publicly traded companies. Also under the plan
for the Distribution, each of VAI and the Company will have between $50 and
$100 million of outstanding indebtedness under VAI's term loans and notes
payable, and VAI will contribute cash to VSEA so that at the Distribution, VSEA
will have approximately $100 million in cash and cash equivalents and
consolidated debt not exceeding $5 million. The Company will include VAI's
business units that manufacture and sell analytical and research
instrumentation and related equipment for studying the chemical composition of
substances. Significant products of the VAI business units that will comprise
the Company include nuclear magnetic resonance instruments, chromatography
systems, optical spectroscopy instruments, vacuum products, and printed wiring
assemblies. The Company will be incorporated in Delaware in December 1998, with
99,000,000 shares of common stock and 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock
authorized. Upon incorporation, all outstanding shares of the Company's common
stock will be owned by VAI. For purposes of these financial statements and
notes to these financial statements, the Company includes the assets,
liabilities, operating results and cash flows of the VAI business units
described above that will comprise the Company under the plan for the
Distribution.
 
The combined financial statements of the Company have been prepared using VAI's
historical bases in the assets and liabilities and historical results of
operations of the Company's businesses, except for the accounting for income
taxes (see Note 2).
 
The combined financial statements of the Company include the accounts of the
Company's businesses after elimination of inter-business balances and
transactions.
 
The Company's fiscal years reported are the 52- or 53-week period ended on the
Friday nearest September 30. Fiscal year 1998 comprises the 53-week period
ended on October 2, 1998. Fiscal years 1997 and 1996 comprise the 52-week
periods ended on September 26, 1997 and September 27, 1996, respectively.
 
The combined financial statements generally reflect the financial position,
operating results, and cash flows of the Company as if it were a separate
entity for all periods presented. Where it was practicable to identify
specifically VAI corporate amounts with the activities of the Company, such
amounts have been included in the accounts of the Company. The combined
financial statements also include allocations of certain VAI corporate assets
(including pension assets), liabilities (including profit sharing and pension
benefits), and expenses (including legal, accounting, employee benefits,
insurance services, information technology services, treasury, and other VAI
corporate overhead) to the Company. These amounts have been allocated to the
Company on the basis that is considered by management to reflect most fairly or
reasonably the utilization of the services provided to or the benefit obtained
by the Company. Typical measures and activity indicators used for allocation
purposes include headcount, sales revenue, and payroll expense. Management
believes that the methods used to allocate these amounts are reasonable.
However, these allocations are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that
would have been or that will be recorded by the Company on a stand-alone basis.
 
For purposes of governing certain of the ongoing relationships between the
Company, VAI, and VSEA after the Distribution and to provide for an orderly
transition, the Company, VAI, and VSEA have entered or will enter
 
                                      F-7
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
              Notes to Combined Financial Statements--(Continued)
 
into various agreements including a distribution agreement, tax sharing
agreement, employee benefits allocation agreement, intellectual property
agreement, and transition services agreement (collectively, the "Distribution
Related Agreements").
 
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
 
Use of Estimates
 
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions
that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and
the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.
Actual results could differ from these estimates.
 
Foreign Currency Translation
 
For non-U.S. 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. The aggregate exchange loss included in general
and administrative expenses for fiscal years 1998, 1997, and 1996 was $2.0
million, $2.6 million, and $.3 million, respectively.
 
Revenue Recognition
 
Sales and related costs of sales are recognized upon shipment of products.The
Company's products are generally subject to warranty, and the Company provides
for the estimated future costs of repair, replacement, or customer
accommodation in costs of sales. Sales and related costs of sales under long-
term contracts to commercial customers and the U.S. Government are recognized
as units are delivered. Service revenue is recognized ratably over the period
of the related contract.
 
Legal Expenses
 
The Company accrues estimated amounts for legal fees expected to be incurred in
connection with loss contingencies.
 
Financial Instruments
 
The Company considers currency on hand, demand deposits, and all highly liquid
debt securities with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash
and cash equivalents.
 
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of
credit risk comprise trade accounts receivable and forward exchange contracts.
The Company sells its products and extends trade credit to a large number of
customers, who are dispersed across many different industries and geographies.
The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of these customers and
generally does not require collateral from them. Trade accounts receivable are
stated net of allowances for doubtful accounts of $713,000 at the end of fiscal
year 1998 and $321,000 at the end of fiscal year 1997.
 
The Company enters into forward exchange contracts to mitigate the effects of
operational (sales orders and purchase commitments) and balance sheet exposures
to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. The Company does not enter
into forward exchange contracts for trading purposes. When the Company's
foreign exchange contracts hedge operational exposure, the effects of movements
in currency exchange rates on these instruments are recognized in
 
                                      F-8
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
              Notes to Combined Financial Statements--(Continued)
 
income when the related revenues and expenses are recognized. All forward
exchange contracts hedging operational exposure are designated and highly
effective as hedges. The critical terms of all forward exchange contracts
hedging operational exposure and of the forecasted transactions being hedged
are substantially identical. Accordingly, the Company expects that changes in
the fair value or cash flows of the hedging instruments and the hedged
transactions (for the risk that is being hedged) will completely offset at the
hedge's inception and on an ongoing basis. When foreign exchange contracts
hedge balance sheet exposure, such effects are recognized in income when the
exchange rate changes in accordance with the requirements for other foreign
currency transactions. Gains and losses on hedges of existing assets or
liabilities are included in the carrying amounts of those assets or liabilities
and are ultimately recognized in income as part of those carrying amounts.
Gains and losses related to qualifying hedges of firm commitments also are
deferred and are recognized in income or as adjustments of carrying amounts
when the hedged transaction occurs. Any deferred gains or losses are included
in accrued expenses in the balance sheet. If a hedging instrument is sold or
terminated prior to maturity, gains and losses continue to be deferred until
the hedged item is recognized in income. If a hedging instrument ceases to
qualify as a hedge, any subsequent gains and losses are recognized currently in
income. The Company's forward exchange contracts generally range from one to
three months in original maturity.
 
Because the impact of movements in currency exchange rates on foreign exchange
contracts generally offsets the related impact on the underlying items being
hedged, forward exchange contracts do not subject the Company to risk that
would otherwise result from changes in currency exchange rates. The Company's
forward exchange contracts contain credit risk in that its banking counter-
parties may be unable to meet the terms of the agreements. The Company seeks to
minimize such risk by limiting its counter-parties to major financial
institutions. Also, the potential risk of loss with any one party resulting
from this type of credit risk is monitored by management of the Company. The
fair value of forward exchange contracts generally reflects the estimated
amounts that the Company would receive or pay to terminate the contracts at the
reporting date, thereby taking into account and approximating the current
unrealized and realized gains or losses of open contracts. The notional amounts
of forward exchange contracts are not a measure of the Company's exposure.
 
Pro Forma Net Earnings per Share
 
The computation of pro forma net earnings per share for fiscal years 1998,
1997, and 1996 is based on the weighted average number of shares of VAI common
stock outstanding during the respective periods, reflecting the anticipated
ratio of one share of Company common stock for each share of VAI common stock
at the time of Distribution.
 
Divisional Equity
 
Divisional equity includes historical investments and advances from VAI,
including net transfers to/from VAI, third party liabilities paid on behalf of
the Company by VAI, amounts due from affiliates related to sales, amounts due
to/from VAI for services and other charges, and current period net earnings of
the Company.
 
Interim Financial Statements (Unaudited)
 
The unaudited condensed combined interim financial information reflects all
adjustments, which consist of only normal, recurring adjustments, necessary to
present fairly the results of operations of the Company for each fiscal quarter
during fiscal years 1998 and 1997.
 
Inventories
 
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market (realizable value) using
last-in, first-out (LIFO) cost for the U.S. inventories. All other inventories
are valued principally at average cost. If the first-in, first-out (FIFO)
method had been used for those operations valuing inventories on a LIFO basis,
inventories would have been higher than reported by $13.7 million in fiscal
1998, $14.0 million in fiscal 1997, and $12.7 million in fiscal 1996.
 
                                      F-9
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
              Notes to Combined Financial Statements--(Continued)
 
 
Property, Plant, and Equipment
 
Property, plant, and equipment are stated at cost. Major improvements are
capitalized, while maintenance and repairs are expensed currently. Plant and
equipment are depreciated over their estimated useful lives using the straight-
line method for financial reporting purposes and accelerated methods for tax
purposes. Machinery and equipment lives vary from 1 to 40 years, and buildings
are depreciated from 3 to 40 years. 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 removed from
the accounts. Gains or losses resulting from retirements or disposals are
included in earnings from operations.
 
Other Assets
 
Goodwill, which is the excess of the cost of acquired businesses over the sum
of the amounts assigned to identifiable assets acquired less liabilities
assumed, is amortized on a straight-line basis over periods ranging from 3 to
40 years. Investments in affiliated companies over whose operations the Company
has significant influence but not control are accounted for under the equity
method.
 
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
 
Whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts
of long-lived assets and goodwill related to those assets may not be
recoverable, the Company estimates the future cash flows, undiscounted and
without interest charges, expected to result from the use of those assets and
their eventual disposition. If the sum of the future cash flows is less than
the carrying amount of those assets, the Company recognizes an impairment loss
based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets.
 
Research and Development
 
Company-sponsored research and development costs related to both present and
future products are expensed currently. Costs related to research and
development contracts are included in inventory and charged to cost of sales
upon recognition of related revenue. Total expenditures on research and
development for fiscal years 1998, 1997, and 1996, were $31.2 million, $33.1
million, and $31.2 million, respectively, of which $1.6 million, $1.1 million,
and $1.3 million, respectively, were funded by customers.
 
Taxes on Earnings
 
The Company's operating results historically have been included in VAI's
consolidated U.S. and state income tax returns and in tax returns of certain
VAI foreign subsidiaries. Except for the utilization of foreign tax credits,
the provision for income taxes in the Company's combined financial statements
has been determined on a separate-return basis, under which the Company's
provision for income taxes comprises its estimated tax liability and the change
in its deferred income taxes. Foreign tax credits are benefited to the extent
they were utilized in VAI's consolidated tax returns. 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. Income taxes paid on behalf of the Company by VAI are included in
divisional equity.
 
Effective after the Distribution, the Company will file separate income tax
returns.
 
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 130, "Reporting
Comprehensive Income." SFAS No. 130 establishes standards for reporting and
display of comprehensive income and its components in a full set of general-
purpose financial statements. It is effective for the Company's fiscal year
1999. The impact of the implementation of SFAS No. 130 on the combined
financial statements of the Company has not yet been determined.
 
                                      F-10
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
              Notes to Combined Financial Statements--(Continued)
 
 
In June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures About Segments of an
Enterprise and Related Information." SFAS No. 131 changes current practice
under SFAS No. 14 by establishing a new framework on which to base segment
reporting (referred to as the "management" approach) and also requires interim
reporting of segment information. It is effective for the Company's fiscal year
1999. The Company has not determined the impact of its implementation on the
reporting of the Company's segment information.
 
In June 1998, the FASB issued SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities." SFAS No. 133 establishes a new model for
accounting for derivatives and hedging activities and is effective for the
Company's fiscal year 2000. The impact of the implementation of SFAS No. 133 on
the combined financial statements of the Company has not yet been determined.
 
Note 3. Balance Sheet Detail
 
Inventories
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    1998   1997
                                                                  ------ ------
                                                                   (Dollars in
                                                                    millions)
<S>                                                               <C>    <C>
Raw materials and parts.......................................... $ 42.6 $ 54.3
Work in process..................................................    8.9    6.4
Finished goods...................................................   20.1    4.1
                                                                  ------ ------
  Total Inventories.............................................. $ 71.6 $ 64.8
                                                                  ====== ======
 
Property, Plant, and Equipment
 
<CAPTION>
                                                                    1998   1997
                                                                  ------ ------
                                                                   (Dollars in
                                                                    millions)
<S>                                                               <C>    <C>
Land and land improvements....................................... $  5.3 $  5.1
Buildings........................................................   76.8   65.0
Machinery and equipment..........................................  135.4  127.3
Construction in progress.........................................    1.9    4.0
                                                                  ------ ------
  Total Property, Plant, and Equipment........................... $219.4 $201.4
                                                                  ====== ======
 
Other Assets
 
<CAPTION>
                                                                    1998   1997
                                                                  ------ ------
                                                                   (Dollars in
                                                                    millions)
<S>                                                               <C>    <C>
Goodwill......................................................... $ 66.1 $ 44.7
Less accumulated amortization....................................    6.5    5.1
                                                                  ------ ------
Net goodwill.....................................................   59.6   39.6
                                                                  ------ ------
Other............................................................    8.1   10.2
                                                                  ------ ------
  Total Other Assets............................................. $ 67.7 $ 49.8
                                                                  ====== ======
</TABLE>
 
Amortization expense for goodwill was $1.4 million, $1.0 million, and $0.5
million for fiscal years 1998, 1997, and 1996, respectively.
 
                                      F-11
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
              Notes to Combined Financial Statements--(Continued)
 
 
Accrued Expenses
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     1998  1997
                                                                   ------ -----
                                                                   (Dollars in
                                                                    millions)
<S>                                                                <C>    <C>
Payroll and employee benefits..................................... $ 33.1 $35.1
Foreign income taxes payable......................................   19.2  13.6
Deferred income...................................................   14.7  13.1
Group and risk insurance..........................................    7.7   7.8
Other.............................................................   27.8  23.1
                                                                   ------ -----
  Total Accrued Expenses.......................................... $102.5 $92.7
                                                                   ====== =====
</TABLE>
 
Note 4. Acquisitions
 
In July 1998, the Company acquired all of the outstanding common stock of
Chrompack International B.V. ("Chrompack") for approximately $28.9 million in
cash and the extinguishment of debt. Chrompack is a manufacturer of
chromatography products and analytical instruments used by scientific and
industrial laboratories. This acquisition has been accounted for under the
purchase method; accordingly, the Company's combined operating results include
100% of the operating results of Chrompack subsequent to the acquisition date.
The Company is amortizing acquired goodwill of $20.9 million over 40 years.
 
In June 1998, the Company acquired the outstanding minority ownership interest
of Varian Iberica, S.L. ("Iberica") for approximately $6.7 million in cash.
Iberica is engaged in the business of buying and selling scientific
apparatuses, products for laboratories, and chemical and medical products in
general. The acquisition of the minority ownership interest has been accounted
for using the purchase method; accordingly, the Company's combined operating
results include the operating results of Iberica subsequent to the acquisition
date. The Company is amortizing acquired goodwill of $0.8 million over 13
years.
 
In October 1996, the Company acquired the principal assets and properties of
the high pressure liquid chromatography and columns business of Rainin
Instrument Company, Inc. ("Rainin") for approximately $24.0 million in cash and
the extinguishment of debt. This acquisition has been accounted for under the
purchase method; accordingly, the Company's combined operating results include
100% of the operating results of Rainin subsequent to the acquisition date. The
Company is amortizing acquired goodwill of $21.7 million over 40 years.
 
Pro forma sales, earnings from operations, net earnings, and net earnings per
share have not been presented because the effects of these acquisitions were
not material on either an individual or an aggregated basis.
 
                                      F-12
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
              Notes to Combined Financial Statements--(Continued)
 
 
Note 5. Forward Exchange Contracts
 
Forward exchange contracts outstanding and their unrealized gains and losses as
of fiscal year-end 1998 are summarized as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           Notional Notional
                                              Value    Value Unrealized   Fair
                                          Purchased     Sold Gain/(Loss) Value
                                          --------- -------- ----------  -----
                                                (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                       <C>       <C>      <C>         <C>
Japanese yen.............................   $    -   $ 1,637       $  5  $  31
French francs............................        -    11,550         -    (467)
Canadian dollars.........................        -     7,042        206    260
British pounds...........................    12,044    4,050        537    515
Italian lira.............................        -     4,196         -    (217)
German marks.............................        -     1,955         -    (100)
Spanish pesetas..........................        -       691         -     (38)
Korean won...............................        -       283         -       1
Australian dollars.......................     6,396       -          -      23
Swiss francs.............................       246       -          -      10
Swedish kronor...........................     4,789       -          -      (5)
                                            -------  -------       ----  -----
  Total..................................   $23,475  $31,404       $748  $  13
                                            =======  =======       ====  =====
</TABLE>
 
Note 6. Employee Stock Plans
 
Under VAI's Omnibus Stock and Employee Stock Purchase Plans, certain employees
of the Company are eligible for the grant of stock options and restricted stock
and are eligible to purchase VAI common stock. The exercise price for incentive
and non-qualified stock options granted under the Omnibus Stock Plan may not be
less than 100% of the fair market value of VAI common stock at the date of
grant. Options granted are exercisable at such times and are subject to such
restrictions and conditions as determined by the Organization and Compensation
Committee of the Board of Directors of VAI, but no option shall be exercisable
later than ten years from the date of grant. Options granted are generally
exercisable in cumulative installments of one-third each year, commencing one
year following the date of grant, and expire if not exercised within seven or
ten years from the date of grant. Restricted stock grants may be awarded at
prices ranging from 0% to 50% of the fair market value of VAI common stock and
may be subject to restrictions on transferability and continued employment as
determined by the Organization and Compensation Committee. Participants in the
Employee Stock Purchase Plan are eligible to purchase VAI common stock at the
lower of 85% of the closing market price of VAI common stock on the first
trading day of the VAI fiscal quarter of the first trading day of the next VAI
fiscal quarter. This discount is treated as equivalent to the cost of issuing
common stock for financial reporting purposes. VAI intends to suspend the
Employee Stock Purchase Plan prior to the Distribution.
 
At fiscal year-end 1998, outstanding options for VAI common stock held by
Company employees totaled approximately 958,000, of which approximately 506,000
had vested and were exercisable. At fiscal year-end 1998, the exercise prices
of outstanding options range from $10.91 to $61.31.
 
At fiscal year-end 1997, outstanding options for VAI common stock held by
Company employees totaled approximately 740,000, of which approximately 332,000
had vested and were exercisable. At fiscal year-end 1997, the exercise prices
of outstanding options range from $10.91 to $61.31.
 
At fiscal year-end 1996, outstanding options for VAI common stock held by
Company employees totaled approximately 748,000, of which approximately 327,000
had vested and were exercisable. At fiscal year-end 1996, the exercise prices
of outstanding options range from $10.60 to $61.31.
 
                                      F-13
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
              Notes to Combined Financial Statements--(Continued)
 
 
Immediately following the Distribution, it is anticipated that the majority of
outstanding awards under the VAI Omnibus Stock Plan held by Company employees
will be replaced by substitute awards under the IB Omnibus Stock Plan. The
substitute awards will have the same ratio of the exercise price per share to
the market value per share, the same aggregate difference between market value
and exercise price, and the same vesting provisions, option periods, and other
terms and conditions as the awards they replace.
 
The Company will comply with the pro forma disclosure requirements set forth in
SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," once the number of
shares and related exercise prices under substitute awards are determined.
These determinations cannot be made until subsequent to the Distribution.
 
Note 7. Retirement Plans
 
Certain employees of the Company in the United States and Canada are eligible
to participate in the VAI-sponsored defined contribution plan. The Company's
major obligation is to contribute an amount based on a percentage of each
participant's base pay. The Company also contributes 5% of its combined
operating earnings, as adjusted for discretionary items, as retirement plan
profit sharing. Participants are entitled, upon termination or retirement, to
their portion of the retirement fund assets, which are held by a third-party
trustee. Included in the accompanying combined statements of earnings is an
allocation of total pension expense for Company employees under the VAI-
sponsored defined contribution plan of $5.9 million, $5.6 million, and
$6.6 million, for fiscal years 1998, 1997, and 1996, respectively.
 
At the Distribution, the Company will assume responsibility for pension and
postretirement benefits for active employees of the Company; the responsibility
for all others, principally retirees of VAI, will remain with VAI. An
allocation of assets and liabilities for foreign defined benefit pension,
postemployment, and postretirement benefits, which are not material to the
Company's financial statements, has been included in these combined financial
statements.
 
Note 8. Taxes on Earnings
 
Taxes on earnings from operations are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            1998   1997   1996
                                                           -----  -----  -----
                                                              (Dollars in
                                                               millions)
<S>                                                        <C>    <C>    <C>
Current
  U.S. federal............................................ $  --  $ 0.4  $  --
  Non-U.S.................................................  16.7   11.4    9.8
  State and local.........................................   1.5    1.6    0.5
                                                           -----  -----  -----
    Total current.........................................  18.2   13.4   10.3
                                                           -----  -----  -----
Deferred
  U.S. federal............................................  (2.7)  (1.1)  (4.6)
  Non-U.S.................................................   0.2    0.3   (0.4)
                                                           -----  -----  -----
    Total deferred........................................  (2.5)  (0.8)  (5.0)
                                                           -----  -----  -----
Taxes on Earnings......................................... $15.7  $12.6  $ 5.3
                                                           =====  =====  =====
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-14
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
              Notes to Combined Financial Statements--(Continued)
 
 
Significant items making up deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     1998  1997
                                                                    ----- -----
                                                                    (Dollars in
                                                                     millions)
<S>                                                                 <C>   <C>
Assets:
  Product warranty................................................. $ 1.9 $ 1.5
  Deferred compensation............................................   1.3   2.5
  Inventory adjustments............................................   8.6   5.2
  Deferred income..................................................   3.7   3.6
  Other............................................................   4.0   5.2
                                                                    ----- -----
                                                                     19.5  18.0
                                                                    ----- -----
Liabilities:
  Accelerated depreciation.........................................   3.1   3.2
  Other............................................................   1.1   1.1
                                                                    ----- -----
                                                                      4.2   4.3
                                                                    ----- -----
    Net deferred tax asset......................................... $15.3 $13.7
                                                                    ===== =====
</TABLE>
 
The classification of the net deferred tax asset on the combined balance sheets
is as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   1998   1997
                                                                  -----  -----
                                                                  (Dollars in
                                                                   millions)
<S>                                                               <C>    <C>
Net current deferred tax asset (included in other current
 assets)......................................................... $19.5  $18.0
Net long-term deferred tax liability.............................  (4.2)  (4.3)
                                                                  -----  -----
  Net deferred tax asset......................................... $15.3  $13.7
                                                                  =====  =====
</TABLE>
 
Operating earnings before taxes consist of the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           1998   1997    1996
                                                         ---------------------
                                                         (Dollars in millions)
<S>                                                      <C>    <C>    <C>
U.S.....................................................  $ 5.0  $ 7.9  $(14.2)
Foreign.................................................   34.2   18.9    25.6
                                                         ------ ------ -------
                                                          $39.2  $26.8   $11.4
                                                         ====== ====== =======
</TABLE>
 
The effective tax rate on earnings from operations differs from the U.S.
federal statutory tax rate as a result of the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               1998  1997  1996
                                                               ----  ----  ----
<S>                                                            <C>   <C>   <C>
Federal statutory income tax rate............................. 35.0% 35.0% 35.0%
State and local taxes, net of federal tax benefit.............  2.6   3.9   2.7
Foreign taxes in excess of U.S. statutory rate, net...........  5.3  13.9   7.8
Foreign sales corporation..................................... (1.2) (2.4) (3.6)
Other......................................................... (1.5) (3.4)  4.2
                                                               ----  ----  ----
  Effective tax rate.......................................... 40.2% 47.0% 46.1%
                                                               ====  ====  ====
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-15
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
              Notes to Combined Financial Statements--(Continued)
 
 
Note 9. Lease Commitments
 
At fiscal year-end 1998, the Company was committed to minimum rentals under
non-cancellable operating leases for fiscal years 1999 through 2003 and
thereafter, as follows, in millions: $4.7, $3.7, $2.6, $2.1, $1.6, and $10.1,
respectively. Rental expense for fiscal years 1998, 1997, and 1996, in
millions, was $7.6, $8.6, and $8.4, respectively.
 
Prior to the Distribution, the Company will enter into certain lease or
sublease agreements with VAI, an affiliate, or third parties for certain lease
facilities and other equipment, which agreements principally are a continuation
of existing lease commitments at market rates. These commitments are included
in the amounts above.
 
Note 10. Contingencies
 
Environmental Remediation
 
VAI has been named by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or third parties
as a potentially responsible party under the Comprehensive Environmental
Response Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended, at eight sites
where the Company 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, 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 1995, and the sale of the Thin Film
Systems business of VSEA during fiscal 1997). VAI's expenditures for
environmental investigation and remediation amounted to $4.9 million in fiscal
1998, compared with $2.3 million in fiscal 1997 and with $5.2 million in fiscal
1996.
 
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. As of October 2, 1998, VAI nonetheless estimated that the future
exposure for environmental related investigation and remediation costs for
these sites ranged in the aggregate from $21.6 million to $48.9 million. The
time frame over which these costs are expected to be incurred varies with each
site and facility, ranging up to approximately 30 years as of October 2, 1998.
VAI management believes that no amount in the foregoing range of estimated
future costs is more probable of being incurred than any other amount in such
range, and therefore, VAI has accrued $21.6 million in estimated environmental
costs as of October 2, 1998. This amount accrued by VAI has not been discounted
to present value.
 
As to other sites and facilities, VAI has gained sufficient knowledge to be
able to better estimate the scope and costs of future environmental activities.
As of October 2, 1998, VAI estimated that the future exposure for environmental
related investigation and remediation costs for these sites ranged in the
aggregate from $39.7 million to $73.7 million. The time frame over which these
costs are expected to be incurred varies with each site, ranging up to
approximately 30 years as of October 2, 1998. As to each of these sites and
facilities, VAI management has determined that a particular amount within the
range of estimated costs was a better estimate of the future environmental
liability than any other amount within the range and that the amount and timing
of these future costs were reliably determinable. Together, these amounts
totaled $51.1 million at October 2, 1998. VAI accordingly has accrued $22.3
million, which represents this best estimate of the future costs discounted at
4%, net of inflation. This VAI reserve is in addition to the $21.6 million
described above.
 
Under the Distribution Related Agreements, the Company has agreed to indemnify
VAI and VSEA for one-third of these environmental investigation and remediation
costs, as adjusted for insurance proceeds in respect of these environmental
costs and for the tax benefits expected to be realized by VAI upon the payment
of the Company's portion of these environmental costs (Note 11). As of October
2, 1998, the Company's reserve for
 
                                      F-16
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
              Notes to Combined Financial Statements--(Continued)
 
its portion of environmental liabilities, based upon future environmental
related costs estimated by VAI as of that date and included in long-term and
current accrued expenses, is calculated as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         Total
                                          Recurring Non-recurring  Anticipated
Year                                          Costs         Costs Future Costs
- ----                                      --------- ------------- ------------
                                                 (Dollars in millions)
<S>                                       <C>       <C>           <C>
1999.....................................     $ 0.4          $0.7      $   1.1
2000.....................................       0.5           0.2          0.7
2001.....................................       0.5           0.1          0.6
2002.....................................       0.5           0.0          0.5
2003.....................................       0.5           0.0          0.5
Thereafter...............................       9.6           0.8         10.4
                                              -----          ----      -------
  Total costs............................     $12.0          $1.8         13.8
                                              =====          ====      -------
Imputed interest.........................                                 (6.0)
                                                                       -------
  Total reserve..........................                              $   7.8
                                                                       =======
</TABLE>
 
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
VAI is undertaking such investigation and remediation activities. VAI believes
that most of these cost ranges will narrow as investigation and remediation
activities progress. The Company 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 earnings 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 the
Company'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,
the Company's management believes that the costs of these environmental related
matters are not reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the
combined financial statements of the Company.
 
Legal Proceedings
 
Under the Distribution Related Agreements, the Company has agreed to reimburse
VAI for one-third of the costs and expenses, adjusted for any tax benefits
recognized or realized by VAI from the incurrence or payment of these amounts,
with respect to certain legal proceedings relating to discontinued operations
of VAI (Note 11).
 
Also, from time to time, the Company is involved in a number of legal actions
and could incur an uninsured liability in one or more of them. While the
ultimate outcome of all of the above legal matters is not determinable,
management believes the resolution of these matters will not have a material
adverse effect on the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows
of the Company.
 
Note 11. Other Transactions with Affiliates
 
Sales to VAI and VSEA for fiscal years 1998, 1997, and 1996 totaled $14.6
million, $14.8 million, and $23.3 million, respectively.
 
 
                                      F-17
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
              Notes to Combined Financial Statements--(Continued)
 
VAI uses a centralized cash management system to finance its operations. Cash
deposits from most of the Company's businesses are transferred to VAI on a
daily basis, and VAI funds the Company's required disbursements. No interest
has been charged or credited to the Company for these transactions.
 
VAI provided certain centralized services (see Note 1 to the combined financial
statements) to the Company. Cost allocations relating to these centralized
services were $26.5 million, $27.1 million, and $25.9 million in fiscal years
1998, 1997, and 1996, respectively, and are included in operating costs in the
combined statements of earnings. Amounts due to VAI for these expenses are
included in Divisional Equity.
 
Net transfers to or from VAI, included in Divisional Equity, include advances
and loans from affiliates, net cash transfers to or from VAI, third party
liabilities paid on behalf of the Company by VAI, amounts due from affiliates
related to sales, amounts due to or from VAI for services and other charges,
and income taxes paid on behalf of the Company by VAI. The weighted average
balance due to VAI was $213 million, $200 million, and $140 million for fiscal
years 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively.
 
The activity in net transfers (to) from VAI for fiscal years 1998, 1997, and
1996 included in divisional equity in the combined statements of divisional
equity is summarized as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            1998   1997   1996
                                                           -----  ----- ------
                                                              (Dollars in
                                                               millions)
<S>                                                        <C>    <C>   <C>
VAI services and other charges............................ $26.5  $27.1 $ 25.9
Cash transfers, net.......................................  (9.8)   7.1  (28.0)
                                                           -----  ----- ------
  Net transfers (to) from VAI............................. $16.7  $34.2 $ (2.1)
                                                           =====  ===== ======
</TABLE>
 
The Distribution Related Agreements provide that, from, and after the
Distribution, VAI, VSEA, and the Company 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 VAI and expenses and losses, net of proceeds and other
receivables, will be borne one-third each by VAI, VSEA, and the Company; the
Distribution Related Agreements also provide that the Company shall assume all
Company liabilities, other than shared liabilities (including accounts payable,
accrued payroll, and pension liabilities) in accordance with their terms.
 
Note 12. Industry and Geographic Segments
 
The Company operates in one industry segment: instrumentation, equipment and
accessories for analytical, research, industrial, and scientific applications.
Company products are used in biological and biochemical research; in
independent test labs; in quality control and research in industries such as
pharmaceuticals, foods, metals, chemicals, and petroleum; for environmental
monitoring and analysis; in semiconductor and automotive manufacturing; in
high-energy physics; in surface analysis, space research and petrochemical
refining.
 
The Company operates various manufacturing and marketing operations outside the
United States. Inter-business sales between geographic areas are accounted for
at cost plus prevailing markups arrived at through negotiations between
otherwise independent profit centers (Note 1).
 
No customer accounted for more than 10% of total sales in fiscal years 1998,
1997, and 1996.
 
                                      F-18
<PAGE>
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
 
              Notes to Combined Financial Statements--(Continued)
 
 
Included in the total of United States sales are export sales of $30 million in
fiscal 1998, $36 million in fiscal 1997, and $32 million in fiscal 1996. Sales
under prime contracts from the U.S. Government were approximately $7 million in
fiscal 1998, $9 million in fiscal 1997, and $8 million in fiscal 1996.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                            Sales to     Intergeographic
                          Unaffiliated      Sales to                                 Pre-tax         Identifiable
                         Customers(/1/)    Affiliates           Total Sales          Earnings           Assets
                         -------------- -------------------  -------------------  ----------------  --------------
                         1998 1997 1996  1998   1997   1996   1998   1997   1996  1998  1997  1996  1998 1997 1996
                         ---- ---- ---- -----  -----  -----  -----  -----  -----  ----  ----  ----  ---- ---- ----
                                                      (Dollars in millions)
<S>                      <C>  <C>  <C>  <C>    <C>    <C>    <C>    <C>    <C>    <C>   <C>   <C>   <C>  <C>  <C>
United States..........  $327 $325 $284 $ 116  $ 114  $ 109  $ 443  $ 439  $ 393  $ 39  $ 43  $ 32  $214 $193 $140
International..........   223  216  219   112     97     98    335    313    317    34    23    25   159  130  144
                         ---- ---- ---- -----  -----  -----  -----  -----  -----  ----  ----  ----  ---- ---- ----
 Total geographic
  segments.............   550  541  503   228    211    207    778    752    710    73    66    57   373  323  284
Eliminations, corporate
 & other...............     8    1    1  (228)  (211)  (207)  (220)  (210)  (206)  (34)  (39)  (46)   31   35   17
                         ---- ---- ---- -----  -----  -----  -----  -----  -----  ----  ----  ----  ---- ---- ----
 Total Company.........  $558 $542 $504 $  -   $  -   $  -   $ 558  $ 542  $ 504  $ 39  $ 27  $ 11  $404 $358 $301
                         ==== ==== ==== =====  =====  =====  =====  =====  =====  ====  ====  ====  ==== ==== ====
</TABLE>
- -------
(1) Includes sales to VAI and VSEA (Note 11).
 
Total sales is based on the location of the operation furnishing goods and
services. International sales based on final destination of products sold are
$261 million in fiscal 1998, $253 million in fiscal 1997, and $250 million in
fiscal 1996.
 
Note 13. Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      1998                            1997
                         ------------------------------- -------------------------------
                           First  Second   Third  Fourth   First  Second   Third  Fourth
                         Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter
                         ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
                                 (Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)
<S>                      <C>     <C>     <C>     <C>     <C>     <C>     <C>     <C>
Sales...................  $141.0  $141.0  $129.9  $145.9  $124.9  $134.9  $137.5  $144.6
                          ------  ------  ------  ------  ------  ------  ------  ------
Gross profit............    54.5    55.8    53.9    57.2    49.8    52.0    53.7    55.6
                          ------  ------  ------  ------  ------  ------  ------  ------
Net Earnings............     5.8     6.4     5.2     6.0     3.5     3.5     3.7     3.5
                          ======  ======  ======  ======  ======  ======  ======  ======
Pro forma net earnings
 per share..............  $ 0.19  $ 0.22  $ 0.17  $ 0.20  $ 0.12  $ 0.11  $ 0.13  $ 0.11
                          ======  ======  ======  ======  ======  ======  ======  ======
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-19
<PAGE>
 
                      REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS ON
                          FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
 
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Varian Associates, Inc.:
 
  Our report on the combined financial statements of the Instruments Business
of Varian Associates, Inc. is included on page F-2 of this Form 10. In
connection with our audits of such financial statements, we have also audited
the related financial statement schedule listed in the index on page F-1 of
this Form 10.
 
  In our opinion, the financial statement schedule referred to above, when
considered in relation to the basic combined financial statements taken as a
whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information required to
be included therein.
 
                                       /s/  PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
                                        ---------------------------------------
                                       PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
 
San Jose, California
October 31, 1998
 
                                      S-I
<PAGE>
 
                                                                     SCHEDULE II
 
                INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
                       VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
 
                   for the fiscal years 1998, 1997, and 1996
 
                             (Dollars in Thousands)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                          Balance at Charged to                                        Balance atDeductions
                           Beginning  Costs and -------------------------------------      End of
Description                of Period   Expenses                    Description Amount      Period
- -----------               ---------- ---------- ------------------------------ ------  ----------
<S>                       <C>        <C>        <C>                            <C>     <C>
ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL
 ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE:
Fiscal Year Ended 1998..      $  321     $  295 Write-offs & Adjustments...... $  (97)     $  713
                              ======     ======                                ======      ======
Fiscal Year Ended 1997..      $  642     $  151 Write-offs & Adjustments...... $  472      $  321
                              ======     ======                                ======      ======
Fiscal Year Ended 1996..      $  652     $  601 Write-offs & Adjustments...... $  611      $  642
                              ======     ======                                ======      ======
ESTIMATED LIABILITY FOR
 PRODUCT WARRANTY:
Fiscal Year Ended 1998..      $7,173     $9,641 Actual Warranty Expenditures.. $9,206      $7,608
                              ======     ======                                ======      ======
Fiscal Year Ended 1997..      $5,688     $9,764 Actual Warranty Expenditures.. $8,279      $7,173
                              ======     ======                                ======      ======
Fiscal Year Ended 1996..      $4,919     $9,077 Actual Warranty Expenditures.. $8,308      $5,688
                              ======     ======                                ======      ======
</TABLE>
 
                                      S-II
<PAGE>
 
                                   SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed
on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 
                                       Varian, Inc.
 
                                                  /s/ Arthur W. Homan
                                       By______________________________________
                                        Name: Arthur W. Homan
                                        Title: Secretary
 
Date: February 12, 1999
<PAGE>
 
                                 EXHIBIT INDEX
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 Exhibit
 No.    Description
 ------------------
 <C>     <S>
 2.1     Distribution Agreement among Varian Associates, Inc., Varian Semiconductor
         Equipment Associates, Inc. and Varian, Inc. dated as of January 14, 1999.
 3.1     Form of Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Varian, Inc. to be in
         effect upon the effectiveness of the Distribution.
 3.2     Form of By-Laws of Varian, Inc. to be in effect upon the effectiveness of
         the Distribution.
 4.1     Specimen Common Stock Certificate.*
 4.2     Form of Rights Agreement.*
 10.1    Form of Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement among Varian Associates,
         Inc., Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. and Varian, Inc.
 10.2    Form of Intellectual Property Agreement among Varian Associates, Inc.,
         Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. and Varian, Inc.
 10.3    Form of Tax Sharing Agreement among Varian Associates, Inc., Varian
         Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. and Varian, Inc.
 10.4    Form of Transition Services Agreement among Varian Associates, Inc.,
         Varian
         Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. and Varian, Inc.
 10.5    Form of Change in Control Agreement for CEO and Senior Executives.*
 10.6    Form of Indemnity Agreement with Directors and Executive Officers.*
 10.7    Varian, Inc. Omnibus Stock Plan.
 10.8    Varian, Inc. Management Incentive Plan.
 21      Subsidiaries of the Registrant.
 27      Financial Data Schedule.
</TABLE>
- -------
* To be filed by amendment.

<PAGE>
                                                                   Exhibit 2.1

                             DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT

     THIS DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT is made and entered into as of this 14th day of
January, 1999, among VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC., a Delaware corporation ("Varian"),
VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC., a Delaware corporation ("SEB"),
and VARIAN, INC., a Delaware corporation ("IB").

                                R E C I T A L S

     WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of Varian has deemed it appropriate and
desirable to:

     (a) separate and divide the existing businesses of Varian so that (i) the
business of the manufacture, sale and service of ion implanters for
semiconductor equipment fabrication facilities will be owned and conducted
directly or indirectly by SEB, (ii) the business of the manufacture, sale and
service of analytical and research instruments and high vacuum products and
fabrication of circuit boards and electronic subassemblies will be owned and
conducted directly or indirectly by IB, and (iii) the business of the
manufacture, sale and service of integrated cancer-care systems, including
medical linear accelerators and brachytherapy systems for treatment, simulators
for therapy planning and verification, and ancillary equipment, software and
networking systems and related data management, and of x-ray tubes for the
diagnostic imaging industry and imaging subsystems, will be retained and
conducted directly or indirectly by Varian, which will be renamed Varian Medical
Systems, Inc. immediately following the Distributions (as hereinafter defined);
and

     (b) distribute, after such separation and division, as a dividend to the
holders of shares of common stock, par value $1.00 per share, of Varian (the
"VAI Common Stock"), all of the then-outstanding shares of common stock, par
value $.01 per share, of SEB (the "SEB Common Stock"), and all of the then-
outstanding shares of common stock, par value $.01 per share, of IB (the "IB
Common Stock"); and

     WHEREAS, each of Varian, SEB and IB has determined that it is necessary and
desirable to set forth the principal corporate transactions required to effect
such separation, division and Distributions and to set forth agreements that
will govern certain other matters before and after the Distributions.

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements, provisions and
covenants contained in this Agreement, the parties hereto agree as follows:

                                   ARTICLE I
                                  DEFINITIONS

      Section 1.01.  General.  As used in this Agreement, the following terms 
                     -------                                                
have the following meanings:

     "AAA" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 9.02(b).
      ---                                                           

     "AAA Rules" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 9.02(c).
      ---------                                                           

     "Action" means any action, suit, arbitration, inquiry, proceeding or
      ------                                                             
investigation by or before any Governmental Authority or any arbitration
tribunal.

     "Affiliate" means, when used with respect to a specified Person, another
      ---------                                                              
Person that directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controls
or is controlled by or is under common control with the Person specified.

     "After-tax Differential"  means the positive or negative amount determined
      ----------------------                                                   
by adding the amounts of the Disposition Proceeds received after the Effective
Time and the Tax Benefit and subtracting therefrom the amounts of the
Transaction Expenditures paid after the Effective Time and the Tax Cost.

                                       1
<PAGE>
 
     "Agent" means First Chicago Trust Company of New York, or such other trust
      -----                                                                    
company or bank designated by Varian, who shall act as agent for the holders of
VAI Common Stock in connection with the Distributions.

     "Agreement" means this Distribution Agreement among Varian, SEB and IB,
      ---------                                                             
including all amendments hereto and all Schedules and Exhibits hereto.

     "Agreement Date" means the date set forth in the first paragraph of this
      --------------                                                         
Agreement.

     "Agreement Disputes" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section
      ------------------                                                  
9.01(a).

     "Aircraft Disposition" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section
      --------------------                                                  
2.01(b).

     "Ancillary Agreements" means, collectively, the Employee Benefits
      --------------------                                            
Allocation Agreement, the Tax Sharing Agreement, the Transition Services
Agreement and the Intellectual Property Agreement.

     "Arbitration Demand Notice" has the meaning ascribed to such term in
      -------------------------                                          
Section 9.02(b).

     "Assets" means assets, properties and rights (including goodwill), wherever
      ------                                                                    
located (including in the possession of vendors or other third parties or
elsewhere), whether real, personal or mixed, tangible, intangible or contingent,
in each case whether or not recorded or reflected or required to be recorded or
reflected on the books and records or financial statements of any Person,
including:

     (i) all accounting and other books, records and files whether in paper,
microfilm, microfiche, computer tape or disc, magnetic tape or any other form;

     (ii) all apparatus, computers and other electronic data processing
equipment, fixtures, machinery, equipment, capital and other spares, furniture,
office equipment, automobiles, trucks, aircraft and other transportation
equipment, special and general tools, test devices, prototypes and models and
other tangible personal property;

     (iii)  all inventories of materials, parts, raw materials, supplies, work-
in-process, consigned goods, finished goods, packaging and all products and
product samples;

     (iv) all interests in real property of whatever nature, including
easements, leases and licenses, whether as owner, mortgagee or holder of a
Security Interest in real property, lessor, sublessor, lessee, sublessee or
otherwise;

     (v) all buildings and other improvements to real property;

     (vi) all interests in any capital stock or other equity interests of any
Subsidiary or any other Person, all bonds, notes, debentures or other securities
issued by any Subsidiary or any other Person, all loans, advances or other
extensions of credit or capital contributions to any Subsidiary or any other
Person and all other investments in securities of any Person;

     (vii)  all license agreements, leases of personal property, open purchase
orders for raw materials, supplies, parts or services, unfilled orders for the
manufacture and sale of products, other sales or purchase agreements,
distributions arrangements, and other contracts, agreements or commitments;

     (viii)  all deposits, letters of credit and performance and surety bonds;

     (ix) all technical information, data, research and development information,
engineering drawings, operating and maintenance manuals, and materials and
analyses prepared by consultants and other third parties;

     (x)  all Intellectual Property;

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
     (xi) all cost information, sales and pricing data, customer prospect lists,
supplier records, customer and supplier lists, customer and vendor data,
correspondence and lists, product literature, artwork, design, development and
manufacturing files, vendor and customer drawings, formulations and
specifications, quality records and reports and other books, records, studies,
surveys, reports, plans and documents;

     (xii)  all prepaid expenses, trade accounts and other accounts and notes
receivables;

     (xiii)  all rights under contracts, agreements, warranties or guarantees,
all claims or rights or judgments against any Person, all rights in connection
with any bids or offers and all claims, choses in action, rights of recovery and
rights of set-off or similar rights, whether accrued or contingent, and refunds
and deposits;

     (xiv)  all rights under insurance policies and all rights in the nature of
insurance, indemnification or contribution;

     (xv) all licenses, permits, approvals and authorizations which have been
issued by any Governmental Authority;

     (xvi)  advertising and marketing materials and other printed or written
materials;

     (xvii)  employee contracts, including any rights thereunder to restrict an
employee or former employee from competing in certain respects and personnel and
medical files and records;

     (xviii)  Cash and Cash Equivalents, bank accounts, lock boxes and other
deposit arrangements; and

     (xix)  interest rate, currency, commodity or other swap, collar, cap or
other hedging or similar agreements or arrangements.

     "Assignee" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 2.04(b).
      --------                                                           

     "Auditors" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 5.10(a).
      --------                                                           

     "Books and Records" means all books, records, manuals, agreements and other
      -----------------                                                         
materials (in any form or medium), including all mortgages, licenses,
indentures, contracts, financial data, customer lists, marketing materials and
studies, advertising materials, price lists, correspondence, distribution lists,
supplier lists, production data, sales and promotional materials and records,
purchasing materials and records, personnel records, manufacturing and quality
control records and procedures, blue prints, research and development files,
records, data and laboratory books, accounts records, sales order files,
litigation files, computer files, microfiche, tape recordings and photographs.

     "Cash and Cash Equivalents" has the meaning ascribed to such term under
      -------------------------                                             
GAAP.

     "Claims Administration" means the processing of claims made under the
      ---------------------                                               
Company Policies, including the reporting of losses, management and defense of
claims (except to the extent settlement authority remains with another party as
contemplated by Section 7.07) and providing for appropriate releases upon
settlement of claims.

     "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
      ----                                                      

     "Commission" means the Securities and Exchange Commission.
      ----------                                               

     "Company Policies" means all Policies, current or past, which are as of the
      ----------------                                                          
Effective Time, or at any time were, maintained by, on behalf of, or for the
benefit or protection of Varian or any of its Subsidiaries or any of its
predecessors which relate to any Shared Liability, the Instruments Business, the
Health Care Systems Business or the Semiconductor Equipment Business, or current
or past directors, officers, employees or agents of any of the foregoing.

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
     "Consent" means any approval, consent or waiver required to be obtained
      -------                                                               
from any Governmental Authority or other third party for the consummation of a
specified transaction, including any option, right of first refusal or other
similar right of a third party triggered by a specified transaction.

     "Consolidated Debt" means with respect to any Person (without duplication),
      -----------------                                                         
every obligation of such Person and its consolidated Subsidiaries (i) for money
borrowed, (ii) evidenced by bonds, debentures, notes or other similar
instruments, (iii) for reimbursement with respect to letters of credit, bankers'
acceptances or similar facilities issued for the account of such Person or its
consolidated Subsidiaries, (iv) for the deferred purchase price of property or
services if, and to the extent that, such obligation would appear as a Liability
upon a balance sheet of such Person or its consolidated Subsidiaries prepared in
accordance with GAAP (but excluding trade accounts payable or accrued
Liabilities arising in the ordinary course of business), excluding capital
leases, and (v) to guarantee or otherwise be liable for, any obligation of the
type referred to in clauses (i) through (iv) of another Person.

     "Conveyancing and Assumption Instruments" means, collectively, the various
      ---------------------------------------                                  
written agreements, instruments and other documents to be entered into to effect
the Corporate Reorganization Transactions or otherwise to effect the transfer of
Assets and the assumption of Liabilities in the manner contemplated by this
Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements.

     "Corporate Reorganization Transactions" means, collectively, each of the
      -------------------------------------                                  
distributions, transfers, conveyances, contributions, assignments and other
transactions described and set forth on Exhibit A, and those described or
contemplated by the Proxy Statement and the private ruling request submissions
made to the Internal Revenue Service in connection therewith, which are intended
to separate and divide the existing businesses of Varian so that, except as
otherwise expressly provided on Exhibit A:

     (i) the  Semiconductor Equipment Assets, Semiconductor Equipment
Liabilities and Semiconductor Equipment Business shall be owned or held,
directly or indirectly, by SEB;

     (ii) the Instruments Assets,  Instruments Liabilities and Instruments
Business shall be owned or held, directly or indirectly, by IB; and

     (iii)  the businesses, Assets and Liabilities of Varian that remain after
the transactions described in clauses (i) and (ii) above, after giving effect to
the Distributions, including the Health Care Systems Assets, Health Care Systems
Liabilities and Health Care Systems Business shall be owned or held, directly or
indirectly, by HCS.

     "Cost" means (i) the salary, fringe benefits and overhead expense of
      ----                                                               
personnel (or an allocable portion thereof) plus (ii) out-of-pocket expenses.

     "DGCL" means the Delaware General Corporation Law, as amended.
      ----                                                         

     "Dispositions" means, collectively, the Palo Alto Property Disposition and
      ------------                                                             
the Aircraft Disposition.

     "Disposition Proceeds" means the proceeds from the Palo Alto Property
      --------------------                                                
Disposition (or any of its component parts) or the Aircraft Disposition, net of
the expenses of such sale or other disposition.

     "Disputing Party" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 9.03(a).
      ---------------                                                           

     "Distribution Date" means the date determined by the Board of Directors of
      -----------------                                                        
Varian as of which the Distributions shall be effected.

     "Distribution Proposals" means, collectively,  Proposals One through Ten
      ----------------------                                                 
set forth in the Proxy Statement.

     "Distribution Record Date" means the time designated by the Board of
      ------------------------                                           
Directors of Varian for the purpose of determining the holders of record of VAI
Common Stock entitled to receive the Distributions.

     "Distributions" means, collectively, the SEB Distribution and the IB
      -------------                                                      
Distribution.
 
     "Effective Time" means 11:59 p.m. California time on the Distribution Date.
      --------------                                                            

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
     "Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement" means the Employee Benefits
      --------------------------------------                             
Allocation Agreement among Varian, SEB and IB (including all exhibits and
schedules thereto) substantially in the form of Exhibit B.

     "Environmental Laws" means any and all federal, state, local and foreign
      ------------------                                                     
statutes, Laws, regulations, ordinances, rules, principles of common law,
judgments, orders, decrees, permits, concessions, grants, franchises, licenses,
agreements or other governmental restrictions (including the Comprehensive
Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, 42 U.S.C. 9601, et
seq.), whether now or hereafter in existence, relating to the environment,
natural resources, human health or safety, endangered or threatened species of
fish, wildlife and plants, or to emissions, discharges or releases of
pollutants, contaminants, petroleum or petroleum products, chemicals or
industrial, toxic or hazardous substances or wastes into the environment
(including indoor or outdoor air, surface water, groundwater and surface or
subsurface soils), or otherwise relating to the manufacture, processing,
distribution, use, treatment, storage, disposal, transport or handling of
pollutants, contaminants, petroleum or petroleum products, chemicals or
industrial, toxic or hazardous substances or wastes or the investigation,
cleanup or other remediation thereof.

     "Environmental Matters" means all matters relating in any way to (i) soil,
      ---------------------                                                    
air and water and groundwater pollution or contamination, including any on-site
or off-site pollution or contamination, (ii) damages to the natural environment
or natural resources, (iii) Releases or discharges of waste, Hazardous
Materials, or pollutants or contaminants, or (iv) recycling or disposal of
Hazardous Materials or wastes (including garbage, refuse, slag, sludge and other
discarded materials, whether solid, liquid, semisolid or gaseous and whether on-
site or off-site).

     "Exchange Act" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
      ------------                                                        

     "GAAP" means United States generally accepted accounting principles and
      ----                                                                  
practices, as in effect on the date of this Agreement, as promulgated by the
Financial Accounting Standards Board and its predecessors.

     "Governmental Authority" means any government or any agency, bureau, board,
      ----------------------                                                    
commission, court, department, official, political subdivision, tribunal or
other instrumentality of any government, whether federal, state or local,
domestic or foreign.

     "Group" means (i) with respect to HCS, the Health Care Systems Group, (ii)
      -----                                                                    
with respect to SEB, the Semiconductor Equipment Group, and (iii) with respect
to IB, the  Instruments Group.

     "Hazardous Materials" means those elements, compounds and substances
      -------------------                                                
identified in any of the Environmental Laws as "hazardous materials," "hazardous
substances," or "hazardous waste," as well as any other elements, compounds or
substances which are listed or identified as "pollutants," "contaminants,"
"hazardous," "toxic" (or other term of similar meaning) under any Environmental
Law.  The term "Hazardous Materials" expressly includes radioactive materials,
petroleum products and asbestos.

     "HCS" means Varian, after giving effect to the Corporate Reorganization
      ---                                                                   
Transactions and the Distributions or as if the Corporate Reorganization
Transactions and the Distributions had occurred, as the context requires.

     "HCS Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet" has the meaning ascribed to such term
      ----------------------------------                                       
in Section 9.03(b).

     "HCS Closing Balance Sheet" has the meaning ascribed to such term in
      -------------------------                                          
Section 5.10(a).

     "HCS Common Stock" means VAI Common Stock after the Distributions.
      ----------------                                                 

     "HCS Dispute" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 9.03(a).
      -----------                                                           

     "HCS Indemnitees" means HCS, the HCS Subsidiaries and each Affiliate
      ---------------                                                    
thereof after giving effect to the Corporate Reorganization Transactions and the
Distributions, and each of the past, present and future directors, officers, 
employees and agents of any of the foregoing and each of the heirs, executors, 
successors and assigns of such directors, officers, employees and agents.

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
     "HCS Pro Forma Balance Sheet" means the pro forma balance sheet of HCS at
      ---------------------------                                             
October 2, 1998, attached as Exhibit F and the accounting records supporting
such balance sheet.

     "HCS Records" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 6.01(c).
      -----------                                                           

     "HCS Subsidiaries" means the Subsidiaries of Varian listed on Exhibit I and
      ----------------                                                          
all other Subsidiaries of Varian other than IB, SEB, the IB Subsidiaries and the
SEB Subsidiaries.

     "Health Care Systems Assets" means, collectively, all the Assets that are
      --------------------------                                              
owned or held by HCS or any HCS Subsidiary as of the Effective Time (and those
Assets to be transferred to HCS or a HCS Subsidiary at a later time as provided
in Section 2.14), including:

     (i) the capital stock of, or other ownership interests in, the HCS
Subsidiaries;

     (ii) all the Assets included on the HCS Pro Forma Balance Sheet that are
owned or held by HCS or any HCS Subsidiary as of the Effective Time;

     (iii)  all the Assets acquired by Varian or any of its Subsidiaries after
the date of the HCS Pro Forma Balance Sheet which are owned or held by Varian or
any of its Subsidiaries as of the Effective Time and which are of a nature or
type that would have resulted in such Assets being included as Assets on the HCS
Pro Forma Balance Sheet had they been acquired on or before the date of the HCS
Pro Forma Balance Sheet, determined on a basis consistent with the determination
of the Assets included on the HCS Pro Forma Balance Sheet;

     (iv) all the Assets expressly allocated to or retained by HCS or any HCS
Subsidiary under this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, including the
Corporate Reorganization Transactions;

     (v) rights to the Company Policies to the extent set forth in Article VIII;
and

     (vi) the rights of HCS and the HCS Subsidiaries under this Agreement and
the Ancillary Agreements.

          Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Health Care Systems Assets shall
not include any and all Assets that are expressly contemplated by this Agreement
or any Ancillary Agreement as Assets to be allocated to or retained by any
member of the Instruments Group or the Semiconductor Equipment Group.

     "Health Care Systems Business" means the business that, after giving effect
      ----------------------------                                              
to the Corporate Reorganization Transactions and the Distributions, is conducted
by HCS, the HCS Subsidiaries and/or any other member of the Health Care Systems
Group.

     "Health Care Systems Group" means HCS, the HCS Subsidiaries and the Persons
      -------------------------                                                 
that become Subsidiaries of HCS after the consummation of the Corporate
Reorganization Transactions and the Distributions.

     "Health Care Systems Liabilities" means, collectively, all the Liabilities
      -------------------------------                                          
of HCS, the HCS Subsidiaries and the other members of the Health Care Systems
Group after giving effect to the Corporate Reorganization Transactions and the
Distributions, including:

     (i) all the Liabilities included on the HCS Pro Forma Balance Sheet that
remain outstanding as of the Effective Time;

     (ii) all the Liabilities of Varian arising or assumed after the date of the
HCS Pro Forma Balance Sheet and that remain outstanding as of the Effective
Time, which are of a nature or type that would have resulted in such Liabilities
being included as Liabilities on the HCS Pro Forma Balance Sheet had they arisen
or been assumed on or before the date of the HCS Pro Forma Balance Sheet,
determined on a basis consistent with the determination of the Liabilities of
HCS on the HCS Pro Forma Balance Sheet;

     (iii)  all the Liabilities expressly assumed or retained by HCS, any HCS
Subsidiary and any other member of the Health Care Systems Group under this
Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, including the Corporate Reorganization
Transactions;

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
     (iv) the obligations of HCS, the HCS Subsidiaries and any other member of
the Health Care Systems Group under this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements;

     (v) all actual or alleged Liabilities (regardless of whether any claim with
respect to such Liabilities is asserted before, on or after the Distribution
Date) relating to Environmental Matters or arising under any Environmental Laws
(including all claims for death, bodily injury, personal injury and property
damage relating to Environmental Matters or arising under any Environmental
Laws) arising out of, relating to or resulting from (A) the activities,
operations, acts or omissions at, from or with respect to the Health Care
Systems Business or the Health Care Systems Assets before, on or after the
Distribution Date, and (B) Remediation of any Release arising out of, relating
to or resulting from activities, operations, acts or omissions at, from or with
respect to the Health Care Systems Business or the Health Care Systems Assets
before, on or after the Distribution Date wherever such Remediation may be
performed;

     (vi) all actual or alleged Liabilities of HCS and any other member of the
Health Care Systems Group to third parties (regarding of whether any claim with
respect to such Liabilities is asserted before, on or after the Distribution
Date) arising out of, relating to or resulting from the transportation,
handling, possession, processing, treatment, storage, disposal, manufacture,
further manufacture, use, reuse, sale or resale of any goods manufactured,
processed, sold or distributed at any time on or before the Distribution Date by
the Health Care Systems Business, including all such Liability for personal
injury, bodily injury (including death or aggravation of previously existing
illness, injury disability or condition) or property damage;

     (vii)  all Liabilities to persons employed by Varian or its Subsidiaries on
or before the Effective Time, the services of whom were primarily dedicated to
the Health Care Systems Business, including Liabilities arising out of, relating
to or resulting  from the termination or alleged termination of such person's
employment as a result of the Corporate Reorganization Transactions or the
Distributions and Liabilities arising out of, relating to or resulting from the
assertion by any such person of employment by a member of another Group as a
result of the Corporate Reorganization Transactions; and

     (viii)  all the Liabilities of the parties or their respective Subsidiaries
(whether arising before, on or after the Distribution Date) arising out of,
relating to or resulting from the management or conduct before, on or after the
Distribution Date of the Health Care Systems Business or ownership of the Health
Care Systems Assets (including Securities Liabilities to the extent arising out
of, relating to or resulting from information concerning the management,
business or operations of HCS, the HCS Subsidiaries or the other members of the
Health Care Systems Group in the Registration Statements or the Proxy
Statement), except as otherwise expressly provided herein.

          Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Health Care Systems Liabilities
     shall not include:

          (x) any Liability set forth on Schedule 1.01(a); or

          (y) any and all Liabilities that are expressly contemplated by this
     Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement as Liabilities to be assumed or
     retained by any member of the Instruments Group or the Semiconductor
     Equipment Group.

     "IB" has the meaning ascribed to such term in the first paragraph of this
      --                                                                      
Agreement.

     "IB Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet" has the meaning ascribed to such term
      ---------------------------------                                       
in Section 9.03(b).

     "IB Claim" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 8.01(b).
      --------                                                           

     "IB Closing Balance Sheet" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section
      ------------------------                                                  
5.10(a).

     "IB Common Shares" means the shares of IB Common Stock owned by Varian
      ----------------                                                     
immediately before the Distributions.

     "IB Common Stock" has the meaning ascribed to such term in the recitals to
      ---------------                                                          
this Agreement.

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
     "IB Distribution" means the distribution, on the Distribution Date, as a
      ---------------                                                        
dividend by Varian to the Varian Holders of the IB Common Shares on the basis
provided in Section 3.02.

     "IB Dispute" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 9.03(a).
      ----------                                                           

     "IB Indemnitees" means IB, the IB Subsidiaries and each Affiliate thereof
      --------------                                                          
after giving effect to the Corporate Reorganization Transactions and the
Distributions, and each of the past, present and future directors, officers,
employees and agents of the foregoing and each of the heirs, executors,
successors and assigns of such directors, officers, employees and agents.

     "IB Pro Forma Balance Sheet" means the pro forma balance sheet of IB at
      --------------------------                                            
October 2, 1998, attached as Exhibit G and the accounting records supporting
such balance sheet.

     "IB Records" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 6.01(b).
      ----------                                                           

     "IB Notes Payable" means the Notes Payable assumed by IB pursuant to
      ----------------                                                   
Sections 2.05(c) and (d).

     "IB Subsidiaries" means the Subsidiaries listed on Exhibit J.
      ---------------                                             

     "IB Term Loans" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section
      -------------                                                  
2.05(c)(i).

     "Income Tax" means (i) any Tax imposed by Subtitle A or F of the Code, (ii)
      ----------                                                                
any Tax imposed by any state of the United States or by any political
subdivision of any such state which is imposed on or measured by net income,
including state and local franchise or similar Taxes measured by net income, and
(iii) any Tax imposed by any foreign country or any possession of the United
States, or by any political subdivision of any foreign country or United States
possession that is an income tax as defined in Treasury Regulation Section
1.901-2.

     "Indemnifiable Losses" means, with respect to any Person, any and all
      --------------------                                                
losses, obligations, claims, damages, deficiencies, penalties, judgments,
settlements, payments, fines, interest, costs and expenses (including reasonable
attorneys', accountants', consultants' or other professionals' fees,
investigation expenses and any and all other out-of-pocket expenses) or other
Liabilities whatsoever that are assessed, imposed, awarded against or incurred
by such Person excluding exemplary, special or punitive damages or lost profits
except to the extent actually paid by an Indemnitee in respect of a Third Party
Claim or Action either (i) in investigating, preparing for, defending against
any Actions, any potential or threatened Actions or any Third Party Claims or
potential or threatened Third Party Claims or in settling any of the foregoing
or in satisfaction of any judgment, fine or penalty rendered in or resulting
from any of the foregoing or otherwise arising out of, relating to or resulting
from any Actions, any potential or threatened Actions or any Third Party Claims
or potential or threatened Third Party Claims for which such Person would be
entitled to indemnification under Article VII hereof, or (ii) in respect of any
other event, occurrence or matter for which such Person would be entitled to
indemnification under Article VII hereof, in each case whether accrued before,
on or after the date of this Agreement.

     "Indemnifying Party" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section
      ------------------                                                  
7.06(a).

     "Indemnitee" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 7.06(a).
      ----------                                                           

     "Independent Auditors" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section
      --------------------                                                  
9.03(b).

     "Instruments Assets" means, collectively, all the Assets that are owned or
      ------------------                                                       
held by IB or any IB Subsidiary as of the Effective Time (and those Assets to be
transferred to IB or an IB Subsidiary at a later time as provided in Section
2.14), including:

     (i) the capital stock of, or other ownership interests in, the IB
Subsidiaries;

     (ii) all the Assets included on the IB Pro Forma Balance Sheet that are
owned or held by IB or any IB Subsidiary as of the Effective Time;

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
     (iii)  all the Assets acquired by Varian or any of its Subsidiaries after
the date of the IB Pro Forma Balance Sheet which are owned or held by Varian or
any of its Subsidiaries as of the Effective Time and which are of a nature or
type that would have resulted in such Assets being included as Assets on the IB
Pro Forma Balance Sheet had they been acquired on or before the date of the IB
Pro Forma Balance Sheet, determined on a basis consistent with the determination
of the Assets included on the IB Pro Forma Balance Sheet;

     (iv) all the Assets expressly allocated to or retained by IB or any IB
Subsidiary under this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, including the
Corporate Reorganization Transactions;

     (v) rights to the Company Policies to the extent set forth in Article VIII;
and

     (vi) the rights of IB and the IB Subsidiaries under this Agreement and the
Ancillary Agreements.

          Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Instruments Assets shall not
include any and all Assets that are expressly contemplated by this Agreement or
any Ancillary Agreement as Assets to be allocated to or retained by any member
of the Semiconductor Equipment Group or the Health Care Systems Group.

     "Instruments Business" means the business that, after giving effect to the
      --------------------                                                     
Corporate Reorganization Transactions and the Distributions, is conducted by IB,
the IB Subsidiaries and/or any other member of the Instruments Group.

     "Instruments Group" means IB, the IB Subsidiaries and the Persons that
      -----------------                                                    
become Subsidiaries of IB after the consummation of the Corporate Reorganization
Transactions and the Distributions.

     "Instruments Liabilities" means, collectively, all the Liabilities of IB,
      -----------------------                                                 
the IB Subsidiaries and the other members of the Instruments Group after giving
effect to the Corporate Reorganization Transactions and the Distributions,
including:

     (i) all the Liabilities included on the IB Pro Forma Balance Sheet that
remain outstanding as of the Effective Time;

     (ii) all the Liabilities of Varian arising or assumed after the date of the
IB Pro Forma Balance Sheet and that remain outstanding as of the Effective Time,
which are of a nature or type that would have resulted in such Liabilities being
included as Liabilities on the IB Pro Forma Balance Sheet had they arisen or
been assumed on or before the date of the IB Pro Forma Balance Sheet, determined
on a basis consistent with the determination of the Liabilities of IB on the IB
Pro Forma Balance Sheet;

     (iii)  all the Liabilities expressly assumed or retained by IB, any IB
Subsidiary and any other member of the Instruments Group under this Agreement or
any Ancillary Agreement, including the Corporate Reorganization Transactions,
the IB Term Loans and the IB Notes Payable;

     (iv) the obligations of IB, the IB Subsidiaries and any other member of the
Instruments Group under this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements;

     (v) all actual or alleged Liabilities (regardless of whether any claim with
respect to such Liabilities is asserted before, on or after the Distribution
Date) relating to Environmental Matters or arising under any Environmental Laws
(including all claims for death, bodily injury, personal injury and property
damage relating to Environmental Matters or arising under any Environmental
Laws) arising out of, relating to or resulting from (A) the activities,
operations, acts or omissions at, from or with respect to the Instruments
Business or the Instruments Assets before, on or after the Distribution Date,
and (B) Remediation of any Release arising out of, relating to or resulting from
activities, operations, acts or omissions at, from or with respect to the
Instruments Business or the Instruments Assets before, on or after the
Distribution Date wherever such Remediation may be performed;

     (vi) all actual or alleged Liabilities of IB and any other member of the
Instruments Group to third parties (regarding of whether any claim with respect
to such Liabilities is asserted before, on or after the Distribution Date)
arising out of, relating to or resulting from the transportation, handling,
possession, processing, treatment, storage, disposal, manufacture, further
manufacture, use, reuse, sale or resale of any goods manufactured, processed,

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
sold or distributed at any time on or before the Distribution Date by the
Instruments Business, including all such Liability for personal injury, bodily
injury (including death or aggravation of previously existing illness, injury
disability or condition) or property damage;

     (vii)  all Liabilities to persons employed by Varian or its Subsidiaries on
or before the Effective Time, the services of whom were primarily dedicated to
the Instruments Business, including Liabilities arising out of, relating to or
resulting from the termination or alleged termination of such person's
employment as a result of the Corporate Reorganization Transactions or the
Distributions and Liabilities arising out of, relating to or resulting from the
assertion by any such person of employment by a member of another Group as a
result of the Corporate Reorganization Transactions; and

     (viii)  all the Liabilities of the parties or their respective Subsidiaries
(whether arising before, on or after the Distribution Date) arising out of,
relating to or resulting from the management or conduct before, on or after the
Distribution Date of the Instruments Business or ownership of the Instruments
Assets (including Securities Liabilities to the extent arising out of, relating
to or resulting from information concerning the management, business or
operations of IB, the IB Subsidiaries or the other members of the Instruments
Group in the Registration Statements or the Proxy Statement), except as
otherwise expressly provided herein.

          Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Instruments Liabilities shall not
     include:

          (x) any Liability set forth on Schedule 1.01(a);

          (y) any and all Liabilities that are expressly contemplated by this
     Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement as Liabilities to be assumed or
     retained by any member of the Semiconductor Equipment Group or the Health
     Care Systems Group.

     "Insurance Administration" means, with respect to each Company Policy, the
      ------------------------                                                 
accounting for premiums, retrospectively calculated additional or return
premiums or assessments, policy dividends or audited exposure, defense costs,
indemnity payments, deductibles and retentions, as appropriate, under the terms
and conditions of each of the Company Policies; the reporting to excess
insurance carriers of any losses or claims that may cause the per occurrence,
per claim or aggregate limits of any Company Policy to be exceeded and the
distribution of Insurance Proceeds as contemplated by this Agreement.

     "Insurance Proceeds" means, with respect to any insured party, those
      ------------------                                                 
monies, net of any applicable premium adjustment, retrospectively calculated
premium, deductible, retention or cost of reserve paid or held by or for the
benefit of such insured, which are either:

     (i) received by an insured from an insurer; or

     (ii) paid by an insurer on behalf of an insured.

     "Insured Claims" means those Liabilities that, individually or in the
      --------------                                                      
aggregate, are covered within the terms and conditions of any of the Company
Policies, whether or not subject to deductibles, co-insurance, uncollectability
or retrospectively calculated premium adjustments.
 
     "Intellectual Property" means the intellectual property rights owned,
      ---------------------                                               
licensed to or otherwise held throughout the world by any person, including,
without limitation, all of the rights, title and interests in the following:

     (i) all United States and foreign patents, patent applications (including
any continuations, continuation-in-part and divisionals), patent applications
under preparation, invention disclosures and invention disclosures under
preparation;

     (ii) all United States and foreign registered and unregistered copyrights
and mask works, including applications and applications under preparation
therefor;

                                      10
<PAGE>
 
     (iii) all United States and foreign registered and unregistered trademarks,
trade names, trade dress, service marks, services names, artwork, logos and
other marks, including applications and applications under preparation therefor;

     (iv) all trade secrets, know-how, ideas, concepts, discoveries,
improvements, processes, procedures, methods, recipes, formulae, data and
specifications;

     (v) all computer programs and other software (in executable or source code
format), including operating software, applications, networks software,
firmware, middleware, design software, design tools, test and diagnostic
software and systems configurations; and

     (vi) all documentation, schematics, drawings, designs, manuals, reports,
records, instructions, studies, surveys, plans, books or other written materials
(whether in hard copy or magnetic form) relating to or including any of the (i)
through (v) above.

     "Intellectual Property Agreement" means the Intellectual Property Agreement
      -------------------------------                                           
among Varian, SEB and IB (including all exhibits and schedules thereto),
substantially in the form of Exhibit C.

     "Law" means all laws, statutes, ordinances, regulations, rules, orders and
      ---                                                                      
regulations of any Governmental Authority.

     "Liabilities" means any and all debts, liabilities, obligations,
      -----------                                                    
responsibilities, charges, claims, actions, injuries, losses, damages (whether
compensatory, punitive or treble), fines, penalties and sanctions, absolute or
contingent, matured or unmatured, liquidated or unliquidated, foreseen or
unforeseen, joint, several or individual, asserted or unasserted, accrued or
unaccrued, known or unknown, whenever arising, including those arising under or
in connection with any Law (including any Environmental Law), Action, threatened
Action, order or consent decree of any Governmental Authority or any award of
any arbitrator, and those arising under any contract, guarantee, commitment or
undertaking, whether sought to be imposed by a Governmental Authority, private
party or party to this Agreement, whether based in contract, tort, implied or
express warranty, strict liability, criminal or civil statute, or otherwise, and
including any costs, expenses, interest, attorneys' fees, disbursements and
expenses of counsel, experts' and consultants' fees and costs related thereto or
to investigating, preparing for or defending or settling any of the foregoing.

     "Managing Party" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 7.07(c).
      --------------                                                           

     "Meeting" means the Combined Annual and Special Meeting of holders of VAI
      -------                                                                 
Common Stock to consider the Distribution Proposals and the other proposals
included by the Board of Directors of Varian in the notice of the Meeting.

     "Meeting Date" means the date determined by the Board of Directors of
      ------------                                                        
Varian for the Meeting.

     "Meeting Record Date" means the time determined by the Board of Directors
      -------------------                                                     
of Varian for the purpose of determining the holders of record of VAI Common
Stock entitled to vote at the Meeting.

     "Nasdaq" means The Nasdaq Stock Market.
      ------                                

     "Net Debt" means the difference between (i) the sum of the Notes Payable
      --------                                                               
and VAI Term Loans assumed or retained  by a party as of the date of
determination and (ii) the amount of Cash and Cash Equivalents of such party as
of the date of determination.

     "Net Worth" has the meaning ascribed to such term under GAAP, as calculated
      ---------                                                                 
in accordance with this Agreement, but without giving effect to any Liabilities
or expenditures related to the discretionary restructuring of a business between
the date hereof and the Effective Time, including reductions in force,
facilities' closures, product line abandonment and revaluing impaired assets.

     "Nondisclosure Agreements" means all of the nondisclosure or
      ------------------------                                   
confidentiality agreements entered into by Varian and its Subsidiaries from time
to time before the Distribution Date.

                                      11
<PAGE>
 
     "Notes Payable" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Varian's audited
      -------------                                                           
consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended October 2, 1998.

     "Notice" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 10.05.
      ------                                                         

     "NYSE" means the New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
      ----                                         

     "Palo Alto Property Disposition" has the meaning ascribed to such term in
      ------------------------------                                          
Section 2.01(b).

     "Panel" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 9.02(c).
      -----                                                           

     "Person" means any natural person, corporation, business trust, joint
      ------                                                              
venture, association, company, partnership, limited liability company or other
entity or any Governmental Authority.

     "Policies" means insurance policies and insurance contracts of any kind
      --------                                                              
(other than life and benefits policies or contracts), including primary, excess
and umbrella policies, commercial general liability policies, officers'
liability, fiduciary liability, automobile, aircraft, property and casualty,
workers' compensation and employee dishonesty insurance policies, bonds and
self-insurance and captive insurance arrangements, together with the rights,
benefits and privileges thereunder.

     "Privilege" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 6.07(a).
      ---------                                                           

     "Privileged Information" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section
      ----------------------                                                  
6.07(b).

     "Proxy Statement" means the Proxy Statement sent to the holders of VAI
      ---------------                                                      
Common Stock in connection with the Meeting, including any amendments or
supplements thereto.

     "Registration Statements" means the Registration Statements on Form 10 to
      -----------------------                                                 
be filed by SEB and IB with the Commission pursuant to the requirements of the
Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder in order to register the
SEB Common Stock and the IB Common Stock, respectively, under the Exchange Act,
including any amendments thereto.

     "Release" means any spilling, leaking, pumping, pouring, emitting,
      -------                                                          
discharging, injecting, escaping, leaching, dumping or disposing into the
environment of any Hazardous Material, including the abandonment or discarding
of containers and other receptacles containing any Hazardous Materials and any
passive migration of any Hazardous Material.

     "Remediation" means any investigation, remediation, prevention, containment
      -----------                                                               
or abatement of releases or threatened releases of materials into the workplace
or the environment and the assessment and mitigation of risks and/or restoration
of any harm arising therefrom and any related actions.

     "Representative" means, with respect to any Person, any of such Person's
      --------------                                                         
directors, officers, employees, agents, consultants, advisors, accountants,
attorneys and representatives.

     "SEB" has the meaning ascribed to such term in the first paragraph of this
      ---                                                                      
Agreement.

     "SEB Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet" has the meaning ascribed to such term
      ----------------------------------                                       
in Section 9.03(b).

     "SEB Claim" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 8.01(c).
      ---------                                                           

     "SEB Closing Balance Sheet" has the meaning ascribed to such term in
      -------------------------                                          
Section 5.10(a).

     "SEB Common Shares" means the shares of SEB Common Stock owned by Varian
      -----------------                                                      
immediately before the Distributions.

     "SEB Common Stock" has the meaning ascribed to such term in the recitals to
      ----------------                                                          
this Agreement.

                                      12
<PAGE>
 
     "SEB Dispute" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 9.03(a).
      -----------                                                           

     "SEB Distribution" means the distribution, on the Distribution Date, as a
      ----------------                                                        
dividend by Varian to the Varian Holders of the SEB Common Shares on the basis
provided in Section 3.02.

     "SEB Indemnitees" means SEB, the SEB Subsidiaries and each Affiliate
      ---------------                                                    
thereof after giving effect to the Corporate Reorganization Transactions and the
Distributions, and each of the past, present and future directors, officers,
employees and agents of the foregoing and each of the heirs, executors,
successors and assigns of such directors, officers, employees and agents.

     "SEB Pro Forma Balance Sheet" means the pro forma balance sheet of SEB at
      ---------------------------                                             
October 2, 1998, attached as Exhibit H and the accounting records supporting
such balance sheet.

     "SEB Records" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 6.01(a).
      -----------                                                           

     "SEB Subsidiaries" means the Subsidiaries listed on Exhibit K.
      ----------------                                             

     "Securities Act" means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
      --------------                                               

     "Securities Liabilities" means any Liabilities whatsoever that are
      ----------------------                                           
assessed, imposed, awarded against, incurred or accrued by a Person arising out
of, relating to or resulting from, in whole or in part, any Action, any
potential or threatened Action or any Third Party Claim (or any potential or
threatened Third Party Claim) by any Governmental Authority or any other Person
that is based on any violations or alleged violations of the Securities Act,
Exchange Act, any of the rules or regulations of the Commission promulgated
under the Securities Act or Exchange Act, or any other securities or other
similar Law, or on any alleged breach of duty by a Person in causing, permitting
or failing to prevent any such violation or alleged violation.

     "Security Interest" means any mortgage, security interest, pledge, lien,
      -----------------                                                      
charge, claim, option, right to acquire, voting or other restriction, right-of-
way, covenant, condition, easement, encroachment, restriction on transfer, or
other encumbrance of any nature whatsoever.

     "Semiconductor Equipment Assets" means, collectively, all the Assets that
      ------------------------------                                          
are owned or held by SEB or any SEB Subsidiary as of the Effective Time (and
those Assets to be transferred to SEB or a SEB Subsidiary at a later time as
provided in Section 2.14), including:

     (i) the capital stock of, or other ownership interests in, the SEB
Subsidiaries;

     (ii) all the Assets included on the SEB Pro Forma Balance Sheet that are
owned or held by SEB or any SEB Subsidiary as of the Effective Time;

     (iii)  all the Assets acquired by Varian or any of its Subsidiaries after
the date of the SEB Pro Forma Balance Sheet which are owned or held by Varian or
any of its Subsidiaries as of the Effective Time and which are of a nature or
type that would have resulted in such Assets being included as Assets on the SEB
Pro Forma Balance Sheet had they been acquired on or before the date of the SEB
Pro Forma Balance Sheet, determined on a basis consistent with the determination
of the Assets included on the SEB Pro Forma Balance Sheet;

     (iv) all the Assets expressly allocated to or retained by SEB or any SEB
Subsidiary under this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, including the
Corporate Reorganization Transactions;

     (v) rights to the Company Policies to the extent set forth in Article VIII;
and

     (vi) the rights of SEB and the SEB Subsidiaries under this Agreement and
the Ancillary Agreements.

          Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Semiconductor Equipment Assets
shall not include any and all Assets that are expressly contemplated by this
Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement as Assets to be allocated to or retained by
any member of the Instruments Group or the Health Care Systems Group.

                                      13
<PAGE>
 
     "Semiconductor Equipment Business" means the business that, after giving
      --------------------------------                                       
effect to the Corporate Reorganization Transactions and the Distributions, is
conducted by SEB, the SEB Subsidiaries and/or any other member of the
Semiconductor Equipment Group.

     "Semiconductor Equipment Group" means SEB, the SEB Subsidiaries and the
      -----------------------------                                         
Persons that become Subsidiaries of SEB after the consummation of the Corporate
Reorganization Transactions and the Distributions.

     "Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities" means, collectively, all of the
      -----------------------------------                                 
Liabilities of SEB, the SEB Subsidiaries and the other members of the
Semiconductor Equipment Group after giving effect to the Corporate
Reorganization Transactions and the Distributions, including:

     (i) all the Liabilities included on the SEB Pro Forma Balance Sheet that
remain outstanding as of the Effective Time;

     (ii) all the Liabilities of Varian arising or assumed after the date of the
SEB Pro Forma Balance Sheet that remain outstanding as of the Effective Time,
which are of a nature or type that would have resulted in such Liabilities being
included as Liabilities on the SEB Pro Forma Balance Sheet had they arisen or
been assumed on or before the date of the SEB Pro Forma Balance Sheet,
determined on a basis consistent with the determination of the Liabilities of
SEB on the SEB Pro Forma Balance Sheet;

     (iii)  all the Liabilities expressly assumed or retained by SEB, any SEB
Subsidiary and any other member of the Semiconductor Equipment Group under this
Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, including the Corporate Reorganization
Transactions;

     (iv) the obligations of SEB, the SEB Subsidiaries and any other member of
the Semiconductor Equipment Group under this Agreement and the Ancillary
Agreements;

     (v) all actual or alleged Liabilities (regardless of whether any claim with
respect to such Liabilities is asserted before, on or after the Distribution
Date) relating to Environmental Matters or arising under any Environmental Laws
(including all claims for death, bodily injury, personal injury and property
damage relating to Environmental Matters or arising under any Environmental
Laws) arising out of, relating to or resulting from (A) the activities,
operations, acts or omissions at, from or with respect to the Semiconductor
Equipment Business or the Semiconductor Equipment Assets before, on or after the
Distribution Date and (B) Remediation of any Release arising out of, relating to
or resulting from activities, operations, acts or omissions at, from or with
respect to the Semiconductor Equipment Business or the Semiconductor Equipment
Assets before, on or after the Distribution Date wherever such Remediation may
be performed;

     (vi) all actual or alleged Liabilities of SEB and any other member of the
Semiconductor Equipment Group to third parties (regardless of whether any claim
with respect to such Liabilities is asserted before, on or after the
Distribution Date) arising out of, relating to or resulting from the
transportation, handling, possession, processing, treatment, storage, disposal,
manufacture, further manufacture, use, reuse, sale or resale of any goods
manufactured, processed, sold or distributed at any time on or before the
Distribution Date by the Semiconductor Equipment Business, including all such
Liability for personal injury, bodily injury (including death or aggravation of
previously existing illness, injury disability or condition) or property damage;

     (vii)  all the Liabilities of the parties or their respective Subsidiaries,
(whether arising before, on or after the Distribution Date) arising out of,
relating to or resulting from the management or conduct before, on or after the
Distribution Date of the Semiconductor Equipment Business or ownership of the
Semiconductor Equipment Assets (including Securities Liabilities to the extent
arising out of, relating to or resulting from information concerning the
management, business or operations of SEB, the SEB Subsidiaries or the other
members of the Semiconductor Equipment Group in the Registration Statements and
Proxy Statement), except as otherwise expressly provided herein;

     (viii)  all Liabilities to persons employed by Varian or its Subsidiaries
on or before the Effective Time, the services of whom were primarily dedicated
to the Semiconductor Equipment Business, including Liabilities arising out of,
relating to or resulting from the termination or alleged termination of such
person's employment as a result of the Corporate Reorganization Transactions or
the Distributions and Liabilities arising out of, relating to or 

                                      14
<PAGE>
 
resulting from the assertion by any such person of employment by a member of
another Group as a result of the Corporate Reorganization Transactions; and

     (ix) all Liabilities, including those expressly enumerated in clauses (i)
through (vii), arising out of, related to, or resulting from the Thin Film
Systems Business and the acquisition, ownership, use and disposition of the
Assets related thereto.

          Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities
     shall not include:

          (x) any Liability set forth on Schedule 1.01(a); or

          (y) any and all Liabilities that are expressly contemplated by this
     Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement as Liabilities to be assumed or
     retained by any member of the Instruments Group or the Health Care Systems
     Group.

     "Separation Committee" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section
      --------------------                                                  
9.01(a).

     "Shared Assets" means (i) the Assets listed on Schedule 1.02, (ii) any
      -------------                                                        
claim or right of Varian or its Subsidiaries (before giving effect to the
Corporate Reorganization Transactions and the Distributions) arising out of,
relating to or resulting from, the management or conduct before the
Distributions of the business of Varian or its Subsidiaries (before giving
effect to the Corporate Reorganization Transactions and the Distributions),
which Asset is not expressly included in the definitions of "Health Care Systems
Assets," "Instruments Assets" or "Semiconductor Equipment Assets" and which
claim or right, whenever arising, has accrued before the Distribution Date and
(iii) any Asset received in respect of a Shared Liability, the amount of which
exceeds the amount of the Shared Liability then due and owing.

     "Shared Liabilities" means (i) the Liabilities listed on Schedule 1.01(a),
      ------------------                                                       
(ii) any Liability (whether arising before, on or after the Distributions) of
Varian or its Subsidiaries (before giving effect to the Corporate Reorganization
Transactions and the Distributions) arising out of, relating to or resulting
from, the management or conduct before the Distributions of the businesses of
Varian or its Subsidiaries (before giving effect to the Corporate Reorganization
Transactions and the Distributions) or their respective Assets, which Liability
is not expressly included in the definitions of "Health Care Systems
Liabilities," "Instruments Liabilities" or "Semiconductor Equipment
Liabilities," including those Liabilities listed on Schedule 1.01(b), Securities
Liabilities of Varian and its Subsidiaries (before giving effect to the
Corporate Reorganization Transactions and Distributions) and/or any of its and
their respective directors, officers, employees, agents or representative at or
before the Distributions (other than 
Securities Liabilities specifically assumed by HCS, SEB and IB in this
Agreement) and Liabilities arising out of, relating to or resulting from any
alleged breach of fiduciary duty by the Board of Directors of Varian or any
member thereof at or before the Distributions, (iii) the Costs of personnel and
third party service providers involved in Insurance Administration with respect
to the Company Policies, and (iv) the cost of any Policies, letters of credit or
surety bonds insuring against or otherwise covering the Liabilities included in
clauses (i) and (ii) and the Costs of personnel and third party service
providers involved in Insurance Administration or Claims Administration with
respect to such Policies.

     "Subsidiary" means, with respect to any Person:
      ----------                                    

     (i) any corporation of which at least a majority in interest of the
outstanding voting stock (having by the terms thereof voting power under
ordinary circumstances to elect a majority of the directors of such corporation,
irrespective of whether or not at the time stock of any other class or classes
of such corporation shall have or might have voting power by reason of the
happening of a contingency) is at the time, directly or indirectly, owned or
controlled by such Person or by such Person and one or more of its Subsidiaries;
or

     (ii) any non-corporate entity in which such Person or such Person and one
or more Subsidiaries of such Person either (A) directly or indirectly, at the
date of determination thereof, has at least majority ownership interest, or (B)
at the date of determination is a general partner or an entity performing
similar functions (e.g., manager of a limited liability company or a trustee of
a trust).

                                      15
<PAGE>
 
     "Tax" or "Taxes" means any income, gross income, gross receipts, profits,
      ---      -----                                                          
capital stock, franchise, withholding, payroll, social security, workers'
compensation, unemployment, registration, disability, property, ad valorem,
stamp, excise, severance, occupation, service, sales, use, license, lease,
transfer, import, export, value added, alternative minimum, estimated, or other
similar tax (including any fee, assessment or other charge in the nature of or
in lieu of any tax) imposed by any Governmental Authority, and any interest,
penalties, additions to tax, or additional amounts in respect of the foregoing.

     "Tax Benefit" means the product determined by multiplying the sum of all
      -----------                                                            
Transaction Expenditures (whether paid before, on or after the Effective Time)
that are deductible for U.S. federal income tax purposes by 38%.

     "Tax Cost" means the sum of the products determined by multiplying the
      --------                                                             
gains on the Dispositions (whether recognized before, on or after the Effective
Time) for U.S. federal income tax purposes by 38%.

     "Tax Sharing Agreement" means the Tax Sharing Agreement among Varian, IB
      ---------------------                                                  
and SEB (including all exhibits or schedules thereto) substantially in the form
of Exhibit D.

     "Thin Film Systems Business" means the business of the development,
      --------------------------                                        
manufacture, sale and service of products for physical vapor disposition and
chemical vapor disposition of thin films sold to Novellus Systems, Inc.
effective June 13, 1997.

     "Third Party Claim" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section
      -----------------                                                  
7.07(a).

     "Transaction Expenditures" means all cash costs, expenses or other
      ------------------------                                         
expenditures incurred before or after the date hereof in connection with the
preparation, execution and delivery of this Agreement and the Ancillary
Agreements and the effectuation of the Corporate Reorganization Transactions and
the Distributions, including the items listed on Schedule 1.03, but excluding
(i) taxes, (ii) the costs associated with the termination of personnel employed
other than in the United States, (iii) Liabilities and expenditures related to
the discretionary restructuring of a business, and (iv) Shared Liabilities.

     "Transition Services Agreement" means the Transition Services Agreement
      -----------------------------                                         
among SEB, IB and Varian (including all exhibits or schedules thereto),
substantially in the form of Exhibit E.

     "VAI Common Stock" has the meaning ascribed to such term in the recitals to
      ----------------                                                          
this Agreement.

     "VAI Term Loans" means the indebtedness outstanding under the Senior Notes
      --------------                                                           
of Varian issued and outstanding under the Master Shelf Agreement dated as of
May 11, 1992 and the Note Purchase and Private Master Shelf Agreement dated as
of October 18, 1996.

     "Varian" has the meaning ascribed to such term in the first paragraph of
      ------                                                                 
this Agreement.

     "Varian Holders" means the holders of record of VAI Common Stock as of the
      --------------                                                           
Distribution Record Date.

     Section 1.02. References; Interpretation. References in this Agreement to
                   --------------------------                                 
any gender include references to all genders, and references to the singular
include references to the plural and vice versa. The words "include," "includes"
and "including" when used in this Agreement shall be deemed to be followed by
the phrase "without limitation." Unless the context otherwise requires,
references in this Agreement to Articles, Sections, Exhibits and Schedules shall
be deemed references to Articles and Sections of, and Exhibits and Schedules to,
this Agreement. Unless the context otherwise requires, the words "hereof,"
"hereby" and "herein" and words of similar meaning when used in this Agreement
refer to this Agreement in its entirety and not to any particular Article,
Section or provision of this Agreement.

                                      16
<PAGE>
 
                                  ARTICLE II
                         PRE-DISTRIBUTION TRANSACTIONS;
                               CERTAIN COVENANTS

     Section 2.01.  Corporate Reorganization Transactions; Dispositions.
                    --------------------------------------------------- 
     (a)  Corporate Reorganization.  On or before the Distribution Date (but 
          ------------------------                                              
in all events before the Distributions), each of Varian, IB and SEB shall, and
shall cause each of their respective Subsidiaries to, as applicable, take such
action or actions as is necessary or appropriate to cause, effect and consummate
the Corporate Reorganization Transactions in accordance with the terms and
provisions set forth in Exhibit A. Notwithstanding the foregoing, each of
Varian, IB and SEB agrees that before the Distributions, one or more of the
Corporate Reorganization Transactions may be amended, modified, supplemented or
eliminated by Varian in any manner determined by Varian in its sole discretion
to be necessary or appropriate, including to qualify any of such transactions
for tax-free treatment under the Code; provided, however, that no Corporate
                                       --------  -------
Reorganization Transaction may be amended, modified, supplemented or eliminated
after the Varian stockholders approve the Distributions, unless it would not be
materially adverse to the Varian stockholders.

     (b)  Dispositions.
          ------------ 

          (i) Varian shall use commercially reasonable efforts to sell Varian's
     leasehold interest in and buildings and fixtures for four of its buildings
     in the Stanford Research Park (the Ginzton Research Center at 3075 Hansen
     Way and the three buildings at 3030-3050 Hansen Way, Palo Alto) before the
     Distribution Date (the "Palo Alto Property Disposition").

          (ii) Varian shall use commercially reasonable efforts to sell its Gulf
     Stream III aircraft, model year 1980 before the Distribution Date (the
     "Aircraft Disposition").

     Section 2.02. Conveyance of Assets. Except as otherwise expressly provided
                   --------------------                                        
in this Agreement or the Ancillary Agreements, on or before the Distribution
Date,

     (a)  Health Care Systems Transfers. Varian shall, on behalf of itself and 
          -----------------------------                                         
the HCS Subsidiaries, transfer or cause to be transferred to IB or an IB
Subsidiary all of Varian's and the HCS Subsidiaries' right, title and interest
in the Instruments Assets. Varian shall, on behalf of itself and the HCS
Subsidiaries, transfer or cause to be transferred to SEB or a SEB Subsidiary all
of Varian's and the HCS Subsidiaries' right, title and interest in the
Semiconductor Equipment Assets.

     (b)  Instruments Transfers.  IB shall, on behalf of itself and the IB
          ---------------------                                           
Subsidiaries, transfer or cause to be transferred to Varian or a HCS Subsidiary
all of IB's and the IB Subsidiaries' right, title and interest in the Health
Care Systems Assets. IB shall, on behalf of itself and the IB Subsidiaries,
transfer or cause to be transferred to SEB or a SEB Subsidiary, all of IB's and
the IB Subsidiaries' right, title and interest in the Semiconductor Equipment
Assets.

     (c)  Semiconductor Equipment Transfers. SEB shall, on behalf of itself 
          ---------------------------------                                     
and the SEB Subsidiaries, transfer or cause to be transferred to Varian or a HCS
Subsidiary all of SEB's and the SEB Subsidiaries' right, title and interest in
the Health Care Systems Assets. SEB shall, on behalf of itself and the SEB
Subsidiaries, transfer or cause to be transferred to IB or an IB Subsidiary all
of SEB's and the SEB Subsidiaries' right, title and interest in the Instruments
Assets.

     (d)  Designation of Owner.  Each of Varian, IB and SEB may designate the 
          --------------------                                                  
member of its Group to which each Asset is to be transferred.

     Section 2.03. Transfer and Assignment of Certain Licenses and Permits. 
                   -------------------------------------------------------      
Without limiting the generality of Section 2.02 and except as otherwise
expressly provided in this Agreement or the Ancillary Agreements, on or before
the Distribution Date:

     (a)  Semiconductor Equipment Licenses.  Each of Varian and IB shall (and,
          --------------------------------                                    
if applicable, shall cause any other Person over which it has direct or indirect
control to), duly and validly transfer or cause to be duly and 

                                      17
<PAGE>
 
validly transferred to the appropriate member of the Semiconductor Equipment
Group all transferable licenses, permits and authorizations issued by any
Governmental Authority which are held in the name of any member of the Health
Care Systems Group or the Instruments Group, or any of their respective
employees, officers, directors, stockholders or agents that relate to the
Semiconductor Equipment Business and are not otherwise required by the Health
Care Systems Business or the Instruments Business, respectively.

     (b)  Instruments Licenses.  Each of Varian and SEB shall (and, if 
          --------------------                                               
applicable, shall cause any other Person over which it has direct or indirect
control to), duly and validly transfer or cause to be duly and validly
transferred to the appropriate member of the Instruments Group all transferable
licenses, permits and authorizations issued by any Governmental Authority which
are held in the name of any member of the Health Care Systems Group or the
Semiconductor Equipment Group, or any of their respective employees, officers,
directors, stockholders or agents that relate to the Instruments Business and
are not otherwise required by the Health Care Systems Business or the
Semiconductor Equipment Business, respectively.

     (c)  Health Care Systems Licenses.  Each of SEB and IB shall (and, if
          ----------------------------                                    
applicable, shall cause any other Person over which it has direct or indirect
control to), duly and validly transfer or cause to be duly and validly
transferred to the appropriate member of the Health Care Systems Group all
transferable licenses, permits and authorizations issued by any Governmental
Authority which are held in the name of any member of the Semiconductor
Equipment Group or the Instruments Group, or any of their respective employees,
officers, directors, stockholders or agents that relate to the Health Care
Systems Business and are not otherwise required by the Semiconductor Equipment
Group or the Instruments Group, respectively.

     Section 2.04.  Transfer and Assignment of Certain Agreements.
                    --------------------------------------------- 

     (a)  Transfers.  Without limiting the generality of Section 2.02 and 
          ---------                                                            
except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement or the Ancillary
Agreements, on or before the Distribution Date, and subject to the limitations
set forth in this Section 2.04:

          (i) Each of SEB and IB shall (and, if applicable, shall cause any
     other Person over which it has direct or indirect control to), assign,
     transfer and convey to the appropriate member of the Health Care Systems
     Group all its (or such other Person's) right, title and interest in and to
     any and all agreements that relate exclusively to the Health Care Systems
     Business or any member of the Health Care Systems Group.

          (ii) Each of Varian and IB shall (and, if applicable, shall cause any
     other Person over which it has direct or indirect control to) assign,
     transfer and convey to the appropriate member of the Semiconductor
     Equipment Group all its (or such other Person's) right, title and interest
     in and to any and all agreements that relate exclusively to the
     Semiconductor Equipment Business or any member of the Semiconductor
     Equipment Group.

           (iii) Each of Varian and SEB shall (and, if applicable, shall cause
     any other Person over which it has direct or indirect control to) assign,
     transfer and convey to the appropriate member of the Instruments Group all
     its (or such other Person's) right, title and interest in and to any and
     all agreements that relate exclusively to the Instruments Business or any
     member of the Instruments Group.

     (b)  Obligations of Assignees.  The assignee of any agreement assigned, 
          ------------------------                                              
in whole or in part, under this Agreement (an "Assignee") shall assume and agree
to pay, perform and fully discharge all obligations of the assignor under such
agreement (whether such obligations arose or were incurred before, on or after
the Distribution Date and irrespective of whether such obligations have been
asserted as of the Distribution Date) or, in the case of a partial assignment,
such Assignee's portion of such obligations.

     (c)  No Assignment of Certain Agreements.  Notwithstanding anything in this
          -----------------------------------                                   
Agreement to the contrary, this Agreement shall not constitute an agreement to
assign any agreement, in whole or in part, or any rights thereunder if the
agreement to assign or attempt to assign, without the consent of a third party,
would constitute a breach thereof or in any way adversely affect the rights of
the Assignee thereof. Until such consent is obtained or if an attempted
assignment thereof would be ineffective or would adversely affect the rights of
any party so that the Assignee would not, in fact, receive all such rights, the
provisions of Section 2.14 shall apply to such agreement.

                                      18
<PAGE>
 
     Section 2.05.  Certain Financial and Other Arrangements.
                    ---------------------------------------- 
     (a)  Settlement of Intercompany Accounts.  All intercompany receivables,
          -----------------------------------                                
payables and loans (other than receivables, payables and loans otherwise
expressly provided for in this Agreement or an Ancillary Agreement), including
in respect of any cash balances, any cash balances representing deposited checks
or drafts for which only a provisional credit has been allowed or any cash held
in any centralized cash management system, (i) between any member of the
Semiconductor Equipment Group, on the one hand, and any member of the Health
Care Systems Group, on the other hand, (ii) between any member of the Health
Care Systems Group, on the one hand, and any member of the Instruments Group, on
the other hand, and (iii) between any member of the Instruments Group, on the
one hand, and any member of the Semiconductor Equipment Group, on the other
hand, shall, as of the Effective Time, be settled, capitalized or converted into
ordinary trade accounts in accordance with the Corporate Reorganization
Transactions and, if applicable, shall be paid or settled in the ordinary course
of business in a manner consistent with payment or settlement of similar
accounts arising from transactions with third parties.

     (b)  SEB Capital Contribution; Consolidated Debt.
          ------------------------------------------- 

          (i)  Capital Contributions.  In addition to any other obligations 
               ---------------------                                
     under this Agreement, on or before the Distribution Date, Varian shall
     contribute to SEB an amount of Cash and Cash Equivalents such that after
     giving effect to the Corporate Reorganization Transactions (A) the
     aggregate Cash and Cash Equivalents of the members of the Semiconductor
     Equipment Group as of the Effective Time would equal at least $100,000,000
     and (B) SEB would have a consolidated Net Worth as of the Effective Time of
     at least $150,000,000. Such contribution shall be based on Varian's good
     faith estimate of the Cash and Cash Equivalents of the Semiconductor
     Equipment Group and the consolidated Net Worth of SEB as of the Effective
     Time and shall be subject to adjustment as provided in Section 9.03(c)(i).

          (ii) Consolidated Debt. Varian shall not cause or permit the transfer
               -----------------                                               
     to or retention by any member of the Semiconductor Equipment Group of Notes
     Payable or other Consolidated Debt if, as a result thereof, the
     Consolidated Debt of SEB as of the Effective Time would exceed $5,000,000.
     If as a result of the Corporate Reorganization Transactions, the
     Consolidated Debt of SEB would exceed such amount, Varian shall take such
     actions as shall be necessary, which may include but shall not be limited
     to, payment, partial payment or provision for payment in the form of the
     contribution of additional Cash and Cash Equivalents of one or more
     Liabilities comprising such Consolidated Debt to reduce the amount thereof
     to no more than $5,000,000. The Consolidated Debt caused or permitted to be
     transferred or retained shall be based on Varian's good faith estimate of
     the Notes Payable and other Consolidated Debt of the Semiconductor
     Equipment Group as of the Effective Time and shall be subject to adjustment
     as provided in Secetion 9.03(c)(i).

     (c)  IB Capital Contribution; Term Loans; Notes Payable.
          -------------------------------------------------- 
          (i)  Term Loans.  As of the Effective Time, IB shall assume as an 
               ----------                                                      
     Instruments Liability 50% of the VAI Term Loans outstanding as of the
     Effective Time (the "IB Term Loans").

          (ii) Notes Payable; IB Capital Contribution. As of the Effective 
               --------------------------------------                     
     Time, the Instruments Group shall assume or retain as an Instruments
     Liability an amount of the Notes Payable and shall retain or have
     contributed to it as of the Effective Time an aggregate amount of Cash and
     Cash Equivalents such that the Net Debt of IB as of the Effective Time
     would be equal to 50% of the combined Net Debt of HCS and IB as of the
     Effective Time, after giving effect to the provisions of Section 2.05(b)
     but before giving effect to the provisions of Section 2.05(d).
     Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the assumptions, contributions and
     retentions contemplated by the immediately preceding sentence (after giving
     effect to the provisions of Section 2.05(b) but before giving effect to the
     provisions of Section 2.05(d)) would cause the consolidated Net Worth of
     HCS as of the Effective Time (A) to exceed 50% of the combined consolidated
     Net Worths of HCS and IB as of the Effective Time or (B) to be less than
     40% of the combined consolidated Net Worths of HCS and IB as of the
     Effective Time, then, in the case of (A) the amount of Notes Payable to be
     assumed or retained by the Instruments Group shall be decreased (and/or the
     Cash and Cash Equivalents contributed to IB by Varian increased) such that
     the consolidated Net Worth of HCS as of the Effective Time would equal 50%
     of the combined consolidated Net Worths of HCS and IB as of the Effective
     Time and, in the case of (B) the amount of Notes Payable to be assumed or
     retained by the Instrument Group 

                                      19
<PAGE>
 
     shall be increased (and/or the Cash and Cash Equivalents contributed to IB
     by Varian decreased) such that the consolidated Net Worth of HCS as of the
     Effective Time would equal 40% of the combined consolidated Net Worths of
     HCS and IB as of the Effective Time. For purposes of this Section
     2.05(c)(ii), the consolidated Net Worth of HCS shall be determined without
     giving effect to any Transaction Expenditures or Dispositions (including
     associated tax benefit and tax cost) that have been accrued, paid or
     received by HCS as of the Effective Time. The amounts of Notes Payable,
     Cash and Cash Equivalents and Net Worth used to determine the assumptions,
     contributions and retentions provided in this Section 2.05(c)(ii) shall be
     based on Varian's good faith estimates and shall be subject to adjustment
     as provided in Section 9.03(c)(ii).

     (d)  Additional Allocations.  In addition to the Notes Payable to be 
          ----------------------                                           
assumed or retained by the Instruments Group and/or the capital contributions to
be made to IB by Varian contemplated by paragraph (c) above, if the After-tax
Differential is a positive number, then the amount of Notes Payable to be
assumed or retained by the Instruments Group shall be decreased (and/or the Cash
and Cash Equivalents contributed to IB by Varian increased) by an amount equal
to 50% of the After-tax Differential. If, instead, the After-tax Differential is
a negative number, then the amount of Notes Payable to be assumed or retained by
the Instruments Group shall be increased (and/or the Cash and Cash Equivalents
contributed to IB by Varian decreased) by an amount equal to 50% of the absolute
After-tax Differential (i.e., irrespective of its negative sign). The components
of the After-tax Differential which are not determined as of the Effective Time
shall be based on Varian's good faith estimates immediately before the Effective
Time and shall be subject to adjustment as provided in Section 9.04.

     (e)  Renegotiation and Allocation.  Varian shall use its reasonable 
          ----------------------------                                       
efforts to obtain, before the Distribution Date, all required consents, waivers
or amendments or other actions by the lenders under the VAI Term Loans and the
Notes Payable to permit the transfers, assumptions and retentions contemplated
by Sections 2.05(b), (c) and (d). Notwithstanding the foregoing, Notes Payable
shall first be transferred to or retained by the member of the Group to which
any related Asset is transferred, or by which any related Asset is retained, and
shall only be allocated to another Group to the extent otherwise required by
this Section 2.05.

     Section 2.06.  Assumption and Satisfaction of Liabilities.  Except as 
                    ------------------------------------------                 
otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, from
and after the Effective Time,
 
     (a)  Health Care Systems Liabilities.  HCS shall, and shall cause the other
          -------------------------------                                       
members of the Health Care Systems Group to, assume, pay, perform and discharge
all Health Care Systems Liabilities in accordance with their terms, when
determinable, and otherwise in accordance with the practice of the parties
before the Distributions;

     (b)  Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities.  SEB shall, and shall cause the 
          -----------------------------------                                  
other members of the Semiconductor Equipment Group to, assume, pay, perform and
discharge all Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities in accordance with their
terms, when determinable, and otherwise in accordance with the practice of the
parties before the Distributions; and

     (c)  Instruments Liabilities.  IB shall, and shall cause the other members
          -----------------------                                         
of the Instruments Group to, assume, pay, perform and discharge all Instruments
Liabilities in accordance with their terms, when determinable, and otherwise in
accordance with the practice of the parties before the Distributions.

     Section 2.07.  Stock Issuance; Dividends.  On or before the Distribution 
                    -------------------------                                
Date (but in all events before the Distributions),
    
     (a)  IB Common Stock.  IB shall take all necessary actions so that on the
          ---------------                                           
Distribution Date, the number of shares of IB Common Stock outstanding and
held by Varian is equal to the number of shares of VAI Common Stock
outstanding on the Distribution Record Date.

     (b)  SEB Common Stock.  SEB shall take all necessary actions so that on
          ----------------      
the Distribution Date, the number of shares of SEB Common Stock outstanding
and held by Varian is equal to the number of shares of VAI Common Stock
outstanding on the Distribution Record Date.

     Section 2.08.  Charters; By-laws; Rights Plans.  On or before the 
                    -------------------------------                      
Distribution Date (but in all events before the Distributions):

                                      20
<PAGE>
 
     (a)  SEB Governance Matters.  Each of Varian and SEB shall take all 
          ----------------------                                         
necessary actions so that as of the Effective Time the Certificate of
Incorporation and By-laws of SEB will be substantially in the forms filed as
exhibits to SEB's Registration Statement at the time it becomes effective and a
Rights Agreement in substantially the form filed as an exhibit to SEB's
Registration Statement at the time it becomes effective shall have been executed
and delivered.

     (b)  IB Governance Matters.  Each of Varian and IB shall take all necessary
          ---------------------                                                 
actions so that as of the Effective Time the Certificate of Incorporation and
By-laws of IB will be substantially in the forms filed as exhibits to IB's
Registration Statement at the time it becomes effective and a Rights Agreement
in substantially the form filed as an exhibit to IB's Registration Statement at
the time it becomes effective shall have been executed and delivered.

     (c)  HCS Governance Matters.  Varian shall take all necessary actions so 
          ----------------------                                                
that as of the Effective Time the Amended and Restated Certificate of
Incorporation or Certificate of Amendment of Varian will be substantially in the
form attached as an annex to the Proxy Statement, the By-laws of Varian will be
in substantially the form of Exhibit L.

     Section 2.09.  Directors, Officers and Employees.
                    --------------------------------- 
     (a)  Election of Directors of IB and SEB.  On or before the Distribution 
          -----------------------------------                                 
Date:

          (i) Each of Varian and SEB shall take all necessary actions so that as
     of the Effective Time the directors of SEB will be as set forth in the
     Proxy Statement.

          (ii) Each of Varian and IB shall take all necessary actions so that as
     of the Effective Time the directors of IB will be as set forth in the Proxy
     Statement.
 
     (b)  Election of Officers.  On or before the Distribution Date, each of 
          --------------------                                                 
Varian, SEB and IB, as applicable, shall take all necessary actions so that as
of the Effective Time the officers of Varian, SEB and IB, respectively, will be
as set forth in the Proxy Statement.

     (c)  Resignations.  Subject to the provisions of Sections 2.09(a) and 
          ------------                                                        
2.09(b), each of Varian, SEB and IB, shall take all necessary action to cause
their respective directors and employees, and those of the members of their
respective Groups, to resign, as of the Effective Time, from all boards of
directors or similar governing bodies of each member of the other Groups on
which they serve, and from all positions as officers or employees of any member
of such other Groups, except as otherwise set forth in the Proxy Statement or
mutually agreed to in writing on or before the Distribution Date by Varian, on
the one hand, and, as applicable, SEB and/or IB, on the other hand.

     Section 2.10.  Other Transactions.  On or before the Distributions, each 
                    ------------------                                          
of Varian, IB and SEB shall have consummated those other transactions in
connection with the Corporate Reorganization Transactions and the Distributions
that are contemplated by the Proxy Statement and the ruling request submission
by Varian to the Internal Revenue Service and not specifically referred to in
Sections 2.01 through 2.09, subject, however, to the limitation set forth in
Section 2.01.

     Section 2.11.  Meeting; Proxy Statement; Other Filings.
                    --------------------------------------- 

     (a)  Meeting.  The Board of Directors of Varian shall establish the Meeting
          -------                                                               
Record Date and the Meeting Date and shall take all necessary or appropriate
actions with respect to the Meeting. At the Meeting there shall be submitted to
the Varian stockholders for their vote the Distribution Proposals and such other
proposals as are included in the notice of the Meeting.

     (b)  Proxy Statement; Registration Statements; NYSE Notice.  Varian, SEB 
          -----------------------------------------------------                
and IB shall prepare the Proxy Statement and the Registration Statements. Varian
shall file the Proxy Statement with the Commission and shall mail the Proxy
Statement to the holders of VAI Common Stock as of the Meeting Record Date. Each
of SEB and IB shall file their respective Registration Statements with the
Commission. Varian shall, to the extent possible, give the NYSE not less than
ten days advance notice of the Distribution Record Date in compliance with Rule
10b-

                                      21
<PAGE>
 
17 under the Exchange Act. Each of Varian, SEB and IB shall use reasonable
commercial efforts to cause the Registration Statements to become effective
under the Exchange Act on or before the Distribution Date.

     (c)  Other Filings.  Varian, SEB and IB shall cooperate in preparing, 
          -------------                                                     
filing with the Commission under the Securities Act and causing to become
effective any registration statements or amendments thereto that are appropriate
to reflect the establishment of or amendments to any employee benefit plan
contemplated by the Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement, the Proxy Statement
or otherwise as necessary to reflect the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement.

     Section 2.12.  State Securities Laws.  Before the Distribution Date, each
                    ---------------------                                   
of Varian, SEB and IB shall take all necessary or appropriate actions under the
securities or blue sky Laws of states or other political subdivisions of the
United States in order to effect the Distributions.

     Section 2.13.  Listing Application.  Before the Distribution Date, IB and
                    -------------------                                      
SEB shall prepare and file with a national securities exchange or Nasdaq listing
applications and related documents and shall take all other necessary or
appropriate actions in order to cause a national securities exchange to list, or
Nasdaq to approve for quotation on its National Market, on or before the
Distribution Date the SEB Common Shares and the IB Common Shares.

     Section 2.14.  Transfers Not Effected Before the Distributions; Transfers
                    ----------------------------------------------------------
Deemed Effective as of the Effective Time.  If any transfers contemplated by 
- -----------------------------------------                                       
this Article II are not consummated at or before the Effective Time, the parties
shall (and shall cause their respective Affiliates and members of their
respective Groups to) cooperate to effect such transfers as promptly as
practicable after the Effective Time.  Nothing herein shall be deemed to require
the transfer of any Assets or the assumption of any Liabilities which by their
terms or operation of Law cannot be transferred or assumed; provided, however,
                                                            --------  ------- 
that the parties shall (and shall cause their respective Affiliates and members
of their respective Groups to) cooperate to seek to obtain any necessary
Consents for the transfer of all Assets and Liabilities contemplated to be
transferred pursuant to this Article II. Where any transfer of Assets or
Liabilities has not been consummated at or before the Effective Time, from and
after the Effective Time the party retaining such Asset or Liability (or, as
applicable, such other member or members of such party's Group) shall hold such
Asset in trust for the use and benefit of the party entitled thereto (at the
expense of the party entitled thereto) or retain such Liability for the account
of the party by whom such Liability is to be assumed, as the case may be, and
take such other action as may be reasonably requested by the party to whom such
Asset is to be transferred, or by whom such Liability is to be assumed, as the
case may be, in order to place such party, to the extent reasonably possible, in
the same position as it would have been had such Asset or Liability been
transferred or assumed as contemplated by this Agreement. As, when and if any
such Asset or Liability becomes transferable or assumable, such transfer or
assumption shall be effected as promptly as practicable. As of the Effective
Time, each party (or, if applicable, such other member or members of such
party's Group) shall be deemed to have acquired (or, as applicable, retained)
complete and sole beneficial ownership over all Assets, together with all
rights, powers and privileges incident thereto, and shall be deemed to have
assumed in accordance with the terms of this Agreement all the Liabilities, and
all duties, obligations and responsibilities incident thereto, which such party
(or any member of such party's Group) is entitled to acquire or required to
assume under this Agreement.

     Section 2.15.  Ancillary Agreements.  On or before the Distribution Date,
                    --------------------                                      
each of Varian, SEB and IB shall enter into, and/or where applicable shall cause
such other members of their respective Groups to enter into, (a) the Ancillary
Agreements, (b) the Conveyancing and Assumption Instruments, and (c) any other
agreements in respect of the Distributions as are reasonably necessary or
appropriate in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
and the Ancillary Agreements.

     Section 2.16.  Operations in Ordinary Course.  Except as otherwise 
                    -----------------------------                           
expressly provided in this Agreement, between the Agreement Date and the
Effective Time, each of Varian, SEB and IB shall, and shall cause its
Subsidiaries to, conduct its business in a manner substantially consistent with
current and past operating practices and in the ordinary course, including with
respect to the payment and administration of accounts payable and the collection
and administration of accounts receivable, the purchase of capital assets and
equipment and the management of inventories.

                                      22
<PAGE>
 
                                  ARTICLE III
                               THE DISTRIBUTIONS

     Section 3.01.  Record Date and Distribution Date.  Subject to the 
                    ---------------------------------                         
satisfaction or, if applicable, waiver of the conditions set forth in Section
4.01, the Board of Directors of Varian shall establish the Distribution Record
Date and the Distribution Date and any appropriate procedures in connection with
the Distributions.

     Section 3.02.  The Distributions.
                    ----------------- 

     (a)  On or before the Distribution Date, Varian shall:

          (i) deliver to the Agent the certificates representing the IB Common
     Shares and the SEB Common Shares, in each case, endorsed by Varian in
     blank, for the benefit of the Varian Holders; and

          (ii) instruct the Agent to distribute, on or as soon as practicable
     after the Distribution Date, to the Varian Holders,

               (A) one share of IB Common Stock for each share of VAI Common
          Stock; and

               (B) one share of SEB Common Stock for each share of VAI Common
          Stock.

     (b)  Duties and Responsibilities of SEB and IB.  All shares of SEB Common 
          -----------------------------------------                            
Stock issued in the SEB Distribution shall be duly authorized, validly issued,
fully paid and nonassessable and free of any preemptive (or similar) rights. All
shares of IB Common Stock issued in the IB Distribution shall be duly
authorized, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable and free of any
preemptive (or similar) rights. As soon as practicable after the Distribution
Date, certificates for shares of IB Common Stock and SEB Common Stock shall be
mailed by the Agent to the Varian Holders, unless the Agent uses a book entry
system of stock record keeping, in which event no certificates for shares of IB
Common Stock or SEB Common Stock will be used unless a stockholder so requests.
If certificates are used, each of SEB and IB shall provide, or cause to be
provided, to the Agent sufficient certificates representing SEB Common Stock and
IB Common Stock, respectively, in such denominations as the Agent may request in
order to effect the Distributions.

     (c)  Unclaimed Stock or Cash.  Any shares of SEB Common Stock, shares of IB
          -----------------------                                               
Common Stock or any dividends or distributions, if any, with respect to SEB
Common Stock or IB Common Stock that remain unclaimed 180 days after the
Distribution Date shall be returned to HCS and the Persons entitled thereto
shall look only to HCS for such shares of SEB Common Stock, shares of IB Common
Stock, and any dividends or distributions, subject in each case to applicable
escheat or other abandoned property Laws.

                                  ARTICLE IV
                        CONDITIONS TO THE DISTRIBUTIONS

     Section 4.01.  Conditions Precedent to the Distributions. The obligations 
                    -----------------------------------------                
of the parties to consummate the Distributions are subject to the satisfaction
or waiver as determined by Varian in its sole discretion (except as provided in
Section 4.02 below), of each of the following conditions:

     (a)  Declaration of Distributions and Establishment of Distribution Date. 
          ------------------------------------------------------------------- 
 The Board of Directors of Varian shall have, in its sole discretion and subject
to and in accordance with the applicable rules of the NYSE and provisions of the
DGCL, declared the Distributions and established the Distribution Record Date,
the Distribution Date, the date on which shares of SEB Common Stock and IB
Common Stock, and any cash in lieu of fractional shares shall be mailed to the
Varian Holders and all appropriate procedures in connection with the
Distributions to the extent not provided in this Agreement.

     (b)  Tax Sharing Agreement.  Varian, SEB and IB shall have executed and
          ---------------------                                             
delivered the Tax Sharing Agreement and such agreement shall be in full force
and effect.

     (c)  Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement.  Varian, SEB and IB shall 
          --------------------------------------      
have executed and delivered the Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement and 
such agreement shall be in full force and effect.

                                      23
<PAGE>
 
     (d)  Transition Services Agreement.  Varian, SEB and IB shall have 
          -----------------------------                                        
executed and delivered the Transition Services Agreement and such agreement
shall be in full force and effect.

     (e)  Intellectual Property Agreement.  Varian, SEB and IB shall have 
          -------------------------------                                    
executed and delivered the Intellectual Property Agreement and such agreement
shall be in full force and effect.

     (f)  Effective Date of Registration Statements.  The Registration 
          -----------------------------------------                         
Statements shall have been declared effective by order of the Commission and no
stop order shall have been entered, and no proceeding for that purpose shall
have been initiated or threatened by the Commission with respect thereto.

     (g)  Listing.  The SEB Common Stock and the IB Common Stock shall have been
          -------                                                               
approved for listing on a national securities exchange or quotation on the
Nasdaq National Market, on or before consummation of the Distributions.

     (h)  Tax Ruling.  Varian shall have received rulings from the Internal 
          ----------                                                          
Revenue Service in form and substance satisfactory to the Board of Directors of
Varian, which rulings shall be in full force and effect as of the Distribution
Date.

     (i)  Pre-Distribution Transactions.  Each of the transactions and other 
          -----------------------------                                        
matters contemplated by Article II (including each of the distributions,
transfers, conveyances, contributions, assignments or other transactions
included in, or otherwise necessary to consummate, the Corporate Reorganization
Transactions) shall have been consummated in all material respects.

     (j)  Covenants.  The covenants contained in Article V of this Agreement 
          ---------
that are required to be performed on or before the Distribution Date shall have 
been fully performed.

     (k)  No Prohibitions.  No temporary, preliminary or permanent injunction or
          ---------------
other order, decree or ruling issued by a Governmental Authority and no statute,
rule, regulation or executive order promulgated or enacted by any Governmental 
Authority shall be in effect materially restricting, preventing or prohibiting 
the consummation of the Distributions.

     (l)  Consents. Each of Varian, SEB and IB and the other members of their 
          --------
respective Groups shall have obtained all Consents the failure of which to 
obtain would, in the determination of the Board of Directors of Varian, have a 
material adverse effect on HCS, SEB or IB.

     (m)  Stockholder Approval. The Distribution Proposals shall have been 
          --------------------
approved by the requisite vote of the holders of VAI Common Stock in accordance
with the DGCL and the provisions of Varian's Restated Certificate of
Incorporation.

     (n)  Fairness Opinion.  Warburg Dillon Read LLC shall have delivered its 
          ----------------
written opinion to the Board of Directors of Varian dated as of the date the 
Distributions are declared confirming that the Distributions are fair, from a 
financial point of view, to the Varian Holders, and such opinion shall not have 
been withdrawn or rescinded.

     Section 4.02.  Waivers.  After the Varian stockholders approve the 
                    -------
Distribution Proposals, the conditions set forth in Section 4.01 may only be 
waived if the Board of Directors of Varian determines such waiver would not be 
materially adverse to the Varian stockholders. Further, the Board of Directors 
may only waive the condition set forth in Section 4.0(h) with respect to 
receipt of Internal Revenue Service tax rulings if it has received an opinion of
counsel substantially to the effect that, for federal income tax purposes, no
gain or loss will be recognized by any holder of VAI Common Stock as a result of
the Distributions and no gain or loss will be recognized by the Company upon the
Distributions, which opinion shall not have been withdrawn or rescinded as of
the Effective Time.

                                   ARTICLE V
                                   COVENANTS

     Section 5.0.  Further Assurances; Consents.  In addition to the actions 
                   ----------------------------
otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement, each party shall use its 
commercially reasonable efforts to (a) execute and deliver, or cause to be

                                      24
<PAGE>
 
executed and delivered, such instruments and documents and take, or cause to be
taken, such further or other actions as any other party may reasonably request
to effectuate the purposes of this Agreement and carry out the terms hereof, and
(b) take or cause to be taken all actions, and to do, or cause to be done, all
things reasonably necessary or appropriate under applicable Laws, agreements or
otherwise to consummate and make effective the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement, including (notwithstanding Section 5.05(c)) using its commercially
reasonable efforts to obtain any Consents, to enter into amendatory agreements
and to make any filings and applications necessary or appropriate in order to
consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement; provided, however,
                                                            --------  ------- 
that no party shall be obligated to pay any consideration therefor (except for
filing fees and other similar charges) to any third party from whom such
Consents or amendments are requested or to take any action or omit to take any
action if the taking or omission would be unreasonable burdensome to the party
or its Group or the Group's business.

     Section 5.02.  Intellectual Property Matters.
                    ----------------------------- 

     (a)  Intellectual Property Agreement Controls.  Each party acknowledges 
          ----------------------------------------                           
that, after the Distribution Date, it shall have no interest in nor any right to
use or display the name or any Intellectual Property of another party in any
way, except to the extent expressly provided in this Agreement or in any
Ancillary Agreement and except for any use which is otherwise permissible as
"fair use" under applicable Law. Each party further understands and agrees that
the rights, obligations and responsibilities of the parties with respect to
Intellectual Property matters shall be governed by the Intellectual Property
Agreement to the extent therein provided.

     (b)  No Representation of Affiliation.  After the Distribution Date, no 
          --------------------------------                                   
party shall represent or permit to be represented to any third party that it or
any member of its Group has a business affiliation with any other party or any
member of such other party's Group, except as expressly permitted by an
Ancillary Agreement.

     Section 5.03.  Employees; Employee Benefits.
                    ---------------------------- 
     (a)  Treatment of Employees.  As of the Effective Time, except as expressly
          ----------------------                                                
provided in the Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement, (i) those Persons
employed in the Health Care Systems Business shall remain or become employees of
the applicable member of the Health Care Systems Group, (ii) those Persons
employed in the Instruments Business shall become employees of the applicable
member of the Instruments Group, and (iii) those Persons employed in the
Semiconductor Equipment Business shall become employees of the applicable member
of the Semiconductor Equipment Group.

     (b)  Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement Controls.  Each party further
          -----------------------------------------------                     
understands and agrees that the rights, obligations and responsibilities of the
parties with respect to employees and employee benefit matters shall be governed
by the Employee Benefits Allocation Agreement to the extent therein provided.

     Section 5.04.  Tax Matters. Each party intends that (a) the contributions 
                    -----------                                               
of Assets to IB and SEB each be treated as a reorganization within the meaning
of section 368(a)(1)(D) of the Code with respect to which no gain or loss is
recognized by any of the parties, and (b) the Distributions be treated as tax-
free distributions under section 355 of the Code and each such party shall use
its best efforts to cause the Distributions to so qualify. Each party further
understands and agrees that the rights, obligations and responsibilities of the
parties with respect to Tax matters will be governed by the Tax Sharing
Agreement to the extent therein provided.

     Section 5.05.  No Representations or Warranties.
                    --------------------------------

     (a) General.  Each party understands and agrees that, except as otherwise
         -------                                                              
expressly provided in any Ancillary Agreement or paragraph (c) below, no party
is, in this Agreement or in any other agreement or document contemplated by this
Agreement (including the Conveyancing and Assumption Instruments) or otherwise,
making any representation or warranty whatsoever, including representing or
warranting in any way as to the Assets, businesses or Liabilities retained,
transferred or assumed as contemplated by this Agreement, as to the value or
freedom from Security Interests, or any other matter concerning any Assets or
Liabilities of such party, or as to the absence of any defenses or right of set-
off or freedom from counterclaim with respect to any claim or other Asset,
including any account receivable or any Liability of any party, or as to the
legal sufficiency of any assignment, document or instrument delivered under this
Agreement to convey title to any Asset or any other thing of value upon the
execution, delivery and filing thereof.

                                      25
<PAGE>
 
     (b)  Disclaimer of Merchantability or Fitness of Assets.  Each party 
          --------------------------------------------------                
further understands and agrees that there are no warranties, express or implied,
as to the merchantability or fitness of any of the Assets either transferred to
or retained by the parties, and that, notwithstanding anything to the contrary
expressly provided in the applicable Conveyancing and Assumption Instrument, all
Assets either transferred or retained by the parties shall be "as is, where is"
and that, subject to Section 5.01, the party to which any such Assets are
transferred, or which retains any such Assets, shall bear the economic and legal
risks that any conveyances of such Assets shall prove to be insufficient to vest
in the transferee good and marketable title, free and clear of any Security
Interest.

     (c)  No Representations or Warranties Regarding Consents.  Each party
          ---------------------------------------------------             
understands and agrees that, except as otherwise expressly provided in the
applicable Conveyancing and Assumption Instruments, no party is representing or
warranting in any way that the obtaining of any Consents, the execution and
delivery of any amendatory agreements and the making of any filings or
applications contemplated by this Agreement will satisfy the provisions of any
or all applicable agreements or the requirements of any or all applicable Laws.
Each party further understands and agrees that the party to which any Assets are
transferred pursuant to this Agreement shall bear the economic and legal risk
that any necessary Consents are not obtained, that any necessary amendatory
agreements are not executed and delivered or that the provisions of any
applicable agreements or requirements of applicable Laws are not satisfied.

     Section 5.06.  Removal of Certain Guarantees; Releases from Liabilities.
                    -------------------------------------------------------- 

     (a)  Removal of Varian as Guarantor of Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities 
          ----------------------------------------------------------------------
and Instruments Liabilities. Except as otherwise expressly provided in an
- ---------------------------                                               
Ancillary Agreement, each party shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to
have, on or before the Distribution Date, or as soon as practicable thereafter,
(i) Varian and any other member of the Health Care Systems Group removed as a
guarantor of, or obligor under or for, any Semiconductor Equipment Liability or
Instruments Liability, (ii) SEB and any other member of the Semiconductor
Equipment Group removed as a guarantor of, or obligor under or for, any Health
Care Systems Liability or Instruments Liability, and (iii) IB and any other
member of the Instruments Group removed as a guarantor of, or obligor under or
for, any Health Care Systems Liability or Semiconductor Equipment Liability.

     (b)  Indemnification for Guaranties.  If (i) a party is unable to obtain, 
          ------------------------------                                        
or to cause to be obtained, any removal described in paragraph (a) above, or
(ii) Liabilities arise from and after the Effective Time but before a guarantor
or obligor with reference to any such Liability is removed pursuant to Section
5.06(a), then such guarantor or obligor shall be indemnified for all Liabilities
incurred by it in its capacity as guarantor or obligor by (A) HCS with respect
to any Health Care Systems Liabilities, (B) SEB with respect to any
Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities, and (C) IB with respect to any Instruments
Liabilities. Without limiting the foregoing, each party shall, or shall cause a
member of its Group to, reimburse any such guarantor or obligor as soon as
practicable (but in no event later than 30 days) following receipt of notice of
a payment made pursuant to this Section 5.06(b) in respect of the party's
Liabilities.

     (c)  Additional Obligations.  In the event that at any time before or 
          ----------------------                                               
after the Distribution Date, a party identifies any letters of credit, interest
rate or foreign exchange contracts or other contracts (excluding guarantees)
that relate primarily to one business but for which a member of another Group
has contingent, secondary, joint, several or other Liability of any nature
whatsoever, the party the business of which is primarily liable shall, at its
expense, take such actions and enter into such agreements and arrangements as
the other party may reasonably request to effect such party's (or the member of
each party's Group) release or substitution.

     (d)  Other Releases.  Each party shall use commercially reasonable efforts
          --------------                                                     
to obtain, or cause to be obtained, any Consent, substitution or amendment
required to novate or assign all obligations under agreements, leases, licenses
and other obligation or Liabilities of any nature whatsoever transferred under
this Agreement, or to obtain in writing the unconditional release of the
assignor so that in each such case, IB shall be solely responsible for the
Instruments Liabilities, HCS shall be solely responsible for the Health Care
Systems Liabilities and SEB shall be solely responsible for the Semiconductor
Equipment Liabilities; provided, however, that no party shall be obligated to
                       --------  ------- 
pay any consideration therefor (except for filing fees or other similar charges)
to any third party from whom such Consents, substitutions, amendments or
releases are requested. Whether or not any such Consent, substitution, amendment
or release is obtained, nothing in this Section 5.06(d) shall in any way limit
the obligations of the parties under Article VII.

                                      26
<PAGE>
 
     Section 5.07.  Intercompany Agreements.  As of the Effective Time, each 
                    -----------------------                                  
party shall (and shall cause each other member of its Group to) terminate each
agreement between it and any member of any other Groups (other than this
Agreement, the Ancillary Agreements, the Conveyancing and Assumption Instruments
and any agreements that do not take effect until the Effective Time); provided,
                                                                      -------- 
however, that such termination shall not affect any of the rights and/or
- -------                                                                 
obligations of the parties to such agreements that accrued or were incurred
before the Effective Time (subject to the terms of Section 2.05(a)).

     Section 5.08.  Nondisclosure Agreements.  Each of SEB and IB agrees to be 
                    ------------------------                                   
bound by and subject to the terms and provisions of each of the Nondisclosure
Agreements for the same period of time and to the same extent as Varian (or the
applicable Subsidiary of Varian that is a party to such Nondisclosure
Agreement).  Varian shall not, amend, supplement, terminate or waive any
provisions of the Nondisclosure Agreements (a) that relate to the Instruments
Business without the prior written consent of IB, or (b) that relate to the
Semiconductor Equipment Business without the prior written consent of SEB.

     Section 5.09.  Receipts after the Distribution Date.  From and after the
                    ------------------------------------                     
Distribution Date each party shall (or shall cause the applicable member of its
Group to) promptly transfer to the appropriate other party, or the appropriate
member of such other party's Group, any property it receives that is an Asset of
such other party or a 

member of the other party's Group. Without limiting the foregoing, funds
received by a member of one Group upon payment of accounts receivable that
belong to a member of another Group shall be transferred to the other Group as
soon as practicable (but in no event later than 30 business days) after receipt
of such funds.

     Section 5.10.  Post-Distribution Audit.
                    ----------------------- 

     (a)  Preparation of Closing Balance Sheets.  As soon as practicable after 
          -------------------------------------                              
the Effective Time, Varian shall cause PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (or another
comparable independent accounting firm selected by Varian (the "Auditors")) to:

          (i) conduct an audit of IB and the IB Subsidiaries in order to prepare
     and deliver to each of HCS, IB and SEB a consolidated balance sheet for IB
     and the IB Subsidiaries as of the Effective Time (the "IB Closing Balance
     Sheet");

          (ii) conduct an audit of HCS and the HCS Subsidiaries in order to
     prepare and deliver to each of HCS, IB and SEB a consolidated balance sheet
     for HCS and the HCS Subsidiaries as of the Effective Time (the "HCS Closing
     Balance Sheet");

          (iii)  conduct an audit of SEB and the SEB Subsidiaries in order to
     prepare and deliver to each of HCS, IB and SEB a consolidated balance sheet
     for SEB and the SEB Subsidiaries, as of the Effective Time (the "SEB
     Closing Balance Sheet");

and to deliver such Closing Balance Sheets within 90 days after the Distribution
Date.

     (b)  Audit Requirements.  Each of the IB Closing Balance Sheet, the HCS 
          ------------------                                                   
Closing Balance Sheet and the SEB Closing Balance Sheet shall be prepared on the
basis of an audit conducted by the Auditors in accordance with GAAP consistently
applied and without giving effect to any change in accounting principles
required on account of the consummation of the Distributions, except that, to
the extent that any definition contained herein contemplates inclusion or
exclusion of an item that would not be included or excluded under GAAP, the
Auditors shall compute such item in accordance with such definition. During the
course of the preparation of the IB Closing Balance Sheet, the HCS Closing
Balance Sheet and the SEB Closing Balance Sheet by the Auditors, and during any
period in which there is a dispute regarding either the IB Closing Balance
Sheet, the HCS Closing Balance Sheet and the SEB Closing Balance Sheet, each of
HCS, IB and SEB, as the case may be, shall cooperate with the Auditors and the
other parties and shall have access to all pertinent accounting and each other's
records. Each party also shall use its reasonable efforts to cause the work
papers of the Auditors in respect of its business to be made available to each
of the other parties.

                                      27
<PAGE>
 
                                  ARTICLE VI
                     ACCESS TO INFORMATION; CONFIDENTIALITY

     Section 6.01.  Provision, Transfer and Delivery of Applicable Corporate 
                    --------------------------------------------------------
Records. Except as expressly provided in any Ancillary Agreement,
- -------  

     (a)  Provision, Transfer and Delivery of SEB Records.  Each of HCS and IB 
          -----------------------------------------------                       
shall (and shall cause each other member of its Group to) as soon as practicable
after the Distribution Date transport (at SEB's expense) to SEB the Books and
Records in its possession that relate primarily to the Semiconductor Equipment
Assets, the Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities or the Semiconductor Equipment
Business or are necessary to operate the Semiconductor Equipment Business
(collectively, the "SEB Records"), except to the extent such items are already
in the possession of any member of the Semiconductor Equipment Group.

     (b)  Provision, Transfer and Delivery of IB Records.  Each of HCS and SEB 
          ----------------------------------------------                       
shall (and shall cause each other member of its Group to) as soon as practicable
after the Distribution Date transport (at IB's expense) to IB the Books and
Records in its possession that relate primarily to the Instruments Assets, the
Instruments Liabilities or the Instruments Business or are necessary to operate
the Instruments Business (collectively, the "IB Records"), except to the extent
such items are already in the possession of any member of the Instruments Group.

     (c)  Provision, Transfer and Delivery of HCS Records.  Each of SEB and IB 
          -----------------------------------------------                      
shall (and shall cause each other member of its Group to) as soon as practicable
after the Distribution Date transport (at HCS's expense) to HCS the Books and
Records in its possession that relate primarily to the Health Care Systems
Assets, the Health Care Systems Liabilities or the Health Care Systems Business
or are necessary to operate the Health Care Systems Business (collectively, the
"HCS Records"), except to the extent such items are already in the possession of
any member of the Health Care Systems Group.

     Section 6.02.  Access to Books and Records. Unless otherwise contemplated 
                    ---------------------------                              
by Section 6.06, from and after the Distribution Date, each of HCS, SEB and IB
shall (and shall cause each other member of its Group to) afford to each other
party and its authorized Representatives reasonable access and duplicating
rights during normal business hours, subject to appropriate restrictions for
classified, privileged or confidential information, to the personnel,
properties, Books and Records and other data and information of such party and
each other member of such party's Group created before the Distributions insofar
as such access is reasonably required by the requesting party for the conduct of
the requesting party's business (but not for competitive purposes).

     Section 6.03.  Confidentiality.
                    --------------- 
     (a)  General Restriction on Disclosure.  From and after the Distribution 
          ---------------------------------                                   
Date, none of HCS, SEB and IB shall (or permit any other member of its Group to)
use without the prior written consent of the applicable party and shall (and
shall cause each other member of its Group to) hold, and shall cause its
Representatives to (and those of any other member of its Group to) hold, in
strict confidence, all information concerning each other party and the other
members of each other party's Group in its possession, custody or control to the
extent such information either:

          (i)  relates to the period up to the Distribution Date;

          (ii) relates to any Ancillary Agreement; or

          (iii) is obtained in the course of performing services for the other
     party pursuant to any Ancillary Agreement,

and shall not (and shall cause each other member of its Group not to) otherwise
release or disclose such information to any other Person, except its
Representatives (who shall be bound by this Section 6.03), without the prior
written consent of the applicable party or parties, unless compelled by judicial
or administrative process or, in the opinion of such party's counsel, required
by Law and such party has used commercially reasonable efforts to consult with
the applicable party or parties before such disclosure.

                                      28
<PAGE>
 
     (b)  Exceptions to Confidential Treatment. Notwithstanding paragraph (a), 
          ------------------------------------                               
no party shall be prohibited from using or permitting the use of, or required to
hold in confidence and not release or disclose, any information to the extent
that (i) such information has been or is in the public domain through no fault
of such party, (ii) such information was used or held for use in such party's
business before the Distribution Date, (iii) such information is, after the
Distribution Date, lawfully acquired from other sources by such party, (iv) this
Agreement, any Ancillary Agreement or any other agreement entered into pursuant
to this Agreement permits the use or disclosure of such information by such
party, or (v) such information is necessary for such party to investigate,
evaluate, defend or prosecute any claim or Action involving any other party to
this Agreement.

     Section 6.04.  Witness Services.  From and after the Distribution Date, 
                    ----------------                                           
each of HCS, SEB and IB shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to make
available to each other party, upon reasonable written request, the officers,
directors, employees and agents of each member of its Group for consultation
and/or as witnesses to the extent that (a) such Persons may reasonably be useful
or required in connection with the prosecution or defense of any Action or the
investigation of any claim which involves the interests of the requesting party
or any member of its Group; and (b) there is no conflict in the Action or claim
between the requesting party or any member of its respective Group and the party
to which a request is made pursuant to this Section or any member of such
party's Group. The employing party agrees that such consultant or witness shall
be made available to the requesting party to the same extent that the employing
party would have made such consultant or witness available if the Distributions
had not occurred.

     Section 6.05.  Reimbursement; Other Matters. Except as otherwise 
                    ----------------------------                                
contemplated by this Agreement (including circumstances in which indemnification
is sought pursuant to Article VII) or by any Ancillary Agreement, a party
providing Books and Records or access to information or consulting or witness
services to any other party (or such party's Representatives) under this Article
VI shall be entitled to receive from such other party, upon the presentation of
invoices therefor reimbursement for all Costs (including the Costs of employees
providing consulting and witness services in connection with litigation and
Costs of employees providing information), as may be reasonably incurred in
providing such Books and Records or access to information, consulting or witness
services.

     Section 6.06.  Retention of Records.  Except when a longer period is 
                    --------------------                                        
required by Law or is expressly provided for in this Agreement, any Ancillary
Agreement or the retention policy of Varian as of the date of this Agreement,
each party shall (and shall cause the members of its Group to) retain, for a
period of at least seven years after the Distribution Date, all material
information (including all material Books and Records) relating to such Group
and its operations before the Distribution Date. Notwithstanding the foregoing,
when retention of information is no longer required by Law or expressly provided
for in another Section of this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, any party
may offer in writing to deliver to the other parties all or a portion of such
information that relates to members of the offering party's Group and, if such
offer is accepted in writing within 90 days after receipt thereof, the offering
party shall promptly deliver such information (or copies thereof) to each
accepting party (at the expense of the accepting party). If such offer is not so
accepted, the offered information may be destroyed or otherwise disposed of by
the offering party at any time after expiration of such 90-day period.

     Section 6.07.  Privileged Matters.
                    ------------------ 

     (a)  Privileged Information.  Each party shall (and shall cause the 
          ----------------------                                              
members of its Group to) use its reasonable efforts to maintain, preserve,
protect and assert all privileges against disclosure (including the attorney-
client privilege, the attorney work product privilege and the self-evaluation
privilege) that apply to any Books and Records or other information of any
member of any other Group relating to any period before the Distribution Date
("Privilege" or "Privileges"). Each party shall use its reasonable efforts not
to waive (or permit any member of its Group to waive) any such Privilege that
could be asserted under applicable Law without the prior written consent of the
other party or parties having the right to assert or waive such Privilege
pursuant to this Section. HCS shall be entitled in perpetuity to require the
assertion, or to decide whether to consent to the waiver, of any and all
Privileges which relate primarily to the Health Care Systems Business or to
Health Care Systems Liabilities; SEB shall be entitled in perpetuity to require
the assertion, or to decide whether to consent to the waiver, of all Privileges
which relate primarily to the Semiconductor Equipment Business or to
Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities; and IB shall be entitled in perpetuity to
require the assertion, or to decide whether to consent to the waiver, of all
Privileges which relate primarily to the Instruments Business or to Instruments
Liabilities.

                                      29
<PAGE>
 
     (b)  Compelled Disclosure.  To the extent that a party is compelled by 
          --------------------                                                 
judicial or administrative process to disclose any information under
circumstances in which any Privilege would be available ("Privileged
Information"), such party agrees to assert such Privilege in good faith before
making such disclosure. Each party shall consult with each applicable party upon
receipt by a party or any member of its Group of any subpoena, discovery or
other request that calls for production or disclosure of Privileged Information,
or if a party or any member of its Group obtains knowledge that any current or
former employee of such party or any member of its Group has received any
subpoena, discovery or other request which calls for the production or
disclosure of Privileged Information, including regarding whether any Privilege
is available. Each party shall cooperate with each applicable party and its
counsel participating in any hearing or other proceeding in respect of such
disclosure and assertion of Privilege. Nothing in this Section requires any
party to subject itself to sanctions in connection with any compelled
disclosure. Notwithstanding the foregoing, each party shall be permitted to
disclose Privileged Information in any proceeding in which such party is in an
adversarial position to any other party to this Agreement.

     (c)  No Waiver.  The parties understand and agree that the transfer of 
          ---------                                                             
any Books and Records or other information between any members of the Health
Care Systems Group, the Semiconductor Equipment Group or the Instruments Group
shall be made in reliance on the agreements of Varian, SEB and IB, as set forth
in Section 6.03 and this Section, to maintain the confidentiality of Privileged
Information and to assert and maintain all applicable Privileges. The Books and
Records being transferred pursuant to Section 6.01, the access to information
being granted pursuant to Section 6.02, the agreement to provide witnesses and
individuals pursuant to Section 6.04 and the transfer of Privileged Information
to any party pursuant to this Agreement shall not be deemed a waiver of any
Privilege that has been or may be asserted under this Section or otherwise.
Nothing in this Agreement shall operate to reduce, minimize or condition the
rights granted to each party in, or the obligations imposed upon each party by,
this Section.

                                  ARTICLE VII
                                INDEMNIFICATION

     Section 7.01.  Survival of Agreements.  All covenants and agreements of the
                    ----------------------                                      
parties contained in this Agreement and all covenants and agreements of the
parties contained in the Ancillary Agreements shall survive the Distribution
Date except as expressly provided herein and therein, and shall not be merged
into any deeds or other transfer or closing instruments or documents, including
the Conveyancing and Assumption Instruments.

     Section 7.02.  Taxes.  This Article VII shall not be applicable to any
                    -----                                                  
Indemnifiable Losses related to (a) Taxes, which shall be governed by the Tax
Sharing Agreement, or (b) which are otherwise expressly provided for in the
Ancillary Agreements.

     Section 7.03.  Indemnification by HCS.  Except as expressly provided in 
                    ----------------------                                  
this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, and subject to Sections 7.02 and
7.06, (a) HCS shall, to the fullest extent permitted by Law, indemnify, defend
and hold harmless the SEB Indemnitees and the IB Indemnitees from and against
any and all Indemnifiable Losses of the SEB Indemnitees and the IB Indemnitees,
respectively, arising out of, relating to or resulting from either (i) the
Health Care Systems Liabilities or (ii) the breach by HCS or Varian of any
provision of this Agreement, or any Ancillary Agreement and (b) HCS shall bear
the cost of and indemnify, defend and hold harmless the SEB Indemnitees and the
IB Indemnitees from one-third of the Indemnifiable Losses, as incurred, arising
out of, relating to or resulting from the Shared Liabilities; provided, however,
                                                              ------------------
that, except as otherwise provided in this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement,
in the case of an Indemnifiable Loss in respect of a Shared Liability arising
out of, relating to or resulting from the management or conduct of the Health
Care Systems Business and the Instruments Business or the Health Care Systems
Business and the Semiconductor Equipment Business, HCS shall bear the cost of
and indemnify, defend and hold harmless IB and SEB, respectively, from one-half
of the Indemnifiable Losses, as incurred.

     Section 7.04.  Indemnification by SEB.  Except as expressly provided in 
                    ----------------------                                  
this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, and subject to Sections 7.02 and
7.06, (a) SEB shall, to the fullest extent permitted by Law, indemnify, defend
and hold harmless the HCS Indemnitees and the IB Indemnitees from and against
any and all Indemnifiable Losses of the HCS Indemnitees and the IB Indemnitees,
respectively, arising out of, relating to or resulting from either (i) the
Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities, or (ii) the breach by SEB of any provision
of this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, and (b) SEB shall bear the cost of
and indemnify, defend and hold harmless the HCS Indemnitees and the IB
Indemnitees from one-third of the Indemnifiable Losses, as incurred, arising out
of, relating to or resulting from the Shared Liabilities; provided, however,
                                                          ------------------
that, except as otherwise provided in this

                                      30
<PAGE>
 
Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, in the case of an Indemnifiable Loss in
respect of a Shared Liability arising out of, relating to or resulting from the
management or conduct of the Semiconductor Equipment Business and the
Instruments Business or the Semiconductor Equipment Business and the Health Care
Systems Business, SEB shall bear the cost of and indemnify, defend and hold
harmless IB and HCS, respectively, from one-half of the Indemnifiable Losses as
incurred.

     Section 7.05.  Indemnification by IB.  Except as expressly provided in this
                    ---------------------                                       
Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, and subject to Sections 7.02 and 7.06, (a)
IB shall, to the fullest extent permitted by Law, indemnify, defend and hold
harmless the HCS Indemnitees and the SEB Indemnitees from and against any and
all Indemnifiable Losses of the HCS Indemnitees and the SEB Indemnitees,
respectively, arising out of, relating to or resulting from either (i) the
Instruments Liabilities or (ii) the breach by IB of any provision of this
Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, and (b) IB shall bear the cost of and
indemnify, defend and hold harmless the HCS Indemnitees and the SEB Indemnitees
from one-third of the Indemnifiable Losses as incurred, arising out of, relating
to or resulting from the Shared Liabilities; provided, however, that, except as
                                             ------------------                
otherwise provided in this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, in the case of
an Indemnifiable Loss in respect of a Shared Liability arising out of, relating
to or resulting from the management or conduct of the Instruments Business and
the Health Care Systems Business or the Instruments Business and the
Semiconductor Equipment Business, IB shall bear the cost of and indemnify,
defend and hold harmless HCS and SEB, respectively, from one-half of the
Indemnifiable Losses, as incurred.

     Section 7.06.  Limitations on Indemnification Obligations.
                    ------------------------------------------ 

     (a)  Reductions for Insurance Proceeds and Other Recoveries.  The amount 
          ------------------------------------------------------             
that any party (an "Indemnifying Party") is or may be required to pay to any
other Person (an "Indemnitee") pursuant to Section 7.03, 7.04 or 7.05, as
applicable, shall be reduced (retroactively or prospectively) by any Insurance
Proceeds or other amounts actually recovered from third parties by or on behalf
of such Indemnitee in respect of the related Indemnifiable Loss. The existence
of a claim by an Indemnitee for monies from an insurer or against a third party
in respect of any Indemnifiable Loss shall not, however, delay any payment
pursuant to the indemnification provisions contained herein and otherwise
determined to be due and owing by an Indemnifying Party. Rather the Indemnifying
Party shall make payment in full of the amount determined to be due and owing by
it against an assignment by the Indemnitee to the Indemnifying Party of the
entire claim of the Indemnitee for Insurance Proceeds or against such third
party. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Agreement, it is the
intention of the parties that no insurer or any other third party shall be (i)
entitled to a benefit it would not be entitled to receive in the absence of the
foregoing indemnification provisions, or (ii) relieved of the responsibility to
pay any claims for which it is obligated. If an Indemnitee has received the
payment required by this Agreement from an Indemnifying Party in respect of any
Indemnifiable Loss and later receives Insurance Proceeds or other amounts in
respect of such Indemnifiable Loss, then such Indemnitee shall hold such
Insurance Proceeds or other amounts in trust for the benefit of the Indemnifying
Party (or Indemnifying Parties) and shall pay to the Indemnifying Party, as
promptly as practicable after receipt, a sum equal to the amount of such
Insurance Proceeds or other amounts received, up to the aggregate amount of any
payments received from the Indemnifying Party pursuant to this Agreement in
respect of such Indemnifiable Loss (or, if there is more than one Indemnifying
Party, the Indemnitee shall pay each Indemnifying Party, its proportionate share
(based on payments received from the Indemnifying Parties) of such Insurance
Proceeds).

     (b)  Adjustments for Taxes.  The amount of any Indemnifiable Loss shall be
          ---------------------                                                
appropriately adjusted so that the amount of such Indemnifiable Loss is (i)
increased by the amount of all Income Taxes payable with respect to any payments
received from the Indemnifying Party or Indemnifying Parties, and (ii) reduced
by the amount of all Income Tax benefits from the incurrence or payment of any
such Indemnifiable Loss by the Indemnitee, as determined pursuant to the next
paragraph.

     In computing the amount of Income Taxes payable or Income Tax benefit, (i)
in the absence of any change in treatment under the Code or applicable Tax Law,
payments with respect to contingent Liabilities attributable to periods before
the Distribution Date shall be treated for income tax purposes by the Indemnitee
and the Indemnifying Parties (and if Varian is neither the Indemnitee nor the
Indemnifying Party, by Varian) as distributions or capital contributions, as
appropriate, occurring immediately before the Distributions on the Distribution
Date, (ii) it shall be assumed that the highest marginal Tax rates in effect are
applicable to the Indemnitee, and (iii) such determination shall be made without
regard to whether any actual increase or decrease in Tax is realized by the
Indemnitee.

                                      31
<PAGE>
 
     If, notwithstanding the manner in which indemnity payments are reported,
there is an adjustment to the Tax Liability of a party as a result of its
receipt of an indemnity payment pursuant to this Agreement, such payment shall
be appropriately adjusted so that the amount of such payment, reduced by the
amount of all Income Taxes payable with respect to the receipt thereof, shall
equal the amount of the payment which the Indemnitee would otherwise be entitled
to receive pursuant to this Agreement.

     (c)  Foreign Currency Adjustments.  In the event that any indemnification
          ----------------------------                                        
payment required to be made hereunder shall be denominated in a currency other
than U.S. Dollars, the amount of such payment shall be translated into U.S.
Dollars using the foreign exchange rate for such currency determined as follows:

          (i) with respect to any Indemnifiable Loss arising from the payment by
     a financial institution under a guarantee, comfort letter, letter of
     credit, foreign exchange contract or similar instrument, the foreign
     exchange rate for such currency shall be determined as of the date on which
     such financial institution shall have been reimbursed;

          (ii) with respect to any Indemnifiable Loss covered by insurance, the
     foreign exchange rate for such currency shall be the foreign exchange rate
     employed by the insurer in settling such Indemnifiable Losses with the
     Indemnifying Party; and

          (iii) with respect to any Indemnifiable Loss not covered by either
     clause (i) or (ii) above, the foreign exchange rate for such currency shall
     be determined as of the date that notice of the claim with respect to such
     Indemnifiable Loss is given to the Indemnitee.

     Section 7.07.  Procedures for Indemnification.  Except as expressly 
                    ------------------------------                             
provided in any Ancillary Agreement:

     (a)  Notice of Third Party Claims (Other than Shared Liabilities).  If a 
          ------------------------------------------------------------        
claim or demand is made against an Indemnitee by any Person who is not a party
to this Agreement or a Subsidiary thereof (a "Third Party Claim") for which an
Indemnifying Party may be liable under this Agreement other than with respect to
a Shared Liability, such Indemnitee shall notify the Indemnifying Party in
writing, and in reasonable detail, of the Third Party Claim promptly (and in any
event within 30 business days) after receipt by such Indemnitee of written
notice of the Third Party Claim; provided, however, that no delay by the 
                                 --------  ------- 
Indemnitee in giving such notice shall affect the Indemnitee's right to
indemnification hereunder except to the extent the Indemnifying Party is
actually prejudiced by such delay (except that the Indemnifying Party shall not
be liable for any expenses incurred during the period in which the Indemnitee
failed to give such notice). Thereafter, the Indemnitee shall deliver to the
Indemnifying Party, promptly (and in any event within ten business days) after
the Indemnitee's receipt thereof, copies of all notices and documents (including
court papers) received by the Indemnitee relating to the Third Party Claim.

     (b)  Legal Defense of Third Party Claims.  If a Third Party Claim is made
          -----------------------------------                                 
against an Indemnitee, the Indemnifying Party shall be entitled to participate
in the defense thereof and, if it so chooses and acknowledges in writing its
obligation to indemnify the Indemnitee for the Third Party Claim, to assume the
defense thereof with counsel selected by the Indemnifying Party. Should the
Indemnifying Party assume the defense of a Third Party Claim, the Indemnifying
Party shall not be liable to the Indemnitee for legal or other expenses
subsequently incurred by the Indemnitee in connection with the defense of such
Third Party Claim. The Indemnifying Party shall be liable for the reasonable
fees and expenses of counsel employed by the Indemnitee for any period during
which the Indemnifying Party has failed to assume the defense of the Third Party
Claim (other than the period during which the Indemnitee failed to give notice
of the Third Party Claim). If the Indemnifying Party elects to assume the
defense of any Third Party Claim, all of the Indemnitees shall cooperate with
the Indemnifying Party in the defense or prosecution thereof.

     (c)  Third Party Claims (Shared Liabilities).  If a Third Party Claim in 
          ---------------------------------------                               
respect of a Shared Liability is made against an Indemnitee, such Indemnitee
shall notify the Indemnifying Parties in writing, and in reasonable detail, of
the Third Party Claim promptly (and in any event within 30 business days) after
receipt by such Indemnitee of written notice of the Third Party Claim; provided,
                                                                       --------
however, that no delay by the Indemnitee in giving such notice shall affect the 
- -------
Indemnitee's right to indemnification hereunder except to the extent an
Indemnifying Party is actually prejudiced by such delay (except that the
Indemnifying Party or Parties shall not be liable for any expenses incurred
during the period in which the Indemnitee failed to give such notice).
Thereafter, the Indemnitee shall deliver to the Indemnifying Party or Parties,
promptly (and in any event within ten business days) after the

                                      32
<PAGE>
 
Indemnitee's receipt thereof, copies of all notices and documents (including
court papers) received by the Indemnitee relating to the Third Party Claim.

     The party designated on Schedule 1.01(a) or (b) to have management
responsibility for the related Shared Liability (the "Managing Party") shall
have management and administrative responsibility for the Third Party Claim
(unless no party is so designated, in which case the Managing Party shall be as
agreed among the affected parties).  Such management and administrative
responsibility shall entail the defense of such Third Party Claim, negotiation
with claimants and potential claimants (subject to the limitations in the
following paragraph) and other reasonably related activities. Unless the
Managing Party is an Indemnifying Party that does not acknowledge in writing its
obligations to indemnify the Indemnitee for the Third Party Claim to the extent
contemplated by this Agreement, the Managing Party may assume the defense
thereof with counsel selected by such Managing Party. If the Managing Party
assumes the defense of the Third Party Claim, the legal or other expenses in
respect of such Third Party Claim incurred by or on behalf of any Person other
than such Managing Party shall not be Indemnifiable Losses for purposes of this
Agreement, except for the reasonable fees and expenses of counsel employed by
the Indemnitee for any period during which the Managing Party has failed to
assume the defense of the Third Party Claim (other than the period during which
the Indemnitee failed to give notice of the Third Party Claim). Each Indemnitee
and each Indemnifying Party shall cooperate with any Managing Party and each
other in the defense or prosecution of such Third Party Claim. All costs and
expenses (including attorneys' fees and all out-of-pocket expenses, together
with the Costs of the Managing Party (if the Managing Party assumes the defense
of the Third Party Claim)) incurred in connection with a Third Party Claim in
respect of a Shared Liability shall be included as a part of the Indemnifiable
Losses.

     (d)  Notwithstanding Sections 7.07(b) and 7.07(c):

          (i) an Indemnifying Party (or the Managing Party, as applicable) shall
     not be entitled to assume the defense of any Third Party Claim (and shall
     be liable to the Indemnitee for the reasonable fees and expenses of counsel
     incurred by the Indemnitee in defending such Third Party Claim to the
     extent contemplated by this Agreement) if the Third Party Claim seeks an
     order, injunction or other equitable relief or relief for other than money
     damages against the Indemnitee which the Indemnitee reasonably determines,
     after conferring with its counsel, cannot be separated from any related
     claim for money damages and is materially prejudicial to the Indemnitee's
     business; provided, however, that if such equitable relief or other relief
               --------  -------                                               
     portion of the Third Party Claim can be so separated from that for money
     damages, the Indemnifying Party (or the Managing Party, as applicable)
     shall be entitled, but not required, to assume the defense of the portion
     relating to money damages;

          (ii) an Indemnifying Party (or the Managing Party, as applicable)
     shall not be entitled to assume the defense of any Third Party Claim (and
     shall be liable to the Indemnitee for the reasonable fees and expenses of
     counsel incurred by the Indemnitee in defending such Third Party Claim to
     the extent contemplated by this Agreement) if, in the Indemnitee's
     reasonable judgment, a conflict of interest between such Indemnitee and any
     Indemnifying Party exists, in respect of such Third Party Claim; and

          (iii) if at any time after assuming the defense of a Third Party Claim
     an Indemnifying Party (or the Managing Party, as applicable) shall fail to
     assume or withdraws from the defense of such Third Party Claim, the
     Indemnitee may resume the defense thereof and the Indemnifying Party (or
     Indemnifying Parties as applicable) shall be liable for the reasonable fees
     and expenses of counsel incurred by the Indemnitee in such defense.

     (e)  Settlement of Third Party Claims.
          -------------------------------- 

          (i) No Indemnitee (or the Managing Party, as applicable) shall admit
     any liability with respect to, or settle, compromise or discharge, any
     Third Party Claim or consent to the entry of any judgment without each
     Indemnifying Party's prior written consent; provided, however, that the
                                                 --------  -------          
     Indemnitee shall have the right to settle, compromise or discharge such
     Third Party Claim or consent to the entry of any judgment without the prior
     written consent of the Indemnifying Party or Indemnifying Parties if (A)
     the Indemnitee releases each Indemnifying Party from its indemnification
     obligation hereunder with respect to such Third Party Claim and such
     settlement, compromise or discharge would not otherwise materially
     adversely affect the Indemnifying Party or Indemnifying Parties, or (B) the
     Indemnifying Party (or the

                                      33
<PAGE>
 
     Managing Party, as applicable) has failed to assume the defense of the
     Third Party Claim within 90 days after the receipt of notice thereof.

          (ii) No Indemnifying Party (or Managing Party, as applicable) shall
     settle, compromise or discharge any Third Party Claim or consent to any
     judgment without each Indemnitee's prior written consent unless (A) an
     unconditional term of such settlement, compromise or discharge thereof is
     delivery by the claimant or the plaintiff to the Indemnitee of a written
     release of all Liability in respect of such Third Party Claims, (B) the
     Indemnifying Party pays the full amount of the Liability in connection with
     such Third Party Claim, and (C) such settlement, compromise or discharge
     would not otherwise materially adversely affect the Indemnitee.

     (f)  Other Claims.  Any claim for an Indemnifiable Loss which does not 
          ------------                                                       
result from a Third Party Claim shall be asserted by the Indemnitee by written
notice and in reasonable detail to the applicable Indemnifying Party. The
Indemnifying Party shall have 90 days from the date that it receives written
notice during which to notify the Indemnitee in writing of its good faith
objections, if any, to the Indemnitee's notice of claims for indemnification
describing in reasonable detail each of the Indemnifying Party's objections
thereto. If the Indemnifying Party does not deliver a written notice of
objection within such 90-day period, the Indemnifying Party shall be deemed not
have any objections to such notice or such claim. If the Indemnifying Party does
deliver such written notice of objection within such 90-day period, the
Indemnifying Party and the Indemnitee shall attempt in good faith to resolve any
such dispute within 90 days of receipt by the Indemnitee of such written notice
of objection. If the Indemnifying Party and the Indemnitee are unable to resolve
any such dispute within such 90-day period, such dispute shall be submitted to
the Separation Committee in accordance with the procedures set forth in Article
IX.

     Section 7.08.  Indemnification Payments.  Indemnification required by this
                    ------------------------                                   
Article VII shall be made by quarterly payments of the amount thereof (other
than individual amounts of $100,000 or more, which shall be paid within ten
business days) during the course of the investigation or defense; provided,
                                                                  -------- 
however, that if the applicable Indemnitee is a Subsidiary of a party that is
- -------                                                                      
organized under a jurisdiction not in the United States, the payments shall, in
lieu thereof, be made to HCS, IB or SEB, as applicable.

     Section 7.09.  Certain Legal Proceedings.
                    ------------------------- 

     (a)  IB Third Party Claims.  On the Distribution Date, IB shall assume 
          ---------------------                                                 
(or shall cause one of its Subsidiaries to assume) (i) the prosecution of all
claims which are Instruments Assets and are pending on the Distribution Date,
and (ii) control of the defense against all Third Party Claims which are
Instruments Liabilities and are pending on the Distribution Date, including, in
each case, those set forth on Schedule 7.09(a).

     (b)  SEB Third Party Claims.  On the Distribution Date, SEB shall assume 
          ----------------------                                            
(or shall cause one of its Subsidiaries to assume) (i) the prosecution of all
claims which are Semiconductor Equipment Assets and are pending on the
Distribution Date and (ii) control of the defense against all Third Party Claims
which are Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities and are pending on the
Distribution Date, including, in each case, those set forth on Schedule 7.09(b).

     (c)  HCS Third Party Claims.  HCS (or its Subsidiaries) shall retain (i) 
          ----------------------                                            
the prosecution of all claims which are Health Care Systems Assets and are
pending on the Distribution Date, and (ii) control of the defense against all
Third Party Claims which are Health Care Systems Liabilities and are pending on
the Distribution Date, including, in each case, those set forth on Schedule
7.09(c).

     (d)  Shared Assets/Shared Liabilities.  The Managing Party shall assume or
          --------------------------------                                     
retain the (i) prosecution of all claims that are Shared Assets and are pending
on the Distribution Date and (ii) control of the defense against all Third Party
Claims which are Shared Liabilities and are pending on the Distribution Date,
including, in each case, those set forth on Schedule 7.09(d).

     Section 7.10.  Survival of Indemnities.  The obligations of HCS, SEB and IB
                    -----------------------                                     
under this Article VII shall survive the sale or other transfer by any of them
of any Assets or businesses or the assignment by any of them of any Liabilities
with respect to any Indemnifiable Loss of any Indemnitee related to such Assets,
businesses or Liabilities.

                                      34
<PAGE>
 
     Section 7.11.  Contribution.  To the extent that indemnification provided 
                    ------------                                              
for under Section 7.03, 7.04 or 7.05 is unavailable to hold harmless an
Indemnitee in respect of any Indemnifiable Loss, then the Indemnifying Party
under such Section, in lieu of indemnifying such Indemnitee, shall contribute to
the amount paid or payable by such Indemnitee as a result of such Indemnifiable
Loss in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative fault (to be
determined through the procedures provided for in Article IX) of the
Indemnifying Party on the one hand and of the Indemnitee on the other hand in
connection with the action, inaction, statements or omissions that resulted in
such Indemnifiable Loss as well as any other relevant equitable considerations.

     Section 7.12.  Exclusive Mechanism; Waiver of Jury Trial. Each of IB, SEB 
                    -----------------------------------------                  
and HCS, on behalf of itself and each member of its Group, agrees that the
procedures set forth in this Article VII, together with Article IX, shall be the
sole and exclusive mechanism for the resolution of any dispute, controversy or
claim relating to any of the matters set forth in Sections 7.03, 7.04 and 7.05.
Each of IB, SEB and HCS, on behalf of itself and each member of its Group,
irrevocably waives any right to any trial by jury with respect to any dispute,
controversy or claim arising out of, relating to or resulting from this
Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement.

     Section 7.13.  Failure to Satisfy Indemnification Obligation.  In the 
                    ---------------------------------------------               
event that (a) it is finally determined that an Indemnifying Party is liable to
an Indemnitee hereunder in respect of an Indemnifiable Loss, and (b) a court of
competent jurisdiction prohibits such Indemnifying Party from satisfying all or
a part of its obligations to the Indemnitee hereunder(for indemnification or
contribution) in respect of such Indemnifiable Loss, then the amount of the
Indemnifiable Loss that is not satisfied shall be treated as a Shared Liability
of the parties to this Agreement other than the Indemnifying Party, with each
such other party bearing one-half of such amount.

     Section 7.14.  Treatment of Shared Assets.
                    -------------------------- 

     (a)  Prosecution of Claims.  The Managing Party in respect of a Shared 
          ---------------------                                                 
Asset, or such other party as the parties hereto shall agree (or if they cannot
agree, HCS) shall have sole and exclusive authority to commence, prosecute,
settle, manage, control, conduct, waive, forego, release, discharge, forgive and
otherwise determine all matters whatsoever with respect to any Shared Asset.

     (b)  Disposition of Benefit.  Any benefit that may be received from a 
          ----------------------                                            
Shared Asset shall be shared, one-third each, among HCS, IB and SEB, except to
the extent that the benefit relates to a Shared Asset received in respect of a
Shared Liability, the indemnification obligations for which are borne by only
two of the parties pursuant to Sections 7.03, 7.04 or 7.05, in which event such
benefit shall be shared, one-half each, by the parties bearing the
indemnification obligation.

     (c)  Shared Asset Payments.  The amount of any benefit from a Shared Asset
          ---------------------                                                 
shall be payable by the party receiving the benefit (net of the Costs incurred
in collecting such benefit, if the party is not otherwise indemnified with
respect to such Costs under other provisions of this Article VII) to the other
parties quarterly (other than individual amounts of $100,000 or more, which
shall be paid within ten business days) as such benefits are received.

     (d)  Adjustment for Taxes.  The amount of benefits determined pursuant to 
          --------------------                                                
this Section 7.14 shall be appropriately adjusted to take into account Income
Taxes in a manner consistent with Section 7.06(b).

                                 ARTICLE VIII
                                   INSURANCE

     Section 8.01.  Policies and Rights Included within Assets.
                    ------------------------------------------ 

     (a)  New and Existing Insurance.  As of the Effective Time, each of the 
          --------------------------                                          
Groups shall be responsible for arranging separate Policies with respect to
Actions and Liabilities arising after the Effective Time with respect to such
Group and its business. As of the Effective Time, all prepaid and unused
premiums, and all refunds received thereafter with respect to each Company
Policy that inured to the benefit of more than one Group before the Effective
Time, except as provided in Section 8.04, shall be distributed or retained one-
third each to HCS, IB and SEB (or one-half each to the affected parties if only
two parties were insured under the applicable Company Policy). To the extent any
party receives any such refund, the party receiving the refund shall promptly
transfer to the other parties the portion of such refund to which each such
other party is entitled.

                                      35
<PAGE>
 
     (b)  IB's Insurance.  Without limiting the generality of the definition of
          --------------                                                      
the Instruments Assets set forth in Section 1.01 or the effect of Section 2.02,
the Instruments Assets shall include any and all rights of an insured party or
an additional named insured party under the Company Policies and all predecessor
Policies thereto for Actions or Liabilities arising before the Effective Time,
including rights of indemnity and the right to be defended by or at the expense
of the insurer, with respect to all Actions or Liabilities incurred or claimed
to have been incurred before the Distribution Date by any party in connection
with the Instruments Assets or the conduct of the Instruments Business or, to
the extent any claim is made against IB or any IB Subsidiary, the conduct of the
Health Care Systems Business or the Semiconductor Equipment Business (a "IB
Claim"); provided, however, that nothing in this paragraph (b) shall be deemed
         --------  -------
to constitute (or to reflect) an assignment of such Company Policies, or any of
them, to IB. Except for Insurance Proceeds paid to or on behalf of any member of
the Health Care Systems Group or the Semiconductor Equipment Group at the
direction of IB in satisfaction of a claim that would otherwise be subject to
indemnification by IB under Article VII, IB shall be entitled to receive from
Varian any Insurance Proceeds with respect to any IB Claims under the Company
Policies, including reimbursement for Instruments Liabilities.

     (c)  SEB's Insurance.  Without limiting the generality of the definition 
          ---------------                                                      
of the Semiconductor Equipment Assets set forth in Section 1.01 or the effect of
Section 2.02, the Semiconductor Equipment Assets shall include any and all
rights of an insured party or an additional named insured party under the
Company Policies and all predecessor Policies thereto for Actions or Liabilities
arising before the Effective Time, including rights of indemnity and the right
to be defended by or at the expense of the insurer, with respect to all Actions
or Liabilities incurred or claimed to have been incurred before the Distribution
Date by any party in connection with the Semiconductor Equipment Assets or the
conduct of the Semiconductor Equipment Business or, to the extent any claim is
made against SEB or any SEB Subsidiary, the conduct of the Instruments Business
or the Health Care Systems Business, (an "SEB Claim"); provided, however, that
                                                       --------  -------       
nothing in this paragraph (c) shall be deemed to constitute (or to reflect) an
assignment of such Company Policies, or any of them, to SEB. Except for
Insurance Proceeds paid to or on behalf of any member of the Instruments Group
or the Health Care Systems Group at the direction of SEB in satisfaction of a
claim that would otherwise be subject to indemnification by SEB under Article
VII, SEB shall be entitled to receive from Varian any Insurance Proceeds with
respect to any SEB Claims under the Company Policies, including reimbursement
for Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities.

     (d)  HCS's Insurance.  Without limiting the generality of the definition 
          ---------------                                                      
of the Health Care Systems Assets set forth in Section 1.01, the Health Care
Systems Assets shall include any and all rights of an insured party or an
additional named insured party under the Company Policies and all predecessor
Policies thereto including rights of indemnity and the right to be defended by
or at the expense of the insurer, other than the rights that are included in the
Instruments Assets or the Semiconductor Equipment Assets.

     Section 8.02.  Claims.
                    ------ 

     (a)  Assignment of Rights to the Instruments Group.
          --------------------------------------------- 

          (i) The parties agree that as of the Effective Time, Varian shall be
     deemed (A) to have assigned to the Instruments Group, all the other Groups'
     rights, if any, as an insured party or an additional named insured party
     including rights of indemnity and the right to be defended by or at the
     expense of the insurer, under all of the Company Policies with respect to
     such IB Claims as are pending on the Distribution Date, and (B) to the
     extent necessary to provide the Instruments Group all the benefit of such
     insurance with respect to IB Claims, to designate IB, without need of
     further documentation, as the agent and attorney-in-fact to assert and to
     collect any Insurance Proceeds under such Company Policies; provided,
                                                                 -------- 
     however, that nothing in this Section 8.02(a) shall be deemed to constitute
     -------                                                                    
     or reflect the assignment of any of the Company Policies to the Instruments
     Group.  If, after the Distribution Date, the Instruments Group shall be
     entitled to payment or reimbursement with respect to an IB Claim or any
     Person shall assert an IB Claim, then HCS shall at the time such IB Claim
     arises or is asserted be deemed (A) to assign, without need of further
     documentation, to the Instruments Group all of the Health Care Systems
     Group's rights, if any, as an insured party or an additional named insured
     party, including right of indemnity and the right to be defended by or at
     the expense of the insurer, under the applicable Company Policy with
     respect to such IB Claim and (B) to the extent necessary to provide the
     Instruments Group with the benefit of such insurance with respect to IB
     Claims, to designate IB, without need of further documentation, as the
     agent and attorney-in-fact to assert and to collect any Insurance Proceeds
     under such Company Policies; provided, however, that nothing in this
                                  --------  -------                      
     Section 8.02(a) shall be deemed to constitute or 

                                      36
<PAGE>
 
     reflect the assignment of any of the Company Policies to the Instruments
     Group. In the event an insurer refuses to honor such agency or to pay such
     Insurance Proceeds to the Instruments Group, HCS shall use all reasonable
     efforts to collect such Insurance Proceeds and forward them to IB.

          (ii) In the event of payment of an IB Claim by the Instruments Group
     after the Distribution Date, IB, or the applicable member of the
     Instruments Group shall be subrogated to and stand in the place of HCS or
     the applicable member of any other Group as to any rights, events or
     circumstances in respect of which IB or the applicable member of the
     Instruments Group may have any right or claim under this Agreement or
     otherwise against any such insurer relating to such IB Claim. The parties
     shall cooperate with the Instruments Group in a reasonable manner in
     prosecuting any subrogated right or claim.

     (b)  Assignment of Rights to the Semiconductor Equipment Group.
          --------------------------------------------------------- 

          (i) The parties agree that as of the Effective Time, Varian shall be
     deemed (A) to have assigned to the Semiconductor Equipment Group, all the
     other Groups' rights, if any, as an insured party or an additional named
     insured party including rights of indemnity and the right to be defended by
     or at the expense of the insurer, under all of the Company Policies with
     respect to such SEB Claims as are pending on the Distribution Date, and (B)
     to the extent necessary to provide the Semiconductor Equipment Group all
     the benefit of such insurance with respect to SEB Claims, to designate SEB,
     without need of further documentation, as the agent and attorney-in-fact to
     assert and to collect any Insurance Proceeds under such Company Policies;
     provided, however, that nothing in this Section 8.02(b) shall be deemed to
     --------  -------                                                         
     constitute or reflect the assignment of any of the Company Policies to the
     Semiconductor Equipment Group.  If, after the Distribution Date, the
     Semiconductor Equipment Group shall be entitled to payment or reimbursement
     with respect to a SEB Claim or any Person shall assert a SEB Claim, then
     HCS shall at the time such SEB Claim arises or is asserted be deemed (A) to
     assign, without need of further documentation, to the Semiconductor
     Equipment Group all of the Health Care Systems Group's rights, if any, as
     an insured party or an additional named insured party, including right of
     indemnity and the right to be defended by or at the expense of the insurer,
     under the applicable Company Policy with respect to such SEB Claim and (B)
     to the extent necessary to provide the Semiconductor Equipment Group with
     the benefit of such insurance with respect to SEB Claims, to designate SEB,
     without need of further documentation, as the agent and attorney-in-fact to
     assert and to collect any Insurance Proceeds under such Company Policies;
     provided, however, that nothing in this Section 8.02(b) shall be deemed to
     --------  -------                                                         
     constitute or reflect the assignment of any of the Company Policies to the
     Semiconductor Equipment Group.  In the event an insurer refuses to honor
     such agency or to pay such Insurance Proceeds to the Semiconductor
     Equipment Group, HCS shall use all reasonable efforts to collect such
     Insurance Proceeds and forward them to SEB.

          (ii) In the event of payment of a SEB Claim by the Semiconductor
     Equipment Group after the Distribution Date, SEB, or the applicable member
     of the Semiconductor Equipment Group shall be subrogated to and stand in
     the place of HCS or the applicable member of any other Group as to any
     rights, events or circumstances in respect of which SEB or the applicable
     member of the Semiconductor Equipment Group may have any right or claim
     under this Agreement or otherwise against any such insurer relating to such
     SEB Claim. The parties shall cooperate with the Semiconductor Equipment
     Group in a reasonable manner in prosecuting any subrogated right or claim.

     Section 8.03.  Administration; Other Matters.  Consistent with the 
                    -----------------------------                               
provisions of Article VII, after the Distribution Date,

     (a)  HCS's Responsibilities.  HCS shall be responsible for (i) Insurance
          ----------------------                                             
Administration of the Company Policies, and (ii) Claims Administration with
respect to any Health Care Systems Liabilities, any Health Care Systems Assets
or any claims as to which the Health Care Systems Group has retained rights of
reimbursement or subrogation under this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement. It
is understood that the retention of the Company Policies by HCS is in no way
intended to limit, inhibit or preclude any right to insurance coverage for any
Insured Claim or any other rights under the Company Policies.

     (b)  IB's Responsibilities.  IB shall be responsible for Claims 
          ---------------------                                          
Administration with respect to any Instruments Liabilities, Instruments Assets
or any claims as to which the Instruments Group has rights of reimbursement or
subrogation under this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement.

                                      37
<PAGE>
 
     (c)  SEB's Responsibilities.  SEB shall be responsible for Claims 
          ----------------------                                                
Administration with respect to any Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities,
Semiconductor Equipment Assets or any claims as to which the Semiconductor
Equipment Group has rights of reimbursement or subrogation under this Agreement
or any Ancillary Agreement.

     (d)  The Managing Party's Responsibilities.  The Managing Party shall be
          -------------------------------------                              
responsible for Claims Administration with respect to Insured Claims for Shared
Liabilities.

     (e)  Notice.  In the event that HCS, SEB or IB makes an Insured Claim 
          ------                                                             
under a Company Policy, such party shall deliver notice to the other parties of
such Insured Claim and shall keep the other parties periodically updated as to
the status of such Insured Claim.

     Section 8.04.  Retrospectively Calculated Insurance Premiums. Each party 
                    ---------------------------------------------             
shall pay or receive its share of retrospectively calculated additional or
return premiums or assessments, policy dividends or audited exposures after the
Distribution Date for coverage under the Company Policies with respect to their
respective Liabilities which are Insured Claims under the Company Policies. Such
shares shall be determined consistent with losses incurred or audited exposure
with respect to the Assets or businesses of the parties for that specific line
of insurance coverage, as determined in an independent underwriting analysis.
Each party shall have the right, but not the obligation, to pay any additional
premiums under the Company Policies with respect to the other parties'
Liabilities which are Insured Claims under the Company Policies to the extent
that one or more other parties does not pay such premium, in which event the
non-paying party or parties shall promptly reimburse the payor for any premiums
paid by the payor with respect to such non-paying party's Liabilities.

     Section 8.05.  Allocation of Insurance Proceeds; Cooperation.
                    --------------------------------------------- 

     (a)  Allocation of Insurance Proceeds.  Except as otherwise provided in 
          --------------------------------                                     
Section 8.01, Insurance Proceeds received with respect to claims, costs and
expenses under the Company Policies shall be paid to HCS with respect to Health
Care Systems Liabilities that are Insured Claims, to IB with respect to
Instruments Liabilities that are Insured Claims and to SEB with respect to
Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities that are Insured Claims. Payment of the
allocable portions of indemnity costs of Insurance Proceeds resulting from the
Company Policies shall be made to the appropriate party upon receipt from the
insurer. Insurance Proceeds received with respect to Shared Liabilities shall be
paid to the party or other Person bearing the Liability that represents the
Insured Claim.

     (b)  Maximization of Coverage.  Each party agrees to use commercially 
          ------------------------                                              
reasonable efforts to maximize available coverage under the Company Policies for
all Insured Claims whether or not such party is the expected beneficiary of
Insurance Proceeds under such Company Policies in respect of such Insured
Claims. As part of such efforts to maximize insurance coverage, each party
agrees to take all commercially reasonable actions to recover such amounts as
are or might be due from all other responsible parties in respect of an Insured
Claim, including Insured Claims as to which coverage limits under the Company
Policies would be or would have been exceeded as a result of such Insured Claim
and whether or not such party is expected to benefit directly from such effort
and to engage in reasonable settlement negotiations and consider reasonable
offers of settlement or compromise with respect to any Liabilities that
represent Insured Claims. Each party further agrees to name each other party to
this Agreement as an additional insured (up to a maximum of $10,000,000) under
each liability Policy maintained by such Party during the three-year period
commencing on the Distribution Date for claims under Article VII of this
Agreement.

     (c)  Multiple Claims.  Where Health Care Systems Liabilities and/or  
          ---------------                                                       
Instruments Liabilities and/or Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities, as
applicable, are covered under the same Company Policies for periods before the
Distribution Date, or covering claims made after the Distribution Date with
respect to an event or an occurrence before the Distribution Date, then the
Health Care Systems Group, the Instruments Group and the Semiconductor Equipment
Group, as applicable, may claim coverage for Insured Claims under such Company
Policies to the extent of liability or other coverage of such Company Policies.
Each party may receive Insurance Proceeds in respect of its Insured Claims as
and when payable under the terms of the applicable Company Policies without
regard to whether the Insured Claim covers Health Care Systems Liabilities,
Instruments Liabilities or Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities; provided,
                                                                --------
however, that before receiving payment under a Company Policy, the party making
- -------
the claim shall be required to have retained a portion of the Liability
underlying such Insured Claim equal to the amount of the self insurance
retention or deductible. In the event that the aggregate limits on any

                                      38
<PAGE>
 
Company Policy is exceeded by the aggregate of paid Insured Claims, no Group
shall be entitled to reimbursement from another Group.

     Section 8.06.  Reimbursement of Expenses.  Each of IB or SEB shall 
                    -------------------------                                   
reimburse the applicable insurer (or any applicable third-party administrator)
to the extent required under any Company Policy (or service agreement) for any
services performed after the Distribution Date with respect to any and all IB
Claims or SEB Claims, respectively, which are paid, settled, adjusted, defended
and/or otherwise handled by such insurer or third-party administrator under the
terms and conditions of such Company Policy (or any service agreement with any
such third-party administrator).

     Section 8.07.  Insurer Insolvency or Coverage Controversy. None of IB, 
                    ------------------------------------------                
HCS and SEB shall be liable to one another for claims not reimbursed by insurers
for any reason, including co-insurance provisions, deductibles, adequacy of
limits, self-insurance retentions, bankruptcy or insolvency of any insurer, any
coverage disputes, any failure to timely claim or any defect in such claim or
its processing or exhaustion of Company Policy aggregates.

     Section 8.08.  Agreement for Waiver of Conflict and Shared Defense.  In the
                    ---------------------------------------------------         
event that Insured Claims of more than one of the parties exist relating to the
same occurrence, the applicable parties shall jointly defend and waive any
conflict of interest necessary to the conduct of the joint defense.  Nothing in
this Section 8.08 shall be construed to limit or otherwise alter in any way the
obligations of the parties to this Agreement, including those created by this
Agreement, by operation of Law or otherwise.

     Section 8.09.  Direct Responsibility for Claims; Additional Insurance; No
                    ----------------------------------------------------------
Modifications.
- ------------- 

     (a)  Notification to Insurers.  Varian agrees to use commercially 
          ------------------------                                       
reasonable efforts to notify all known liability insurers under the Company
Policies of the Distributions and to seek an endorsement by such insurers that
the coverage provided by such Company Policies will apply to the Health Care
Systems Group, the Instruments Group and the Semiconductor Equipment Group, as
organized and existing on the Distribution Date, with the same force and effect
and subject to the same terms, conditions and exclusions as if the separation of
Varian and the Distributions had not occurred (it being understood that Varian
shall be under no obligation to pay any amounts or otherwise incur any
Liabilities in connection therewith). In the event such endorsement is refused,
Varian agrees to use commercially reasonable efforts to place the Instruments
Group and the Semiconductor Equipment Group in the same position as each would
have been had such endorsement been agreed upon by such insurers (it being
understood that Varian shall be under no obligation to pay any amounts or
otherwise incur any Liabilities in connection therewith). Each of HCS, IB and
SEB shall have the right to use commercially reasonable efforts to negotiate
agreements with any and all insurers or third party administrators for the
assumption of direct responsibility for any and all Liabilities related to it
under any Company Policies, and Varian shall provide commercially reasonable
assistance in this effort.

     (b)  Post-Distribution Date Actions.  After the Distribution Date, none 
          ------------------------------                                       
of HCS, IB or SEB or any member of their respective Groups shall, without the
prior written consent of the other parties, provide any insurer with a release,
or amend, modify or waive any rights under any Policy or agreement, if such
release, amendment, modification or waiver would adversely affect any rights or
potential rights to coverage of any member of the other Groups thereunder;
provided, however, that, except as expressly provided in this Agreement, the
- --------  -------                                            
foregoing shall not (i) preclude any member of any Group from presenting any
claim or, subject to Section 8.05, from exhausting any Policy limit, (ii)
require any member of any Group to pay any premium or other amount or to incur
any Liability, or (iii) require any member of any Group to renew, extend or
continue any Policy in force. Each of HCS, IB and SEB shall share such
information as is reasonably necessary in order to permit the others to manage
and conduct its insurance matters in an orderly fashion.

     (c)  Additional Insurance.  Nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed to
          --------------------                                               
restrict any member of the Instruments Group or the Semiconductor Equipment
Group from acquiring, at its own expense, any other insurance policy in respect
of any Liabilities or covering any period to the extent such insurance policy
does not contravene or abrogate any rights of any member of the other Groups
under any of the Company Policies or increase (or potentially increase) premiums
thereunder, whether prospectively or retroactively.

                                      39
<PAGE>
 
                                  ARTICLE IX
                               DISPUTE RESOLUTION

     Section 9.01.  Separation Committee.
                    -------------------- 

     (a)  Composition and Responsibility of Committee.  As of the Effective 
          -------------------------------------------                       
Time, HCS, IB and SEB shall form a committee (the "Separation Committee")
comprised of one representative designated from time-to-time by the chief
executive officer of each of the parties. Except as otherwise expressly provided
in this Agreement, until the tenth anniversary of the Effective Time, the
Separation Committee shall be responsible for resolving any and all
controversies, disputes or claims arising out of, relating to, in connection
with or resulting from this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement (or any
amendment hereto or thereto or any transaction contemplated hereby or thereby),
including as to its existence, interpretation, performance, non-performance,
validity, breach or termination, including any claim based on contract, tort,
statute or constitution and any claim raising questions of law, whether arising
before or after termination of this Agreement or any of the Ancillary
Agreements, including any dispute as to (i) whether any Action or other
Liability is an Instruments Liability, a Health Care Systems Liability, a
Semiconductor Equipment Liability or a Shared Liability, (ii) whether any Asset
is a Instruments Asset, a Health Care Systems Asset, a Semiconductor Equipment
Asset or a Shared Asset, (iii) the interpretation of any provision of this
Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, and (iv) such other matters as are
contemplated by this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement to be resolved by the
Separation Committee (collectively, "Agreement Disputes").

     (b)  Resolution Procedures.  In the event of an Agreement Dispute, each 
          ---------------------                                               
of the parties shall have the right to refer such Agreement Dispute in writing
to the Separation Committee (or, if the Agreement Dispute involves only two of
the parties, to the representatives of the affected parties that are members
thereof) for resolution. The Separation Committee (or such members) shall seek
to render a unanimous written decision with respect to any Agreement Dispute
within 60 days after receipt of the referral. The decision of the Separation
Committee (or such members) with respect to any Agreement Dispute shall be
binding on the affected parties, the members of their respective Groups and
their respective successors and assigns. In the event that the Separation
Committee (or such members) is unable to reach a unanimous written decision as
to any Agreement Dispute within 60 days after receipt of the referral, any of
the affected parties shall have the right to submit such Agreement Dispute to
arbitration in accordance with the procedures described in Section 9.02. The
parties shall each bear their own expenses and costs in connection with the
procedures described in this Section 9.01.

     Section 9.02.  Binding Arbitration.
                    ------------------- 

     (a)  Submission of Agreement Disputes.  Until 60 days after the tenth
          --------------------------------                                
anniversary of the Effective Time, the resolution of any and all such Agreement
Disputes not resolved in accordance with Section 9.01 shall be exclusively
governed, settled and resolved in accordance with the mandatory binding
arbitration provided for in this Section 9.02.

     (b)  Commencement of Arbitration.  Any affected party may commence 
          ---------------------------                                         
arbitration proceedings by delivering a written notice to the other party or
parties, describing in reasonable detail the Agreement Dispute to the other(s),
and expressly requesting arbitration (an "Arbitration Demand Notice") and by
filing with the American Arbitration Association ("AAA") a claim. Any such
arbitration shall be final, conclusive and binding on the parties, the members
of their respective Groups and their respective successors and assigns.

     (c)  Selection of Panel.  The arbitration shall be conducted in Palo Alto,
          ------------------                                                   
California by three arbitrators acting by majority vote (the "Panel"). The
parties involved in the arbitration shall jointly select the three arbitrators
from a list provided by AAA. If the parties are unable to agree as to the Panel
within 30 days after delivery of the Arbitration Demand Notice, the arbitrators
shall be appointed by the AAA pursuant to the commercial arbitration rules of
the American Arbitration Association, as amended from time to time (the "AAA
Rules"). If an arbitrator so selected or appointed becomes unable to serve, his
or her successor shall be similarly selected or appointed. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, if the affected parties agree, the Panel may consist of one
arbitrator jointly selected by the affected parties. The Panel shall be the sole
judge of the existence and extent of its jurisdiction.

     (d)  Arbitration Procedures.  The arbitration shall be conducted under the
          ----------------------                                              
AAA Rules.

     (e)  Conduct of Hearing.  All hearings shall be conducted on an expedited
          ------------------                                                  
schedule and all proceedings shall be confidential. Any affected party may at
its expense make a stenographic record thereof, which

                                      40
<PAGE>
 
shall then be shared with the other affected parties which so request a copy
(which parties shall then share equally in the expense) and which shall be given
to the Panel as the official record of the proceedings. Hearings with respect to
an Agreement Dispute shall begin not later than 120 days after selection or
appointment of the Panel and shall not be more than 30 days in length. The Panel
shall be required to issue a final award within 30 days of the conclusion of the
hearings. The award shall be in writing and shall specify the factual and legal
basis for the award. The Panel shall apportion all costs and expenses of
arbitration, including the Panel's fees and expenses, fees and expenses of
experts and reasonable attorneys' fees, among the affected parties as the Panel
deems fair and reasonable. The parties agree that money damages may be
inadequate and that any party shall be entitled to seek, and that the Panel
shall be empowered to enter, equitable and injunctive relief, including
preliminary and temporary injunctive relief, in addition to any other
appropriate relief or remedy. The parties consent to the jurisdiction of the
Panel to award such relief and to the binding nature of any such relief award by
the Panel. Any arbitration award shall be binding and enforceable against the
affected parties and each member of their respective Groups and judgment may be
entered thereon in any court of competent jurisdiction.

     (f)  Limitation on Damages.  In no event may the Panel award exemplary, 
          ---------------------                                                 
special or punitive damages or lost profits, except to the extent that
exemplary, special or punitive damages or lost profits are actually paid by a
party or a member of a party's Group to a third party.
 
     Section 9.03.  Disputes Regarding Closing Balance Sheets; Payments.
                    ---------------------------------------------------  
Notwithstanding Sections 9.01 and 9.02, the following shall govern disputes with
respect to the IB Closing Balance Sheet, the HCS Closing Balance Sheet and SEB
Closing Balance Sheet.

     (a)  Disputes Regarding Closing Balance Sheets.  Unless (i) in the case 
          -----------------------------------------                           
of the IB Closing Balance Sheet, IB delivers written notice to HCS and SEB on or
before the 60th day after its receipt of the IB Closing Balance Sheet that it
disputes the value of any item set forth on the IB Closing Balance Sheet (a "IB
Dispute"), or (ii) in the case of the SEB Closing Balance Sheet, SEB delivers
written notice to HCS and IB on or before the 60th day after its receipt of the
SEB Closing Balance Sheet that it disputes the value of any item set forth on
the SEB Closing Balance Sheet (a "SEB Dispute"), or (iii) in the case of the HCS
Closing Balance Sheet, HCS delivers a written notice to IB and SEB on or before
the 60th day after its receipt of the HCS Balance Sheet that it disputes the
value of any item set forth on the HCS Closing Balance Sheet (a "HCS Dispute"),
then the parties shall be deemed to have accepted and agreed to the IB Closing
Balance Sheet, the HCS Closing Balance Sheet or the SEB Closing Balance Sheet,
as applicable, in the form in which it was delivered to it by the Auditors. If
such a notice of a dispute is given by a party (the "Disputing Party") within
such 60-day period, then the parties shall, within 30 days after the giving of
any such notice, attempt to resolve the IB Dispute, HCS Dispute or SEB Dispute,
as the case may be, and agree in writing upon the final content of the affected
Closing Balance Sheet. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the values assigned to
each Asset and Liability on the IB Closing Balance Sheet, the HCS Closing
Balance Sheet and the SEB Closing Balance Sheet will be conclusively presumed to
be correct, and no party shall have the right to dispute the value of any item
if the values assigned to such Assets and Liabilities are the same as the values
recorded on Varian's balance sheet immediately prior to the Effective Time.

     (b)  If the parties are unable to resolve any IB Dispute, HCS Dispute or
SEB Dispute, as the case may be, within such 30-day period, then a mutually
acceptable independent accounting firm (the "Independent Auditors") shall be
employed as arbitrator hereunder to settle such IB Dispute, HCS Dispute and/or
SEB Dispute, as the case may be, as soon as practicable. In resolving such IB
Dispute, HCS Dispute or SEB Dispute, the Independent Auditors shall (i) be
granted access to all documents and facilities necessary to perform its function
as arbitrator; (ii) permit each party and its representatives to make written
and oral presentations to the Independent Auditors; (iii) resolve such IB
Dispute, HCS Dispute and/or SEB Dispute by following relevant internal
accounting methods and policies consistently applied, to the extent such methods
and policies are not inconsistent with GAAP or any term of this Agreement; (iv)
make a final decision regarding such IB Dispute, HCS Dispute and/or SEB Dispute
within such period of time mutually agreed upon by the relevant parties and
specified at the time of appointment of the Independent Auditors; and (v) issue
a written statement explaining the basis for its final decision. The
determination of the Independent Auditors with respect to any IB Dispute, HCS
Dispute and/or SEB Dispute, as the case may be, shall be final and binding on
the applicable parties. Each affected party shall pay its proportionate share of
the fees and expenses of the Independent Auditors for such services. HCS and the
Disputing Party (or Disputing Parties) each agree to execute, if requested by
the Independent Auditors, a reasonable engagement letter. The term "IB Adjusted
Closing Balance Sheet" as used herein shall mean the definitive IB Closing
Balance Sheet agreed to by the parties or, as the case may be, the definitive IB
Closing Balance Sheet resulting from the determinations made by the Independent
Auditors in accordance with this Section 9.03 (in addition to the matters

                                      41
<PAGE>
 
theretofore agreed to by IB and HCS). The term "HCS Adjusted Closing Balance
Sheet" as used herein shall mean the definitive HCS Balance Sheet agreed to by
the parties or, as the case may be, the definitive HCS Closing Balance Sheet
resulting from the determinations made by the Independent Auditors in accordance
with this Section 9.03 (in addition to the matters theretofore agreed to by HCS
and the Disputing Party or Disputing Parties). The term "SEB Adjusted Closing
Balance Sheet" as used herein shall mean the definitive SEB Closing Balance
Sheet agreed to by the parties or, as the case may be, the definitive SEB
Balance Sheet resulting from the determinations made by the Independent Auditors
in accordance with this Section 9.03 (in addition to the matters theretofore
agreed to by SEB and HCS).

     (c)  Post-Distribution Adjustments, Cash Payments and Other Actions.
          -------------------------------------------------------------- 

          (i) If the SEB Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet indicates that the
     targets for the minimum Cash and Cash Equivalents provided in Section
     2.05(b)(i)(A) or minimum consolidated Net Worth provided in Section
     2.05(b)(i)(B) or the maximum Consolidated Debt of SEB provided in Section
     2.05(b)(ii) were not met as of the Effective Time, then each of HCS and IB
     shall pay to SEB, in cash, an amount equal to 50% of the amount that would
     have been sufficient to cause SEB to meet such targets, or to reimburse SEB
     for any Consolidated Debt in excess of $5,000,000, as of the Effective
     Time, within ten days after the date the SEB Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet
     is determined and provided to the parties. If the SEB Adjusted Closing
     Balance Sheet indicates that the target for the minimum Cash and Cash
     Equivalents provided in Section 2.05(b)(i)(A) has been exceeded but the
     target for minimum consolidated Net Worth provided in Section 2.05(b)(i)(B)
     has been satisfied, then SEB shall pay to each of HCS and IB, in cash, an
     amount equal to 50% of the amount by which (A) the Cash and Cash
     Equivalents of SEB set forth on the SEB Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet
     exceed (B) the sum of (y) $100,000,000 and (z) the amount, if any, that
     would be required to reimburse SEB for any Consolidated Debt in excess of
     $5,000,000, within ten days after the date the SEB Adjusted Closing Balance
     Sheet is determined and provided to the parties. If the consolidated Net
     Worth set forth on the SEB Adjusting Closing Balance Sheet exceeds
     $225,000,000, then SEB shall pay to each of HCS and IB, in cash, an amount
     equal to 50% of the amount by which the such consolidated Net Worth exceeds
     $225,000,000, within ten days after the date the SEB Adjusted Closing
     Balance Sheet is determined and provided to the parties.

          (ii) If the HCS Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet indicates that the
     consolidated Net Worth of HCS set forth on the HCS Adjusted Closing Balance
     Sheet is less than 40% of the combined consolidated Net Worths of HCS and
     IB set forth on the HCS Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet and the IB Adjusted
     Closing Balance Sheet, then IB shall pay to HCS an amount in cash that
     would have been sufficient to cause the consolidated Net Worth of HCS to
     have equaled 40% of the combined consolidated Net Worths of HCS and IB set
     forth on the HCS Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet and the IB Adjusted Closing
     Balance Sheet as of the Effective Time, within ten days after the later of
     the HCS Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet and the IB Adjusted Closing Balance
     Sheet is determined and provided to the parties. If the HCS Adjusted
     Closing Balance Sheet indicates that the consolidated Net Worth of HCS set
     forth on the HCS Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet is more than 50% of the
     combined consolidated Net Worths of HCS and IB set forth on the HCS
     Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet and the IB Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet,
     then HCS shall pay to IB an amount in cash that would have been sufficient
     to cause the consolidated Net Worth of HCS to have equaled 50% of the
     combined consolidated Net Worths of HCS and IB set forth on the HCS
     Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet and the IB Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet as
     of the Effective Time, within ten days after the later of the HCS Adjusted
     Closing Balance Sheet and the IB Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet is
     determined and provided to the parties. For purposes of this Section
     9.03(c)(ii), the consolidated Net Worth of HCS shall be determined without
     giving effect to any Transaction Expenditures or Dispositions (including
     associated tax benefit and tax cost) that have been accrued, paid or
     received by HCS as of the Effective Time or any of the transactions
     effected pursuant to Section 2.05(d), but shall include any adjustments
     required by Section 9.03(c)(i).

     Section 9.04.  Post Distribution Adjustment in Respect of Transaction
                    ------------------------------------------------------
Expenditures and Disposition Proceeds.  On the date that is 180 days after the
- -------------------------------------                                         
Distribution Date (or, if such date is not a business day, the immediately
following business day), HCS and IB shall recompute the After-tax Differential
(including HCS's and IB's good faith estimates of the components thereof that
are not yet determinable as of such 180th day).  If the positive or negative
difference between the After-tax Differential determined as of such date and the
After-tax Differential determined pursuant to the provisions of Section 2.05(d)
is more than $1,000,000, then IB shall pay HCS, or HCS shall pay IB (as
applicable to put the parties in the positions they would have been if the
After-tax

                                      42
<PAGE>
 
Differential computed pursuant to the provisions of Section 2.05(d) was equal to
the recomputed After-tax Differential) 50% of the amount of such difference.

     Section 9.05.  Specific Performance.  Each party acknowledges that there 
                    --------------------                                       
is no adequate remedy at Law for the failure by such parties to comply with the
provisions of this Agreement and that such failure would cause immediate harm
that would not be adequately compensable in damages.  Accordingly, each party
agrees that the agreement contained in Section 9.02 with respect to arbitration
of Agreement Disputes and in Section 9.03 with respect to resolution of Disputes
by the Independent Auditors may be specifically enforced without the requirement
of posting a bond or other security.

                                   ARTICLE X
                                 MISCELLANEOUS

     Section 10.01.  Complete Agreement; Construction.  This Agreement and the
                     --------------------------------                         
Ancillary Agreements shall constitute the entire agreement among the parties
with respect to the subject matter hereof and shall supersede all prior
agreements, negotiations, commitments and writings with respect to such subject
matter.  In the event of any inconsistency between this Agreement and any
Schedule or Exhibit, the Schedule or Exhibit, as the case may be, shall prevail.
Notwithstanding any other provisions in this Agreement to the contrary, in the
event and to the extent that there is a conflict between the provisions of this
Agreement and the provisions of any Ancillary Agreement, the Ancillary Agreement
shall prevail, except for inconsistencies with respect to Sections 5.05 and 6.07
and Article IX, which shall prevail over any inconsistent provisions of any
Ancillary Agreement other than the Tax Sharing Agreement.

     Section 10.02.  Ancillary Agreements.  This Agreement is not intended to
                     --------------------                                    
address, and should not be interpreted to address, the matters expressly covered
by the Ancillary Agreements.

     Section 10.03.  Counterparts.  This Agreement may be executed in two or 
                     ------------                                           
more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of
which together shall constitute but one and the same Agreement.

     Section 10.04.  Responsibility for Expenses.
                     --------------------------- 

     (a)  Transaction Expenditures.  Except as otherwise expressly provided in
          ------------------------                                            
this Agreement, any Ancillary Agreement or any instrument or agreement
contemplated thereby, and subject to the provisions of this Agreement with
respect to After-tax Transaction Expenditures, all Transaction Expenditures
shall be charged to and paid by Varian.

     (b)  Expenses Incurred or Accrued after the Distribution Date.  Except as
          --------------------------------------------------------            
otherwise set forth in this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, each party
shall bear its own costs and expenses incurred in connection with the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

     Section 10.05.  Notices.  All notices, consents, requests, waivers, claims
                     -------                                                  
or other communications (each a "Notice") required or permitted under this
Agreement shall be in writing and shall be sufficiently given or made (a) if
hand delivered or sent by telecopy (with delivery confirmed by voice or
otherwise), (b) if sent by nationally recognized overnight courier, or (c) if
sent by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested,
and in each case addressed as follows:

     If to Varian before the Distributions, at:
     3050 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California  94304
     Attn:  Chief Financial Officer
     Telecopy:  (650) 424-5754

     with a copy to:

                                      43
<PAGE>
 
     3050 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California  94304
     Attn:  General Counsel
     Telecopy:  (650) 858-2018

     If to HCS before the Distributions, at:
     3100 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California  94304
     Attn:  Elisha W. Finney
     Telecopy:  (650) 424-5358

     with a copy to:

     3050 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California  94304
     Attn:  Joseph B. Phair
     Telecopy:  (650) 858-2018

     If to SEB before the Distributions, at:
     35 Dory Road
     Gloucester, Massachusetts  01930
     Attn:  Ernest L. Godshalk III
     Telecopy:  (978) 283-0445

     If to IB before the Distributions, at:
     3050 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California  94304
     Attn:  Wayne P. Somrak
     Telecopy:  (650) 424-5754

     with a copy to:

     3100 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California  94304
     Attn:  A.W. Homan
     Telecopy:  (650) 424-5998

     If to HCS after the Distributions, at:
     3100 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California 94304
     Attn:  Chief Financial Officer

     With a copy to:

     3100 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California 94304
     Attn:  General Counsel

     If to SEB after the Distributions, at:
     35 Dory Road
     Gloucester, Massachusetts  01930
     Attention:  Chief Financial Officer

     With a copy to:

                                      44
<PAGE>
 
     35 Dory Road
     Gloucester, Massachusetts 01930
     Attn:  General Counsel

     If to IB after the Distributions, at:
     3120 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California  94304
     Attn:  Chief Financial Officer

     with a copy to:

     3120 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California  94304
     Attn:  General Counsel

or such other address as shall be furnished by any of the parties in a Notice.
Any Notice shall be deemed to have been duly given or made when the Notice is
received.

     Section 10.06.  Waivers.  The failure of any party to require strict 
                     -------                                                    
performance by any other party of any provision in or rights or remedies with
respect to this Agreement shall not waive or diminish that party's right to
demand strict performance thereafter of that or any other provision hereof or
right or remedy.

     Section 10.07.  Amendments.  This Agreement may be amended or supplemented,
                     ----------                                                
or its provisions waived only by an agreement in writing signed by each of the
parties; provided, however, that (i) after the Varian stockholders approve the
         --------  -------                                                    
Distributions no such amendment, supplement or waiver may be effected unless it
would not be materially adverse to the Varian stockholders, and (ii) Article VII
may not be amended after the Distributions in respect of third party
beneficiaries thereof without the consent of such Persons.

     Section 10.08.  Assignment.
                     ---------- 

     (a)  No party to this Agreement shall (i) consolidate with or merge into
any Person or permit any Person to consolidate with or merge into such party
(other than a merger or consolidation in which the party is the surviving or
continuing corporation), or (ii) sell, assign, transfer, lease or otherwise
dispose of, in one transaction or a series of related transactions, all or
substantially all of its Assets, unless the resulting, surviving or transferee
Person expressly assumes, by instrument in form and substance reasonably
satisfactory to the other parties, all of the obligations of the party under
this Agreement.

     (b)  Except as expressly provided in paragraph (a) above or Section 7.10,
neither this Agreement nor any of the rights, interests or obligations hereunder
shall be assignable, directly or indirectly, by any party without the prior
written consent of the other parties, and any attempt to so assign without such
consent shall be void.

     Section 10.09.  Successors and Assigns. Subject to Section 10.08, this 
                     ----------------------                                     
Agreement shall be binding upon, inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by
the successors and permitted assigns of the parties.

     Section 10.10.  Termination.  This Agreement may be terminated and the
                     -----------                                           
Distributions may be abandoned at any time before the Distributions by Varian in
its sole discretion without the approval of SEB or IB or the Varian
stockholders.  In the event of such termination, no party shall have any
Liability of any kind to any other party.  After the Distributions, this
Agreement may not be terminated except by an agreement in writing signed by each
of the parties; provided, however, that Article VII may not be terminated after
                --------  -------                                              
the Distributions in respect of the third party beneficiaries thereof without
the consent of such Persons.

     Section 10.11.  Third Party Beneficiaries.  Except as expressly 
                     -------------------------                                 
contemplated by Article VII (relating to Indemnitees), this Agreement is solely
for the benefit of the parties and the members of their respective Groups and
Affiliates and their respective successors and permitted assigns, and should not
be deemed to confer upon third parties any remedy, claim, liability, right of
reimbursement, cause of action or other right in excess of those existing
without reference to this Agreement.

                                      45
<PAGE>
 
     Section 10.12.  Exhibits and Schedules.  The Exhibits and Schedules 
                     ----------------------                                    
attached to this Agreement shall be construed with and as an integral part of
this Agreement to the same extent as if the same had been set forth verbatim
herein.

     Section 10.13.  Governing Law.  This Agreement, the Ancillary Agreements 
                     -------------                                              
and any other agreements entered into in connection with the transactions
contemplated hereby (except for the Conveyancing and Assumption Instruments,
which shall be governed by local Law) shall be governed by, and construed and
enforced in accordance with, the Laws of the State of Delaware without regard to
the principles of conflicts of Laws thereunder. Notwithstanding the foregoing,
the Federal Arbitration Act, 9 U.S.C. (S)(S)1-15, shall govern the arbitrability
of Agreement Disputes.

     Section 10.14.  Severability.  If any provision of this Agreement or the
                     ------------                                            
application thereof to any Person or circumstance is determined to be invalid,
void or unenforceable in any respect, the remaining provisions hereof, or the
application of such provision to Persons or circumstances other than those as to
which it has been held invalid, void or unenforceable, shall remain in full
force and effect and in no way be affected, impaired or invalidated thereby, so
long as the economic or legal substance of the transactions contemplated hereby
is not affected in any manner adverse to any party.

     Section 10.15.  Subsidiaries.  Each party shall cause to be performed, and
                     ------------                                              
hereby guarantee the performance of, all actions, agreements and obligations set
forth herein to be performed by any Subsidiary of such party which is
contemplated to be a Subsidiary of such party on and after the Distribution
Date.

     Section 10.16.  Titles and Headings.  Titles and headings to sections 
                     -------------------                                        
herein are inserted for the convenience of reference only and are not intended
to be part of or to affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement or of
any Ancillary Agreement.

     Section 10.17.  Consent to Jurisdiction.  Without limiting any of the 
                     -----------------------                                    
provisions of Article IX, each party hereby submits to the exclusive
jurisdiction of the Chancery Court of the State of Delaware and the Federal
courts of the United States of America located in Delaware in respect of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and hereby waives, and agrees not
to assert, as a defense in any action, suit or proceeding for the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement, that it is not subject thereto or that such
action, suit or proceeding may not be brought or is not maintainable in such
courts or that the Agreement may not be enforced in or by such courts or that
its property is exempt or immune from execution, that the suit, action or
proceeding is brought in an inconvenient forum, or that the venue of the suit,
action or proceeding is improper.

                                      46
<PAGE>
 
     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
duly executed as of the day and year first above written.

                                 VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.



                                 By      /s/ Richard M. Levy
                                         -------------------
                                 Name:   Richard M. Levy
                                 Title:  Executive Vice President

                                 VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.



                                 By      /s/ Richard A. Aurelio
                                         ----------------------
                                 Name:   Richard A. Aurelio
                                 Title:  President and Chief Executive Officer

                                 VARIAN, INC.



                                 By      /s/ Allen J. Lauer
                                         ------------------
                                 Name:   Allen J. Lauer
                                 Title:  President and Chief Executive Officer


                                      47

<PAGE>
 
                                                                     EXHIBIT 3.1


                     RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
                                      OF
                                 VARIAN, INC.
                            A Delaware Corporation
                                        

                                   ARTICLE I

                                     NAME

       The name of the corporation is Varian, Inc. (the "Corporation").

                                  ARTICLE II

                          REGISTERED OFFICE AND AGENT

          The address of the registered office of the Corporation in the State
of Delaware is The Corporation Trust Center, 1209 Orange Street, in the City of
Wilmington, County of New Castle.  The name of its registered agent at that
address is The Corporation Trust Company.

                                  ARTICLE III

                                   PURPOSES

          The purpose of the Corporation shall be to engage in any lawful act or
activity for which corporations may be organized under the General Corporation
Law of the State of Delaware.

                                  ARTICLE IV

                                 CAPITAL STOCK

          The Corporation shall be authorized to issue two classes of stock to
be designated, respectively, "Common Stock" and "Preferred Stock."  The total
number of shares of both classes of stock which the Corporation has authority to
issue is one hundred million (100,000,000) shares, consisting of: ninety nine
million (99,000,000) shares of Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share, and one
million (1,000,000) shares of Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share.

          The Board of Directors of the Corporation (the "Board of Directors")
is authorized, subject to limitations prescribed by applicable law and the
provisions of this Article IV, to provide for the issuance of the shares of
Preferred Stock from time to time in one or more series, each of which series
shall have such distinctive designation or title as shall be fixed by the Board
of Directors prior to the issuance of any shares thereof.  Each such series of
Preferred Stock shall have such voting powers, shall consist of such number of
shares, shall be issued for
<PAGE>
 
such consideration and shall otherwise have such powers, designations,
preferences and relative, participating, optional or other rights, if any, and
such qualifications, limitations or restrictions, if any, as shall be stated in
such resolution or resolutions providing for the issue of such series of
Preferred Stock as may be adopted from time to time by the Board of Directors
prior to the issuance of any shares thereof pursuant to the authority hereby
expressly vested in it, all in accordance with applicable law.

          The number of authorized shares of any class or classes of stock may
be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares thereof then
outstanding) by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of
the voting power of the then outstanding Voting Stock, voting together as a
single class.

          The Common Stock shall be subject to the express terms of the
Preferred Stock and any series thereof.  Except as may be provided in this
Certificate of Incorporation or in any Certificate of Designation designating
any series of Preferred Stock pursuant to the foregoing provisions of this
Article IV that shall be in effect under the General Corporation Law of the
State of Delaware (a "Preferred Stock Designation"), the holders of shares of
Common Stock shall be entitled to one vote for each such share upon all
questions presented to the stockholders, the Common Stock shall have the
exclusive right to vote for the election of directors and for all other
purposes, and holders of Preferred Stock shall not be entitled to receive notice
of any meeting of stockholders at which they are not entitled to vote.

          The Corporation shall be entitled to treat the person in whose name
any share of its stock is registered as the owner thereof for all purposes and
shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to, or interest in,
such share on the part of any other person, whether or not the Corporation shall
have notice thereof, except as expressly provided by applicable law.

          Pursuant to authority granted by this Article IV, the Board of
Directors adopted a resolution creating a series of Preferred Stock, $0.01 par
value per share, and stated the designation and number of shares, and fixed the
powers, designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other
rights, if any, of the shares of such series and the qualifications, limitations
or restrictions thereof, if any, as set forth in a Certificate of Designation of
Participating Preferred Stock of Varian, Inc. filed with the Secretary of State
of the State of Delaware, which is attached hereto as Annex A and incorporated
                                                      --------                
herein by reference.

                                   ARTICLE V

                             ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

          Subject to the rights of the holders of any series of Preferred Stock
to elect additional directors under specified circumstances, the number of
directors of the Corporation shall be fixed from time to time exclusively by the
Board of Directors pursuant to a resolution adopted by a majority of the then
authorized number of directors of the Corporation, but in no event shall the
number of directors be fewer than three.  The directors, other than those who
may be elected solely by the holders of any series of Preferred Stock (unless
the relevant Preferred Stock Designation shall so provide), shall be divided
into three classes, as nearly equal in number as possible, designated "Class I,"
"Class II" and "Class III."  Directors of each class shall serve for a term
ending on the third annual meeting of stockholders following the annual

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
meeting at which such class was elected, except that the term of office of the
initial Class I director shall expire on the date of the annual meeting in 2000,
the term of office of the initial Class II directors shall expire on the date of
the annual meeting in 2001 and the term of office of the initial Class III
directors shall expire on the date of the annual meeting in 2002. The foregoing
notwithstanding, each director shall serve until his or her successor shall have
been duly elected and qualified, unless such director shall die, resign, retire
or be disqualified or removed.

          At all elections of directors, the directors chosen to succeed those
directors whose terms then expire shall be identified as being of the same class
as the directors they succeed.  If for any reason the number of directors in the
various classes shall not be as nearly equal as possible, the Board of Directors
may redesignate any director into a different class in order that the balance of
directors in such classes shall be as nearly equal as possible.

          Subject to the rights of the holders of any series of Preferred Stock
to elect additional directors under specified circumstances, and unless the
Board of Directors otherwise determines, vacancies in the Board of Directors
resulting from one or more directors' death, resignation, retirement,
disqualification, removal from office or other cause, and newly created
directorships resulting from any increase in the authorized number of directors,
may be filled only by the affirmative vote of a majority of the remaining
directors, though less than a quorum of the Board of Directors, or by a sole
remaining director, and directors so chosen shall hold office for a term
expiring at the annual meeting of stockholders at which the term of office of
the class to which they have been elected expires and until such director's
successor shall have been duly elected and qualified.  No decrease in the number
of authorized directors constituting the Board of Directors shall shorten the
term of any incumbent director.

          Subject to the rights of the holders of any series of Preferred Stock
to elect additional directors under specified circumstances, any director may be
removed from office at any time, but only for cause and only by the affirmative
vote of the holders of at least a majority of the voting power of the then
outstanding Voting Stock, voting together as a single class, at a meeting called
for that purpose.

          Elections of directors of the Corporation need not be by written
ballot except and to the extent the by-laws of the Corporation (the "By-Laws")
so provide.

          Notwithstanding anything contained in this Certificate of
Incorporation to the contrary, and in addition to approval by the Board of
Directors, the affirmative vote of the holders of at least 66 2/3% of the voting
power of the then outstanding Voting Stock, voting together as a single class,
shall be required to amend, repeal or adopt any provision inconsistent with this
Article V. For purposes of this Certificate of Incorporation, "Voting Stock"
shall mean the outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation entitled
to vote generally in the election of directors.

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
                                  ARTICLE VI

                       POWERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

          In furtherance and not in limitation of the powers conferred by
applicable law, the Board of Directors shall have the power to (1) adopt, amend
or repeal By-Laws, subject to the power of the stockholders of the Corporation
under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware to adopt, amend or
repeal any By-Law; provided, however, that, notwithstanding any other provision
of this Certificate of Incorporation or any provision of law which might
otherwise permit a lesser vote or no vote, but in addition to any affirmative
vote of the holders of any series of Preferred Stock required by applicable law,
this Certificate of Incorporation or any Preferred Stock Designation, the
affirmative vote of the holders of at least 66 2/3% of the voting power of the
then outstanding Voting Stock, voting together as a single class, shall be
required for stockholders to adopt, amend or repeal any provision of the By-
Laws; and (2) from time to time determine whether and to what extent, and at
what times and places, and under what conditions and regulations, the accounts
and books of the Corporation, or any of them, shall be open to inspection of
stockholders; and, except as so determined or as expressly provided in this
Certificate of Incorporation or in any Preferred Stock Designation, no
stockholder shall have any right to inspect any account, book or document of the
Corporation other than such rights as may be conferred by applicable law.
Notwithstanding anything contained in this Certificate of Incorporation to the
contrary, and in addition to approval by the Board of Directors, the affirmative
vote of the holders of at least 66 2/3% of the voting power of the then
outstanding Voting Stock, voting together as a single class, shall be required
to amend, repeal or adopt any provision inconsistent with clause (1) of the
preceding sentence. The Corporation may in its By-Laws confer powers upon its
Board of Directors in addition to the powers and authorities expressly conferred
upon it by applicable law.

                                  ARTICLE VII

                            LIABILITY OF DIRECTORS

          To the fullest extent permitted by the General Corporation Law of the
State of Delaware, as it exists on the date hereof or as it may hereafter be
amended, no director of the Corporation shall be personally liable to the
Corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary
duty as a director of the Corporation. Without limiting the effect of the
preceding sentence, if the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware is
hereafter amended to authorize the further elimination or limitation of the
liability of a director, then the liability of a director of the Corporation
shall be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by the General
Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, as so amended.

          Neither any amendment nor repeal of this Article VII, nor the adoption
of any provision of this Certificate of Incorporation inconsistent with this
Article VII, shall eliminate, reduce or otherwise adversely affect any
limitation on the personal liability of a director of the Corporation existing
at the time of such amendment, repeal or adoption of such an inconsistent
provision.

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
                                 ARTICLE VIII

                                INDEMNIFICATION

          Each person who is or was a director or officer of the Corporation, or
each such person who is or was serving or who has agreed to serve at the request
of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another
corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise (including
the heirs, executor, administrators or estate of such person), shall be
indemnified by the Corporation to the fullest extent permitted from time to time
by the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware as the same exists or
may hereafter be amended (but, if permitted by applicable law, in the case of
any such amendment, only to the extent that such amendment permits the
Corporation to provide broader indemnification rights than said law permitted
the Corporation to provide prior to such amendment) or any other applicable laws
as presently or hereafter in effect. The Corporation may, by action of the Board
of Directors, provide indemnification to employees and agents of the
Corporation, and to any such persons serving as directors, officers, employees
or agents of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other
enterprise, at the request of the Corporation, with the same scope and effect as
the foregoing indemnification of directors and officers. The Corporation shall
be required to indemnify any person seeking indemnification in connection with
any action, suit, or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or
investigative (a "proceeding") (or part thereof) initiated by such person only
if such proceeding (or part thereof) was authorized by the Board of Directors or
is a proceeding to enforce such person's claim to indemnification pursuant to
the rights granted by this Certificate of Incorporation or otherwise by the
Corporation. Without limiting the generality or the effect of the foregoing, the
Corporation may enter into one or more agreements with any person which provide
for indemnification greater than or different from that provided in this Article
VIII. Any amendment or repeal of this Article VIII shall not adversely affect
any right or protection existing hereunder in respect of any act or omission
occurring prior to such amendment or repeal.

                                  ARTICLE IX

                            ACTION BY STOCKHOLDERS

          Any action required or permitted to be taken by the stockholders of
the Corporation must be effected at a duly called annual or special meeting of
stockholders of the Corporation and may not be effected by any consent in
writing in lieu of a meeting of such stockholders. Notwithstanding anything
contained in this Certificate of Incorporation to the contrary, and in addition
to approval by the Board of Directors, the affirmative vote of at least 66 2/3% 
of the voting power of the then outstanding Voting Stock, voting together as a
single class, shall be required to amend, repeal or adopt any provision
inconsistent with this Article IX.

                                   ARTICLE X

                                  AMENDMENTS

          Except as may be expressly provided in this Certificate of
Incorporation, the Corporation reserves the right at any time and from time to
time to amend, alter, change or repeal any provision contained in this
Certificate of Incorporation or a Preferred Stock Designation, and any other
provisions authorized by the laws of the State of Delaware at the time in force
may be

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
added or inserted, in the manner now or hereafter prescribed herein or by
applicable law, and all rights, preferences and privileges of whatsoever nature
conferred upon stockholders, directors or any other persons whomsoever by and
pursuant to this Certificate of Incorporation in its present form or as
hereafter amended are granted subject to the right reserved in this Article X;
provided, however, that any amendment or repeal of Article VII or Article VIII
of this Certificate of Incorporation shall not adversely affect any right or
protection existing hereunder in respect of any act or omission occurring prior
to such amendment or repeal; and provided further that no Preferred Stock
Designation shall be amended after the issuance of any shares of the series of
Preferred Stock created thereby, except in accordance with the terms of such
Preferred Stock Designation and the requirements of applicable law.

                                       6

<PAGE>
 
                                                                     EXHIBIT 3.2


                                    BY-LAWS
                                      OF
                                 VARIAN, INC.
                            A Delaware Corporation


      As adopted on February __, 1999, to be effective on March ___, 1999
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                                                PAGE
<S>                                                                                                             <C> 
ARTICLE I             OFFICES.................................................................................   1

         Section 1.        Registered Office..................................................................   1

         Section 2.        General Office and Other Offices...................................................   1

ARTICLE II            STOCKHOLDERS' MEETINGS..................................................................   1

         Section 3.        Annual Meeting.....................................................................   1

         Section 4.        Business to be Conducted at Annual Meeting.........................................   1

         Section 5.        Special Meetings...................................................................   2

         Section 6.        Place of Meetings..................................................................   2

         Section 7.        Notice of Meetings.................................................................   3

         Section 8.        Nominations of Directors...........................................................   3

         Section 9.        List of Stockholders...............................................................   4

         Section 10.       Quorum.............................................................................   4

         Section 11.       Voting and Required Vote...........................................................   5

         Section 12.       Proxies............................................................................   5

         Section 13.       Inspectors of Election; Polls......................................................   5

         Section 14.       Organization.......................................................................   5

         Section 15.       No Stockholder Action by Written Consent...........................................   5

ARTICLE III           BOARD OF DIRECTORS......................................................................   6

         Section 16.       General Powers, Number, Term of Office.............................................   6

         Section 17.       Vacancies..........................................................................   6

         Section 18.       Chairman of the Board..............................................................   6

         Section 19.       Regular Meetings...................................................................   7

         Section 20.       Special Meetings...................................................................   7

         Section 21.       Notices............................................................................   7

         Section 22.       Conference Telephone Meetings......................................................   7

         Section 23.       Quorum.............................................................................   7

         Section 24.       Organization.......................................................................   8

         Section 25.       Resignations.......................................................................   8

         Section 26.       Removal............................................................................   8

         Section 27.       Action Without a Meeting...........................................................   8

         Section 28.       Location of Books..................................................................   8
</TABLE> 

                                      -i-
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                  (CONTINUED)

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                                               PAGE
         <S>                                                                                                   <C> 
         Section 29.       Dividends..........................................................................   8

         Section 30.       Compensation of Directors..........................................................   8

         Section 31.       Additional Powers..................................................................   9

ARTICLE IV            COMMITTEES OF DIRECTORS.................................................................   9

         Section 32.       Designation, Power, Alternate Members..............................................   9

         Section 33.       Quorum, Manner of Acting...........................................................   9

         Section 34.       Minutes............................................................................   9

ARTICLE V             ADVISORY DIRECTORS......................................................................  10

         Section 35.       Advisory Directors.................................................................  10

ARTICLE VI            OFFICERS................................................................................  10

         Section 36.       Designation........................................................................  10

         Section 37.       Election and Term..................................................................  10

         Section 38.       Removal............................................................................  10

         Section 39.       Resignations.......................................................................  10

         Section 40.       Vacancies..........................................................................  10

         Section 41.       Chief Executive Officer............................................................  10

         Section 42.       President..........................................................................  11

         Section 43.       Vice Presidents....................................................................  11

         Section 44.       Secretary..........................................................................  11

         Section 45.       Assistant Secretaries..............................................................  11
 
         Section 46.       Chief Financial Officer............................................................  11

         Section 47.       Treasurer..........................................................................  11

         Section 48.       Assistant Treasurers...............................................................  12

         Section 49.       Controller.........................................................................  12

         Section 50.       Assistant Controllers..............................................................  12

ARTICLE VII           CONTRACTS, INSTRUMENTS AND PROXIES......................................................  12

         Section 51.       Contracts and Other Instruments....................................................  12

         Section 52.       Proxies............................................................................  12

ARTICLE VIII          CAPITAL STOCK...........................................................................  13

         Section 53.       Stock Certificates; Book-Entry Accounts............................................  13

         Section 54.       Record Ownership...................................................................  13
</TABLE> 

                                     -ii-
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                  (CONTINUED)

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                                               PAGE
         <S>                                                                                                   <C> 
         Section 55.       Record Dates.......................................................................  13

         Section 56.       Transfer of Stock..................................................................  13

         Section 57.       Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Certificates.............................................  13

         Section 58.       Terms of Preferred Stock...........................................................  14

ARTICLE IX            INDEMNIFICATION.........................................................................  14

         Section 59.       Right of Indemnification Generally.................................................  14

         Section 60.       Written Request; Determination of Entitlement......................................  15

         Section 61.       Recovery of Unpaid Claim...........................................................  15

         Section 62.       Exclusivity; Subsequent Modification...............................................  15

         Section 63.       Insurance..........................................................................  16

         Section 64.       Other Persons Granted Right of Indemnification.....................................  16

         Section 65.       Illegality; Unenforceability.......................................................  16

         Section 66.       Form and Delivery of Communications................................................  16

ARTICLE X             MISCELLANEOUS...........................................................................  16

         Section 67.       Corporate Seal.....................................................................  16

         Section 68.       Fiscal Year........................................................................  17

         Section 69.       Auditors...........................................................................  17

         Section 70.       Waiver of Notice...................................................................  17

ARTICLE XI            AMENDMENT TO BY-LAWS....................................................................  17

         Section 71.       Amendments.........................................................................  17
</TABLE> 

                                     -iii-
<PAGE>
 
                                    BY-LAWS
                                      OF
                                 VARIAN, INC.
                            A Delaware Corporation

     As adopted on February ___, 1999, to be effective on March ___, 1999

                                   ARTICLE I

                                    OFFICES

     Section 1.   Registered Office.  The name of the registered agent of
                  -----------------   
Varian, Inc. (the "Corporation") is The Corporation Trust Company and the
registered office of the Corporation shall be located in the City of Wilmington,
County of New Castle, State of Delaware.

     Section 2.   General Office and Other Offices.  The Corporation shall have
                  -------------------------------- 
its General Offices in the City of Palo Alto, State of California (the "General
Offices"), and may also have offices at such other places in or outside the
State of Delaware as the Board of Directors of the Corporation (the "Board of
Directors") may from time to time designate or the business of the Corporation
may require.

                                  ARTICLE II

                            STOCKHOLDERS' MEETINGS

     Section 3.   Annual Meeting.  An annual meeting of stockholders shall be
                  --------------    
held on such day and at such time as may be designated by the Board of Directors
for the purpose of electing directors and for the transaction of such other
business as properly may come before such meeting. Any previously scheduled
annual meeting of the stockholders may be postponed by resolution of the Board
of Directors upon public notice given on or prior to the date previously
scheduled for such annual meeting of stockholders.

     Section 4.   Business to be Conducted at Annual Meeting.
                  ------------------------------------------ 

          (a)     At an annual meeting of stockholders, only such business shall
be conducted as shall have been brought before the meeting (i) pursuant to the
Corporation's notice of the meeting, (ii) by or at the direction of the Board of
Directors or (iii) by any stockholder of the Corporation who is a stockholder of
record at the time of giving of the notice provided for in this By-Law, who
shall be entitled to vote at such meeting and who shall have complied with the
notice procedures set forth in this By-Law.

          (b)     For business to be properly brought before an annual meeting
by a stockholder pursuant to clause (a)(iii) of this By-Law, notice in writing
must be delivered or mailed to the Secretary and received at the General
Offices, not less than 60 days nor more than 90 days prior to the first
anniversary of the date on which the Corporation first mailed its proxy
materials for the preceding year's annual meeting of stockholders; provided,
however, that in the event that the date of the meeting is advanced by more than
30 days or delayed by more than 60
<PAGE>
 
days from such meeting's anniversary date, notice by the stockholder must be
received not earlier than the 90/th/ day prior to such date of mailing of proxy
materials and not later than the close of business on the later of the 60/th/
day prior to such date of mailing of proxy materials or the 10/th/ day following
the day on which public announcement of the date of the annual meeting is first
made. Such stockholder's notice shall set forth as to each matter the
stockholder proposes to bring before the annual meeting (i) a brief description
of the business to be brought before the annual meeting and the reasons for
conducting such business at such meeting; (ii) the name and address, as they
appear on the Corporation's books, of the stockholder proposing such business,
and the name and address of the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the
proposal is made; (iii) the class and number of shares of the Corporation's
stock which are beneficially owned by the stockholder, and by the beneficial
owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made; and (iv) any material
interest of the stockholder, and of the beneficial owner, if any, on whose
behalf the proposal is made, in such business. For purposes of these By-Laws,
"public announcement" shall mean disclosure in a press release reported by the
Dow Jones News Service, Associated Press or comparable news service or in a
document publicly filed by the Corporation with the Securities and Exchange
Commission pursuant to Section 13, 14 or 15(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act").

          (c)     Notwithstanding anything in these By-Laws to the contrary, no
business shall be conducted at an annual meeting except in accordance with the
procedures set forth in this By-Law. The chairman of the meeting may, if the
facts warrant, determine that the business was not properly brought before the
meeting in accordance with the provisions of this By-Law; and if the chairman
should so determine, the chairman shall so declare to the meeting, and any such
business not properly brought before the meeting shall not be transacted.
Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this By-Law, a stockholder shall
also comply with all applicable requirements of the Exchange Act and the rules
and regulations thereunder with respect to the matters set forth in this By-Law.
Nothing in this By-Law shall be deemed to affect any rights of stockholders to
request inclusion of proposals in the Corporation's proxy statement pursuant to
Rule 14a-8 under the Exchange Act, and any such proposal so included shall be
deemed timely given for purposes of this By-Law.

     Section 5.   Special Meetings.  Special meetings of stockholders for any
                  ----------------                                           
proper purpose or purposes, unless otherwise provided by the General Corporation
Law of the State of Delaware or in any Certificate of Designation designating
any series of Preferred Stock pursuant to Article IV of the Restated Certificate
of Incorporation of the Corporation (the "Certificate of Incorporation") that
shall be in effect under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (a
"Preferred Stock Designation"), may be called by the Chairman of the Board, the
Chief Executive Officer or the President, or in the absence of each of them, by
the Secretary at the written request of a majority of the directors.  Business
transacted at a special meeting of stockholders shall be confined to the purpose
or purposes of the meeting as stated in the notice of the meeting. Any
previously scheduled special meeting of the stockholders may be postponed by
resolution of the Board of Directors upon notice by public announcement given on
or prior to the date previously scheduled for such special meeting of
stockholders.

     Section 6.   Place of Meetings.  All meetings of stockholders shall be held
                  -----------------  
at such place as may be determined by resolution of the Board of Directors.

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
     Section 7.   Notice of Meetings.  Except as otherwise required by
                  ------------------ 
applicable law, notice of each meeting of the stockholders, whether annual or
special, shall, at least 10 days but not more than 60 days before the date of
the meeting, be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the
meeting by mailing such notice in the U.S. mail, postage prepaid, addressed to
such stockholder at such stockholder's address as the same appears on the
records of the Corporation. Such notice shall state the place, date and hour of
the meeting, and in the case of a special meeting, shall also state the purpose
or purposes thereof.

     Section 8.   Nominations of Directors.
                  ------------------------ 

          (a)     Only persons who are nominated in accordance with the
procedures set forth in these By-Laws shall be eligible for election as
directors. Nominations of persons for election to the Board of Directors may be
made at a meeting of stockholders (i) by or at the direction of the Board of
Directors or (ii) by any stockholder of the Corporation who is a stockholder of
record at the time of giving of the notice provided for in this By-Law, who
shall be entitled to vote for the election of directors at the meeting and who
complies with the notice procedures set forth in this By-Law.

          (b)     Nominations by stockholders shall be made pursuant to notice
in writing, delivered or mailed to the Secretary and received at the General
Offices (i) in the case of an annual meeting, not less than 60 days nor more
than 90 days prior to the first anniversary of the date on which the Corporation
first mailed its proxy materials for the preceding year's annual meeting of
stockholders, provided, however, that in the event that the date of the meeting
is advanced by more than 30 days or delayed by more than 60 days from such
anniversary date, notice by the stockholder must be received not earlier than
the 90/th/ day prior to such date of mailing of proxy materials and not later
than the close of business on the later of the 60/th/ day prior to such date of
mailing of proxy materials or the 10/th/ day following the day on which public
announcement of the date of the meeting is first made; or (ii) in the case of a
special meeting at which directors are to be elected, not earlier than the
90/th/ day prior to such special meeting and not later than the close of
business on the later of the 60/th/ day prior to such special meeting or the
10/th/ day following the day on which public announcement of the date of the
meeting and of the nominees proposed by the Board of Directors to be elected at
such meeting is first made. In the case of a special meeting of stockholders at
which directors are to be elected, stockholders may nominate a person or persons
(as the case may be) for election only to such position(s) as are specified in
the Corporation's notice of meeting as being up for election at such meeting.
Such stockholder's notice shall set forth (i) as to each person whom the
stockholder proposes to nominate for election or reelection as a director, all
information relating to such person that would be required to be disclosed in
solicitations of proxies for election of directors, or is otherwise required, in
each case pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Exchange Act (including such
person's written consent to being named as a nominee and to serving as a
Director if elected); (ii) as to the stockholder giving the notice, the name and
address, as they appear on the Corporation's books, of such stockholder and the
class and number of shares of the Corporation's stock which are beneficially
owned by such stockholder; and (iii) as to any beneficial owner on whose behalf
the nomination is made, the name and address of such person and the class and
number of shares of the Corporation's stock which are beneficially owned by such
person. At the request of the Board of Directors, any person nominated by the
Board of Directors for election as a director shall furnish to the Secretary
that information required to be 

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
set forth in a stockholder's notice of nomination that pertains to the nominee.
Notwithstanding anything in this By-Law to the contrary, in the event that the
number of directors to be elected to the Board of Directors of the Corporation
is increased and there is no public statement naming all the nominees for
Director or specifying the size of the increased Board of Directors made by the
Corporation at least 70 days prior to the first anniversary of the preceding
year's annual meeting, a stockholder's notice required by this By-Law shall also
be considered timely, but only with respect to nominees for any new positions
created by such increase, if it shall be delivered to the Secretary at the
General Offices not later than the close of business on the 10/th/ day following
the day on which such public announcement is first made by the Corporation.

          (c)     No person shall be eligible for election as a director of the
Corporation unless nominated in accordance with the procedures set forth in
these By-Laws.  The chairman of the meeting may, if the facts warrant, determine
that a nomination was not made in accordance with the procedures prescribed in
this By-Law; and if the chairman should so determine, the chairman shall so
declare to the meeting, and the defective nomination shall be disregarded.
Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this By-Law, a stockholder shall
also comply with all applicable requirements of the Exchange Act, and the rules
and regulations thereunder with respect to the matters set forth in this By-Law.

     Section 9.   List of Stockholders.
                  -------------------- 

          (a)     The Secretary of the Corporation shall prepare, at least 10
days before each meeting of stockholders, a complete list of the stockholders
entitled to vote at the meeting, arranged in alphabetical order, and showing the
address of each stockholder and the number of shares registered in the name of
each stockholder. Such list shall be open to the examination of any stockholder,
for any purpose germane to the meeting, during ordinary business hours, for a
period of at least 10 days prior to the meeting, either at a place within the
city where the meeting is to be held, which place shall be specified in the
notice of the meeting, or, if not so specified, at the place where the meeting
is to be held. The list shall also be produced and kept at the time and place of
the meeting during the whole time thereof, and may be inspected by any
stockholder who is present.

          (b)     The stock ledger of the Corporation shall be the only evidence
as to the identity of the stockholders entitled (i) to vote in person or by
proxy at any meeting of stockholders, or (ii) to exercise the rights in
accordance with applicable law to examine the stock ledger, the list required by
this By-Law or the books and records of the Corporation.

     Section 10.  Quorum.  The holders of a majority of the stock issued and
                  ------                                                    
outstanding and entitled to vote thereat, present in person or represented by
proxy, shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business at all
meetings of the stockholders, except as otherwise provided by applicable law, by
the Certificate of Incorporation or by these By-Laws. The stockholders present
at any duly organized meeting may continue to transact business until
adjournment, notwithstanding the withdrawal of sufficient stockholders to render
the remaining stockholders less than a quorum.  Whether or not a quorum is
present, either the Chairman of the meeting or a majority of the stockholders
entitled to vote thereat, present in person or by proxy, shall have power to
adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at
the meeting.  If the adjournment is for more than 30 days, or if after the

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
adjournment a new record date is fixed for the adjourned meeting, a notice of
the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to
vote at the meeting. At such adjourned meeting at which the requisite amount of
voting stock shall be present or represented, any business may be transacted
which might have been transacted at the meeting as originally noticed.

     Section 11.  Voting and Required Vote.  Subject to the provisions of the
                  ------------------------                                   
Certificate of Incorporation, each stockholder shall, at every meeting of
stockholders, be entitled to one vote for each share of capital stock held by
such stockholder.  Subject to the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation
and applicable law, directors shall be chosen by the vote of a plurality of the
shares present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting; and all other
questions shall be determined by the affirmative vote of the majority of shares
present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting.  Elections of
directors shall be by written ballot.

     Section 12.  Proxies.  Each stockholder entitled to vote at a meeting of
                  -------                                                    
stockholders may authorize another person or persons to act for such stockholder
by proxy, provided the instrument authorizing such proxy to act shall have been
executed in writing in the manner prescribed by applicable law.  No proxy shall
be voted or acted upon after three years from its date, unless the proxy
provides for a longer period.

     Section 13.  Inspectors of Election; Polls.  Before each meeting of
                  -----------------------------                         
stockholders, the Chairman of the Board or another officer of the Corporation
designated by resolution of the Board of Directors shall appoint one or more
inspectors of election for the meeting and may appoint one or more inspectors to
replace any inspector unable to act.  If any of the inspectors appointed shall
fail to attend, or refuse or be unable to serve, substitutes shall be appointed
by the chairman of the meeting.  Each inspector shall have such duties as are
provided by applicable law, and shall take and sign an oath faithfully to
execute the duties of inspector with strict impartiality and according to the
best of such person's ability.  The chairman of the meeting shall fix and
announce at the meeting the date and time of the opening and closing of the
polls for each matter upon which the stockholders will vote at the meeting.

     Section 14.  Organization.  The Chairman of the Board of Directors, or in 
                  ------------                                               
the Chairman's absence, (i) the Chief Executive Officer, (ii) the Vice Chairman
of the Board of Directors, (iii) the President, or (iv) in the absence of each
of them, a chairman chosen by a majority of the directors present, shall act as
chairman of the meetings of the stockholders, and the Secretary or, in the
Secretary's absence, an Assistant Secretary or any employee of the Corporation
appointed by the chairman of the meeting, shall act as secretary of the meeting.
The order of business and the procedure at any meeting of stockholders shall be
determined by the chairman of the meeting.

     Section 15.  No Stockholder Action by Written Consent.  Any action required
                  ----------------------------------------
or permitted to be taken by the stockholders of the Corporation must be effected
at a duly called annual or special meeting of stockholders of the Corporation
and may not be effected by any consent in writing in lieu of a meeting of such
stockholders.

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
                                  ARTICLE III

                              BOARD OF DIRECTORS

     Section 16.  General Powers, Number, Term of Office.  The business of the
                  --------------------------------------                      
Corporation shall be managed under the direction of its Board of Directors.
Subject to the rights of the holders of any series of preferred stock, $0.01 par
value per share, of the Corporation ("Preferred Stock") to elect additional
directors under specified circumstances, the number of directors of the
Corporation shall be fixed from time to time exclusively by resolution of a
majority of the then authorized number of directors of the Corporation (the
number of then authorized directors of the Corporation is referred to herein as
the "Whole Board"), but in no event shall the number of directors be fewer than
three.  The directors, other than those who may be elected solely by the holders
of any series of Preferred Stock (unless the relevant Preferred Stock
Designation shall so provide), shall be divided into three classes, as nearly
equal in number as possible, designated "Class I," "Class II" and "Class III."
Directors of each class shall serve for a term ending on the third annual
meeting of stockholders following the annual meeting at which such class was
elected, except that the term of office of the initial Class I director shall
expire on the date of the annual meeting in 2000, the term of office of the
initial Class II directors shall expire on the date of the annual meeting in
2001 and the term of office of the initial Class III directors shall expire on
the date of the annual meeting in 2002.  The foregoing notwithstanding, each
director shall serve until his or her successor shall have been duly elected and
qualified, unless such director shall die, resign, retire or be disqualified or
removed.  At all elections of directors, the directors chosen to succeed those
directors whose terms then expire shall be identified as being of the same class
as the directors they succeed.  If for any reason the number of directors in the
various classes shall not be as nearly equal as possible, the Board of Directors
may redesignate any director into a different class in order that the balance of
directors in such classes shall be as nearly equal as possible.

     Section 17.  Vacancies.  Subject to the rights of the holders of any series
                  ---------  
of Preferred Stock to elect additional directors under specified circumstances,
and unless the Board of Directors otherwise determines, vacancies resulting from
death, resignation, retirement, disqualification, removal from office or other
cause, and newly created directorships resulting from any increase in the
authorized number of directors, may be filled only by the affirmative vote of a
majority of the remaining directors, though less than a quorum of the Board of
Directors, or by a sole remaining director, and directors so chosen shall hold
office for a term expiring at the annual meeting of stockholders at which the
term of office of the class to which they have been elected expires and until
such director's successor shall have been duly elected and qualified. No
decrease in the number of authorized directors constituting the Board of
Directors shall shorten the term of any incumbent director.

     Section 18.  Chairman of the Board.  The Chairman of the Board of Directors
                  ---------------------                                         
shall be chosen from among the directors.  The Chairman of the Board shall
preside at all meetings of the stockholders and of the Board of Directors,
except as may be otherwise required under applicable law.  The Chairman shall
act in an advisory capacity with respect to matters of policy and other matters
of importance pertaining to the affairs of the Corporation.   The Chairman,
alone or with the Chief Executive Officer, the President, and/or the Secretary
shall sign and send out reports and other messages which are to be sent to
stockholders from time to time.  The 

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
Chairman shall also perform such other duties as may be assigned to the Chairman
by these By-Laws or the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may also
choose a Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors from among the directors, which
Vice Chairman if chosen shall perform such duties as may be assigned by these 
By-Laws, the Board of Directors or the Chairman of the Board.

     Section 19.  Regular Meetings.  Following the annual meeting of
                  ----------------  
stockholders, the first meeting of each newly elected Board of Directors may be
held, without notice, on the same day and at the same place as such
stockholders' meeting. The Board of Directors by resolution may provide for the
holding of regular meetings and may fix the times and places at which such
meetings shall be held. Notice of regular meetings shall not be required
provided that whenever the time or place of regular meetings shall be fixed or
changed, notice of such action shall be given promptly to each director, as
provided in Section 21 below, who was not present at the meeting at which such
action was taken.

     Section 20.  Special Meetings.  Special meetings of the Board of Directors
                  ----------------                                             
shall be held whenever called by the Chairman of the Board of Directors, the
Vice Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer or the President, or in
the absence of each of them, by the Secretary at the written request of a
majority of the directors.

     Section 21.  Notices.  Notice of any special meeting of the Board of
                  -------
Directors shall be addressed to each director at such director's residence or
business address and shall be sent to such director by mail, electronic mail,
telecopier, telegram or telex or telephoned or delivered to such director
personally. If such notice is sent by mail, it shall be sent not later than
three days before the day on which the meeting is to be held. If such notice is
sent by electronic mail, telecopier, telegram or telex, it shall be sent not
later than 24 hours before the time at which the meeting is to be held. If such
notice is delivered personally, it shall be received not later than 24 hours
before the time at which the meeting is to be held. If such notice is
telephoned, it shall be to such telephone number or numbers of which the
director from time to time shall advise the Secretary for receiving such notice.
If given by telephone call, notice shall be deemed given to a director when a
message stating the time, place and purpose of the meeting is left with a person
answering the telephone at any such number with a request that the director be
so informed, or if no such telephone number is answered, then when at least two
attempts have been made to reach each telephone number designated by the
director for receiving telephonic notice, with an interval of not less than one
hour. A certification shall be prepared and filed with the minutes stating the
date, time and results of telephonic notice given to any director not present at
a meeting with respect to which his waiver of notice of meeting is not filed
with the minutes. In all cases, such notice shall state the time, place and
purpose or purposes of the meeting.

     Section 22.  Conference Telephone Meetings.  Members of the Board of 
                  -----------------------------     
Directors or any committee thereof, may participate in a meeting of the Board of
Directors or such committee by means of conference telephone or similar
communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the
meeting can hear each other, and such participation in a meeting shall
constitute presence in person at such meeting.

     Section 23.  Quorum.  One-half of the total number of directors
                  ------ 
constituting the Whole Board, but not less than two, shall constitute a quorum
for the transaction of business at any 

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
meeting of the Board of Directors, but if less than such required number of
directors for a quorum is present at a meeting, a majority of the directors
present may adjourn the meeting from time to time without further notice. Except
as otherwise specifically provided by applicable law, the Certificate of
Incorporation or these By-Laws, the act of a majority of the directors present
at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Board of
Directors.

     Section 24.  Organization.  At each meeting of the Board of Directors, the
                  ------------                                                 
Chairman of the Board or, in the Chairman's absence, (i) the Chief Executive
Officer, if a member of the Board of Directors, (ii) the Vice Chairman of the
Board, (iii) the President, if a member of the Board of Directors, or (iv) in
the absence of each of them, a chairman chosen by a majority of the directors
present, shall act as chairman of the meeting, and the Secretary or, in the
Secretary's absence, an Assistant Secretary or any employee of the Corporation
appointed by the chairman of the meeting, shall act as secretary of the meeting.

     Section 25.  Resignations.  Any Director may resign at any time by giving
                  ------------                                                
written notice to the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer, the
President or the Secretary of the Corporation.  Such resignation shall take
effect upon receipt thereof or at any later time specified therein; and, unless
otherwise specified therein, the acceptance of such resignation shall not be
necessary to make it effective.

     Section 26.  Removal.  Subject to the rights of the holders of any series
                  ------- 
of Preferred Stock to elect additional directors under specified circumstances,
any director may be removed from office at any time, but only for cause and only
by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the voting
power of the then outstanding Voting Stock, voting together as a single class.
For purposes of these By-Laws, "Voting Stock" shall mean the outstanding shares
of capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote generally in the election
of directors.

     Section 27.  Action Without a Meeting.  Unless otherwise restricted by the
                  ------------------------                                     
Certificate of Incorporation or these By-Laws, any action required or permitted
to be taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors or of any committee thereof
may be taken without a meeting if all members of the Board of Directors or
committee, as the case may be, consent thereto in writing, and the writing or
writings are filed with the minutes of proceedings of the Board of Directors or
committee.

     Section 28.  Location of Books. Except as otherwise provided by resolution
                  -----------------  
of the Board of Directors and subject to applicable law, the books of the
Corporation may be kept at the General Offices and at such other places as may
be necessary or convenient for the business of the Corporation.

     Section 29.  Dividends.  Subject to the provisions of the Certificate of
                  ---------                                                  
Incorporation and applicable law, dividends upon the capital stock of the
Corporation may be declared by the Board of Directors at any regular or special
meeting. Dividends may be paid in cash, in property, or in shares of the
Corporation's capital stock.

     Section 30.  Compensation of Directors.  Directors shall receive such
                  -------------------------                               
compensation and benefits as may be determined by resolution of the Board of
Directors for their services as members of the Board of Directors and
committees. Directors shall also be reimbursed for their 

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
expenses of attending Board of Directors and committee meetings. Nothing
contained herein shall preclude any Director from serving the Corporation in any
other capacity and receiving compensation therefor.

     Section 31.  Additional Powers.  In addition to the powers and authorities 
                  -----------------                                      
by these By-Laws expressly conferred upon it, the Board of Directors may
exercise all such powers of the Corporation and do all such lawful acts and
things as are not by statute or by the Certificate of Incorporation or by these
By-Laws directed or required to be exercised or done by the stockholders.

                                  ARTICLE IV

                            COMMITTEES OF DIRECTORS

     Section 32.  Designation, Power, Alternate Members.  The Board of Directors
                  -------------------------------------                         
may, by resolution or resolutions passed by a majority of the Whole Board,
designate an Executive Committee and one or more additional committees, each
committee to consist of one or more of the directors of the Corporation. Any
such committee, to the extent provided in said resolution or resolutions and
subject to any limitations provided by applicable law, shall have and may
exercise the powers of the Board of Directors in the management of the business
and affairs of the Corporation. The Board of Directors may designate one or more
directors as alternate members of any committee, who may replace any absent or
disqualified member at any meeting of the committee.  If at a meeting of any
committee one or more of the members thereof is absent or disqualified, and if
either the Board of Directors has not so designated any alternate member or
members, or the number of absent or disqualified members exceeds the number of
alternate members who are present at such meeting, then the member or members of
such committee (including alternates) present at any meeting and not
disqualified from voting, whether or not they constitute a quorum, may
unanimously appoint another Director to act at the meeting in the place of such
absent or disqualified member.  The term of office of the members of each
committee shall be as fixed from time to time by the Board of Directors;
provided, however, that any committee member who ceases to be a member of the
Board of Directors shall automatically cease to be a committee member.

     Section 33.  Quorum, Manner of Acting.  At any meeting of a committee, the
                  ------------------------                                     
presence of one-half of its members then in office shall constitute a quorum for
the transaction of business; and the act of a majority of the members present at
a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the committee.  Each
committee may provide for the holding of regular meetings, make provision for
the calling of special meetings and, except as otherwise provided in these By-
Laws or by resolution of the Board of Directors, make rules for the conduct of
its business.

     Section 34.  Minutes.  The committees shall keep minutes of their
                  -------
proceedings and report the same to the Board of Directors when required; but
failure to keep such minutes shall not affect the validity of any acts of the
committee or committees.

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
                                   ARTICLE V

                              ADVISORY DIRECTORS

     Section 35.  Advisory Directors.  The Board of Directors may, by resolution
                  ------------------                                            
adopted by a majority of the Whole Board, appoint such Advisory Directors as the
Board of Directors may from time to time determine.  The Advisory Directors
shall have such advisory responsibilities as the Chairman of the Board may
designate and the term of office of such Advisory Directors shall be as fixed by
the Board of Directors.

                                  ARTICLE VI

                                   OFFICERS

     Section 36.  Designation.  The officers of the Corporation shall be the
                  ----------- 
Chief Executive Officer, a President, a Secretary, a Chief Financial Officer, a
Treasurer and a Controller.  The Board of Directors may also elect one or more
Executive Vice Presidents, Senior Vice Presidents, Group Vice Presidents, Vice
Presidents, Assistant Secretaries, Assistant Treasurers, Assistant Controllers
and such other officers as it shall deem necessary. Any number of offices may be
held by the same person.

     Section 37.  Election and Term.  At its first meeting after each annual
                  -----------------                                         
meeting of stockholders, the Board of Directors shall elect the officers of the
Corporation and at any time thereafter the Board of Directors may elect
additional officers of the Corporation, and each such officer shall hold office
until the officer's successor is elected and qualified or until the officer's
earlier death, resignation or removal.  Alternatively, at the last regular
meeting of the Board of Directors prior to an annual meeting of stockholders,
the Board of Directors may elect the officers of the Corporation, contingent
upon the election of the persons nominated to be directors by the Board of
Directors; and each such officer so elected shall hold office until the
officer's successor is elected and qualified or until the officer's earlier
death, resignation or removal.

     Section 38.  Removal.  Any officer shall be subject to removal or
                  -------  
suspension at any time, for or without cause, by the affirmative vote of a
majority of the Whole Board.

     Section 39.  Resignations.  Any officer may resign at any time by giving
                  ------------                                               
written notice to the Chairman of the Board, the President or to the Secretary.
Such resignation shall take effect upon receipt thereof or at any later time
specified therein; and, unless otherwise specified therein, the acceptance of
such resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective.

     Section 40.  Vacancies.  A vacancy in any office because of death,
                  ---------                                            
resignation, removal or any other cause may be filled for the unexpired portion
of the term by the Board of Directors.

     Section 41.  Chief Executive Officer.  The Chief Executive Officer shall 
                  -----------------------   
have the general and active management and supervision of the business of the
Corporation.  The Chief Executive Officer, if a member of the Board of
Directors, shall, in the absence of the Chairman of the Board, preside at all
meetings of the stockholders and of the Board of Directors.  The Chief Executive
Officer shall see that all orders and resolutions of the Board of Directors are

                                       10
<PAGE>
 
carried into effect. The Chief Executive Officer shall also perform such other
duties as may be assigned to the Chief Executive Officer by these By-Laws or the
Board of Directors. The Chief Executive Officer shall designate who shall
perform the duties of the Chief Executive Officer in the Chief Executive
Officer's absence.

     Section 42.  President. The President shall perform such duties as may be
                  ---------                                                   
assigned to the President by these By-Laws, the Board of Directors or, if
applicable, the Chief Executive Officer.

     Section 43.  Vice Presidents.  Each Executive Vice President, Senior Vice
                  ---------------                                             
President, Group Vice President and each other Vice President shall perform the
duties and functions and exercise the powers assigned to such officer by these
By-Laws, the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer or the President.

     Section 44.  Secretary.  The Secretary shall attend all meetings of the 
                  ---------  
Board of Directors and of the stockholders and record all votes and the minutes
of all proceedings in a book to be kept for that purpose. The Secretary shall
give, or cause to be given, notice of all meetings of the stockholders and
special meetings of the Board of Directors and, when appropriate, shall cause
the corporate seal to be affixed to any instruments executed on behalf of the
Corporation. The Secretary shall also perform all duties incident to the office
of Secretary and such other duties as may be assigned to the Secretary by these
By-Laws, the Board of Directors, the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive
Officer or the President.

     Section 45.  Assistant Secretaries.  The Assistant Secretaries shall,
                  --------------------
during the absence of the Secretary, perform the duties and functions and
exercise the powers of the Secretary. Each Assistant Secretary shall perform
such other duties as may be assigned to such Assistant Secretary by these By-
Laws, the Board of Directors, the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive
Officer, the President or the Secretary.

     Section 46.  Chief Financial Officer.  The Chief Financial Officer shall 
                  -----------------------                                    
have overall responsibility for causing (1) the funds and securities of the
Corporation to be deposited in the name and to the credit of the Corporation in
such depositories as may be designated by the Board of Directors or by any
officer or officers authorized by the Board of Directors to designate such
depositories; (2) the disbursement of funds of the Corporation when properly
authorized by vouchers prepared and approved by the Controller; (3) the
investment of funds of the Corporation when authorized by the Board of Directors
or a committee thereof; and (4) to be kept full and accurate account of receipts
and disbursements in books of the Corporation. The Chief Financial Officer shall
render to the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, or the President,
whenever requested, an account of all transactions as Chief Financial Officer
and shall also perform all duties incident to the office of Chief Financial
Officer and such other duties as may be assigned to the Chief Financial Officer
by these By-Laws, the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, or the
President.

     Section 47.  Treasurer.  The Treasurer shall have the custody of the funds
                  ---------                                                  
and securities of the Corporation and shall deposit them in the name and to the
credit of the Corporation in such depositories as may be designated by the Board
of Directors or by any officer or officers authorized by the Board of Directors
to designate such depositories; disburse 

                                       11
<PAGE>
 
funds of the Corporation when properly authorized by vouchers prepared and
approved by the Controller; and invest funds of the Corporation when authorized
by the Board of Directors or a committee thereof. The Treasurer shall render to
the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, the President or the Chief
Financial Officer, whenever requested, an account of all transactions as
Treasurer and shall also perform all duties incident to the office of Treasurer
and such other duties as may be assigned to the Treasurer by these By-Laws, the
Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, the President or the Chief
Financial Officer.

     Section 48.  Assistant Treasurers.  The Assistant Treasurers shall, during
                  --------------------   
the absence of the Treasurer, perform the duties and functions and exercise the
powers of the Treasurer.  Each Assistant Treasurer shall perform such other
duties as may be assigned to the Assistant Treasurer by these By-Laws, the Board
of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, the President, the Chief Financial
Officer or the Treasurer.

     Section 49.  Controller.  The Controller shall serve as the principal
                  ----------                                              
accounting officer of the Corporation and shall keep full and accurate account
of receipts and disbursements in books of the Corporation and render to the
Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, the President or the Chief
Financial Officer, whenever requested, an account of all transactions as
Controller and of the financial condition of the Corporation.  The Controller
shall also perform all duties incident to the office of Controller and such
other duties as may be assigned to the Controller by these By-Laws, the Board of
Directors, the Chief Executive Officer or the President.

     Section 50.  Assistant Controllers.  The Assistant Controllers shall, 
                  ---------------------                                
during the absence of the Controller, perform the duties and functions and
exercise the powers of the Controller. Each Assistant Controller shall perform
such other duties as may be assigned to such officer by these By-Laws, the Board
of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, the President or the Controller.

                                  ARTICLE VII

                      CONTRACTS, INSTRUMENTS AND PROXIES

     Section 51.  Contracts and Other Instruments.  Except as otherwise required
                  -------------------------------
by applicable law, the Certificate of Incorporation or these By-Laws, any
contracts or other instruments may be signed by such person or persons as from
time to time may be designated by the Board of Directors or by any officer or
officers authorized by the Board of Directors to designate such signers; and the
Board of Directors or such officer or officers may determine that the signature
of any such authorized signer may be facsimile. Such authority may be general or
confined to specific instances as the Board of Directors or such officer or
officers may determine.

     Section 52.  Proxies.  Except as otherwise provided by resolution of the 
                  -------  
Board of Directors, any officer of the Corporation shall each have full power
and authority, in behalf of the Corporation, to exercise any and all rights of
the Corporation with respect to any meeting of stockholders of any corporation
in which the Corporation holds stock, including the execution 

                                       12
<PAGE>
 
and delivery of proxies therefor, and to consent in writing to action by such
corporation without a meeting.

                                 ARTICLE VIII

                                 CAPITAL STOCK

     Section 53.  Stock Certificates; Book-Entry Accounts.  The interest of each
                  ---------------------------------------                       
stockholder of the Corporation shall be evidenced by (a) certificates signed by,
or in the name of the Corporation by, the Chairman of the Board, the Chief
Executive Officer, the President, any Vice President, the Chief Financial
Officer or the Treasurer, and by the Secretary or any Assistant Secretary of the
Corporation, certifying the number of shares owned by such holder in the
Corporation, or (b) registration in book-entry accounts without certificates for
shares of stock in such form as the appropriate officers of the Corporation may
from time to time prescribe.  Any of or all the signatures on a stock
certificate may be a facsimile.  In case any officer, transfer agent or
registrar who has signed or whose facsimile signature has been placed upon a
certificate shall have ceased to be such officer, transfer agent or registrar
before such certificate is issued, it may be issued by the Corporation with the
same effect as if such person were such officer, transfer agent or registrar at
the date of issue.

     Section 54.  Record Ownership.  The Corporation shall be entitled to treat 
                  ----------------  
the person in whose name any share, right or option is registered as the owner
thereof, for all purposes, and shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or
other claim to or interest in such share, right or option on the part of any
other person, whether or not the Corporation shall have notice thereof, except
as otherwise provided by applicable law.

     Section 55.  Record Dates.  In order that the Corporation may determine the
                  ------------                                                  
stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholders or
any adjournment thereof, or entitled to receive payment of any dividend or other
distribution or allotment of any rights, or entitled to exercise any rights in
respect of any change, conversion or exchange of stock or for the purpose of any
other lawful action, the Board of Directors may fix a record date, which shall
not precede the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted
by the Board of Directors and which shall not be more than 60 nor less than 10
days before the date of such meeting, nor more than 60 days prior to any other
action.

     Section 56.  Transfer of Stock.  Transfers of shares of stock of the
                  -----------------                                      
Corporation shall be made only on the books of the Corporation by the registered
holder thereof, or by the registered holder's attorney thereunto authorized by
power of attorney duly executed and filed with the Secretary or a transfer agent
of the Corporation, and on surrender of the certificate or certificates for such
shares properly endorsed and the payment of all taxes thereon, or by appropriate
book-entry procedures.

     Section 57.  Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Certificates.  The Board of 
                  --------------------------------------                
Directors may authorize a new certificate or certificates to be issued in place
of any certificate or certificates theretofore issued by the Corporation alleged
to have been lost, stolen or destroyed, upon the making of an affidavit of the
fact by the person claiming the certificate of stock to be lost, stolen or
destroyed. When authorizing such issue of a new certificate or certificates, the
Board of 

                                       13
<PAGE>
 
Directors may, in its discretion and as a condition precedent to the issuance
thereof, require the owner of such lost, stolen or destroyed certificate or
certificates, or the owner's legal representative, to give the Corporation a
bond sufficient to indemnify it against any claim that may be made against the
Corporation on account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of such
certificate or the issuance of such new certificate.

     Section 58.  Terms of Preferred Stock.  The provisions of these By-Laws,
                  ------------------------                                   
including those pertaining to voting rights, election of directors and calling
of special meetings of stockholders, are subject to the terms, preferences,
rights and privileges of any then outstanding class or series of Preferred Stock
as set forth in the Certificate of Incorporation, any Preferred Stock
Designation and in any resolutions of the Board of Directors providing for the
issuance of such class or series of Preferred Stock; provided, however, that the
provisions of any such Preferred Stock shall not affect or limit the authority
of the Board of Directors to fix, from time to time, the number of directors
which shall constitute the Whole Board as provided in Section 16 above, subject
to the right of the holders of any class or series of Preferred Stock to elect
additional directors as and to the extent specifically provided by the
provisions of such Preferred Stock.

                                  ARTICLE IX

                                INDEMNIFICATION

     Section 59.  Right of Indemnification Generally.
                  ---------------------------------- 

          (a)     Directors, Officers and Employees. Each person who was or is
made a party or is threatened to be made a party to or is involved in any
action, suit, or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or
investigative (hereinafter a "proceeding"), by reason of the fact that he or she
or a person of whom he or she is the legal representative is or was a director,
officer or employee of the Corporation or is or was serving at the request of
the Corporation as a legal representative, director, officer, employee or agent
of another corporation or of a limited liability company, partnership, joint
venture, trust or other enterprise, including service with respect to employee
benefit plans, shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Corporation to the
fullest extent authorized by the General Corporation Law of the State of
Delaware as the same exists or may hereafter be amended against all expense,
liability and loss (including attorneys' fees, judgments, fines, ERISA excise
taxes or penalties and amounts paid or to be paid in settlement) reasonably
incurred or suffered by such person in connection therewith; provided, however,
that except as provided in Section 60 below, the Corporation shall indemnify any
such person seeking indemnification in connection with a proceeding (or part
thereof) initiated by such person only if such proceeding (or part thereof) was
authorized by the Board of Directors.

          (b)     Advance of Expenses; Undertaking. Each person referred to in
paragraph (a) of this By-Law shall be paid by the Corporation the expenses
incurred in connection with any proceeding described in paragraph (a) of this 
By-Law in advance of its final disposition, such advances to be paid by the
Corporation within 30 days after the receipt by the Corporation of a statement
or statements from the claimant requesting such advance or advances from time to
time; provided, however, that, if the General Corporation Law of the State of
Delaware requires,

                                       14
<PAGE>
 
the advancement of such expenses incurred by a director or officer in his or her
capacity as a director or officer (and not, unless otherwise required by
applicable law, in any other capacity in which service was or is rendered by
such person while a director or officer, including, without limitation, service
to an employee benefit plan) prior to the final disposition of a proceeding,
shall be made only upon delivery to the Corporation of an undertaking by or on
behalf of such director or officer, to repay all amounts so advanced if it shall
ultimately be determined that such director or officer is not entitled to be
indemnified under this Article IX or otherwise.

          (c)     Contract Right. The right to indemnification conferred in this
Article IX and the right to be paid by the Corporation the expenses incurred in
connection with any such proceeding in advance of its final disposition
conferred in this Article IX each shall be a contract right.

     Section 60.  Written Request; Determination of Entitlement.  To obtain
                  ---------------------------------------------            
indemnification under this Article IX, a claimant shall submit to the
Corporation a written request, including therein or therewith such documentation
and information as is reasonably available to the claimant and is reasonably
necessary to determine whether and to what extent the claimant is entitled to
indemnification. Any determination regarding whether indemnification of any
person is proper in the circumstances because such person has met the applicable
standard of conduct set forth in the General Corporation Law of the State of
Delaware shall be made at the option of the person seeking indemnification, by
the directors as set forth in the General Corporation Law of the State of
Delaware or by independent legal counsel selected by such person with the
consent of the Corporation (which consent shall not unreasonably be withheld).

     Section 61.  Recovery of Unpaid Claim.  If a claim under Section 58 above 
                  ------------------------                                    
is not paid in full by the Corporation within 30 days after a written claim
pursuant to Section 59 above has been received by the Corporation, the claimant
may at any time thereafter bring suit against the Corporation to recover the
unpaid amount of the claim and, if successful in whole or in part, the claimant
shall be entitled to be paid also the expense of prosecuting such claim. It
shall be a defense to any such action (other than actions brought to enforce a
claim for expenses incurred in defending any proceeding in advance of its final
disposition where the required undertaking, if any is required, has been
tendered to the Corporation) that the claimant has not met the standard of
conduct which makes it permissible under the General Corporation Law of the
State of Delaware for the Corporation to indemnify the claimant for the amount
claimed, but the burden of proving such defense shall be on the Corporation.
Neither the failure of the Corporation (including its directors, independent
legal counsel or stockholders) to have made a determination prior to the
commencement of such action that indemnification of the claimant is proper in
the circumstances because he or she has met the applicable standard of conduct
set forth in the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, nor an actual
determination by the Corporation (including its directors, independent legal
counsel or stockholders) that the claimant has not met such applicable standard
of conduct, shall be a defense to the action or create a presumption that the
claimant has not met the applicable standard of conduct.

     Section 62.  Exclusivity; Subsequent Modification.  The right to
                  ------------------------------------               
indemnification and the payment of expenses incurred in connection with a
proceeding in advance of its final disposition conferred in this Article IX
shall not be exclusive of any other right which any person may have or hereafter
acquire under any statute, provision of the Certificate of Incorporation, 

                                       15
<PAGE>
 
By-Laws, agreement, vote of stockholders or directors or otherwise. No repeal or
modification of this Article IX shall in any way diminish or adversely affect
the rights hereunder of any director, officer or employee or of any agent who
has been expressly granted indemnification by the Corporation pursuant to
Section 63 below in respect of any occurrence or matter arising prior to any
such repeal or modification.

     Section 63.  Insurance. The Corporation may maintain insurance, at its
                  ---------                                                
expense, to protect itself and any legal representative, director, officer,
employee or agent of the Corporation or another corporation, limited liability
company, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against any
expense, liability or loss, whether or not the Corporation would have the power
to indemnify such person against such expense, liability or loss under the
General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware. To the extent that the
Corporation maintains any policy or policies providing such insurance, each such
legal representative, director, officer or employee, and each such agent to
which rights to indemnification have been granted as provided in Section 63
below shall be covered by such policy or policies in accordance with its or
their terms to the maximum extent of the coverage thereunder for any such legal
representative, director, officer, employee or agent.

     Section 64.  Other Persons Granted Right of Indemnification.  The 
                  ----------------------------------------------    
Corporation may, to the extent authorized from time to time by the Board of
Directors, grant rights to indemnification, and rights to be paid by the
Corporation the expenses incurred in defending any proceeding in advance of its
final disposition, to any agent of the Corporation to the fullest extent of the
provisions of this Article IX with respect to the indemnification and
advancement of expenses of directors, officers and employees of the Corporation.

     Section 65.  Illegality; Unenforceability. If any provision or provisions 
                  ----------------------------  
of this Article IX shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable for any
reason whatsoever: (1) the validity, legality and enforceability of the
remaining provisions of this Article IX (including, without limitation, each
portion of any Section or subsection of this Article IX containing any such
provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, that is not itself held
to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or
impaired thereby; and (2) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this
Article IX (including, without limitation, each such portion of any Section or
subsection of this Article IX containing any such provision held to be invalid,
illegal or unenforceable) shall be construed so as give effect to the intent
manifested by the provision held invalid, illegal or unenforceable.

     Section 66.  Form and Delivery of Communications.  Any notice, request or
                  -----------------------------------                         
other communication required or permitted to be given to the Corporation under
this Article IX shall be in writing and either delivered in person or sent by
telecopy, telex, telegram, overnight mail or courier service, or certified or
registered mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, to the Secretary of
the Corporation.

                                   ARTICLE X


                                 MISCELLANEOUS

     Section 67.  Corporate Seal.  The seal of the Corporation shall be circular
                  --------------     
in form, containing the words "Varian, Inc." and the word "Delaware" on the
circumference surrounding 

                                       16
<PAGE>
 
the word "Seal." Said seal may be used by causing it or a facsimile thereof to
be impressed or affixed or in any other manner reproduced.

     Section 68.  Fiscal Year.  The fiscal year of the Corporation is the 51- to
                  -----------                                                   
53-week period that ends on the Friday nearest September 30.

     Section 69.  Auditors.  The Board of Directors shall select certified 
                  --------                                                  
public accountants to audit the books of account and other appropriate corporate
records of the Corporation annually and at such other times as the Board of
Directors shall determine by resolution.

     Section 70.  Waiver of Notice.  Whenever notice is required to be given
                  ----------------                                          
pursuant to applicable law, the Certificate of Incorporation or these By-Laws, a
written waiver thereof, signed by the person entitled to notice, whether before
or after the time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent to notice.
Attendance of a person at a meeting of stockholders or the Board of Directors or
a committee thereof shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except
when the stockholder or Director attends such meeting for the express purpose of
objecting, at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business
because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened.  Neither the business to
be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any regular or special meeting of the
stockholders or the Board of Directors or committee thereof need be specified in
any written waiver of notice unless so required by the Certificate of
Incorporation or by these By-Laws.

                                  ARTICLE XI

                             AMENDMENT TO BY-LAWS

     Section 71.  Amendments.  These By-Laws may be amended or repealed, or new 
                  ----------    
By-Laws may be adopted, at any meeting of the Board of Directors or of the
stockholders, provided notice of the proposed change was given in the notice of
the meeting and, in the case of a meeting of the Board of Directors, in a notice
given not less than 24 hours prior to the meeting; provided, however, that in
the case of amendment, repeal or adoption by stockholders, notwithstanding any
other provisions of these By-Laws or any provision of law which might otherwise
permit a lesser vote or no vote, but in addition to any affirmative vote of the
holders of any series of Preferred Stock required by applicable law, the
Certificate of Incorporation or any Preferred Stock Designation, the affirmative
vote of the holders of at least 66 2/3% of the voting power of the then
outstanding shares of the Voting Stock, voting together as a single class, shall
be required for the stockholders to adopt, amend or repeal any provision of
these By-Laws.

                                       17

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 10.1


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                    EMPLOYEE BENEFITS ALLOCATION AGREEMENT
                                     AMONG
                           VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
                VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.
                                      AND
                                 VARIAN, INC.
                                  Dated as of


                             _______________, 1999

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                        
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                                                        PAGE
<S>                                                                                                                     <C> 
ARTICLE I           DEFINITIONS........................................................................................   1
    Section 1.01.      Definitions.....................................................................................   1
ARTICLE II          GENERAL EMPLOYMENT MATTERS.........................................................................   2
    Section 2.01.      General Obligations.............................................................................   2
    Section 2.02.      Initial Compensation of Active Employees........................................................   2
    Section 2.03.      No Additional Employment Rights Created.........................................................   2
    Section 2.04.      Corporate and Transition Employees..............................................................   2
    Section 2.05.      Retiree Payments................................................................................   2
ARTICLE III         UNITED STATES RETIREMENT AND PROFIT-SHARING PLAN BENEFITS..........................................   2
    Section 3.01.      Varian Associates, Inc. Retirement and Profit-Sharing Program...................................   2
    Section 3.02.      Establishment of Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. Defined Contribution Plan......   2
    Section 3.03.      Establishment of Varian, Inc. Defined Contribution Plan.........................................   3
    Section 3.04.      Reimbursement and Indemnification...............................................................   3
ARTICLE IV          EMPLOYEE BENEFITS MATTERS OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES................................................   3
    Section 4.01.      Employee Benefits Matters Outside the United States.............................................   3
ARTICLE V           EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.............................................................................   3
    Section 5.01.      Supplemental Retirement Plan....................................................................   3
    Section 5.02.      Management Incentive Plan.......................................................................   4
    Section 5.03.      Long-Term Incentives............................................................................   4
    Section 5.04.      Deferred Cash Compensation......................................................................   4
    Section 5.05.      Restricted Stock Program........................................................................   4
    Section 5.06.      Options.........................................................................................   4
    Section 5.07.      Restricted Stock................................................................................   6
ARTICLE VI          WELFARE BENEFITS...................................................................................   6
    Section 6.01.      Welfare Plans...................................................................................   6
    Section 6.02.      Allocation and Discharge of Welfare Plan Liabilities............................................   6
ARTICLE VII         GENERAL............................................................................................   6
    Section 7.01.      Post-Distribution Administration of Plans.......................................................   6
    Section 7.02.      Costs and Expenses..............................................................................   6
    Section 7.03.      Sharing of Participant Information..............................................................   6
ARTICLE VIII        INDEMNIFICATION....................................................................................   7
    Section 8.01.      Rights and Obligations..........................................................................   7
ARTICLE IX          DISPUTE RESOLUTION.................................................................................   7
    Section 9.01.      Distribution Agreement to Control...............................................................   7
ARTICLE X           MISCELLANEOUS......................................................................................   7
</TABLE>

                                      -i-
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                  (CONTINUED)
                                        
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                                                        PAGE
    <S>                                                                                                                 <C> 
    Section 10.01.     Complete Agreement; Construction................................................................   7
    Section 10.02.     Other Agreements................................................................................   7
    Section 10.03.     Counterparts....................................................................................   7
    Section 10.04.     Survival of Agreements..........................................................................   7
    Section 10.05.     Expenses........................................................................................   7
    Section 10.06.     Notices.........................................................................................   7
    Section 10.07.     Waivers.........................................................................................   8
    Section 10.08.     Amendments......................................................................................   9
    Section 10.09.     Assignment......................................................................................   9
    Section 10.10.     Successors and Assigns..........................................................................   9
    Section 10.11.     Termination.....................................................................................   9
    Section 10.12.     No Third Party Beneficiaries....................................................................   9
    Section 10.13.     Titles and Headings; Interpretation.............................................................   9
    Section 10.14.     Governing Law...................................................................................   9
    Section 10.15.     Severability....................................................................................   9
</TABLE>

                                     -ii-
<PAGE>
 
                    EMPLOYEE BENEFITS ALLOCATION AGREEMENT


     THIS EMPLOYEE BENEFITS ALLOCATION AGREEMENT is made and entered into as of
this _______ day of _________, 1999 by and among Varian Associates, Inc., a
Delaware corporation ("Varian" or "HCS"), Varian Semiconductor Equipment
Associates, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("SEB"), and Varian, Inc., a Delaware
corporation ("IB").

     WHEREAS, pursuant to the terms of that certain Distribution Agreement by
and among Varian, SEB and IB and dated as of January 14, 1999 (the "Distribution
Agreement"), the parties have entered into this Agreement regarding certain
employment, compensation and benefit matters occasioned by the Distributions.

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements, provisions and
covenants contained in this Agreement and the Distribution Agreement, each of
the parties hereto, on behalf of itself and each other member of its Group,
hereby agrees as follows:

                                   ARTICLE I

                                  DEFINITIONS

     Section 1.01.  Definitions. The following terms, when capitalized herein,
                    -----------
shall have the meanings set forth below in this Article I. All other capitalized
terms which are used but are not otherwise defined herein shall have the
meanings ascribed to them in the Distribution Agreement.

          "Active Employees" means, with respect to each Group, all employees
           ----------------                                                  
     actively engaged in the performance of services to, for or on behalf of any
     member of such Group as of the Effective Time, including any employee who
     is not actively performing services because of (a) PPL, (b) leave of
     absence within a job protection period, or (c) disability within a job
     protection period, and the dependents of such persons (and, as applicable,
     the alternate payees of such persons).  "Active Employees" includes, with
     respect to a Group, non-employee directors of Varian Associates, Inc.
     providing services as a director to any member of the Group as of the
     Effective Time.

          "Former Employees" means, with respect to each Group, all former
           ----------------                                               
     employees and former non-employee directors of Varian and/or its
     Subsidiaries as of the Effective Time (including, but not limited to, such
     employees who, as of the Effective Time, are (a) on leave of absence
     outside of a job protection period, (b) on disability outside of a job
     protection period, (c) in RIF status, (d) on salary continuation, or (f)
     within termination notice periods, and the dependents and, as applicable,
     the alternate payees, of those persons, and including retirees but
     excluding the Retirees) who, if they were actively engaged in the
     performance of services to, for or on behalf of Varian or any of its
     Subsidiaries at the Effective Time, would be an Active Employee of such
     Group, determined on a basis consistent with the determination of the
     Active Employees of such Group and shall, with respect to the Health Care
     Systems Group, include former employees of previously disposed of
     businesses, discontinued operations and the corporate office of Varian.

          "Retirees" means J. Tracy O'Rourke, Robert A. Lemos, Joseph B. Phair,
           --------                                                            
     Wayne P. Somrak, Ernest M. Felago, Derrel B. De Passe and James Hennessy,
     and the dependents and, as applicable, the alternate payees of such
     persons.

          "Varian Welfare Plans" means, collectively, the Varian Business Travel
           --------------------                                                 
     Accident Plan, the Varian Dental Plan, the Varian Dependent Care Assistance
     Plan, Varian Dependent Life Insurance, the Varian Disability Plan, the
     Varian HMO Plans, Varian Life and AD&D Insurance, the Varian Major Medical
     Plan, the Varian Out-of-Area Medical Plans, the Varian Personal Paid Leave
     Plan, the Varian Retiree Medical Plans and the Varian Vision Plan.

                                       1
<PAGE>
 
                                  ARTICLE II

                          GENERAL EMPLOYMENT MATTERS

     Section 2.01.  General Obligations. Except as specifically provided herein,
                    -------------------
from and after the Distribution Date, each of HCS, SEB and IB shall, as
applicable, cause each of the other members of its respective Group to (a)
continue the employment of all of the Active Employees of its respective Group,
subject, however to the terms of Section 2.03 below and (b) except as otherwise
specifically provided herein, assume, pay, perform and discharge any and all
labor, employment, compensation and benefit Liabilities with respect to all
Active Employees of its respective Group. Except as otherwise specifically
provided herein, all labor, employment, compensation and benefit Liabilities of
HCS, IB or SEB, as the case may be, with respect to Former Employees of all
Groups and Retirees shall constitute Shared Liabilities.

     Section 2.02.  Initial Compensation of Active Employees.  The initial base
                    ----------------------------------------                   
salary or wage level of each Active Employee of each Group shall be no less than
the base salary or wage level of such Active Employee immediately prior to the
Distribution Date.

     Section 2.03.  No Additional Employment Rights Created.  Nothing in this
                    ---------------------------------------                  
Agreement shall give any Active Employee of any Group any right to continued
employment by any member of that Group or any other Group beyond the
Distribution Date, which is in addition to or supplemental to any such right he
or she may have arising under contract or otherwise.

     Section 2.04.  Corporate and Transition Employees. Costs associated with
                    ----------------------------------
the termination or severance of Corporate Employees (listed on Schedule 1) and
Transition Employees (listed on Schedule 2), including the cost of any claim,
suit or dispute relating to such severance or termination, shall constitute
Transaction Expenditures. Costs associated with the termination or severance of
all Former Employees not terminated in connection with the Distributions,
including the cost of any claim, suit or dispute relating to such severance or
termination, shall constitute Shared Liabilities.

     Section 2.05. Retiree Payments. All payments made to the Retirees pursuant
                   ----------------
to their severance agreements shall constitute Transaction Expenditures.

                                  ARTICLE III

           UNITED STATES RETIREMENT AND PROFIT-SHARING PLAN BENEFITS

     Section 3.01. Varian Associates, Inc. Retirement and Profit-Sharing
                   -----------------------------------------------------
Program. The active participation in the Varian Associates, Inc. Retirement and
- -------
Profit-Sharing Program (the "Varian Profit-Sharing Plan") by persons other than
the Active Employees of the Health Care Systems Group will cease, effective as
of the Distribution Date. In addition, as of the Distribution Date, all members
of the Semiconductor Equipment Group and all members of the Instruments Group
will cease to be participating employers in the Varian Profit Sharing Plan and
the members of the Health Care Systems Group will become the only participating
employers in the Varian Profit-Sharing Plan. All payments to or on behalf of
Active Employees and Former Employees under the Varian Profit-Sharing Plan with
respect to pre-Distribution service shall constitute Transaction Expenditures.

     Section 3.02.  Establishment of Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates,
                    ----------------------------------------------------------
Inc. Defined Contribution Plan.
- ------------------------------

          (a)  Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. DC Plan. SEB will
               -------------------------------------------------------
     establish or make available, effective as of the Distribution Date, a
     defined contribution plan for the benefit of the United States Active
     Employees of the Semiconductor Equipment Group (the "SEB DC Plan").

          (b)  Transfer of Account Balances to Varian Semiconductor Associates,
               ---------------------------------------------------------------
     Inc. DC Plan. As promptly as practicable after the Distribution Date (but
     ------------
     in no event later than December 31 of the second calendar year after the
     Distribution Date), HCS shall cause the trustee of the Varian Profit-
     Sharing Plan to

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
     transfer to the trustee of the SEB DC Plan, as a direct rollover, the
     account balance of those Active Employees of the Semiconductor Equipment
     Group who elect direct rollovers and with respect to whom the Varian 
     Profit-Sharing Plan maintains an account as of the Effective Time. In
     addition, at two times to be mutually agreed by the parties (but in no
     event later than 12 months following the Distribution Date), HCS shall
     cause the trustee of the Varian Profit-Sharing Plan to transfer to the
     trustee of the SEB DC Plan, as a direct rollover, the current balance of
     those Active Employees of the Semiconductor Equipment Group who elect to
     participate in such batch rollover and with respect to whom the Varian
     Profit-Sharing Plan maintains an account as of the Effective Time. The
     trustee of the SEB DC Plan shall accept such rollovers in accordance with
     its standard procedures, except that the trustee shall accept the direct
     rollovers described in the preceding sentence on an in kind basis.

     Section 3.03.  Establishment of Varian, Inc. Defined Contribution Plan.
                    ------------------------------------------------------- 

          (a)  Varian, Inc. DC Plan. IB will establish or make available,
               --------------------
     effective as of the Distribution Date, a defined contribution plan for the
     benefit of the United States Active Employees of the Instruments Group (the
     "IB DC Plan").

          (b)  Transfer of Account Balances to Varian, Inc. DC Plan. As promptly
               ----------------------------------------------------
     as practicable after the Distribution Date (but in no event later than
     December 31 of the second calendar year after the Distribution Date), HCS
     shall cause the trustee of the Varian Profit-Sharing Plan to transfer to
     the trustee of the IB DC Plan as a direct rollover, the account balance of
     those Active Employees of the Instruments Group who elect direct rollovers
     and with respect to whom the Varian Profit-Sharing Plan maintains an
     account as of the Effective Time. In addition, at two times to be mutually
     agreed by the parties (but in no event later than 12 months following the
     Distribution Date), HCS shall cause the trustee of the Varian Profit-
     Sharing Plan to transfer to the trustee of the IB DC Plan, as a direct
     rollover, the current balance of those Active Employees of the Instruments
     Group who elect to participate in such batch rollover and with respect to
     whom the Varian Profit-Sharing Plan maintains an account as of the
     Effective Time. The trustee of the IB DC Plan shall accept such rollovers
     in accordance with its standard procedures, except that the trustee of the
     IB DC Plan shall accept the direct rollovers described in the preceding
     sentence on an in kind basis.

     Section 3.04.  Reimbursement and Indemnification. IB and SEB, respectively,
                    ---------------------------------    
shall assume all direct and indirect administrative costs associated with the
Varian Profit-Sharing Plan with respect to Active Employees of the Instruments
Group and the Semiconductor Equipment Group, respectively, which would otherwise
be borne by HCS, and such costs shall constitute Instruments Liabilities and
Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities, respectively.  All direct and indirect
administrative costs associated with the Varian Profit-Sharing Plan with respect
to Former Employees and Retirees of all Groups shall constitute Shared
Liabilities.

                                  ARTICLE IV

              EMPLOYEE BENEFITS MATTERS OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES

     Section 4.01.  Employee Benefits Matters Outside the United States.  With
                    ---------------------------------------------------       
respect to the business and operations of each Group in jurisdictions outside
the United States, each of the parties hereto shall (and, as applicable, shall
cause each other member of its Group over which it has direct or indirect legal
or effective control to) assume, or retain, as the case may be, any and all
employee benefits Liabilities and attendant plans and their assets related to
the Active Employees of its Group.  Except as otherwise provided on Schedule 3,
all non-United States employee benefits Liabilities of HCS, IB or SEB with
respect to Former Employees shall constitute Shared Liabilities.

                                   ARTICLE V

                            EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

     Section 5.01.  Supplemental Retirement Plan.  At or promptly after the
                    ----------------------------                           
Distribution Date, Varian Associates, Inc. will distribute the account balances
existing as of the Distribution Date of all current and former 

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
participants in the Supplemental Retirement Plan of Varian Associates, Inc. (the
"SRP"). Such distributions shall constitute Transaction Expenditures. As of the
Distribution Date, only Active Employees of the Health Care Systems Group will
be eligible to accrue benefits under the SRP.

     Section 5.02.  Management Incentive Plan. None of the Active Employees of
                    -------------------------
the Semiconductor Equipment Group or the Instruments Group will accrue any
benefits under the Varian Associates, Inc. Management Incentive Plan (the "MIP")
from and after the Distribution Date. All payments made under the MIP to United
States employees with respect to pre-Distribution service shall constitute
Transaction Expenditures.

     Section 5.03.  Long-Term Incentives.  None of the Active Employees of the
                    --------------------                                      
Semiconductor Equipment Group or the Instruments Group will accrue any benefits
under the "long-term incentive" feature ("LTI") of the Varian Associates, Inc.
Omnibus Stock Plan from and after the Distribution Date.  All payments made
under the LTI to United States employees with respect to pre-Distribution
service shall constitute Transaction Expenditures.

     Section 5.04.  Deferred Cash Compensation.  At or promptly after the
                    --------------------------                           
Distribution Date, all deferred cash compensation with respect to pre-
Distribution service of current and former employees and non-employee directors
will be distributed.  Such distributions shall constitute Transaction
Expenditures.

     Section 5.05.  Restricted Stock Program. None of the Active Employees of
                    ------------------------
the Semiconductor Equipment Group or the Instruments Group will receive grants
of restricted stock under the "restricted stock program" of the Varian
Associates, Inc. Omnibus Stock Plan from and after the Distribution Date.

     Section 5.06.  Options. SEB and IB have established, respectively, the
                    ------- 
Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. Omnibus Stock Plan (the "SEB
Stock Plan") and the Varian, Inc. Omnibus Stock Plan (the "IB Stock Plan"). For
purposes of this Section 5.06, if the markets upon which VAI Common Stock, HCS
Common Stock, IB Common Stock or SEB Common Stock are open for trading on the
Distribution Date but no trade is made, the average of the last high bid and the
last low ask price reported on the Distribution Date shall govern with respect
to the Common Stock so affected. If such markets are not open for trading on the
Distribution Date, then the closing prices of the VAI Common Stock, the HCS
Common Stock, the IB Common Stock and the SEB Common Stock on the trading day
immediately preceding the Distribution Date shall govern (unless there is no
trade on such date, in which case the average of the last high bid and the last
low ask price reported on such date shall govern with respect to the Common
Stock so affected).


          (a)  Active Employees of HCS. Effective as of the Distribution Date,
               -----------------------
     all outstanding options in respect of VAI Common Stock ("Current Options")
     held immediately prior to the Effective Time by Active Employees of the
     Health Care Systems Group (other than non-employee directors of Varian
     Associates, Inc.) will be adjusted as follows to reflect the Distributions
     ("Adjusted Options"): The option exercise price for Adjusted Options will
     be determined by multiplying the Current Option exercise price by a
     fraction, the numerator of which is the closing price of HCS Common Stock
     on the Distribution Date and the denominator of which is the closing price
     of VAI Common Stock on the Distribution Date. The number of shares of HCS
     Common Stock subject to an Adjusted Option will be determined by
     multiplying the number of shares of VAI Common Stock subject to the
     corresponding Current Option by a fraction, the numerator of which is the
     closing price of VAI Common Stock on the Distribution Date and the
     denominator of which is the closing price of HCS Common Stock on the
     Distribution Date. Adjusted Options shall be subject to the same vesting
     and expiration terms and substantially the same other terms applicable to
     the Current Options to which they relate.

          (b)  Active Employees of IB. Effective as of the Distribution Date,
               ----------------------
     Current Options held immediately prior to the Effective Time by Active
     Employees of the Instruments Group (other than non-employee directors of
     Varian Associates, Inc.) who so elect prior to the Distribution Date will
     be replaced with substitute options in respect of IB Common Stock ("Spinoff
     IB Options"). The option exercise price for Spinoff IB Options will be
     determined by multiplying the Current Option exercise price by a fraction,
     the numerator of which is the closing price of IB Common Stock on the
     Distribution Date and the denominator of which is the closing price of VAI
     Common Stock on the Distribution Date. The number of shares of IB Common
     Stock subject to a Spinoff IB Option will be determined by multiplying the
     number of shares of VAI Common Stock subject to the corresponding Current
     Option by a fraction, the numerator

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
     of which is the closing price of VAI Common Stock on the Distribution Date
     and the denominator of which is the closing price of IB Common Stock on the
     Distribution Date. Active Employees of IB who do not elect to receive
     Spinoff IB Options will receive Adjusted Options, which will terminate
     pursuant to their terms. Spinoff IB Options shall be subject to the same
     vesting and expiration terms and substantially the same other terms
     applicable to the Current Options to which they relate.

          (c)  Active Employees of SEB. Effective as of the Distribution Date,
               -----------------------
     Current Options held immediately prior to the Effective Time by Active
     Employees of the Semiconductor Group (other than non-employee directors of
     Varian Associates, Inc.) who so elect prior to the Distribution Date will
     be replaced with substitute options in respect of SEB Common Stock
     ("Spinoff SEB Options" and, together with Spinoff IB Options, "Spinoff
     Options"). The option exercise price for Spinoff SEB Options will be
     determined by multiplying the Current Option exercise price by a fraction,
     the numerator of which is the closing price of SEB Common Stock on the
     Distribution Date and the denominator of which is the closing price of VAI
     Common Stock on the Distribution Date. The number of shares of SEB Common
     Stock subject to a Spinoff SEB Option will be determined by multiplying the
     number of shares of VAI Common Stock subject to the corresponding Current
     Option by a fraction, the numerator of which is the closing price of VAI
     Common Stock on the Distribution Date and the denominator of which is the
     closing price of SEB Common Stock on the Distribution Date. Active
     Employees of SEB who do not elect to receive Spinoff SEB Options will
     receive Adjusted Options, which will terminate pursuant to their terms.
     Spinoff SEB Options shall be subject to the same vesting and expiration
     terms and substantially the same other terms applicable to the Current
     Options to which they relate.

          (d)  Retirees. Effective as of the Distribution Date, Current Options
               --------
     held immediately prior to the Effective Time by Retirees will be replaced
     with options in respect of each of HCS Common Stock, IB Common Stock and
     SEB Common Stock ("Converted Options"). The option exercise price and
     number of shares subject to Converted Options will be calculated by
     subjecting 1/3 of the shares subject to the relevant Current Option to each
     of the calculations described above for Adjusted Options, Spinoff IB
     Options and Spinoff SEB Options. Current Options held by Retirees will be
     fully vested as of the Effective Time.

          (e)  Non-Employee Directors. Effective as of the Distribution Date,
               ----------------------
     Current Options held by non-employee directors of Varian Associates, Inc.
     who so elect prior to the Distribution Date will be exchanged for Converted
     Options. Non-employee directors of Varian Associates, Inc. who do not elect
     to receive Converted Options will receive Adjusted Options. Converted
     Options shall be subject to the same vesting and expiration terms and
     substantially the same other terms applicable to the Current Options to
     which they relate.

          (f)  Former Employees. Effective as of the Distribution Date, Current
               ----------------
     Options held immediately prior to the Effective Time by Former Employees
     not terminated in connection with the Distributions will be replaced with
     Adjusted Options.

          (g)  Employees Terminated in Connection with the Distributions.
               ---------------------------------------------------------
     Effective as of the Distribution Date, Current Options held by Former
     Employees whose employment is terminated on or before the Distribution Date
     in connection with the Distributions (as determined by the employer) and
     who so elect will be replaced with Converted Options. Options held by
     Active Employees whose employment terminates after the Distribution Date
     but in connection with the Distributions (as determined by the employer)
     and who so elect will be replaced with options in respect of each of HCS,
     IB and SEB. The number and exercise price of such options shall be
     calculated consistent with the principles governing Converted Options,
     using the respective prices as of the Distribution Date. Current Options
     and Adjusted Options held by employees whose employment was or is
     terminated in connection with the Distributions and who elect a conversion
     pursuant to this Section 5.06(g) will be fully vested as of the Effective
     Time or, if later, the employee's final work day. Current Options and
     Adjusted Options held by employees whose employment was or is terminated in
     connection with the Distributions but who do not elect a conversion
     pursuant to this Section 5.06(g) will terminate according to their terms
     without any accelerated vesting of Current Options or Adjusted Options not
     vested as of the Distribution Date or the employee's last work day, as
     applicable.

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
          (h)  Transition Employees Transferred Subsequent to the Distributions.
               ----------------------------------------------------------------
     Transition Employees transferred from employment with HCS, IB or SEB to
     employment with another of HCS, IB or SEB following the Distribution who so
     elect will have their Adjusted Options or Spinoff Options replaced with
     options in the entity to which they are transferred.  The number and
     exercise price of such options shall be calculated consistent with the
     principles governing Spinoff Options, using the respective prices as of the
     Distribution Date.

          (i)  Survivors of Former Employees. Effective as of the Distribution
               -----------------------------
     Date, persons who hold Current Options granted to Former Employees who are
     deceased as of the Effective Time will receive Converted Options, if the
     holder so elects. Holders who do not so elect will receive Adjusted
     Options.

     Section 5.07.  Restricted Stock.  All unvested Restricted Stock held by
                    ----------------                                        
employees and non-employee directors of the Health Care Systems Group, the
Semiconductor Equipment Group and the Instruments Group shall be fully vested
immediately prior to the Distributions.

                                  ARTICLE VI

                               WELFARE BENEFITS

     Section 6.01.  Welfare Plans. As of the Effective Time, HCS shall serve as
                    -------------
the sole sponsor of the Varian Welfare Plans from and after the Distribution
Date.

     Section 6.02.  Allocation and Discharge of Welfare Plan Liabilities. As of
                    ----------------------------------------------------
the Effective Time, all Liabilities under the Varian Welfare Plans (including
administrative expenses) with respect to Active Employees of the Semiconductor
Equipment Group and their dependents shall be assumed by the Semiconductor
Equipment Group and shall constitute Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities. As of
the Effective Time, all Liabilities (including administrative expenses) under
the Varian Welfare Plans with respect to Active Employees of the Instruments
Group and their dependents shall be assumed by the Instruments Group and shall
constitute Instruments Liabilities. As of the Effective Time, all Varian Welfare
Plan Liabilities (including administrative expenses) with respect to Active
Employees of the Health Care Systems Group and their dependents shall constitute
Health Care Systems Liabilities. As of the Effective Time, all Varian Welfare
Plan Liabilities with respect to (a) Retirees and (b) Former Employees not
terminated in connection with the Distributions shall constitute Shared
Liabilities. As of the Effective Time, all Varian Welfare Plan Liabilities with
respect to other employees terminated in connection with the Distributions shall
constitute Transaction Expenditures.

                                  ARTICLE VII

                                    GENERAL

     Section 7.01.  Post-Distribution Administration of Plans. The parties
                    -----------------------------------------
hereto will administer all plans consistently herewith, and to the extent
necessary will amend their respective employee benefit plans accordingly.

     Section 7.02.  Costs and Expenses.  Each party shall bear all costs and
                    ------------------                                      
expenses, including but not limited to legal and actuarial fees, incurred from
and after the Distribution Date in the design, drafting and implementation of
any and all plans and compensation structures which it establishes or creates
and the amendment of its existing plans or compensation structures.

     Section 7.03.  Sharing of Participant Information.  From and after the
                    ----------------------------------                     
Distribution Date, HCS, IB and SEB shall share, and shall cause each member of
their respective Groups to share, with each other and with their respective
agents and vendors all participant information necessary and appropriate for the
efficient and accurate administration of each party's respective employee
benefit plans and performance of their respective obligations under this
Agreement. HCS, IB and SEB shall, subject to all applicable laws concerning
confidentiality, be given reasonable and timely access to, and may make copies
of, all information relating to the subjects of this Agreement in the custody of
another party, to the extent necessary and appropriate for such administration
and performance.

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
                                 ARTICLE VIII

                                INDEMNIFICATION

     Section 8.01.  Rights and Obligations.  Article VII of the Distribution
                    ----------------------                                  
Agreement shall govern the rights and obligations of HCS, IB, SEB and the
members of their respective Groups with respect to indemnification for any and
all Indemnifiable Losses related to the subject matter of this Agreement.  The
term "Third Party Claim" in that Article shall be read to include all claims or
demands made by any Person who is not a party to this Agreement or a Subsidiary
of the party concerning the subject matter of this Agreement.

                                  ARTICLE IX

                              DISPUTE RESOLUTION

     Section 9.01.  Distribution Agreement to Control. Any and all
                    ---------------------------------
controversies, disputes or claims arising out of, relating to, in connection
with or resulting from this Agreement (or any amendment thereto or any
transaction contemplated hereby or thereby), including as to its existence,
interpretation, performance, non-performance, validity, breach or termination,
including any claim based on contract, tort, statute or constitution and any
claim raising questions of law, whether arising before or after termination of
this Agreement, shall be deemed an Agreement Dispute as defined in Section 9.01
of the Distribution Agreement and shall be resolved exclusively by, in
accordance with, and subject to the limitations set forth in, Article IX of the
Distribution Agreement.

                                   ARTICLE X

                                 MISCELLANEOUS

     Section 10.01. Complete Agreement; Construction.  This Agreement, and the
                    --------------------------------                          
Schedules hereto, the Distribution Agreement and the other Ancillary Agreements
shall constitute the entire agreement among the parties with respect to the
subject matter hereof and shall supersede all prior agreements, negotiations,
commitments and writings with respect to such subject matter.  In the event of
any inconsistency  between this Agreement and the Distribution Agreement, this
Agreement shall prevail except for inconsistencies with respect to Sections 5.05
and 6.07 and Article IX of the Distribution Agreement, which sections shall
prevail over any inconsistent provision of this Agreement.

     Section 10.02. Other Agreements. This Agreement is not intended to
                    ----------------
address, and should not be interpreted to address, the matters expressly covered
by the Distribution Agreement and/or the other Ancillary Agreements.

     Section 10.03. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in two or more
                    ------------
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which
together shall constitute but one and the same Agreement.

     Section 10.04. Survival of Agreements. All covenants and agreements of the
                    ----------------------
parties contained in this Agreement shall survive the Distribution Date except
as expressly provided herein and shall not be merged into any other transfer or
closing instruments or documents, including the Conveyancing and Assumption
Instruments.

     Section 10.05. Expenses.  Except as otherwise expressly provided in this
                    --------                                                 
Agreement or the Distribution Agreement,  all costs and expenses incurred or
accrued on or before the Distribution Date (whether or not paid on or before the
Distribution Date) in connection with the preparation, execution, delivery and
implementation of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby shall be charged to and paid by Varian.

     Section 10.06. Notices. All Notices required or permitted under this
                    -------
Agreement shall be in writing and shall be sufficiently given or made (a) if
hand delivered or sent by telecopy (with delivery confirmed by voice or
otherwise), (b) if sent by nationally recognized overnight courier or (c) if
sent by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested,
and in each case addressed as follows:

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
     If to HCS:

     Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
     3100 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California  94304-1030
     Attn: Chief Financial Officer
     Telecopy  (650) ___-____

     with a copy to:

     Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
     3100 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California  94304-1030
     Attn: General Counsel
     Telecopy: (650) ___-____

     If to IB:

     Varian, Inc.
     3120 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California  94303-1030
     Attn: Chief Financial Officer
     Telecopy  (650) ___-____

     with a copy to:

     Varian, Inc.
     3120 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California  94303-1030
     Attn: General Counsel
     Telecopy: (650) ___-____

     If to SEB:

     Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.
     35 Dory Road
     Gloucester, Massachusetts  01930
     Attn: Chief Financial Officer
     Telecopy  (978) ___-____

     with a copy to:

     Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.
     35 Dory Road
     Gloucester, Massachusetts  01930
     Attn: General Counsel
     Telecopy: (978) ___-____

or at such other address as shall be furnished by any of the parties in a
Notice.  Any Notice shall be deemed to have been duly given or made when the
Notice is received.

     Section 10.07.  Waivers. The failure of any party to require strict
                     -------
performance by any other party of any provision of this Agreement shall not
waive or diminish that party's right to demand strict performance thereafter of
that or any other provision hereof.

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
     Section 10.08.  Amendments. This Agreement may be amended or supplemented,
                     ----------
or its provisions waived, only by an agreement in writing signed by each of the
parties.

     Section 10.09.  Assignment.
                     ---------- 

          (a)  No party to this Agreement shall (i) consolidate with or merge
     into any Person or permit any Person to consolidate with or merge into such
     party (other than a merger or consolidation in which the party is the
     surviving or continuing corporation), or (ii) sell, assign, transfer, lease
     or otherwise dispose of, in one transaction or a series of related
     transactions, all or substantially all of its Assets, unless the resulting,
     surviving or transferee Person expressly assumes, by instrument in form and
     substance reasonably satisfactory to the other parties, all of the
     obligations of the party under this Agreement.

          (b)  Except as expressly provided in paragraph (a) above, neither this
     Agreement nor any of the rights, interests or obligations hereunder shall
     be assignable, directly or indirectly, by any party without the prior
     written consent of the other parties, and any attempt to so assign without
     such consent shall be void.

     Section 10.10.  Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding
     -------------
upon, inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the successors and permitted
assigns of the parties.

     Section 10.11.  Termination.  This Agreement may be terminated at any time
                     -----------                                               
before the Distributions by Varian in its sole discretion without the approval
of SEB or IB or the Varian stockholders.  In the event of such termination, no
party shall have any Liability of any kind to any other party.  After the
Distributions, this Agreement may not be terminated except by an agreement in
writing signed by each of the parties.

     Section 10.12.  No Third Party Beneficiaries. This Agreement is solely for
                     ----------------------------
the benefit of the parties and the members of their respective Groups and
Affiliates and should not be deemed to confer upon third parties any remedy,
claim, liability, right of reimbursement, claim of action or other right in
excess of those existing without reference to this Agreement.

     Section 10.13.  Titles and Headings; Interpretation. Titles and headings to
                     ----------------------------------- 
sections herein are inserted for convenience of reference only and are not
intended to be part of or to affect the meaning or interpretation of this
Agreement. References in this Agreement to any gender include references to all
genders, and references to the singular include references to the plural and
vice versa. The words "include," "includes" and "including" when used in this
Agreement shall be deemed to be followed by the phrase "without limitation."
Unless the context otherwise requires, references in this Agreement to Articles,
Sections, and Schedules shall be deemed references to Articles and Sections of,
and Schedules to, this Agreement. Unless the context otherwise requires, the
words "hereof," "hereby" and "herein" and words of similar meaning when used in
this Agreement refer to this Agreement in its entirety and not to any particular
Article, Section or provision of this Agreement.

     Section 10.14.  Governing Law.  This Agreement shall be governed by, and
                     -------------                                           
construed and enforced in accordance with, the Law of the State of Delaware
without regard to the principles of conflicts of Laws thereunder, to the extent
not preempted by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974.

     Section 10.15.  Severability.  If any provision of this Agreement or the
                     ------------                                            
application thereof to any Person or circumstance is determined to be invalid,
void or unenforceable in any respect, the remaining provisions hereof, of the
application of such provision to Persons or circumstances other than those as to
which it has held invalid," void or unenforceable, shall remain in full force
and effect and in no way be affected, impaired or invalidated thereby, so long
as the economic or legal substance of the transaction contemplated hereby is not
affected in any manner adverse to any party.

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
duly executed as of the day and year first above written.

                              VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT 
                              ASSOCIATES, INC.



                              By:____________________________________
                              Name:  [NAME]
                              Title: [TITLE]


                              VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.



                              By:____________________________________
                              Name:  [NAME]
                              Title: [TITLE]


                              VARIAN, INC.



                              By:____________________________________
                              Name:  [NAME]
                              Title: [TITLE]

 

                                       10

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 10.2

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                        INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AGREEMENT

                                     AMONG

                           VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,

                VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

                                      AND

                                 VARIAN, INC.

                                  Dated as of

                               __________, 1999
                                                                             
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                                           PAGE
<S>                                                                                                        <C> 
ARTICLE I      DEFINITIONS...............................................................................   1
                                                                                                            
     Section 1.01.  General..............................................................................   1
                                                                                                            
ARTICLE II     OWNERSHIP OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY........................................................   2
                                                                                                            
     Section 2.01.  General Principles of Allocation and Recognition.....................................   2
     Section 2.02.  Distribution of Rights...............................................................   3
     Section 2.03.  Rights Arising in Future.............................................................   4
     Section 2.04.  No Warranties........................................................................   4
     Section 2.05.  Recognition of Non-Party Rights......................................................   4
     Section 2.06.  Effectuating Transfer of Rights......................................................   4
     Section 2.07.  Limitations and Obligations in Jointly Owned Intellectual Property...................   5

ARTICLE III    CROSS LICENSING OF RIGHTS.................................................................   5

     Section 3.01.  Grants by Varian.....................................................................   5
     Section 3.02.  Grants by IB.........................................................................   6
     Section 3.03.  Grants by SEB........................................................................   6
     Section 3.04.  Limitations of Rights................................................................   6
     Section 3.05.  Restrictions on Sublicensing.........................................................   6

ARTICLE IV     TRADEMARKS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC......................................................   6

     Section 4.01.  Grant of Licenses....................................................................   6
     Section 4.02.  Protection of Licensed Property......................................................   7
     Section 4.03.  Costs and Administration.............................................................   7
     Section 4.04.  Extending the Rights in the Marks....................................................   7
     Section 4.05.  Reducing the Rights in the Marks.....................................................   7
     Section 4.06.  Non-use or Abandonment of the Marks..................................................   7
     Section 4.07.  Limitations on Concurrent Use........................................................   8
     Section 4.08.  Notice and Publicity.................................................................   8
     Section 4.09.  Domain Name and Internet Hyperlinks..................................................   8
     Section 4.10.  Duty to Avoid Confusion..............................................................   8
     Section 4.11.  Consent to Registration..............................................................   8
     Section 4.12.  Limitations on Sublicensing..........................................................   8
     Section 4.13.  Transition Period....................................................................   9

ARTICLE V      COVENANTS.................................................................................   9

     Section 5.01.  Further Assurances...................................................................   9
     Section 5.02.  Cooperation..........................................................................   9
     Section 5.03.  Intellectual Property Records........................................................   9

ARTICLE VI     INDEMNIFICATION...........................................................................   9

     Section 6.01.  Rights and Obligations...............................................................   9
</TABLE> 

                                      -i-
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                  (CONTINUED)


<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                                           PAGE
<S>                                                                                                        <C> 
ARTICLE VII    DISPUTE RESOLUTION........................................................................   9

     Section 7.01.  Distribution Agreement to Control....................................................   9

ARTICLE VIII   MISCELLANEOUS.............................................................................  10

     Section 8.01.  Complete Agreement; Construction.....................................................  10
     Section 8.02.  Other Agreements.....................................................................  10
     Section 8.03.  Counterparts.........................................................................  10
     Section 8.04.  Survival of Agreements...............................................................  10
     Section 8.05.  Expenses.............................................................................  10
     Section 8.06.  Notices..............................................................................  10
     Section 8.07.  Waivers..............................................................................  11
     Section 8.08.  Amendments...........................................................................  11
     Section 8.09.  Assignment...........................................................................  11
     Section 8.10.  Successors and Assigns...............................................................  12
     Section 8.11.  Third Party Beneficiaries............................................................  12
     Section 8.12.  Schedules............................................................................  12
     Section 8.13.  Titles and Headings; Interpretation..................................................  12
     Section 8.14.  Governing Law........................................................................  12
     Section 8.15.  Severability.........................................................................  12
     Section 8.16.  Subsidiaries.........................................................................  12
</TABLE> 

                                     -ii-
<PAGE>
 
                                    FORM OF

                        INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AGREEMENT


     THIS INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AGREEMENT (this "Agreement") is made and entered
into as of this __th day of _____________, 1999, between and among VARIAN
ASSOCIATES, INC., a Delaware corporation ("Varian"), VARIAN, INC., a Delaware
corporation ("IB"), and VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC., a
Delaware corporation ("SEB").

                                   RECITALS


     WHEREAS, Varian, directly and through its Subsidiaries and Affiliates,
currently owns various intellectual property rights used in connection with a
number of businesses, which businesses are described in the Distribution
Agreement dated as of January 14, 1999, among Varian, IB and SEB (the
"Distribution Agreement"); and

     WHEREAS, the parties have determined that this Agreement is appropriate in
order to effectuate the purposes of the Distribution Agreement as described
therein, and in order to promote a clear understanding of their respective
intellectual property rights after the Distributions (as defined in the
Distribution Agreement) contemplated thereby;

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements, provisions and
covenants contained herein and therein, the parties hereto agree as follows:

                                   ARTICLE I
                                  DEFINITIONS

     Section 1.01.  General. Except for the defined terms set forth below, the
                    -------                                                   
capitalized terms used in this Agreement have the meanings ascribed to them in
Article I, Section 1.01 of the Distribution Agreement, except that for purposes
of this Agreement the terms "HCS," "IB" and "SEB" shall include the other
members of the Health Care Systems Group, the Instruments Group and the
Semiconductor Equipment Group, respectively, unless the context otherwise
requires.

     "Fields" means certain combinations of, or collectively, the product
      ------                                                             
markets of the Health Care Systems Business, the Instruments Business and the
Semiconductor Equipment Business, as defined herein below.

     "Field of Health Care Systems" means the product markets to which the
      ----------------------------                                        
Health Care Systems Business directs its marketing, sales, engineering, research
and development efforts, as further described in Exhibit A.

     "Field of Instruments" means the product markets to which the Instruments
      --------------------                                                    
Business directs its marketing, sales, engineering, research and development
efforts, as further described in Exhibit A.

     "Field of Semiconductor Equipment" means the product markets to which the
      --------------------------------                                        
Semiconductor Equipment Business directs its marketing, sales, engineering,
research and development efforts, as further described in Exhibit A.

     "HCS Intellectual Property" shall have the meaning set forth in Section
      -------------------------                                             
2.01(a).

     "IB Intellectual Property" shall have the meaning set forth in Section
      ------------------------                                             
2.01(b).

     "Infringement" means any unauthorized use or conduct in violation or
      ------------                                                       
derogation of the rights in question.
<PAGE>
 
     "Intellectual Property" means the intellectual property rights owned,
      ---------------------                                               
licensed to or otherwise held by Varian, and its Subsidiaries and Affiliates,
throughout the world, as of the Distribution Date, including, without
limitation, all of the rights, title and interests in the following:

     (i)   all United States and foreign patents, patent applications (including
any continuations, continuation-in-part and divisionals), patent applications
under preparation, invention disclosures and invention disclosures under
preparation;

     (ii)  all United States and foreign registered and unregistered copyrights
and mask works, including applications and applications under preparation
therefor;

     (iii) all United States and foreign registered and unregistered
trademarks, trade names, trade dress, service marks, services names, artwork,
logos and other marks, including applications and applications under preparation
therefor;

     (iv)  all trade secrets, know-how, ideas, concepts, discoveries,
improvements, processes, procedures, methods, recipes, formulae, data and
specifications;

     (v)   all computer, programs and other software (in executable or source
code format), including operating software, applications, network software,
firmware, middleware, design software, design tools, test and diagnostic
software, systems configurations; and

     (vi)  all documentation, schematics, drawings, designs, manuals, reports,
records, instructions, studies, surveys, plans, books or other written materials
(whether in hard copy or magnetic form) relating to or including any of the (i)
through (v) above.

     "Residual Intellectual Property" shall have the meaning set forth in
      ------------------------------                                     
Section 2.01(d).

     "SEB Intellectual Property" shall have the meaning set forth in Section
      -------------------------                                             
2.01(c).

     "Specified Intellectual Property" shall have the meaning set forth in
      -------------------------------                                     
Section 2.01(e).

                                  ARTICLE II

                      OWNERSHIP OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

     Section 2.01.  General Principles of Allocation and Recognition.
                    ------------------------------------------------  

              (a)   Without limiting any obligation or Liability of Varian under
the Distribution Agreement or any other Ancillary Agreement, and subject to the
provisions of Article III below, after the Distributions, Varian (or another
member of the Health Care Systems Group) shall own all rights, title and/or
interest in all Intellectual Property that: (i) originated primarily with the
conduct of the Health Care Systems Business or primarily in connection with the
Health Care Systems Assets; (ii) was obtained by, exclusively or primarily for
the conduct of, the Health Care Systems Business or in connection with the
Health Care Systems Assets; (iii) was developed exclusively or primarily for the
conduct of the Health Care Systems Business or in connection with the Health
Care Systems Assets; (iv) arose from funding by, exclusively or primarily for
the benefit of the conduct of, the Health Care Systems Business or in connection
with the Health Care Systems Assets; (v) as of the Effective Time, is used or
held for use exclusively or primarily for the conduct of the Health Care Systems
Business or in connection with the Health Care Systems Assets; and/or (vi) as of
the Effective Time, is allocated to HCS by mutual agreement of the parties
(collectively "HCS Intellectual Property"). If a conflict exists between or
among any of the clauses (i) through (iv) set forth in this paragraph or in
paragraph (b) or paragraph (c) of this Section 2.01, on the one hand, and clause
(v) of this paragraph, on the other hand, then clause (v) shall prevail.

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
              (b)   Without limiting any obligation or Liability of IB under the
Distribution Agreement or any other Ancillary Agreement, and subject to the
provisions of Article III below, after the Distributions, IB (or another member
of the Instruments Group) shall own all rights, title and/or interest in all
Intellectual Property that: (i) originated primarily with the conduct of the
Instruments Business or primarily in connection with the Instruments Assets;
(ii) was obtained by, exclusively or primarily for the conduct of, the
Instruments Business or in connection with the Instruments Assets; (iii) was
developed exclusively or primarily for the conduct of the Instruments Business
or in connection with the Instruments Assets; (iv) arose from funding by,
exclusively or primarily for the benefit of the conduct of, the Instruments
Business or in connection with the Instruments Assets; (v) as of the Effective
Time, is used or held for use exclusively or primarily for the conduct of the
Instruments Business or in connection with the Instruments Assets; and/or (vi)
as of the Effective Time, is allocated to IB by mutual agreement of the parties
(collectively "IB Intellectual Property"). If a conflict exists between or among
any of the clauses (i) through (iv) set forth in this paragraph or in paragraph
(a) or in paragraph (c) of this Section 2.01, on the one hand, and clause (v) of
this paragraph, on the other hand, then clause (v) shall prevail.

              (c)   Without limiting any obligation or Liability of SEB under
the Distribution Agreement or any other Ancillary Agreement, and subject to the
provisions of Article III below, after the Distributions, SEB (or another member
of the Semiconductor Equipment Group) shall own all rights, title and/or
interest in all Intellectual Property that: (i) originated primarily with the
conduct of the Semiconductor Equipment Business or primarily in connection with
the Semiconductor Equipment Assets; (ii) was obtained by, exclusively or
primarily for the conduct of, the Semiconductor Equipment Business or in
connection with the Semiconductor Equipment Assets; (iii) was developed
exclusively or primarily for the conduct of the Semiconductor Equipment Business
or in connection with the Semiconductor Equipment Assets; (iv) arose from
funding by, exclusively or primarily for the benefit of the conduct of, the
Semiconductor Equipment Business or in connection with the Semiconductor
Equipment Assets; (v) as of the Effective Time, is used or held for use
exclusively or primarily for the conduct of the Semiconductor Equipment Business
or in connection with the Semiconductor Equipment Assets; and/or (vi) as of the
Effective Time, is allocated to SEB by mutual agreement of the parties
(collectively "SEB Intellectual Property"). If a conflict exists between or
among any of the clauses (i) through (iv) set forth in this paragraph or in
paragraph (a) or in paragraph (b) of this Section 2.01, on the one hand, and
clause (v) of this paragraph, on the other hand, then clause (v) shall prevail.

              (d)   Subject to the provisions of Section 2.01(a), (b) and (c)
above, any Intellectual Property that: (i) did not originate primarily with the
conduct of the business or primarily in connection with the Assets of any Group;
(ii) was not obtained by, exclusively or primarily for the conduct of, any Group
or in connection with the Assets of any Group; (iii) was not developed
exclusively or primarily for the conduct of the business or in connection with
the Assets of any Group; (iv) did not arise from funding by, exclusively or
primarily for the benefit of any Group or in connection with the Assets of any
Group; (v) is not used or held for use exclusively or primarily for the conduct
of the business or in connection with the Assets of any Group as of the
Effective Time; and (vi) has not been allocated to one of the parties under this
Agreement (the Intellectual Property satisfying each of the foregoing clauses
(i)-(vi) hereinafter, collectively, "Residual Intellectual Property"), shall be
jointly owned by the parties.

              (e)   Notwithstanding the provisions in Section 2.01(a), (b), (c)
and (d) above, effective as of the Effective Time, the parties acknowledge that
joint ownership in the rights, title and interests in certain Intellectual
Property specified in or pursuant to this Agreement may be held by two or more
parties ("Specified Intellectual Property").

     Section 2.02.  Distribution of Rights.
                    ----------------------
 
               (a)  Varian hereby irrevocably transfers and assigns, effective
as of the Effective Time, to IB the ownership of all rights, title and/or
interest in the IB Intellectual Property, a non-exclusive description of which
is set forth in Schedule 2.02(a). In addition, Varian hereby irrevocably
transfers and assigns to IB, effective as of the Effective Time, joint ownership
of all rights, title and/or interest in the Specified Intellectual Property, an
exclusive description of which is set forth in Schedule 2.02(a), subject to the
provisions of Section 2.07 below.

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
          (b)  Varian hereby irrevocably transfers and assigns, effective as of
the Effective Time, to SEB the ownership of all rights, title and/or interest in
the SEB Intellectual Property, a non-exclusive description of which is set forth
in Schedule 2.02(b). In addition, Varian hereby irrevocably transfers and
assigns to SEB, effective as of the Effective Time, joint ownership of all
rights, title and/or interest in the Specified Intellectual Property, an
exclusive description of which is set forth in Schedule 2.02(b), subject to the
provisions of Section 2.07 below.

          (c)  Varian hereby irrevocably retains, effective as of the Effective
Time, the ownership of all rights, title and/or interest in the HCS Intellectual
Property, a non-exclusive description of which is set forth in Schedule 2.02(c),
and subject to the provisions of Article IV below, in the "Varian" and "VA logo"
trademarks. In addition, Varian hereby irrevocably retains, effective as of the
Effective Time, joint ownership of all rights, title and/or interest in the
Specified Intellectual Property, an exclusive description of which is set forth
in Schedule 2.02(c), subject to the provisions of Section 2.07 below.

          (d)  Varian hereby irrevocably transfers and assigns to IB and SEB,
and irrevocably retains for itself, effective as of the Effective Time, joint
ownership of all rights, title and/or interest in the Residual Intellectual
Property, a non-exclusive description of which is set forth in Schedule 2.02(d),
subject to the provisions of Section 2.07 below.

          (e)  Without limiting any obligation or Liability of any party under
the Distribution Agreement or any other Ancillary Agreement, and subject to the
provisions of Article III below, after the Effective Time, all rights, title
and/or interest in all Intellectual Property identified on Schedule 2.02(a)
through (d) shall be owned solely or jointly by or vested in the party indicated
therein.

     Section 2.03.  Rights Arising in Future. Subject to the provisions of
                    ------------------------
Article III below, after the Effective Time: (a) any and all intellectual
property created by or on behalf of a party, including common-law rights related
thereto, shall belong solely and exclusively to such party; and (b) any and all
subsequent ownership, possession and use by each party of the Intellectual
Property that it will own subsequent to the Distributions under the terms of
this Agreement (excluding any possession or use pursuant to license granted by
another party), including common-law rights related thereto, shall inure solely
to such party's sole and exclusive benefit.

     Section 2.04.  No Warranties.  No party to this Agreement, the Distribution
                    -------------                                               
Agreement, or any other agreement contemplated herein or otherwise
(notwithstanding anything to the contrary expressly provided in any Conveyancing
and Assumption Instrument), is making any representation or warranty whatsoever
regarding the Intellectual Property transferred, distributed or licensed under
this Agreement, including, as to title, value or legal sufficiency thereof.  Any
and all Intellectual Property and related Assets transferred or retained by the
parties, as the case may be, shall be "AS IS, WHERE IS".

     Section 2.05.  Recognition of Non-Party Rights.  The recognition among the
                    -------------------------------                            
parties of the transfers of rights in the Intellectual Property under Sections
2.01-2.03 of this Agreement is subject to all pre-existing rights, obligations
and restrictions of Persons that are not parties to this Agreement as of the
Effective Time. The provisions of Section 2.14 of the Distribution Agreement
shall govern the rights and obligations of the parties with regard to obtaining
any necessary Consents and taking other actions relating to such transfers of
rights.

     Section 2.06.  Effectuating Transfer of Rights. The parties shall execute
                    -------------------------------
all such documents, and to take all such actions before, at and after the
Effective Time, as may be necessary to achieve, perfect or confirm the
respective ownership of rights in the Intellectual Property, as contemplated in
this Article II, by the Effective Time.

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
     Section 2.07.  Limitations and Obligations in Jointly Owned Intellectual
                    ---------------------------------------------------------
Property.
- -------- 
              (a)   Each party shall have the unlimited right to use the
Residual Intellectual Property and/or Specified Intellectual Property, as
applicable, except to make, have made or sell competing products in the Fields
of the other parties, as set forth in Article I above.

              (b)   The parties shall share equally in all costs and fees, if
any, associated with obtaining, perfecting and/or maintaining the Residual
Intellectual Property and the Specified Intellectual Property, to the extent
that each party has an ownership interest therein. The parties shall designate a
party, by mutual agreement, to have administrative responsibility for tracking,
coordinating and submitting payment of such costs and fees ("Designated Party").
The Designated Party that is responsible for a particular cost or fee shall
deliver, at least forty-five (45) days before such cost or fee becomes due, an
invoice to the other party or parties ("Invoiced Party) requesting submission of
their share of such cost or fee. The Invoiced Party shall have thirty (30) days
from the date of the receipt to pay such invoice. If an Invoiced Party, at any
time, does not pay the invoiced amount in a timely manner, the Designated Party
shall send a written notice, by facsimile transmission or overnight mail, to
such Invoiced Party requesting payment of such invoice within fifteen (15)
business days. The failure by the Invoiced Party to make such payment shall
constitute abandonment of all rights in the Residual Intellectual Property or
Specified Intellectual Property relating to such payment and shall result in
such rights shall be reapportioned equally between the remaining parties. If a
Designated Party decides to abandon its rights in certain Residual Intellectual
Property or Specified Intellectual Property for which it has administrative
responsibility, such Designated Party shall provide the other parties with
written notice of its decision at least sixty (60) days prior to the due date of
any cost or fee, and the parties shall confer to determine which party shall be
allocated such administrative responsibility. The effect of such abandonment
shall be to remove the restriction set forth in Section 2.07(a) above and to
permit the other party, or parties, retaining rights in the Residual
Intellectual Property or Specified Intellectual Property to enforce those rights
against the abandoning party.

              (c)   Each party shall be responsible for policing its rights in
the Residual Intellectual Property and Specified Intellectual Property, as
applicable, against Infringement in its respective Field, as set forth in
Article I above.

                                  ARTICLE III

                           CROSS LICENSING OF RIGHTS

     Section 3.01.  Grants by Varian.
                    ---------------- 

              (a)   Varian hereby grants to IB a limited, non-exclusive,
perpetual, royalty-free, worldwide license under the HCS Intellectual Property
(except for the United States and foreign registered and unregistered
trademarks, trade names, trade dress, service marks, services names, artwork,
logos and other marks, including applications and applications under preparation
therefor, used primarily in the Health Care Systems Business) to make, have
made, use and sell products only in the Field of Instruments, subject to the
provisions of this Article III.

              (b)   Varian hereby grants to SEB a limited, non-exclusive,
perpetual, royalty-free, worldwide license under the HCS Intellectual Property
(except for the United States and foreign registered and unregistered
trademarks, trade names, trade dress, service marks, services names, artwork,
logos and other marks, including applications and applications under preparation
therefor, used primarily in the Health Care Systems Business) to make, have
made, use and sell products only in the Field of Semiconductor Equipment,
subject to the provisions of this Article III.

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
     Section 3.02.  Grants by IB.
                    ------------ 

              (a)   IB hereby grants to Varian a limited, non-exclusive,
perpetual, royalty-free, worldwide license under the IB Intellectual Property
(except for the United States and foreign registered and unregistered
trademarks, trade names, trade dress, service marks, services names, artwork,
logos and other marks, including applications and applications under preparation
therefor, used primarily in the Instruments Business) to make, have made, use
and sell products only in the Field of Health Care Systems, subject to the
provisions of this Article III.

              (b)   IB hereby grants to SEB a limited, non-exclusive, perpetual,
royalty-free, worldwide license under the IB Intellectual Property (except for
the United States and foreign registered and unregistered trademarks, trade
names, trade dress, service marks, services names, artwork, logos and other
marks, including applications and applications under preparation therefor, used
primarily in the Instruments Business) to make, have made, use and sell products
only in the Field of Semiconductor Equipment, subject to the provisions of this
Article III.

     Section 3.03.  Grants by SEB.
                    -------------

              (a)   SEB hereby grants to Varian a limited, non-exclusive,
perpetual, royalty-free, worldwide license under the SEB Intellectual Property
(except for the United States and foreign registered and unregistered
trademarks, trade names, trade dress, service marks, services names, artwork,
logos and other marks, including applications and applications under preparation
therefor, used primarily in the Semiconductor Equipment Business) to make, have
made, use and sell products only in the Field of Health Care Systems, subject to
the provisions of this Article III.

              (b)   SEB hereby grants to IB a limited, non-exclusive, perpetual,
royalty-free, worldwide license under the SEB Intellectual Property (except for
the United States and foreign registered and unregistered trademarks, trade
names, trade dress, service marks, services names, artwork, logos and other
marks, including applications and applications under preparation therefor, used
primarily in the Semiconductor Equipment Business) to make, have made, use and
sell products only in the Field of Instruments, subject to the provisions of
this Article III.

     Section 3.04.  Limitations of Rights.  Nothing in the foregoing grants of
                    ---------------------                                     
license shall be construed as providing a grantee party the right to make, have
made, use or sell any product that competes, directly or indirectly, with the
products of a grantor party.

     Section 3.05.  Restrictions on Sublicensing. The parties shall have no
                    ----------------------------
right to sublicense to any third party the rights granted by another party,
pursuant to this Article III, without the prior written consent of the grantor
party, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld.

                                  ARTICLE IV

                     TRADEMARKS OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.

     Section 4.01.  Grant of Licenses.
                    -----------------
 
              (a)   Varian hereby grants to IB a limited, exclusive, perpetual,
irrevocable, royalty-free, worldwide license to use the "Varian" and "VA logo"
trademarks in the Field of Instruments, subject to the provisions of this
Article IV.

              (b)   Varian hereby grants to SEB a limited, exclusive, perpetual,
irrevocable, royalty-free, worldwide license to use the "Varian" and "VA logo"
trademarks in the Field of Semiconductor Equipment, subject to the provisions of
this Article IV.

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
              (c)   Varian hereby retains a limited, exclusive, perpetual,
irrevocable, royalty-free, worldwide right to use the name "Varian" and the "VA
logo" trademarks in the Field of Health Care Systems, subject to the provisions
of this Article IV.


              (d)   After the Effective Time, each of Varian, IB and SEB shall
possess the right to use the "Varian" name or "VA logo" standing alone or by
itself for use on products, advertising or marketing purposes, etc., subject to
the provisions of this Article IV.

     Section 4.02.  Protection of Licensed Property. After the Effective Time,
                    -------------------------------
each of Varian, IB and SEB shall use the "Varian" and "VA logo" trademarks
(hereinafter the "Marks") in a manner that protects the goodwill and other
rights associated therewith, that associates the Marks with high quality
products, that avoids disparagement, dilution or otherwise adversely affects the
validity of the Marks, and that is in accordance with the policies and
guidelines established for the protection of that party's other trademarks. Each
party shall be responsible for policing and preventing Infringement by third
parties of the Marks in their respective Fields. Any party's failure to use the
Marks in accordance with the foregoing or material failure to prevent
Infringement by third parties shall be grounds for revocation of the rights
granted in this Article IV, pursuant to the provisions of Article VII below.

     Section 4.03.  Costs and Administration. The parties shall share equally in
                    ------------------------  
all costs and fees associated with maintaining the Marks, and Varian shall have
the administrative responsibility for tracking, coordinating and submitting
payments therefor. Varian shall deliver, at least forty-five (45) days before
such costs or fees become due, an invoice to the other parties ("Invoiced
Party") requesting submission of each party's share of such costs or fees. The
Invoiced Party shall have thirty (30) days from the date of receipt to pay such
invoice. If, at any time, an Invoiced Party does not pay, in full, the invoiced
amount in a timely manner, Varian shall send a written notice, by facsimile
transmission or overnight mail, to such Invoiced Party requesting payment of
such invoiced amount within fifteen (15) business days. The failure by the
Invoiced Party to make such payment shall constitute abandonment of all rights
in the Marks. If Varian decides to abandon its rights in the Marks, Varian shall
provide the other parties with written notice of its decision at least sixty
(60) days prior to the due date that any cost or fee, and the parties shall
confer to determine which of IB or SEB shall be given the administrative
responsibility for the Marks. The effect of such abandonment shall be to require
the immediate cessation of all use of the Marks by the abandoning party.

     Section 4.04.  Extending the Rights in the Marks. In the event that a party
                    ---------------------------------
desires to extend the rights in the Marks by registrations in additional
countries or additional classes, such party shall, in writing, request that
Varian seek such registrations. Varian shall comply with such request by
engaging trademark counsel within thirty (30) days thereof, and such requesting
party agrees to pay all costs and fees associated with such applications for
registrations. Upon completion of the registrations, the maintenance costs and
fees shall be governed by the provisions of Section 4.03 above.

     Section 4.05.  Reducing the Rights in the Marks. The scope of rights in the
                    -------------------------------
Marks may not be reduced, e.g., by abandoning registrations in certain countries
or classes, without the mutual written consent of each party, which consent
shall not be unreasonably withheld.

     Section 4.06.  Non-use or Abandonment of the Marks. In the event that
                    -----------------------------------
Varian, IB and/or SEB choose, for any reason, not to use any of the Marks for a
period greater than one (1) year, such non-use shall constitute abandonment of
such Marks and shall serve as the basis for revoking the rights granted therein
by this Article IV.

              (a)   If either IB or SEB abandons the Marks through non-use
thereof, Varian shall provide the abandoning party with no less than thirty (30)
days written notice of its intent to revoke such party's rights to use such
Marks. The noticed party may prevent such revocation by providing proof of its
use within the past year or by resuming its use of any of the Marks within such
thirty (30) day period, provided its use is on a continuous basis thereafter for
not less than six (6) months. If, for any reason, Varian fails to provide such
written revocation notice, either IB or SEB, as appropriate, may request, in
writing, that Varian deliver such notice within fifteen (15) business days of
receipt of such request. If

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
Varian does not comply with such written request, either IB or SEB, as
appropriate, shall have the right to provide such written revocation notice as
the authorized agent of Varian.

              (b)   If Varian abandons the Marks through non-use thereof, either
IB or SEB may provide Varian with written notice requiring that Varian execute
an assignment of the ownership rights in the Marks to either IB or SEB, as
appropriate, within forty-five (45) days of receiving such notice. A copy of
such notice shall be provided to the party not initiating the procedure set
forth in this paragraph. Varian may prevent its loss of ownership rights in and
rights to use the Marks by providing proof of its use of the Marks within the
past year or by resuming its use of any of the Marks within thirty (30) days
after receipt of such notice, provided its use is on a continuous basis
thereafter for not less than six (6) months. If Varian refuses to execute such
assignment of ownership, the ownership rights in the Marks shall automatically
pass to either IB or SEB, as appropriate as the party sending such notice.

     Section 4.07.  Limitations on Concurrent Use. The parties shall not use the
                    -----------------------------
Marks in the Fields of the other parties. Otherwise, the provisions in this
Article IV shall in no way restrict the rights of the parties to sell any
product or service or enter into any business identical or similar to any
product or service sold, or business conducted by, the other parties before the
Distribution Date, provided the Marks are not used, in any way, to describe or
identify such product, service, or business.

     Section 4.08.  Notice and Publicity. After the Distribution Date, the
                    --------------------
parties will give or cause to be given, in each distinct geographic area or line
of business in which they intend to operate or to sell any product or service,
such notice and publicity of their separation and distinct identities as the
source of any such business, product or service as may be reasonable under the
circumstances or required by the relevant local law, where the local law imposes
such a duty so to notify and/or publicize.

     Section 4.09.  Domain Name and Internet Hyperlinks. The parties will
                    -----------------------------------
mutually agree on the ownership of Internet domain name "www.varian.com." In any
event, each of the parties shall provide and maintain on the "home page" of its
internet or website, for a period of two (2) years after the Distribution Date,
a hyperlink to the principal internet or website of the other two parties.
Furthermore, each of the parties will cooperate reasonably in the identification
of appropriate addresses and/or domain names and in resolving technical issues
necessary to establish, design and maintain such hyperlinks.

     Section 4.10.  Duty to Avoid Confusion. The parties confirm their belief
                    -----------------------       
that the likelihood of confusion will not result from the parties' use of the
Marks, as provided for in this Agreement, due to the differences in the goods
and services associated therewith and the differences in the customers to whom
the goods and services are primarily offered and sold. The parties further
believe that any potential future confusion will be prevented under the
provisions of this Agreement. Furthermore, in order to enable and permit each
other to continue using and to register their respective trademarks and to
ensure that there is no confusion among them in any relevant marketplace, the
parties will use commercially reasonable efforts to avoid actual or potential
confusion arising from their use, to advise any other affected party of any
instance of actual or potential confusion that comes to a party's attention
concerning use of their respective trademarks, to take all such actions as may
be necessary or appropriate to remedy any actual or potential confusion caused
by their actions, and to cooperate with each other in good faith to avoid and
prevent actual or potential confusion.

     Section 4.11.  Consent to Registration. Subject to the other provisions of
                    -----------------------
this Article IV, each party consents to the other parties' use of a copy of this
Agreement to evidence the other parties' express consent to registration of the
party's trademarks, if necessary to obtain or maintain a registration of such
trademark in the United States Patent and Trademark Office or any other
pertinent governmental agency in any country or group of countries; and further
will take any other necessary action that any other party may reasonably request
to express or confirm such consent.

     Section 4.12.  Limitations on Sublicensing. No party may sublicense any
                    ---------------------------
rights in the Marks to any non-Affiliated third party without the express
written consent of the other parties.

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
     Section 4.13.  Transition Period. During the longest time period set forth
                    -----------------
in the schedules to the Transition Services Agreement, after the Distribution
Date, the parties shall have the right to continue to use existing supplies of
product brochures, marketing literature, letterhead stationary and other pre-
printed materials that include the Marks and the names "Varian Associates" or
"Varian Associates, Inc." After such period, the parties may continue to use
existing supplies of product brochures, marketing literature, letterhead
stationary and other pre-printed materials that include the Marks, provided such
pre-printed materials do not cause misidentification as to the source thereof
and/or confusion in the marketplace.

                                   ARTICLE V

                                   COVENANTS

     Section 5.01.  Further Assurances.  Without limiting the obligations of any
                    ------------------                                          
party under other Articles of this Agreement, each party shall use its
commercially reasonable efforts to execute and deliver, or cause to be executed
and delivered, such instruments and documents and take, or cause to be taken,
such further or other actions as any other party may reasonably request to
effectuate the purposes of this Agreement and carry out the terms hereof.

     Section 5.02.  Cooperation. Without limiting the obligations of any party
                    ----------- 
under other Articles of this Agreement, each party shall reasonably cooperate
with the other parties with respect to any filings with any Governmental
Authority or any other actions reasonably necessary to perfect, maintain and
enforce the rights to the Intellectual Property covered by this Agreement.

     Section 5.03.  Intellectual Property Records. Without limiting the
                    -----------------------------
obligations of any party under other Articles of this Agreement, each party
shall provide each other party with access to Books and Records relating to
Intellectual Property in its possession or control that were created before the
Distributions, in accordance with and subject to Article VI of the Distribution
Agreement.

                                  ARTICLE VI

                                INDEMNIFICATION

     Section 6.01.  Rights and Obligations. Article VII of the Distribution
                    ----------------------
Agreement shall govern the rights and obligations of HCS, IB, SEB and the
members of their respective Groups with respect to indemnification for any and
all Indemnifiable Losses related to the Intellectual Property. The term "Health
Care System Liabilities" in that Article shall be read to include all
Liabilities relating to the Intellectual Property to be owned, licensed to or
otherwise held by HCS or the HCS Subsidiaries under this Agreement. The term
"Instruments Liabilities" in that Article shall be read to include all
Liabilities relating to the Intellectual Property to be owned, licensed to or
otherwise held by IB or the IB Subsidiaries under this Agreement. The term
"Semiconductor Equipment Liabilities" in that Article shall be read to include
all Liabilities relating to the Intellectual Property to be owned, licensed to
or otherwise held by SEB or the SEB Subsidiaries under this Agreement. The term
"Third Party Claim" in that Article shall be read to include all claims or
demands made by any Person that is not a party to this Agreement or a Subsidiary
thereof concerning the Intellectual Property, including claims for Infringement
accruing or arising before the Distribution Date. Furthermore, no party shall be
entitled to any indemnification under this Agreement, the Distribution
Agreement, or any other agreement contemplated herein, by virtue of having used,
practiced or applied the grants of license as provided by the other parties in
Article III.

                                  ARTICLE VII

                              DISPUTE RESOLUTION

     Section 7.01.  Distribution Agreement to Control. Any and all
                    ---------------------------------
controversies, disputes or claims arising out of, relating to, in connection
with or resulting from this Agreement (or any amendment thereto or any
transaction contemplated hereby or thereby), including as to its existence,
interpretation,

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
performance, non-performance, validity, breach or termination, including any
claim based on contract, tort, statute or constitution and any claim raising
questions of law, whether arising before or after termination of this Agreement,
shall be deemed an Agreement Dispute as defined in Section 9.01 of the
Distribution Agreement and shall be resolved exclusively by, in accordance with,
and subject to the limitations set forth in Article IX of the Distribution
Agreement.

                                 ARTICLE VIII

                                 MISCELLANEOUS

     Section 8.01.  Complete Agreement; Construction.  This Agreement and the
                    --------------------------------                         
Schedules hereto, the Distribution Agreement and the other Ancillary Agreements
shall constitute the entire agreement among the parties with respect to the
subject matter hereof and shall supersede all prior agreements, negotiations,
commitments and writings with respect to such subject matter.  In the event of
any inconsistency between this Agreement and the Distribution Agreement, this
Agreement shall prevail except for inconsistencies with respect to Sections 5.05
and 6.07 and Article IX of the Distribution Agreement, which sections shall
prevail over any inconsistent provision of this Agreement.

     Section 8.02.  Other Agreements. This Agreement is not intended to address,
                    ----------------   
and should not be interpreted to address, the matters expressly covered by the
Distribution Agreement and/or the other Ancillary Agreements.

     Section 8.03.  Counterparts.  This Agreement may be executed in two or more
                    ------------                                                
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which
together shall constitute but one and the same Agreement.

     Section 8.04.  Survival of Agreements.  All covenants and agreements of the
                    ----------------------                                      
parties contained in this Agreement shall survive the Distribution Date except
as expressly provided herein and shall not be merged into any other transfer or
closing instruments or documents, including the Conveyancing and Assumption
Instruments.

     Section 8.05.  Expenses.  Except as otherwise expressly provided in this
                    --------                                                 
Agreement or the Distribution Agreement, all costs and expenses incurred or
accrued on or before the Distribution Date (whether or not paid on or before the
Distribution Date) in connection with the preparation, execution, delivery and
implementation of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby shall be charged to and paid by Varian. Except as otherwise
provided in this Agreement, each party shall bear its own costs and expenses
related to the Intellectual Property, including the performance of any
obligation arising under Articles III, IV and V of this Agreement.

     Section 8.06. Notices. All Notices required or permitted under this
                   -------
Agreement shall be in writing and shall be sufficiently given or made (a) if
hand delivered or sent by telecopy (with delivery confirmed by voice or
otherwise), (b) if sent by nationally recognized overnight courier or (c) if
sent by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested,
and in each case addressed as follows:

               If to HCS:

               Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
               3100 Hansen Way
               Palo Alto, California  94304-1030
               Attn:  Chief Financial Officer
               Telecopy (650) ___-____

                                       10
<PAGE>
 
               with a copy to:

               Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
               3100 Hansen Way
               Palo Alto, California  94304-1030
               Attn:  General Counsel
               Telecopy: (650) ___-____

               If to IB:

               Varian, Inc.
               3120 Hansen Way
               Palo Alto, California  94303-1030
               Attn:  Chief Financial Officer
               Telecopy (650) ___-____

               with a copy to:

               Varian, Inc.
               3120 Hansen Way
               Palo Alto, California  94303-1030
               Attn: General Counsel
               Telecopy: (650) ___-____

               If to SEB:

               Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.
               35 Dory Road
               Gloucester, Massachusetts  01930
               Attn:  Chief Financial Officer
               Telecopy (978) ___-____

               with a copy to:

               Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.
               35 Dory Road
               Gloucester, Massachusetts  01930
               Attn: General Counsel
               Telecopy: (978) ___-____


or at such other address as shall be furnished by any of the parties in a
Notice.  Any Notice shall be deemed to have been duly given or made when the
Notice is received.

     Section 8.07.  Waivers. The failure of any party to require strict
                    -------                                             
performance by any other party of any provision in or rights and remedies with
respect to this Agreement shall not waive or diminish that party's right to
demand strict performance thereafter of that or any other provision hereof or
right or remedy.

     Section 8.08.  Amendments.  After the execution of this Agreement by all
                    ----------                                               
parties, and solely to the extent that a change is desired by and restricted to
any two parties without affecting the licenses and rights of the third party
hereto, such two parties may separately amend in writing any provision of this
Agreement which governs the licenses and rights exchanged between them without
notifying the third party hereto.  Except as expressly provided herein, this
Agreement may be amended or supplemented or its provisions waived only by an
agreement in writing signed by each of the parties.

                                       11
<PAGE>
 
     Section 8.09.  Assignment.
                    ----------
 
              (a)   No party to this Agreement shall (i) consolidate with or
merge into any Person or permit any Person to consolidate with or merge into
such party (other than a merger or consolidation in which the party is the
surviving or continuing corporation), or (ii) sell, assign, transfer, lease or
otherwise dispose of, in one transaction or a series of related transactions,
all or substantially all of its Assets, unless the resulting, surviving or
transferee Person expressly assumes, by instrument in form and substance
reasonably satisfactory to the other parties, all of the obligations of the
party under this Agreement.

              (b)   Except as expressly provided in paragraph (a), neither this
Agreement nor any of the rights, interests or obligations hereunder shall be
assignable, directly or indirectly, by any party without the prior written
consent of the other parties, and any attempt to so assign without such consent
shall be void.

     Section 8.10.  Successors and Assigns. Subject to Section 8.08, this
                    ---------------------- 
Agreement shall be binding upon, inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by
the successors and permitted assigns of the parties.

     Section 8.11.  Third Party Beneficiaries.  This Agreement is solely for the
                    -------------------------                                   
benefit of the parties and the members of their respective Groups and Affiliates
and their respective successors and assigns and should not be deemed to confer
upon third parties any remedy, claim, liability, right of reimbursement, cause
of action or other right in excess of those existing without reference to this
Agreement.

     Section 8.12.  Schedules.  The Schedules shall be construed with and as an
                    ---------                                                  
integral part of this Agreement to the same extent as if they had been set forth
verbatim herein.

     Section 8.13.  Titles and Headings; Interpretation.  Titles and headings to
                    -----------------------------------                         
sections herein are inserted for convenience of reference only and are not
intended to be part of or to affect the meaning or interpretation of this
Agreement.  References in this Agreement to any gender include references to all
genders, and references to the singular include references to the plural and
vice versa.  The words "include," "includes" and "including" when used in this
Agreement shall be deemed to be followed by the phrase "without limitation."
Unless the context otherwise requires, references in this Agreement to Articles,
Sections, and Schedules to, this Agreement.  Unless the context otherwise
requires, the words "hereof," "hereby" and "herein" and words of similar meaning
when used in this Agreement refer to this Agreement in its entirety and not to
any particular Article, Section or provision of this Agreement.

     Section 8.14.  Governing Law.  This Agreement shall be governed by, and
                    -------------                                           
construed and enforced in accordance with, the Law of the State of Delaware
without regard to the principles of conflicts of Laws thereunder.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Federal Arbitration Act, 9 U.S.C. (S)(S)1-15,
shall govern the arbitration of Agreement Disputes.

     Section 8.15.  Severability.  If any provision of this Agreement or the
                    ------------                                            
application thereof to any Person or circumstance is determined to be invalid,
void or unenforceable in any respect, the remaining provisions hereof, or the
application of such provision to Persons or circumstances other than those as to
which it has been held invalid, void or unenforceable, shall remain in full
force and effect and in no way be affected, impaired or invalidated thereby, so
long as the economic or legal substance of the transaction contemplated hereby
is not affected in any manner adverse to any party.

     Section 8.16.  Subsidiaries. Each of the parties shall cause to be
                    ------------
performed, and hereby guarantees the performance of, all actions, agreements and
obligations set forth herein to be performed by any Subsidiary of such party or
by any entity that is contemplated to be a Subsidiary of such party on and after
the Distribution Date.

                                       12
<PAGE>
 
     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
duly executed as of the day and year first above written.

                                        VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.



                                        By:______________________________
                                        Name:____________________________
                                        Title:___________________________

                                        VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR
                                        EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.



                                        By:______________________________
                                        Name:____________________________
                                        Title:___________________________

                                        VARIAN, INC.

                  
                                        By:______________________________
                                        Name:____________________________
                                        Title:___________________________

                                       13

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 10.3

                             TAX SHARING AGREEMENT

                                     among

                           VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,

                VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.

                                      and

                                 VARIAN, INC.
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                                           PAGE
<S>                                                                                                        <C>         
SECTION 1.   Definition of Terms........................................................................    1          
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 2.   Allocation of Tax Liabilities..............................................................    7          
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 3.   Proration of Taxes for Straddle Periods...................................................    10          
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 4.   Tax Contests..............................................................................    10        
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 5.   Tax Payments and Intercompany Billings....................................................    14        
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 6.   Preparation and Filing of Tax Returns.....................................................    16        
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 7.   Assistance and Cooperation................................................................    18        
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 8.   Tax Records...............................................................................    18        
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 9.   Effective Date; Termination of Prior Intercompany Tax Allocation Agreements...............    19        
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 10.  No Inconsistent Actions...................................................................    19        
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 11.  Survival of Obligations...................................................................    20        
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 12.  Employee Matters..........................................................................    20        
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 13.  Treatment of Payments; Tax Gross Up.......................................................    20        
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 14.  Disagreements.............................................................................    20        
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 15.  Late Payments.............................................................................    20        
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 16.  Expenses..................................................................................    20        
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 17.  Nonqualified Stock Options................................................................    21        
                                                                                                                     
SECTION 18.  General Provisions........................................................................    21         
</TABLE> 

                                      -i-
<PAGE>
 
                             TAX SHARING AGREEMENT

          This Agreement is entered into as of _______, 1999 by and among Varian
Associates, Inc., a Delaware corporation, to be renamed Varian Medical Systems,
Inc. ("Varian" or "HCS"), Varian, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("IB"), and
Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("SEB").
Capitalized terms used in this Agreement are defined in Section 1 below.  Unless
otherwise indicated, all "Section" references in this Agreement are to sections
of this Agreement.

                                   RECITALS

          WHEREAS, as of the opening of business on the date hereof , Varian was
the common parent of an affiliated group of corporations, which has elected to
file consolidated Federal income tax returns; and

          WHEREAS, Varian has been engaged through various divisions in, among
other things, the Health Care Systems Business, the Instruments Business and the
Semiconductor Equipment Business; and

          WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of Varian has determined that the
interests of its businesses would be best served by separating its business into
three separate companies, one consisting of the Health Care Systems Business,
one consisting of the Instruments Business, and one consisting of the
Semiconductor Equipment Business; and

          WHEREAS, as set forth in the Distribution Agreement dated as of
January 14, 1999, and subject to the terms and conditions thereof, Varian wishes
(a) to transfer and assign to IB substantially all of the assets of the
Instruments Business, in exchange for (i) the assumption by IB of substantially
all the liabilities and obligations relating to the Instruments Business, and
(ii) the issuance to Varian by IB of shares of IB common stock, and (b) to
transfer and assign to SEB substantially all of the assets of the Semiconductor
Equipment Business, in exchange for (i) the assumption by SEB of substantially
all the liabilities and obligations relating to the Semiconductor Equipment
Business, and (ii) the issuance to Varian by SEB of shares of SEB common stock,
in transactions intended to be reorganizations under Section 368(a)(l)(D) of the
Code; and

          WHEREAS, pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, Varian will
distribute all of the outstanding shares of common stock of IB and SEB to Varian
stockholders, in transactions intended to qualify as tax-free distributions
under Section 355 of the Code; and

          WHEREAS, as a result of the Distributions, IB and SEB, and their
respective subsidiaries, will cease to be members of the affiliated group of
which Varian is the common parent, effective as of the Distribution Date; and

          WHEREAS, as of the Distribution Date, Varian will be renamed Varian
Medical Systems, Inc.; and

          WHEREAS, the Companies desire to provide for and agree upon the
allocation between and among the parties of liabilities for Taxes arising prior
to, as a result of, and subsequent to the transactions contemplated by the
Distribution Agreement, and to provide for and agree upon other matters relating
to Taxes;

          NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements contained
herein, the Companies hereby agree as follows:

     SECTION 1.   Definition of Terms.  For purposes of this Agreement 
                  -------------------            
(including the recitals hereof), the following terms have the following
meanings:

          "Accounting Cutoff Date" means, with respect to each of HCS, IB and
SEB, any date as of the end of which there is a closing of the financial
accounting records for such entity.
<PAGE>
 
          "Adjustment" means the deemed increase or decrease in a Tax,
determined on an issue-by-issue or transaction-by-transaction basis, as
appropriate, and using the assumptions set forth in the next sentence, resulting
from an adjustment made or proposed by a Tax Authority with respect to any
amount reflected or required to be reflected on any Tax Return. For purposes of
determining such deemed increase or decrease in a Tax, the following assumptions
will be used: (a) in the case of any Income Tax, the highest marginal Tax rate,
or, in the case of any other Tax, the highest applicable Tax rate, in each case
in effect with respect to that Tax for the Tax Period or any portion of the Tax
Period to which the adjustment relates, shall apply; and (b) such determination
shall be made without regard to whether any actual increase or decrease in such
Tax will in fact be realized with respect to the Tax Return to which such
adjustment relates.

          "Adjustment Request" means any formal or informal claim or request
filed with any Tax Authority, or with any administrative agency or court, for
the adjustment, refund, or credit of Taxes, including (a) any amended Tax return
claiming adjustment to the Taxes as reported on the Tax Return or, if
applicable, as previously adjusted, or (b) any claim for refund or credit of
Taxes previously paid, except for any claim for refund or credit arising from a
carryback of an item from a Post-Distribution Period.

          "Affiliate" means any entity that directly or indirectly is
"controlled" by the person or entity in question. "Control" means the
possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the
direction of the management and policies of a person, whether through ownership
of voting securities, by contract or otherwise. Except as otherwise provided
herein, the term Affiliate shall refer to Affiliates of a person as determined
immediately after the Distributions.

          "Agreement" means this Tax Sharing Agreement.

          "Carryback" means any net operating loss, net capital loss, excess tax
credit, or other similar Tax item which may or must be carried from one Tax
Period to another Tax Period under the Code or other applicable Tax Law.

          "Closing Balance Sheet" means the HCS Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet,
the IB Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet, or the SEB Adjusted Closing Balance
Sheet, as the case may be.

          "Code" means the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended, or any successor law.

          "Companies" means HCS, IB, and SEB, collectively, and "Company" means
any one of HCS, IB or SEB.

          "Consolidated or Combined Income Tax" means any Income Tax computed by
reference to the assets and activities of members of more than one Group.

          "Consolidated or Combined State Income Tax" means any State Income Tax
computed by reference to the assets and activities of members of more than one
Group.

          "Consolidated Return" means any Tax Return with respect to any
Consolidated or Combined Income Tax.

          "Consolidated Tax Liability" means, with respect to any Varian Federal
Consolidated Return, the "tax liability of the group" as that term is used in
Treasury Regulation Section 1.1552-1(a)(1) (including applicable interest,
additions to the tax, additional amounts, and penalties as provided in the
Code), provided that such tax liability shall be treated as including any
alternative minimum tax liability under Code Section 55.

          "Controlling Party" means HCS or any other member of the Health Care
Systems Group, IB or any other member of the Instruments Group or SEB or any
other member of the Semiconductor Equipment Group, as the case may be, that
filed or, if no such Tax Return has been filed, was required to file, a Tax
Return that is the subject of any Tax Contest, or any successor and/or assign of
any of the foregoing; provided, however, that in the 

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
case of any Consolidated Return, the person that actually filed such
Consolidated Return (or any successor and/or assign of such person) will be the
Controlling Party. For purposes of this Agreement, each of HCS, IB or SEB may
act as the Controlling Party with respect to all matters for which one of their
Affiliates is the Controlling Party (e.g., for purposes of providing notices and
receiving payments hereunder).

          "Correlative Adjustment" means, in the case of an Adjustment, the net
present value of any future increases or decreases in a Tax that would be
realized, using the assumptions set forth in the next sentence, by any member of
the Health Care Systems Group, the Instruments Group, or the Semiconductor
Equipment Group, as the case may be, in one or more Tax Periods (or any portion
of a Tax Period) but only if such increases or decreases are a direct result of
such an Adjustment to that Tax. For purposes of determining the net present
value of any such future increases or decreases in a Tax, the following
assumptions will be used: (i) a discount rate equal to the sum of the Prime Rate
as of the date of the recomputation of Tax or the Final Determination relating
to such Adjustment plus 2.0%; (ii) in the case of any Income Tax, the highest
marginal Tax rate, or, in the case of any other Tax, the highest applicable Tax
rate, in each case in effect with respect to that Tax for the Tax Period, or
portion of the Tax Period, in which the Adjustment was made; (iii) the
depreciation, amortization or credit rate or lives, if applicable, in effect for
the Tax Period, or portion of the Tax Period, in which the Adjustment was made;
and (iv) such determination shall be made without regard to whether any actual
increases or decreases in such Tax will in fact be realized with respect to the
future Tax Returns to which such Correlative Adjustment relates.

          "Disputed Adjustment" has the meaning set forth in Section 4.04(b).

          "Distribution Agreement" means the agreement, as amended from time to
time, setting forth the transactions required to effect the transfer of the
Transferred Businesses to IB and SEB and the distribution to the holders of
Varian common shares of all of the common shares of  SEB and IB, and to which a
form of this Tax Sharing Agreement is attached as an exhibit.

          "Distribution Date" means the Distribution Date, as that term is
defined in the Distribution Agreement.

          "Distributions" means the SEB Distribution and the IB Distribution, as
such terms are defined in the Distribution Agreement.

          "Federal Income Tax" means any Tax imposed by Subtitle A or F of the
Code.

          "Final Determination" means the final resolution of liability for any
Tax for any Tax Period, including any related interest or penalties, by or as a
result of: (i) a final and unappealable decision, judgment, decree or other
order by any court of competent jurisdiction; (ii) a closing agreement or
accepted offer in compromise under Code Section 7121 or 7122, or comparable
agreement under the laws of other jurisdictions which resolves the entire Tax
liability for any Tax Period; (iii) any allowance of a refund or credit in
respect of an overpayment of Tax, but only after the expiration of all periods
during which such refund may be recovered by the jurisdiction imposing the Tax;
or (iv) any other final disposition, including by reason of the expiration of
the applicable statute of limitations.

          "Foreign Income Tax" means any Tax imposed by any foreign country or
any possession of the United States, or by any political subdivision of any
foreign country or United States possession, which is an income tax as defined
in Treasury Regulation Section 1.901-2.

          "Group" means the Health Care Systems Group, the Instruments Group,
and the Semiconductor Equipment Group, as the context requires.

          "HCS Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet" means the HCS Adjusted Closing
Balance Sheet as that term is defined in the Distribution Agreement.

          "Health Care Systems Business" means the Health Care Systems Business,
as that term is defined in the Distribution Agreement.

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
          "HCS" means Varian Medical Systems, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and
any successor.

          "Health Care Systems Group" means HCS and its Affiliates, excluding
any entity that is a member of the Semiconductor Equipment Group or the
Instruments Group.

          "IB Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet" means the IB Adjusted Closing
Balance Sheet as that term is defined in the Distribution Agreement.

          "IB Distribution" means the IB Distribution, as that term is defined
in the Distribution Agreement.

          "Income Tax" means any Federal Income Tax, State Income Tax, or
Foreign Income Tax.

          "Indemnified Party" has the meaning set forth in Section 5.06(d).

          "Indemnifying Party" has the meaning set forth in Section 5.06(d).

          "Independent Auditors" means the Independent Auditors as that term is
defined in the Distribution Agreement.

          "Independent Third Party" means a nationally recognized law firm or
any of the following "Big Five" accounting firms or their successors: Arthur
Andersen LLP, Ernst & Young LLP, KPMG Peat Marwick, Deloitte & Touche LLP, and
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.

          "Initial Determination" has the meaning set forth in Section
4.05(b)(i).

          "IB" means Varian, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and any successor.

          "Instruments Business" means the Instruments Business, as that term is
defined in the Distribution Agreement.

          "Instruments Group" means IB and its Affiliates as determined
immediately after the Distributions.

          "Interested Party" means HCS or any other member of the Health Care
Systems Group, IB or any other member of the Instruments Group or SEB or any
other member of the Semiconductor Equipment Group (including any successor
and/or assign of any of each of the foregoing), as the case may be, to the
extent (a) such Person is not the Controlling Party with respect to a Tax
Contest; and (b) such Person (i) may be liable for, or required to make, any
indemnity payment, reimbursement or other payment pursuant to the provisions of
this Agreement with respect to such Tax Contest; or (ii) may be entitled to
receive any indemnity payment, reimbursement or other payment pursuant to the
provisions of this Agreement with respect to such Tax Contest; provided,
however, that in no event shall a member of either the Health Care Systems
Group, the Instruments Group or the Semiconductor Equipment Group, as the case
may be, be an Interested Party in a Tax Contest in which another member of its
Group is the Controlling Party with respect to the Tax Contest.

          "Interested Party Notice" has the meaning set forth in Section
4.04(b).

          "IRS" means the United States Internal Revenue Service.

          "Payment Date" means (i) with respect to any Varian Federal
Consolidated Return, the due date for any required installment of estimated
taxes determined under Code Section 6655, the due date (determined without
regard to extensions) for filing the return determined under Code Section 6072,
and the date the return is filed, and (ii) with respect to any Tax Return for
any Consolidated or Combined State Income Tax, the corresponding dates
determined under the applicable Tax Law.

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
          "Post-Distribution Period" means any Tax Period beginning after the
Distribution Date, and, in the case of any Straddle Period, the portion of such
Straddle Period beginning the day after the Distribution Date.

          "Pre-Distribution Consolidated Tax Liability" means Consolidated Tax
Liability with respect to all Tax Periods ending on or prior to the Distribution
Date and in the case of the Tax Period which includes the Distribution Date, the
Consolidated Tax Liability computed as if the Distribution Date were the last
day of the Tax Period.

          "Pre-Distribution Period" means any Tax Period ending on or before the
Distribution Date, and, in the case of any Straddle Period, the portion of such
Straddle Period ending on the Distribution Date.

          "Prime Rate" means the base rate on corporate loans charged by
Citibank, N.A., New York, New York from time to time, compounded daily on the
basis of a year of 365 or 366 (as applicable) days and actual days elapsed.

          "Prior Intercompany Tax Allocation Agreements" means any written or
oral agreement or any other arrangements relating to allocation of Taxes
existing between or among members of the Health Care Systems Group, the
Instruments Group, and the Semiconductor Equipment Group as of the Distribution
Date (other than this Agreement and other than any such agreement or arrangement
between or among persons who are members of a single Group).

          "Responsible Company" means, with respect to any Tax Return, the
Company having responsibility for preparing and filing such Tax Return under
this Agreement.

          "Restructuring Tax" means the Income Taxes described in Section
2.05(a) (relating to Tax resulting from any income or gain recognized as a
result of the Transactions).

          "Ruling Request" means the letter filed by Varian with the Internal
Revenue Service requesting a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service regarding
certain tax consequences of the Transactions (including all attachments,
exhibits, and other materials submitted with such ruling request letter) and any
amendment or supplement to such ruling request letter.

          "SEB Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet" means the SEB Adjusted Closing
Balance Sheet, as that term is defined in the Distribution Agreement.

          "SEB Distribution" means the SEB Distribution, as that term is defined
in the Distribution Agreement.

          "SEB" means Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc., a
Delaware corporation, and any successor.

          "Semiconductor Equipment Business" means the Semiconductor Equipment
Business, as that term is defined in the Distribution Agreement.

          "Semiconductor Equipment Group" means SEB and its Affiliates as
determined immediately after the Distributions.

          "Separate Company Tax" means any Tax computed by reference to the
assets and activities of a member or members of a single Group.

          "Separation Committee" means the Separation Committee, as that term is
defined in the Distribution Agreement.

          "Sharing Percentage" shall mean one-third for the Health Care Systems
Group, one-third for the Instruments Group, and one-third for the Semiconductor
Equipment Group.

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
          "Significant Obligation" means, in the case of an Interested Party,
and with respect to any Tax Detriment, an obligation to make or right to receive
any indemnity payment, reimbursement or other payment with respect to any such
Tax Detriment (including the effect of a Correlative Adjustment relating
thereto) pursuant to the terms of the Agreement that is greater than $1,000,000.

          "State Income Tax" means any Tax imposed by any State of the United
States or by any political subdivision of any such State which is imposed on or
measured by net income, including state and local franchise or similar Taxes
measured by net income.

          "Straddle Period" means any Tax Period that begins on or before and
ends after the Distribution Date.

          "Tainting Act" shall have the meaning provided in Section 10.

          "Tax" or "Taxes" means any income, gross income, gross receipts,
profits, capital stock, franchise, withholding, payroll, social security,
workers compensation, unemployment, registration, disability, property, ad
valorem, stamp, excise, severance, occupation, service, sales, use, license,
lease, transfer, import, export, value added, alternative minimum, estimated or
other similar tax (including any fee, assessment, or other charge in the nature
of or in lieu of any tax) imposed by any governmental entity or political
subdivision thereof, and any interest, penalties, additions to tax, or
additional amounts in respect of the foregoing.

          "Tax Authority" means, with respect to any Tax, the governmental
entity or political subdivision thereof that imposes such Tax, and the agency
(if any) charged with the collection of such Tax for such entity or subdivision.

          "Tax Benefit" means, with respect to any Tax Period or portion of a
Tax Period, and as computed separately with respect to each Tax, the net
decrease in each such Tax equal to the sum of all Adjustments (including the
effect of any Correlative Adjustment relating thereto) with respect to each such
Tax for each such Tax Period or portion of a Tax Period.

          "Tax Contest" means an audit, review, examination, or any other
administrative or judicial proceeding with the purpose or effect of
redetermining Taxes of any of the Companies or their Affiliates (including any
administrative or judicial review of any claim for refund).

          "Tax Detriment" means, with respect to any Tax Period or portion of a
Tax Period, and as computed separately with respect to each Tax, the net
increase in such Tax equal to the sum of all Adjustments (including the effect
of any Correlative Adjustment relating thereto) with respect to each such Tax
for each such Tax Period or portion of a Tax Period.

          "Tax Item" means, with respect to any Income Tax, any item of income,
gain, loss, deduction, and credit.

          "Tax Law" means the law of any governmental entity or political
subdivision thereof relating to any Tax.

          "Tax Period" means, with respect to any Tax, the period for which the
Tax is reported as provided under the Code or other applicable Tax Law.

          "Tax Records" means Tax Returns, Tax Return workpapers, documentation
relating to any Tax Contests, and any other books of account or records required
to be maintained under the Code or other applicable Tax Laws or under any record
retention agreement with any Tax Authority.

          "Tax Return" means any report of Taxes due, any claims for refund of
Taxes paid, any information return with respect to Taxes, or any other similar
report, statement, declaration, or document required to 

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
be filed under the Code or other Tax Law, including any attachments, exhibits,
or other materials submitted with any of the foregoing, and including any
amendments or supplements to any of the foregoing.

             "Transaction Tax" means the Taxes described in Sections 2.05(a)
(relating to Tax incurred as a result of the Transactions), including any
Restructuring Tax.

             "Transactions" means the transactions contemplated by the
Distribution Agreement (including the Corporate Restructuring Transactions and
Distributions, as defined in the Distribution Agreement).

             "Transferred Instruments Business" means the Instruments Business
transferred to IB pursuant to the Distribution Agreement.

             "Transferred Semiconductor Equipment Business" means the
Semiconductor Equipment Business transferred to SEB pursuant to the Distribution
Agreement.

             "Treasury Regulations" means the regulations promulgated from time
to time under the Code as in effect for the relevant Tax Period.

             "Ultimate Determination" has the meaning set forth in Section
4.05(b)(iii).

             "Varian Federal Consolidated Return" means any United States
federal Tax Return for the affiliated group (as that term is defined in Code
Section 1504) that includes Varian as the common parent and includes any member
of the Instruments Group or the Semiconductor Equipment Group.

     SECTION 2.   Allocation of Tax Liabilities. The provisions of this Section 
                  -----------------------------   
2 are intended to determine each Company's liability for Taxes with respect to
Pre-Distribution Periods and Post-Distribution Periods. Once the liability has
been determined under this Section 2, Section 5 determines the time when payment
of the liability is to be made, and whether the payment is to be made to the Tax
Authority directly or to another Company.

     2.01.   General Rule.
             ------------ 

             (a)    HCS Liability.  Health Care Systems shall be liable for, and
                    -------------   
shall indemnify and hold harmless the Semiconductor Equipment Group and the
Instruments Group from and against any liability for Taxes, which are HCS's
responsibility or which are allocated to HCS under this Section 2.

             (b)    IB Liability.  IB shall be liable for, and shall indemnify 
                    ------------       
and hold harmless the Semiconductor Equipment Group and the Health Care Systems
Group from and against any liability for Taxes, which are Instrument's
responsibility or are allocated to IB under this Section 2.

             (c)    SEB Liability.  SEB shall be liable for, and shall 
                    -------------      
indemnify and hold harmless the Health Care Systems Group and the Instruments
Group from and against any liability for Taxes, which are SEB's responsibility
or are allocated to SEB under this Section 2.

     2.02.   Responsibilities for United States Federal Income Tax.  Except as
             -----------------------------------------------------            
otherwise provided in this Agreement:

             (a)    HCS.  HCS (i) shall be responsible for all Pre-Distribution 
                    ---         
Consolidated Tax Liability, and (ii) shall be entitled to all refunds with
respect thereto; provided, that HCS shall be responsible for or shall be
entitled to HCS's Sharing Percentage with respect to any Tax Benefit or Tax
Detriment resulting from any Adjustment with respect thereto.

             (b)    IB.  IB shall be responsible for or shall be entitled to 
                    --             
Instrument's Sharing Percentage of any Tax Benefit or Tax Detriment resulting
from any Adjustment with respect to any Pre-Distribution Consolidated Tax
Liability.

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
             (c)    SEB.  SEB shall be responsible for or shall be entitled to 
                    ---         
SEB's Sharing Percentage of any Tax Benefit or Tax Detriment resulting from any
Adjustment with respect to any Pre-Distribution Consolidated Tax Liability.

     2.03.   Allocation of State Income Taxes.  Except as otherwise provided in
             --------------------------------                                  
this Agreement, State Income Taxes shall be allocated as follows:

             (a)    Separate Company Taxes.  In the case of any State Income Tax
                    ---------------------- 
which is a Separate Company Tax that is apportioned under this Agreement to a
Pre-Distribution Period, except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, HCS (i)
shall be liable (A) to IB for such Tax imposed on any member of the Instruments
Group, and (B) to SEB for such Tax imposed on any member of the Semiconductor
Equipment Group, and (ii) shall be entitled to all refunds with respect thereto;
provided, that HCS shall be responsible for or shall be entitled to HCS's
Sharing Percentage with respect to any Tax Benefit or Tax Detriment resulting
from any Adjustment with respect thereto. IB shall be responsible for or shall
be entitled to Instrument's Sharing Percentage of any Tax Benefit or Tax
Detriment resulting from any Adjustment with respect to any Separate Company Tax
that is apportioned under this Agreement to a Pre-Distribution Period. SEB shall
be responsible for or shall be entitled to SEB's Sharing Percentage of any Tax
Benefit or Tax Detriment resulting from any Adjustment with respect to any
Separate Company Tax that is apportioned under this Agreement to a Pre-
Distribution Period and shall be entitled to SEB's Sharing Percentage of any Tax
Benefit with respect thereto.

             (b)    Consolidated or Combined State Income Taxes.
                    ------------------------------------------- 

                    (i)    Allocation of Tax Reported on Tax Returns Filed After
                           ----------------------------------------------------
             the Distribution Date.  Except as otherwise provided in this 
             ---------------------      
             Agreement, any Consolidated or Combined State Income Tax that is
             apportioned under this Agreement to a Pre-Distribution Period shall
             be allocated to the Health Care Systems Group.

                    (ii)   Allocation of Combined or Consolidated State Income 
                           ---------------------------------------------------
             Tax Adjustments.  HCS, IB and SEB shall each be responsible for or 
             ---------------   
             shall be entitled to their respective Sharing Percentages of any
             Tax Benefit or Tax Detriment resulting from any Adjustment relating
             to Consolidated or Combined State Income Tax reported on any Tax
             Return (or as previously adjusted) that is apportioned under this
             Agreement to a Pre-Distribution Period.

     2.04.   Allocation of Foreign Income Taxes and Other Taxes.  Except as
             --------------------------------------------------            
provided in Sections 2.05 and 2.07, all Taxes (including without limitation any
Foreign Income Taxes and any Taxes with respect to Post-Distribution Periods)
other than those specifically allocated pursuant to Sections 2.02 through 2.04
shall be allocated based on the legal entity on which the legal incidence of the
Tax is imposed; provided, however, that (x) the amounts of any such Taxes (other
than Income Taxes) specifically related to the business and assets transferred
by Varian to SEB in the Transactions (the "Transferred Semiconductor Equipment
Businesses") and which are accrued on the SEB Adjusted Closing Balance Sheet
shall be allocated to SEB and the amounts of any such Taxes specifically related
to the business and assets transferred by Varian to IB in the Transactions (the
"Transferred Instruments Business") and which are accrued on the IB Adjusted
Closing Balance Sheet shall be allocated to IB, and (y) each of the Companies
shall be entitled to or shall be responsible for its respective Sharing
Percentage  with respect to any Tax Benefit or Tax Detriment resulting from any
Adjustment with respect to any such Taxes.  Subject to the proviso in the
preceding sentence, as between the parties to this Agreement, HCS shall be
liable for all Taxes imposed on any member of the Health Care Systems Group, SEB
shall be liable for all Taxes imposed on any member of the Semiconductor
Equipment Group and IB shall be liable for all Taxes imposed on any member of
the Instruments Group.  The Companies believe that there is no Tax not
specifically allocated pursuant to Sections 2.02 through 2.04 relating to Pre-
Distribution Periods which is legally imposed on more than one legal entity or
is not solely allocable to the Transferred Semiconductor Equipment Businesses or
the Transferred Instruments Business (e.g., joint and several liability);
however, if there is any such Tax, it shall be allocated in accordance with past
practices as reasonably determined by the affected Companies, or in the absence
of such practices, in accordance with any allocation method agreed upon by the
affected Companies.

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
     2.05.  Transaction Taxes.
            ----------------- 

            (a)   HCS Liability.  Except as otherwise provided in this Section 
                  -------------         
2.05 or Section 2.07, all Taxes resulting from the Transactions ("Transaction
Tax"), including:

                  (i)    any sales and use, gross receipts, or other transfer
            Taxes, or any Foreign Income Taxes, imposed on the transfers
            occurring pursuant to the Transactions;

                  (ii)   any Tax resulting from any income or gain recognized
            under Treasury Regulation Sections 1.1502-13 or 1.1502-19 (or any
            corresponding provisions of other applicable Tax Laws of the United
            States or any political subdivision thereof) as a result of the
            Transactions; and

                  (iii)  any Tax resulting from any income or gain recognized as
            a result of any of the Transactions contemplated by the Distribution
            Agreement failing to qualify for tax-free treatment under Code
            Sections 332, 351, 355, 361, or other provisions of the Code (as
            contemplated in the Ruling Request) or other applicable Tax Laws of
            the United States or any political subdivision thereof;

shall be allocated based on the legal entity on which the legal incidence of the
Tax is imposed; provided, however, that except as otherwise provided in this
Agreement each of the Companies shall be entitled to or shall be responsible for
its respective Sharing Percentage with respect to any Tax Benefit or Tax
Detriment resulting from any Adjustment with respect thereto. For purposes of
this Section 2.05(a), the legal incidence of any Income Tax shall be determined
without regard for Treasury Regulation Section 1.1502-6 or corresponding
provisions of other Tax Laws.

            (b)   Indemnity for Inconsistent Acts.  IB shall be liable for, and 
                  -------------------------------        
shall indemnify and hold harmless the Health Care Systems Group and the
Semiconductor Equipment Group from and against any liability for, any
Restructuring Tax to the extent arising from any breach of Instrument's
representations or covenants under Section 10 or any Tainting Act by IB or its
Affiliates. SEB shall be liable for, and shall indemnify and hold harmless the
Health Care Systems Group and the Instruments Group from and against any
liability for, any Restructuring Tax to the extent arising from any breach of
SEB's representations or covenants under Section 10 or any Tainting Act by SEB
or its Affiliates. HCS shall be liable for and shall indemnify and hold harmless
the Semiconductor Equipment Group and the Instruments Group from and against any
liability for, any Restructuring Tax to the extent arising from any breach of
HCS's representations or covenants under Section 10 or any Tainting Act by HCS
or its Affiliates.

     2.06.  Tax Detriments and Benefits.  In the case of any Adjustment for any
            ---------------------------                                        
Pre-Distribution Period or with respect to any Transaction Tax, each Group's
liability for, and/or right to receive, the amount of any resulting Tax
Detriment or Tax Benefit, as the case may be, shall be determined on a
jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction basis such that each Group bears its respective
Sharing Percentage of such Tax Detriment or Tax Benefit; provided, however, that
in the event that there is any Correlative Adjustment with respect to any such
Tax Detriment or Tax Benefit, then the Health Care Systems Group, the
Instruments Group, and the Semiconductor Equipment Group shall share such Tax
Detriment or Tax Benefit in the following manner in order to ensure that the
party or parties that will bear the burden or receive the benefit of the
Correlative Adjustment in the future will share the Tax Detriment or Tax Benefit
in proportion to each of their respective Sharing Percentages after giving
effect to such Correlative Adjustment:

                  (i)    first, the amount of any such Tax Detriment or Tax
            Benefit shall be increased or decreased, as appropriate, by the
            amount of the Correlative Adjustment, the net amount resulting from
            such increase or decrease being hereinafter referred to as the "Net
            Adjustment" for purposes of this Section 2.06;

                  (ii)   second, the Net Adjustment shall be allocated among the
            Health Care Systems Group, the Instruments Group, and the
            Semiconductor Equipment Group in proportion to their 

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
            respective Sharing Percentages, taking into account the extent each
            party is liable for and/or has an obligation to make, or has the
            right to receive, as the case may be, any payment to any Tax
            Authority or any indemnity payment, reimbursement, or other payment
            with respect to such Tax Detriment or Tax Benefit under this
            Agreement; and

                  (iii)  finally, with respect to a party to which a Correlative
            Adjustment is attributable, that party's share of the Net Adjustment
            as allocated pursuant to paragraph (ii) of this Section 2.06 will be
            increased or decreased, as appropriate, by the amount, if any, of
            the Correlative Adjustment that is attributable to such party in
            order to determine the amount of such party's share of the Tax
            Detriment or Tax Benefit.

     2.07.  Unanticipated Tax Amounts.  In the event that for any Company, (a)
            -------------------------                                         
aggregate Taxes shown as due on the initial Tax Returns filed with respect to
any Taxes (or, in the case of Taxes that do not require the filing of a Tax
Return, the amounts paid with respect to such Tax), in each case relating to Tax
Periods or portions of Tax Periods ending on or before the Distribution Date,
exceed (b) the aggregate amounts accrued with respect thereto on the Closing
Balance Sheet for that Company (such excess an "Unanticipated Tax Amount"), by
more than $1,000,000, such Company may propose a sharing of the Unanticipated
Tax Amount among the three Companies.  If the affected Companies do not agree on
a resolution, such proposal shall be referred to the Separation Committee under
the procedures set forth in Section 9.01 of the Distribution Agreement.  If the
Separation Committee is not able to resolve the dispute within 30 days, the
matter shall be treated as a balance sheet dispute and submitted to the
Independent Auditors under the provisions of Section 9.03(b) of the Distribution
Agreement.

     SECTION 3.   Proration of Taxes for Straddle Periods.
                  --------------------------------------- 

     3.01.  General Method of Proration.  In the case of any Straddle Period,
            ---------------------------                                      
Tax Items shall be apportioned between Pre-Distribution Periods and Post-
Distribution Periods in accordance with the principles of Treasury Regulation
Section 1.1502-76(b) as reasonably interpreted and applied by the Companies.  No
election shall be made under Treasury Regulation Section 1.1502-76(b)(2)(ii)
(relating to ratable allocation of a year's items).  If the Distribution Date is
not an Accounting Cutoff Date, the provisions of Treasury Regulation Section
1.1502-76(b)(2)(iii) will be applied to ratably allocate the items (other than
extraordinary items) for the month which includes the Distribution Date.

     3.02.  Transaction Treated as Extraordinary Item.  In determining the
            -----------------------------------------                     
apportionment of Tax Items between Pre-Distribution Periods and Post-
Distribution Periods, any Tax Item relating to the Transactions shall be treated
as an extraordinary item described in Treasury Regulation Section 1.1502-
76(b)(2)(ii)(C) and shall be allocated to Pre-Distribution Periods, and any
Taxes related to such items shall be treated under Treasury Regulation Section
1.1502-76(b)(2)(iv) as relating to such extraordinary item and shall be
allocated to Pre-Distribution Periods.

     SECTION 4.   Tax Contests.
                  ------------ 

     4.01.  Notification Of Tax Contests.  The Controlling Party shall promptly
            ----------------------------                                       
notify all Interested Parties of (a) the commencement of any Tax Contest
pursuant to which such Interested Parties may be required to make or entitled to
receive an indemnity payment, reimbursement or other payment under this
Agreement; and (b) as required and specified in Section 4.04 hereof, any Final
Determination made with respect to any Tax Contest pursuant to which such
Interested Parties may be required to make or entitled to receive any indemnity
payment, reimbursement or other payment under this Agreement.  The failure of a
Controlling Party to promptly notify any Interested Party as specified in the
preceding sentence shall not relieve any such Interested Party of any liability
and/or obligation which it may have to the Controlling Party under this
Agreement except to the extent that the Interested Party was materially
prejudiced by such failure, and in no event shall such failure relieve the
Interested Party from any other liability or obligation which it may have to
such Controlling Party.

     4.02.  Tax Contest Settlement Rights.  The Controlling Party shall have the
            -----------------------------                                       
sole right to contest, litigate, compromise and settle any Adjustment that is
made or proposed in a Tax Contest without obtaining the prior consent of any
Interested Party; provided, however, that, unless waived by the parties in
writing, the Controlling Party shall, in connection with any proposed or
assessed Adjustment in a Tax Contest for which an Interested Party may be
required to make or entitled to receive an indemnity payment, reimbursement or
other payment under this 

                                       10
<PAGE>
 
Agreement (a) keep all such Interested Parties informed in a timely manner of
all actions taken or proposed to be taken by the Controlling Party; and (b)
provide all such Interested Parties with copies of any correspondence or filings
submitted to any Tax Authority or judicial authority, in each case in connection
with any contest, litigation, compromise or settlement relating to any such
Adjustment in a Tax Contest. The failure of a Controlling Party to take any
action as specified in the preceding sentence with respect to an Interested
Party shall not relieve any such Interested Party of any liability and/or
obligation which it may have to the Controlling Party under this Agreement
except to the extent that the Interested Party was materially prejudiced by such
failure, and in no event shall such failure relieve the Interested Party from
any other liability or obligation which it may have to such Controlling Party.
The Controlling Party may, in its sole discretion, take into account any
suggestions made by an Interested Party with respect to any such contest,
litigation, compromise or settlement of any Adjustment in a Tax Contest. All
costs of any Tax Contest are to be borne by the Controlling Party; provided,
however, that (x) all reasonable external costs incurred by the Controlling
Party in connection with any Tax Contest with respect to a Pre-Distribution
Period or with respect to any Restructuring Tax are to be shared equally by HCS,
SEB, and IB on an after-tax basis in the same manner as Tax Detriments are
shared under this Agreement, (y) any costs related to an Interested Party's
attendance at any meeting with a Tax Authority or hearing or proceeding before
any judicial authority pursuant to Section 4.03 hereof shall be borne by such
Interested Party, and (z) the costs of any legal or other representatives
retained by an Interested Party in connection with any Tax Contest that is
subject to the provisions of this Agreement shall be borne by such Interested
Party.

     4.03.  Tax Contest Participation.  Unless waived by the parties in writing,
            -------------------------                                           
the Controlling Party shall provide an Interested Party with written notice
reasonably in advance of, and such Interested Party shall have the right to
attend, any formally scheduled meetings with Tax Authorities or hearings or
proceedings before any judicial authorities in connection with any contest,
litigation, compromise or settlement of any proposed or assessed Adjustment that
is the subject of any Tax Contest pursuant to which such Interested Party may be
required to make or entitled to receive an indemnity payment, reimbursement or
other payment under this Agreement. In addition, unless waived by the parties in
writing, the Controlling Party shall provide each such Interested Party with
draft copies of any correspondence or filings to be submitted to any Tax
Authority or judicial authority with respect to such Adjustments for such
Interested Party's review and comment. The Controlling Party shall provide such
draft copies reasonably in advance of the date that they are to be submitted to
the Tax Authority or judicial authority and the Interested Party shall provide
its comments, if any, with respect thereto within in a reasonable time before
such submission. The failure of a Controlling Party to provide any notice,
correspondence or filing as specified in this Section 4.03(a) to an Interested
Party shall not relieve any such Interested Party of any liability and/or
obligation which it may have to the Controlling Party under this Agreement
except to the extent that the Interested Party was materially prejudiced by such
failure, and in no event shall such failure relieve the Interested Party from
any other liability or obligation which it may have to such Controlling Party.

     4.04.  Tax Contest Waiver.
            ------------------ 

            (a)   The Controlling Party shall promptly provide written notice,
sent postage prepaid by United States mail, certified mail, return receipt
requested, to all Interested Parties in a Tax Contest (i) that a Final
Determination has been made with respect to such Tax Contest; and (ii)
enumerating the amount of the Interested Party's share of each Tax Benefit or
Tax Detriment reflected in such Final Determination of the Tax Contest for which
such Interested Party may be required to make or entitled to receive or has made
or been entitled to receive an indemnity payment, reimbursement or other payment
under this Agreement.

            (b)   Within ninety (90) days after an Interested Party receives the
notice described in Section 4.04(a) hereof from the Controlling Party, such
Interested Party shall execute a written statement giving notice to the
Controlling Party (i) that the Interested Party agrees with each Tax Benefit or
Tax Detriment (and its share thereof) enumerated in the notice described in
Section 4.04(a) hereof except with respect to those Tax Benefits or Tax
Detriments (and/or its shares thereof) that, in the good faith judgment of the
Interested Party, it disagrees with and has specifically enumerated its
disagreement with, including the amount of such disagreement, in the statement
(each such disagreed Tax Benefit or Tax Detriment (and/or share thereof)
hereinafter referred to as a "Disputed Adjustment"); and (ii) that the
Interested Party thereby waives it right to a determination by an Independent
Third Party pursuant to the provisions of Section 4.05 hereof with respect to
all Tax Benefits or Tax Detriments to which it agrees with its share (this
statement hereinafter referred to as the "Interested Party Notice"). The failure
of an Interested Party to provide the Interested Party Notice to the Controlling
Party within the ninety (90) day period 

                                       11
<PAGE>
 
specified in the preceding sentence shall be deemed to indicate that such
Interested Party agrees with its share of all Tax Benefits or Tax Detriments
enumerated in the notice described in Section 4.04(a) hereof and that such
Interested Party waives it right to a determination by an Independent Third
Party with respect to all such Tax Benefits or Tax Detriments (and its shares
thereof) pursuant to Section 4.05 hereof.

            (c)   During the ninety (90) day period immediately following the
Controlling Party's receipt of the Interested Party Notice described in Section
4.04(b) above, the Controlling Party and the Interested Party shall in good
faith confer with each other to resolve any disagreement over each Disputed
Adjustment that was specifically enumerated in such Interested Party Notice. At
the end of the ninety (90) day period specified in the preceding sentence,
unless otherwise extended in writing by the mutual consent of the parties, the
Interested Party shall be deemed to agree with all Disputed Adjustments that
were specifically enumerated in the Interested Party Notice and waive its right
to a determination by an Independent Third Party pursuant to Section 4.05 hereof
with respect to all such Disputed Adjustments unless, and to the extent, that at
any time during such ninety (90) day (or extended) period, either the
Controlling Party or the Interested Party has given the other party written
notice that it is seeking a determination by an Independent Third Party pursuant
to Section 4.05 hereof regarding the propriety of any such Disputed Adjustment.

            (d)   Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, an
Interested Party that does not have a Significant Obligation with respect to a
Tax Detriment has no right to a determination by an Independent Third Party
under Section 4.05 hereof with respect to any such Tax Detriment.

     4.05.  Tax Contest Dispute Resolution.
            ------------------------------ 

            (a)   In the event that either a Controlling Party or an Interested
Party has given the other party written notice as required in Section 4.04(c)
hereof that it is seeking a determination by an Independent Third Party pursuant
to this Section 4.05 with respect to any Disputed Adjustment that was enumerated
in an Interested Party Notice, then the parties shall, within thirty (30) days
after a party has received such notice, jointly select an Independent Third
Party to make such determination. In the event that the parties cannot jointly
agree on an Independent Third Party to make such determination within such
thirty (30) day period, then the Controlling Party and the Interested Party
shall each immediately select an Independent Third Party and the Independent
Third Parties so selected by the parties shall jointly select, within twenty
(20) days of their selection, another Independent Third Party to make such
determination.

            (b)   In making its determination as to the propriety of any
Disputed Adjustment, the Independent Third Party selected pursuant to Section
4.05(a) above shall assume that the Interested Party is not required or entitled
under applicable law to be a member of any Consolidated Return. In addition, the
Independent Third Party shall make its determination according to the following
procedure:

                  (i)    The Independent Third Party shall first analyze each
            Disputed Adjustment for which a determination is sought pursuant to
            this Section 4.05 on a stand-alone basis to determine whether the
            actual outcome reached with respect to such Disputed Adjustment as
            reflected in the Final Determination of the Tax Contest was fair and
            appropriate taking into account the following exclusive criteria:
            (A) the facts relating to such Adjustment; (B) the applicable law,
            if any, with respect to such Adjustment; (C) the position of the
            applicable Tax Authority with respect to compromise, settlement or
            litigation of such Adjustment; (D) the strength of the factual and
            legal arguments made by the Controlling Party in reaching the
            outcome with respect to such Adjustment as reflected in the Final
            Determination of the Tax Contest; and (E) the strength of the
            factual and legal arguments being made by the Interested Party for
            the alternative outcome being asserted by such Interested Party
            (including the availability of facts, information and documentation
            to support such alternative outcome). Based on this analysis, the
            Independent Third Party shall determine what is the fair and
            appropriate outcome (hereinafter referred to as the "Initial
            Determination") with respect to each such Disputed Adjustment.

                  (ii)   The Interested Party shall not be entitled to
            modification of its share of a Disputed Adjustment under this
            Section 4.05 if, as the case may be, either (A) the amount that
            would be paid by the Interested Party under the Initial
            Determination with respect to such 

                                       12
<PAGE>
 
            Disputed Adjustment is 80% or more than the amount that would be
            paid by the Interested Party with respect to such Disputed
            Adjustment under the actual outcome reached with respect to such
            Disputed Adjustment; or (B) the amount that would be received by the
            Interested Party under the Initial Determination with respect to
            such Disputed Adjustment is 120% or less than the amount that the
            Interested Party would receive with respect to such Disputed
            Adjustment under the actual outcome reached with respected to such
            Disputed Adjustment. The Independent Third Party will provide notice
            to the Controlling Party and the Interested Party in the event the
            Interested Party is not entitled to modification of its share of the
            Disputed Adjustment pursuant to this paragraph (ii).

                  (iii)  If the modification of an Interested Party's share of a
            Disputed Adjustment under this Section 4.05 is not prohibited
            pursuant to paragraph (ii) above, then the Independent Third Party
            shall determine what is the fair and appropriate outcome
            (hereinafter referred to as the "Ultimate Determination") to the
            Interested Party with respect to such Disputed Adjustment in the
            context of the entire Tax Contest as it relates to the Interested
            Party. In making this determination, the Independent Third Party
            shall consider the Disputed Adjustment as if it were raised in an
            independent audit of the Interested Party by the appropriate Tax
            Authority and the Independent Third Party shall take into account
            and give appropriate weight in its sole discretion to the following
            exclusive criteria: (A) the strength of the legal and factual
            support for other potential, non-frivolous Adjustments with respect
            to matters that were actually raised and contested by the applicable
            Tax Authority in the Tax Contest for which the Interested Party
            could have been liable under this Agreement but which were
            eliminated or reduced as a result of the Controlling Party agreeing
            to the Disputed Adjustment as reflected in the Final Determination
            of the Tax Contest; (B) the effect of the actual outcome reached
            with respect to the Disputed Adjustment on other Tax Periods and on
            other positions taken or proposed to be taken in Returns filed or
            proposed to be filed by the Interested Party; (C) the realistic
            possibility of avoiding examination of potential, non-frivolous
            issues for which the Interested Party could be liable under this
            Agreement and that were contemporaneously identified in writings by
            the party or parties during the course of the Tax Contest but which
            had not been raised and contested by the applicable Tax Authority in
            the Tax Contest; and (D) the benefits to the Interested Party in
            reaching a Final Determination, and the strategy and rationale with
            respect to the Interested Party's Disputed Adjustment that the
            Controlling Party had for agreeing to such Disputed Adjustment in
            reaching the Final Determination, in each case that were
            contemporaneously identified in writings by the party or parties
            during the course of the Tax Contest.

                  (iv)   The Interested Party shall only be entitled to
            modification of its share of a Disputed Adjustment under this
            Section 4.05 if, as the case may be, either (A) the amount that
            would be paid by the Interested Party under the Ultimate
            Determination with respect to such Disputed Adjustment is less than
            80% of the amount that would be paid by the Interested Party with
            respect to such Disputed Adjustment under the actual outcome reached
            with respect to such Disputed Adjustment; or (B) the amount that
            would be received by the Interested Party under the Ultimate
            Determination with respect to such Disputed Adjustment is more than
            120% of the amount that the Interested Party would receive with
            respect to such Disputed Adjustment under the actual outcome reached
            with respected to such Disputed Adjustment. If an Interested Party
            is entitled to modification of its share of any Disputed Adjustment
            under the preceding sentence, the amount the Interested Party is
            entitled to receive, or is required to pay, as the case may be, with
            respect to such Disputed Adjustment shall be equal to the amount of
            the Ultimate Determination of such Disputed Adjustment. The
            Independent Third Party will provide notice to the Controlling Party
            and the Interested Party stating whether the Interested Party is
            entitled to modification of its share of the Disputed Adjustment
            pursuant to this paragraph (iv) and, if the Interested Party is
            entitled to such modification, the amount as determined in the
            preceding sentence that the Interested Party is entitled to receive
            from, or required to pay to, the Controlling Party with respect to
            such Disputed Adjustment.

            (c)   Any determination made or notice given by an Independent Third
Party pursuant to this Section 4.05 shall be (i) in writing; (ii) made within
ninety (90) days following the selection of the Independent Third Party as set
forth in Section 4.05(a) of this Agreement unless such period is otherwise
extended by the mutual 

                                       13
<PAGE>
 
consent of the parties; and (iii) final and binding upon the parties. The costs
of any Independent Third Party retained pursuant to this Section 4.05 shall be
shared equally by the parties. The Controlling Party and the Interested Party
shall provide the Independent Third Party jointly selected pursuant to Section
4.05(a) hereof with such information or documentation as may be appropriate or
necessary in order for such Independent Third Party to make the determination
requested of it. Upon issuance of an Independent Third Party's notice under
Section 4.05(b)(ii) or Section 4.05(b)(iv) hereof, the Controlling Party or the
Interested Party, as the case may be, shall pay as specified in Section 5 of
this Agreement, the amount, if any, of the Disputed Adjustment to the
appropriate party.

     SECTION 5.   Tax Payments and Intercompany Billings.
                  -------------------------------------- 

     5.01.  Payment of Taxes With Respect to Varian Federal Consolidated Returns
            --------------------------------------------------------------------
Filed After the Distribution Date.  In the case of any Varian Federal
- ---------------------------------                                    
Consolidated Return the due date for which (including extensions) is after the
Distribution Date, HCS shall compute and pay the Tax required to be paid to the
IRS (taking into account the requirements of Section 6.04, relating to
consistent accounting practices) with respect to such Tax Return.

     5.02.  Payment of State Income Tax Relating to Pre-Distribution Periods 
            ----------------------------------------------------------------
With Respect to Returns Filed After the Distribution Date.
- --------------------------------------------------------- 

            (a)   Computation and Payment of Tax Due.  At least ten business 
                  ----------------------------------      
days prior to any Payment Date for any Tax Return with respect to any State
Income Tax relating to a Pre-Distribution Period, the Responsible Company shall
compute the amount of Tax required to be paid to the applicable Tax Authority
(taking into account the requirements of Section 4.04 relating to consistent
accounting practices) with respect to such Tax Return on such Payment Date and

                  (i)    If such Tax Return is with respect to a Consolidated or
            Combined State Income Tax, HCS will pay such amount to such Tax
            Authority on or before such Payment Date.

                  (ii)   If such Tax Return is with respect to a Separate
            Company Tax, the Responsible Company shall, if it is not the Company
            liable for the Tax reported on such Tax Return, notify the Company
            liable for such Tax in writing of the amount of Tax required to be
            paid on such Payment Date. The Company liable for such Tax will pay
            such amount to such Tax Authority on or before such Payment Date.

     5.03.  Payment of Other Taxes.  Each Company shall pay, or shall cause to 
            ----------------------          
be paid, to the applicable Tax Authority when due all Separate Company Taxes,
Foreign Income Taxes, and Other Taxes owed by such Company or a member of such
Company's Group.

     5.04.  Tax Payments for Account of Other Party.
            --------------------------------------- 

            (a)   If any Company (the "payor") is required to pay to a Tax
Authority a Tax that another Company (the "identified party") is required to pay
to such Tax Authority under this Agreement, the identified party shall reimburse
the payor within 30 days of delivery by the payor to the identified party of an
invoice for the amount due, accompanied by evidence of payment and a statement
detailing the Taxes paid and describing in reasonable detail the particulars
relating thereto. The reimbursement shall include interest on the Tax payment
computed at the Prime Rate based on the number of days from the date of the
payment to the Tax Authority to the date of reimbursement under this Section
5.05.

            (b)   In the event that (x) it is finally determined that any
Company (the "Responsible Party") is liable to another Company (the "Protected
Party") hereunder in respect of any payment obligation under this Agreement (a
"Protected Loss") and (y) a court of competent jurisdiction prohibits such
Responsible Party from satisfying all or a part of its obligations to the
Protected Party hereunder in respect of such Protected Loss, then the amount of
the Protected Loss that is not satisfied shall be treated as a liability of the
parties to this Agreement other than the Responsible Party, with the Sharing
Percentage of the Group of which each such other party is a member equal to 50%.

                                       14
<PAGE>
 
     5.05.   Tax Refunds for Account of Other Party.  If a member of one Group
             --------------------------------------                           
receives any Tax refund or credit against a Tax liability with respect to any
Taxes for which a member of another Group is liable hereunder, the Company
receiving such Tax refund or credit shall make a payment to the Company that is
liable for such Taxes hereunder within 30 days following receipt of the Tax
refund in an amount equal to the Tax refund, plus interest on such amount
computed at the Prime Rate based on the number of days from the date that is
five (5) days after the date of receipt of the Tax refund to the date of payment
of such amount under this Section 5.05.

     5.06.   Payment of Taxes Related to Adjustments.
             --------------------------------------- 

             (a)  Adjustments Resulting in Underpayments.  The Controlling Party
                  --------------------------------------       
shall pay to the appropriate Tax Authority when due any additional Tax required
to be paid as a result of any Adjustment with respect to any Pre-Distribution
Period. Each other Company shall pay to whichever of HCS, IB or SEB controls the
Controlling Party its share of any Tax Detriment resulting from such Adjustment
(that has not yet been paid pursuant to the terms of this Agreement) determined
in accordance with Section 2.06 within 90 days from the later of (i) the date
the amount of the Adjustment was paid or (ii) the date of receipt by the
indemnifying party of a written notice and demand from the Controlling Party (or
whichever of HCS, IB and SEB the Controlling Party is an Affiliate) for payment
of the amount due, accompanied by evidence of payment and a statement detailing
the Tax Detriment and describing in reasonable detail the particulars relating
thereto. Each indemnifying party shall also pay to the Controlling Party
interest on their respective shares of such Tax Detriment computed at the Prime
Rate plus 2.0%, per annum, based on the number of days from the date interest
ceased to run with respect to the relevant recomputation of Tax to the date of
their respective payments under this Section 5.06(a).

             (b)  Adjustments Resulting in Overpayments.  Within 30 days of 
                  -------------------------------------   
receipt of any Tax refund or adjustment to Tax liability resulting from any
Adjustment relating to a Pre-Distribution Period, whichever of HCS, IB or SEB
Controls the person that received the related Tax Benefit shall pay to any party
entitled to a share such Tax Benefit (that has not yet been paid pursuant to the
terms of this Agreement) their respective shares thereof determined in
accordance with Section 2.06. Any payments required under this Section 5.06(b)
shall include interest computed at the Prime Rate plus 2.0%, per annum, based on
the number of days from the date of the recomputation of Tax to the date of
payment under this Section 5.06(b).

             (c)  Recomputations of Tax.  For purposes of this Agreement, an 
                  ---------------------      
Adjustment occurs, and the respective liabilities of the parties shall be
recomputed: (i) in each instance when payments are to be made to, or refunds
received from, the relevant Tax Authority, (ii) when no payment is to be made or
refund is to be received due to offsetting adjustments, upon filing of an
amended return, completion of an IRS audit and completion of an IRS appellate
review or the equivalent steps with respect to State Income Taxes or Foreign
Income Taxes; and (iii) to reflect the results of any Final Determination.

             (d)  Procedures After Final Determination.  If an Interested Party 
                  ------------------------------------   
has any liability and/or obligation to make or has previously made, or the right
to receive or has previously received, any indemnity payment, reimbursement or
other payment with respect to a Tax Benefit or Tax Detriment under this
Agreement for which it does not have a right to a determination by an
Independent Third Party under Section 4.05 hereof, then the amount of any such
Tax Benefit or Tax Detriment not previously paid shall be immediately due and
payable upon receipt by the Interested Party of a notice of Final Determination
of a Tax Contest as required and specified in Section 4.04(a) hereof.

             If after (i) notice of a Final Determination of a Tax Contest as
required and specified in Section 4.04(a) hereof has been given by a Controlling
Party to an Interested Party; and (ii) the Interested Party receiving such
notice has either:

                         (A)  failed to provide the Interested Party Notice
                  specified in Section 4.04(b) hereof within the ninety (90) day
                  period set forth in Section 4.04(b);

                         (B)  provided the Interested Party Notice specified in
                  Section 4.04(b) hereof within the ninety (90) day period
                  specified in Section 4.04(b) agreeing to all Tax Benefits or
                  Tax Detriments (and the Interested Party's share of all such
                  amounts) and waiving the right to an Independent Third Party
                  determination pursuant to Section 4.05 hereof with 

                                       15
<PAGE>
 
                  respect to all such Tax Benefits or Tax Detriments (and the
                  Interested Party's share of such amounts);

                         (C)  provided the Interested Party Notice specified in
                  Section 4.04(b) hereof within the ninety (90) day period
                  specified in Section 4.04(b) agreeing with some, but not all,
                  Tax Benefits or Tax Detriments (and the Interested Party's
                  share of such agreed amounts) and waiving the right to an
                  Independent Third Party Determination pursuant to Section 4.05
                  hereof with respect to all such agreed Tax Benefits or Tax
                  Detriments (and the Interested Party's share of such amounts);
                  or

                         (D)  provided the Interested Party Notice specified in
                  Section 4.04(b) hereof within the ninety (90) day period
                  specified in Section 4.04(b) specifically enumerating the
                  Disputed Adjustments to which it does not agree and for which
                  the notice specified in either Section 4.05(b)(ii) or Section
                  4.05(b)(iv) hereof relating to any such Disputed Adjustment
                  has been given by an Independent Third Party,

then the amount of any Tax Detriment or Tax Benefit agreed to or deemed to be
agreed to by the Interested Party, or for which an Independent Third Party
notice has been given pursuant to either Section 4.05(b)(ii) or Section
4.05(b)(iv) hereof, as set forth in each of clauses (A), (B, (C) or (D) above,
shall be immediately due and payable.

             Any Person entitled to any indemnification, reimbursement or other
payment under this Agreement with respect to the amount of any Tax Detriment or
Tax Benefit that has become immediately due and payable under this Section
5.02(d) (the "Indemnified Party") shall notify in writing the Person against
whom such indemnification, reimbursement or other payment is sought (the
"Indemnifying Party") of its right to and the amount of such indemnification,
reimbursement or other payment; provided, however, that the failure to notify
the Indemnifying Party shall not relieve the Indemnifying Party from any
liability and/or obligation which it may have to an Indemnified Party on account
of the provisions contained in this Agreement except to the extent that the
Indemnifying Party was prejudiced by such failure, and in no event shall such
failure relieve the Indemnifying Party from any other liability or obligation
which it may have to such Indemnified Party.  The Indemnifying Party shall make
such indemnity payment, reimbursement or other payment to the Indemnified Party
within thirty (30) days of the receipt of the written notice specified in the
preceding sentence; provided, however, that, in the case of any Final
Determination of a Tax Contest involving a state, local or municipal Tax in
which the Indemnifying Party is also the Controlling Party with respect to such
Tax Contest and, as Controlling Party, is entitled to receive an overall net
refund from the applicable state, local or municipal Tax Authority with respect
to such state, local or municipal Tax, then the Indemnifying Party shall be
required to make such indemnity payment, reimbursement or other payment to the
Indemnified Party within thirty (30) days from the date the Indemnifying Party
actually receives payment of or obtains the benefit of the net refund due from
the applicable state, local or municipal Tax Authority.

     SECTION 6.   Preparation and Filing of Tax Returns.
                  ------------------------------------- 

     6.01.   General.  Except as otherwise provided in this Section 6, Tax 
             -------            
Returns shall be prepared and filed when due (including extensions) by the
person obligated to file such Tax Returns under the Code or applicable Tax Law.
The Companies shall provide, and shall cause their Affiliates to provide,
assistance and cooperate with one another in accordance with Section 7 with
respect to the preparation and filing of Tax Returns, including providing
information required to be provided in Section 7.

     6.02.   Post-Distribution Period Tax Returns.  Except as otherwise provided
             ------------------------------------     
in this Section 6:

     (1)     All Tax Returns related to the Health Care Systems Group for Post-
Distribution Periods shall be prepared and filed (or caused to be prepared and
filed) by HCS,

     (2)     All Tax Returns related to the Semiconductor Equipment Group for
Post-Distribution Periods shall be prepared and filed (or caused to be prepared
and filed) by SEB.

     (3)     All Tax Returns related to the Instruments Group for Post-
Distribution Periods shall be prepared and filed (or caused to be prepared and
filed) by IB.

                                       16
<PAGE>
 
     6.03.   Manner of Filing.  All Tax Returns filed or caused to be filed by 
             ----------------         
HCS, IB or SEB and the Affiliates of each of them after the Distribution Date
shall be prepared on a basis that is consistent with any IRS or other Tax ruling
obtained by Varian in connection with the restructuring of Varian contemplated
by the Distribution Agreement (in the absence of a controlling change in law or
circumstances), and shall be filed on a timely basis by the party responsible
for such filing under this Agreement.

     6.04.   Right to Review Tax Returns.
             --------------------------- 

             (a)  General.  The Responsible Company with respect to any Tax 
                  -------          
Return shall make such Tax Return and related workpapers available for review by
the other Companies, if requested, to the extent (i) such Tax Return relates to
Taxes for which the requesting party may be liable, (ii) such Tax Return relates
to Taxes for which the requesting party may be liable in whole or in part for
any additional Taxes owing as a result of adjustments to the amount of Taxes
reported on such Tax Return, (iii) such Tax Return relates to Taxes for which
the requesting party may have a claim for Tax Benefits under this Agreement, or
(iv) the requesting party reasonably determines that it must inspect such Tax
Return to confirm compliance with the terms of this Agreement. The Responsible
Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to make such Tax Return available
for review as required under this paragraph sufficiently in advance of the due
date for filing such Tax Returns to provide the requesting party with a
meaningful opportunity to analyze and comment on such Tax Returns and have such
Tax Returns modified before filing, taking into account the person responsible
for payment of the tax (if any) reported on such Tax Return and the materiality
of the amount of Tax liability with respect to such Tax Return. The Companies
shall attempt in good faith to resolve any issues arising out of the review of
such Tax Returns.

             (b)  Execution of Returns Prepared by Other Party.  In the case of 
                  --------------------------------------------           
any Tax Return which is required to be prepared and filed by one Company under
this Agreement and which is required by law to be signed by another Company (or
by its authorized representative), the Company which is legally required to sign
such Tax Return shall not be required to sign such Tax Return under this
Agreement if there is no reasonable basis for the tax treatment of any material
items reported on the Tax Return.  Any such Tax Return shall be supplied by the
Company responsible for its preparation and filing to the Company responsible
for its signing at least five days prior to the due date of such Tax Return
(including applicable extensions) and such signing Company shall deliver an
executed copy of such Tax Return to the filing Company at least two days prior
to the due date of such Tax Return (including applicable extensions).

     6.05.   Claims for Refund, Carrybacks, and Self-Audit Adjustments.
             --------------------------------------------------------- 

             (a)  Carrybacks.  Each of the Companies shall be permitted, without
                  ----------         
the consent of any other Company, to file claims for refund or credit or amended
returns with respect to Tax Returns for which it is the Responsible Company to
carry back Tax items from Post-Distribution Periods.

             (b)  Consent Required for Adjustment Requests Related to 
                  ---------------------------------------------------
Consolidated or Combined Income Taxes.  Except as provided in paragraph (c) 
- -------------------------------------       
below, each of the Companies hereby agrees that, unless each of the other
Companies consents in writing, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld,
no Adjustment Request with respect to any Consolidated or Combined Income Tax
for a Pre-Distribution Period shall be filed. Any Adjustment Request which the
Companies consent to make under this Section 6.06 shall be prepared and filed by
the Responsible Company under Sections 6.02 and 6.03 for the Tax Return to be
adjusted. The Company requesting the Adjustment Request shall provide to the
Responsible Company all information required for the preparation and filing of
such Adjustment Request in such form and detail as reasonably requested by the
Responsible Company, and shall bear all external costs incurred in connection
with the preparation and filing of such Adjustment Request.

             (c)  Exception for Adjustment Requests Related to Audit 
                  --------------------------------------------------
Adjustments.  Each of the Companies shall be entitled, without the consent of
- -----------          
any other Company, to require HCS to file an Adjustment Request to take into
account any net operating loss, net capital loss, deduction, credit, or other
adjustment attributable to such Company or any member of its Group corresponding
to any adjustment resulting from any audit by the IRS or other Tax Authority
with respect to Consolidated or Combined Income Taxes for any Pre-Distribution
Period. For example, if the Internal Revenue Service requires a Company to
capitalize an item deducted for the taxable year 1996, such Company shall be
entitled, without the consent of any other Company, to require HCS to file an
Adjustment Request for the taxable year 1997 (and later years) to take into
account any depreciation or 

                                       17
<PAGE>
 
amortization deductions in such years directly related to the item capitalized
in 1996. In addition, each of the Companies shall be entitled to require any
other Company, as appropriate, to file an Adjustment Request of the same sort
with respect to Separate Company Taxes or Foreign Income Taxes for any Pre-
Distribution Periods. The Company that requires another Company to file an
Adjustment Request shall bear all external costs in connection with the
preparation and filing of the Adjustment Request.

             (d)  Other Adjustment Requests Permitted.  Nothing in this Section 
                  -----------------------------------     
6.06 shall prevent any Company or its Affiliates from filing any Adjustment
Request with respect to Income Taxes which are not Consolidated or Combined
Income Taxes or with respect to any Taxes other than Income Taxes; provided,
however, that without the written consent of the Company responsible for the
relevant Tax (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld) no Company shall
file an amended Tax Return with respect to Taxes for which another Company is
liable under this Agreement. Any refund or credit obtained as a result of any
such Adjustment Request (or otherwise) shall be for the account of the person
liable for the Tax under this Agreement.

             (e)  Payment of Refunds.  Any refunds or other Tax Benefits 
                  ------------------       
received by any Company (or any of its Affiliates) as a result of any Adjustment
Request which are for the account of another Company (or member of such other
Company's Group) shall be paid by the Company receiving (or whose Affiliate
received) such refund or Tax Benefit to such other Company in accordance with
Section 5.

     SECTION 7.   Assistance and Cooperation.
                  -------------------------- 

     7.01.   General.  After the Distribution Date, each of the Companies shall
             -------                                                           
cooperate (and cause their respective Affiliates to cooperate) with each other
and with each other's agents, including accounting firms and legal counsel, in
connection with Tax matters relating to the Companies and their Affiliates
including (i) preparation and filing of Tax Returns, (ii) determining the
liability for and amount of any Taxes due (including estimated Taxes) or the
right to and amount of any refund of Taxes, (iii) examinations of Tax Returns,
and (iv) any administrative or judicial proceeding in respect of Taxes assessed
or proposed to be assessed. Such cooperation shall include making all
information and documents in their possession relating to the other Companies
and their Affiliates available to such other Companies as provided in Section 7.
Each of the Companies shall also make available to each other, as reasonably
requested and available, personnel (including officers, directors, employees and
agents of the Companies or their respective Affiliates) responsible for
preparing, maintaining, and interpreting information and documents relevant to
Taxes, and personnel reasonably required as witnesses or for purposes of
providing information or documents in connection with any administrative or
judicial proceedings relating to Taxes Any information or documents provided
under this Section 6 shall be kept confidential by the Company receiving the
information or documents, except as may otherwise be necessary in connection
with the filing of Tax Returns or in connection with any administrative or
judicial proceedings relating to Taxes.

     7.02.   Income Tax Return Information.  Each Company will provide to each
             -----------------------------                                    
other Company information and documents relating to their respective Groups
required by the other Companies to prepare Tax Returns.  The Responsible Company
shall determine a reasonable compliance schedule for such purpose in accordance
with VA's past practices.  Any additional information or documents the
Responsible Company requires to prepare such Tax Returns will be provided in
accordance with past practices, if any, or as the Responsible Company reasonably
requests and in sufficient time for the Responsible Company to file such Tax
Returns timely.

     SECTION 8.   Tax Records.
                  ----------- 

     8.01.   Retention of Tax Records.  Except as provided in Section 8.02, each
             ------------------------                                           
Company shall preserve and keep all of its Tax Records for Pre-Distribution Tax
Periods until the later of (i) seven years after the Distribution Date or (ii) a
Final Determination with respect to any Tax Contest for which such Tax Records
may be relevant. Before disposing of any such Tax Records, a Company shall
provide 90 days prior notice to each other Company. Such notice shall include a
list of the records to be disposed of describing in reasonable detail each file,
book, or other record accumulation being disposed. The notified Companies shall
have the opportunity, at their cost and expense, to copy or remove, within such
90-day period, all or any part of such Tax Records. If, prior to the end of such
seven-year period, a Company reasonably determines that any Tax Records which it
is required to preserve and keep under this Section 7 are no longer material in
the administration of any matter under the Code or other applicable Tax Law,
such Company may dispose of such records upon 90 days prior notice to each other
Company. 

                                       18
<PAGE>
 
Such notice shall include a list of the records to be disposed of describing in
reasonable detail each file, book, or other record accumulation being disposed.
The notified Companies shall have the opportunity, at their cost and expense, to
copy or remove, within such 90-day period, all or any part of such Tax Records.

     8.02.   State Income Tax Returns.  Tax Returns with respect to State Income
             ------------------------                                           
Taxes and workpapers prepared in connection with preparing such Tax Returns
shall be preserved and kept, in accordance with the guidelines of Section 8.01,
by the Company responsible for preparing and filing the applicable Tax Return.

     8.03.   Access to Tax Records.  The Companies and their respective 
             ---------------------        
Affiliates shall make available to each other for inspection and copying during
normal business hours upon reasonable notice all Tax Records in their possession
to the extent reasonably required by the other Company in connection with the
preparation of Tax Returns, audits, litigation, or the resolution of items under
this Agreement.

     SECTION 9.   Effective Date; Termination of Prior Intercompany Tax 
                  -----------------------------------------------------
Allocation Agreements.  This Agreement shall be effective on the Distribution 
- ---------------------    
Date.  Each of the Companies represents and warrants that there are no Prior
Intercompany Tax Allocation Agreements in effect as of the Distribution Date.

     SECTION 10.  No Inconsistent Actions.
                  ----------------------- 

            (a)   Each of the Companies covenants and agrees that it will use
its best efforts to cause the Distributions to qualify under Section 355 of the
Code. Each of the Companies covenants and agrees that it will not take or permit
any action, and it will cause its Affiliates to refrain from taking or
permitting any action, which may be inconsistent with the Tax treatment of the
Transactions as contemplated in the Ruling Request or any Tax ruling received
with respect to Tax consequences related to the Transaction in a foreign
jurisdiction (any such action is referred to in this Section 10 as a "Tainting
Act"), unless (i) the Company or Affiliate thereof proposing such Tainting Act
(the "Requesting Party") either (A) obtains a ruling with respect to the
Tainting Act from the IRS or other applicable Tax Authority that is reasonably
satisfactory to each other Company (the "Requested Parties") (except that the
Requesting Party shall not submit any such ruling request if a Requested Party
determines in good faith that filing such request might have a materially
adverse effect upon such Requested Party), or (B) obtains an unqualified opinion
of independent nationally recognized tax counsel acceptable to each Requested
Party, on a basis of assumed facts and representations consistent with the facts
at the time of such action, that such Tainting Act will not affect the Tax
treatment of the Transactions as contemplated in the Ruling Request, or (ii)
each Requested Party consents in writing to such Tainting Act, which consent
shall be granted or withheld in the sole and absolute discretion of each such
Requested Party. A Tainting Act of a Company shall include a transaction
involving that Company to which Section 355(e) of the Code is applicable,
regardless of whether the Company could have prevented such transaction. Without
limiting the foregoing:

                  (i)    No Inconsistent Plan or Intent.  Each of the Companies
                         ------------------------------                        
            represents and warrants that neither it nor any of its Affiliates
            has any plan or intent to take any action which is inconsistent with
            any factual statements or representations in the Ruling Request.
            Regardless of any change in circumstances, each of the Companies
            covenants and agrees that it will not take or permit, and it will
            cause its Affiliates to refrain from taking or permitting, any such
            inconsistent action on or before the last day of the calendar year
            ending after the second anniversary of the Distribution Date other
            than as permitted in this Section 10.

                  (ii)   Amended or Supplemental Rulings.  Each of the Companies
                         -------------------------------                        
            covenants and agrees that it will not file, and it will cause its
            Affiliates to refrain from filing, any amendment or supplement to
            the Ruling Request subsequent to the Distribution Date without the
            consent of the other Companies, which consent shall not be
            unreasonably withheld.

            (b)   Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement,
each Company shall be solely liable for, and shall indemnify and hold harmless
each other Company from any Restructuring Tax resulting from a Tainting Act by
such first Company or its Affiliates, regardless of whether clause (i) or (ii)
of Section 10(a) was satisfied with respect to such Tainting Act.

                                       19
<PAGE>
 
     SECTION 11.  Survival of Obligations.  The representations, warranties,
                  -----------------------                                   
covenants and agreements set forth in this Agreement shall be unconditional and
absolute and shall remain in effect without limitation as to time.

     SECTION 12.  Employee Matters.  Each of the Companies shall utilize, or 
                  ----------------        
cause its Affiliates to utilize, the alternative procedure set forth in Revenue
Procedure 84-77, 1984-2 C.B. 753, with respect to wage reporting.

     SECTION 13.  Treatment of Payments; Tax Gross Up.
                  ----------------------------------- 
     
     13.01.  Tax Treatment of Payments.  In the absence of any change in tax
             -------------------------                                      
treatment under the Code or other applicable Tax Law, any Tax indemnity, Tax
Detriment, Tax Benefit or other payments made by a Company hereunder shall be
reported for Tax purposes by the payor and the recipient (and, if HCS is neither
the payor nor the recipient, by HCS) as distributions or capital contributions,
as appropriate, occurring immediately before the Distributions on the
Distribution Date, except to the extent the payment relates to a Tax allocated
to the payor in accordance with Treasury Regulation Section 1.1502-33(d) (or
under corresponding principles of other applicable Tax Laws).

     13.02.  Tax Gross Up.  If notwithstanding the manner in which Tax 
             ------------            
indemnity, Tax Detriment or Tax Benefit payments were reported, there is an
adjustment to the Tax liability of a Company as a result of its receipt of a
payment pursuant to this Agreement, such payment shall be appropriately adjusted
so that the amount of such payment, reduced by the amount of all Income Taxes
payable with respect to the receipt thereof (but taking into account all
correlative Tax benefits resulting from the payment of such Income Taxes), shall
equal the amount of the payment which the Company receiving such payment would
otherwise be entitled to receive pursuant to this Agreement. For purposes of
determining such Income Taxes, it shall be assumed that the highest marginal Tax
rates in effect are applicable.

     13.03.  Interest Under This Agreement.  Anything herein to the contrary
             -----------------------------                                  
notwithstanding, to the extent one Company ("indemnitor") makes a payment of
interest to another Company ("indemnitee") under this Agreement with respect to
the period from the date that the indemnitee made a payment of Tax to a Tax
Authority to the date that the indemnitor reimbursed the indemnitee for such Tax
payment, or with respect to the period from the date that the indemnitor
received a Tax Benefit to the date indemnitor paid the Tax Benefit to the
indemnitee, the interest payment shall be treated as interest expense to the
indemnitor (deductible to the extent provided by law) and as interest income by
the indemnitee (includible in income to the extent provided by law).  The amount
of the payment shall not be adjusted under Section 13.02 to take into account
any associated Tax benefit to the indemnitor or increase in Tax to the
indemnitee.

     SECTION 14.  Disagreements.  Except to the extent of the specific dispute
                  -------------                                               
resolutions set forth in Sections 4.04 and 4.05 of this Agreement, any and all
controversies, disputes or claims arising out of, relating to, in connection
with or resulting from this Agreement (or any amendment thereto or any
transaction contemplated hereby or thereby), including as to its existence,
interpretation, performance, nonperformance, validity, breach or termination,
including any claim based on contract, tort, statute or constitution and any
claim raising questions of law, whether arising before or after termination of
this Agreement, shall be deemed an Agreement Dispute as defined in Section 9.01
of the Distribution Agreement and shall be resolved exclusively by, in
accordance with, and subject to the limitations set forth in, Article IX of the
Distribution Agreement.

     SECTION 15.  Late Payments.  Any amount owed by one party to another party
                  -------------                                                
under this Agreement which is not paid when due shall bear interest at the Prime
Rate plus two percent, compounded semiannually, from the due date of the payment
to the date paid. To the extent interest required to be paid under this Section
15 duplicates interest required to be paid under any other provision of this
Agreement, interest shall be computed at the higher of the interest rate
provided under this Section 15 or the interest rate provided under such other
provision.

     SECTION 16.  Expenses.  Except as provided in Sections 4.02, 6.05 or 14, 
                  -------- 
each party and its Affiliates shall bear their own expenses incurred in
connection with preparation of Tax Returns, Tax Contests, and other matters
related to Taxes under the provisions of this Agreement.

                                       20
<PAGE>
 
     SECTION 17.  Nonqualified Stock Options.  Each of the Companies shall 
                  --------------------------        
report exercises of nonqualified stock options in a manner consistent with any
ruling letter issued by the IRS with respect to the Distributions. The Companies
shall cooperate fully (including development of any reasonably necessary
procedures) to satisfy applicable reporting and withholding requirements and
obtain allowable Tax deductions upon the exercise of such options.

     SECTION 18.  General Provisions
                  ------------------

     18.01.  Complete Agreement; Construction.  This Agreement, the Distribution
             --------------------------------                                   
Agreement and the other Ancillary Agreements shall constitute the entire
agreement among the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and shall
supersede all prior agreements, negotiations, commitments and writings with
respect to such subject matter. Notwithstanding any other provisions in this
Agreement to the contrary, in the event and to the extent that there is a
conflict between the provisions of this Agreement and the provisions of the
Distribution Agreement or any other Ancillary Agreement, this Agreement shall
prevail.

     18.02.  Counterparts.  This Agreement may be executed in two or more
             ------------                                                
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which
together shall constitute but one and the same Agreement.

     18.03.  Notices.  All notices, consents, requests, waivers, claims or other
             -------                                                            
communications (each a "Notice") required or permitted under this Agreement
shall be in writing and shall be sufficiently given or made (a) if hand
delivered or sent by telecopy (with delivery confirmed by voice or otherwise),
(b) if sent by nationally recognized overnight courier, or (c) if sent by
registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, and in
each case addressed as follows:

     If to HCS, at:
     Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
     3100 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California 94304
     Attn: Chief Financial Officer
     Telecopy: (650) ___-____

     With a copy to:
     Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
     3100 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California 94304
     Attn: General Counsel
     Telecopy: (650) ___-____

     If to SEB, at:
     Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.
     35 Dory Road
     Gloucester, Massachusetts 01930
     Attn: Chief Financial Officer
     Telecopy: (978) ___-____

     With a copy to:
     Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.
     35 Dory Road
     Gloucester, Massachusetts 01930
     Attn: General Counsel
     Telecopy: (978) ___-____

                                       21
<PAGE>
 
     If to IB, at:
     Varian, Inc.
     3120 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California 94304
     Attn: Chief Financial Officer
     Telecopy: (650) ___-____

     With a copy to:
     Varian, Inc.
     3120 Hansen Way
     Palo Alto, California 94304
     Attn: General Counsel
     Telecopy: (650) ___-____

or such other address as shall be furnished by any of the parties in a Notice.
Any Notice shall be deemed to have been duly given or made when the Notice is
received.

     18.04.  Waivers.  The failure of any party to require strict performance by
             -------                                                            
any other party of any provision in or rights or remedies with respect to this
Agreement shall not waive or diminish that party's right to demand strict
performance thereafter of that or any other provision hereof or right or remedy.

     18.05.  Amendments.  This Agreement may be amended or supplemented, or its
             ----------                                                        
provisions waived only by an agreement in writing signed by each of the parties.

     18.06.  Assignment.
             ---------- 

             (a)   No party to this Agreement shall (i) consolidate with or
merge into any Person or permit any Person to consolidate with or merge into
such party (other than a merger or consolidation in which the party is the
surviving or continuing corporation), or (ii) sell, assign, transfer, lease or
otherwise dispose of, in one transaction or a series of related transactions,
all or substantially all of its Assets, unless the resulting, surviving or
transferee Person expressly assumes, by instrument in form and substance
reasonably satisfactory to the other parties, all of the obligations of the
party under this Agreement.

             (b)   Except as expressly provided in paragraph (a) above, neither
this Agreement nor any of the rights, interests or obligations hereunder shall
be assignable, directly or indirectly, by any party without the prior written
consent of the other parties, and any attempt to so assign without such consent
shall be void.

     18.07.  Successors and Assigns.  Subject to Section 18.06, this Agreement
             ----------------------                                           
shall be binding upon, inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the
successors and permitted assigns of the parties.

     18.08.  Third Party Beneficiaries.  This Agreement is solely for the 
             -------------------------  
benefit of the parties and the members of their respective Groups and Affiliates
and their respective successors and permitted assigns, and should not be deemed
to confer upon third parties any remedy, claim, liability, right of
reimbursement, cause of action or other right in excess of those existing
without reference to this Agreement.

     18.09.  Governing Law.  This Agreement, the other Ancillary Agreements and 
             -------------          
any other agreements entered into in connection with the transactions
contemplated hereby shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in
accordance with, the Laws of the State of Delaware without regard to the
principles of conflicts of Laws thereunder. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the
Federal Arbitration Act, 9 U.S.C. (S)(S)1-15, shall govern the arbitrability of
disputes governed by the Distribution Agreement.

     18.10.  Severability.  If any provision of this Agreement or the 
             ------------        
application thereof to any Person or circumstance is determined to be invalid,
void or unenforceable in any respect, the remaining provisions hereof, or the
application of such provision to Persons or circumstances other than those as to
which it has been held invalid, void or unenforceable, shall remain in full
force and effect and in no way be affected, impaired or invalidated 

                                       22
<PAGE>
 
thereby, so long as the economic or legal substance of the transactions
contemplated hereby is not affected in any manner adverse to any party.

     18.11.  Subsidiaries.  Each party shall cause to be performed, and hereby
             ------------                                                     
guarantee the performance of, all actions, agreements and obligations set forth
herein to be performed by any Subsidiary of such party which is contemplated to
be a Subsidiary of such party on and after the Distribution Date.

     18.12.  Titles and Headings.  Titles and headings to sections herein are
             -------------------                                             
inserted for the convenience of reference only and are not intended to be part
of or to affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.

     18.13.  Further Action.  The parties shall execute and deliver all 
             --------------     
documents, provide all information, and take or refrain from taking action as
may be necessary or appropriate to achieve the purposes of this Agreement,
including the execution and delivery to the other parties and their Affiliates
and representatives of such powers of attorney or other authorizing
documentation as is reasonably necessary or appropriate in connection with Tax
Contests (or portions thereof) under the control of such other parties in
accordance with Section 4.

     18.14.  No Double Recovery; Subrogation.  No provision of this Agreement 
             -------------------------------     
shall be construed to provide an indemnity or other recovery for any costs,
damages, or other amounts for which the damaged party has been fully compensated
under any other provision of this Agreement or under any other agreement or
action at law or equity. Unless expressly required in this Agreement, a party
shall not be required to exhaust all remedies available under other agreements
or at law or equity before recovering under the remedies provided in this
Agreement. Subject to any limitations provided in this Agreement (for example,
the limitation on filing claims for refund in Section 6.06), the indemnifying
party shall be subrogated to all rights of the Indemnified Party for recovery
from any third party.

             IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be
executed by the respective officers as of the date set forth above.

                                        VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.


                                        By: ____________________________________
                                        Name:
                                        Title:


                                        VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT 
                                        ASSOCIATES, INC.


                                        By: ____________________________________
                                        Name:
                                        Title:



                                        VARIAN, INC.


                                        By: ____________________________________
                                        Name:
                                        Title:

                                       23

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 10.4

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                         TRANSITION SERVICES AGREEMENT
                                     AMONG
                           VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
                VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.
                                      AND
                                 VARIAN, INC.
                                  Dated as of
                                ________, 1999

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
 
                                TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                  (CONTINUED)
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                                    PAGE               
<S>                                                                                                 <C>                
ARTICLE I         SERVICES PROVIDED.........................................................         1                 
                                                                                                                       
         1.1      Transition Services.......................................................         1                 
         1.2      Personnel.................................................................         1                 
         1.3      Representatives...........................................................         2                 
         1.4      Level of Transition Services..............................................         2                 
         1.5      Corrective Efforts........................................................         2                 
         1.6      Force Majeure.............................................................         2                 
         1.7      Modification of Procedures................................................         3                 
         1.8      No Obligation to Continue to Use Services.................................         3                 
         1.9      Provider Access...........................................................         3                 
                                                                                                                       
ARTICLE II        COMPENSATION..............................................................         3                 
         2.1      Consideration.............................................................         3                 
         2.2      Invoices..................................................................         3                 
         2.3      Payment of Amounts Due....................................................         4                 
         2.4      Provider's Rights on Failure to Pay.......................................         4                 
                                                                                                                       
ARTICLE III       CONFIDENTIALITY...........................................................         4                 
         3.1      Obligation................................................................         4                 
                                                                                                                       
ARTICLE IV        TERM AND TERMINATION......................................................         4                 
         4.1      Term......................................................................         4                 
         4.2      Extension.................................................................         4                 
         4.3      Termination...............................................................         5                 
         4.4      Termination of Obligations................................................         5                 
         4.5      Survival of Certain Obligations...........................................         5                 
                                                                                                                       
ARTICLE V         DISPUTE RESOLUTION........................................................         5                 
         5.1      Distribution Agreement to Control.........................................         5                 
                                                                                                                       
ARTICLE VI        INSURANCE; INDEMNIFICATION................................................         5                 
         6.1      Insurance and Indemnity...................................................         5                 
         6.2      Recipients' Indemnity for Services........................................         6                 
         6.3      Providers' Indemnity for Services.........................................         6                 
                                                                                                                       
ARTICLE VII       MISCELLANEOUS.............................................................         6                 
         7.1      Complete Agreement; Construction..........................................         6                 
         7.2      Other Agreements..........................................................         6                 
         7.3      Counterparts..............................................................         6                 
         7.4      Notices...................................................................         6                 
         7.5      Waivers...................................................................         7                 
         7.6      Amendments................................................................         7                 
</TABLE> 

                                      -i-
<PAGE>
                              TABLE OF CONTENTS 
                                  (CONTINUED)

<TABLE>   
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                                        PAGE              
<S>                                                                                                     <C>               
         7.7      Assignment ..................................................................         8                 
         7.8      Successors and Assigns.......................................................         8                 
         7.9      Third Party Beneficiaries....................................................         8                 
         7.10     Schedules....................................................................         8                 
         7.11     Governing Law................................................................         8                 
         7.12     Severability.................................................................         8                 
         7.13     Subsidiaries.................................................................         8                 
         7.14     Title and Headings...........................................................         8                 
         7.15     Laws and Government Regulations..............................................         8                 
         7.16     Relationship of Parties......................................................         8                 
         7.17     Definitions..................................................................         9                 
                                                                                                                          
FORM OF SCHEDULE TO TRANSITION SERVICES AGREEMENT..............................................        10                 
</TABLE> 

                                     -ii-
<PAGE>
 
                                    FORM OF

                         TRANSITION SERVICES AGREEMENT

     THIS TRANSITION SERVICES AGREEMENT (this "Agreement") is made and entered
into as of this __th day of _____, 1999 between and among VARIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC., a Delaware corporation ("HCS"), VARIAN, INC., a Delaware corporation
("IB"), and VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, Inc., a Delaware
corporation ("SEB") (collectively, the "parties" or individually a "party").

     WHEREAS, HCS, IB and SEB have entered into a Distribution Agreement dated
as of January 14, 1999 (the "Distribution Agreement") which, among other
matters, contemplates that one or more parties thereto will provide, or cause
one or more of its Subsidiaries to provide, to the other parties and their
respective Subsidiaries, certain transitional, administrative and support
services on the terms set forth in this Agreement.  Each party when providing a
service under this Agreement (together with any Subsidiaries or Affiliates
providing services) is referred to as "Provider" and each party when receiving a
service under this Agreement (together with any Subsidiaries or Affiliates
receiving services) is referred to as "Recipient."

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements, provisions and
covenants contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:

                                   ARTICLE I

                               SERVICES PROVIDED

     1.1  Transition Services.
          ------------------- 

          (a)  Upon the terms and subject to the conditions of this Agreement,
the relevant Provider shall provide to the relevant Recipient the services
indicated on the Schedules hereto (each, a "Transition Service" and,
collectively, the "Transition Services") during the time period for such
Transition Service set forth in the applicable Schedule (each, a "Time Period").

          (b)  Subject to the other provisions of this Agreement, the Transition
Services set forth on such Schedules may be amended from time to time, as the
relevant parties shall agree in writing to add, omit or redefine any of the
Transition Services, the term for which such Transition Services are to be
rendered and/or the compensation therefor.

     1.2  Personnel.
          --------- 

          (a)  Each party in its capacity as Provider shall make a sufficient
number of competent employees (and/or third party contractors to the extent that
third party services are routinely utilized to provide similar services to other
businesses of such Provider or are reasonably necessary for the efficient
performance of any Transition Service) to render the Transition Services to be
provided under this Agreement when required, for so long as Provider provides
said services to itself. Except to the extent specific individuals are
designated on a Schedule, a Provider of a Transition Service shall determine
both the staffing required and the particular personnel assigned to perform the
Transition Service, including but not limited to, clerical staff, technicians,
professionals or others. The personnel assigned by a Provider under this
Agreement to perform Transition Services for a Recipient shall not be deemed to
be in the employ of the Recipient or entitled to receive any compensation or
benefits therefrom.

          (b)  Each Recipient shall not, without the Provider's prior written
consent, solicit any employees of a Provider assigned by the Provider to the
Recipient for the performance of such services while such employee is employed
by Provider or within the six-month period after the date any employee ceases to
provide Transition Services.
<PAGE>
 
     1.3  Representatives.
          --------------- 

          (a)  Each of HCS, IB and SEB shall designate a representative to act
as its primary contact person for the provision of all Transition Services
(each, a "Primary Coordinator"). The initial Primary Coordinators shall be
designated in writing by notice to the others in accordance with paragraph (b)
on or before the Distribution Date. The initial coordinators for each specific
Transition Service shall be the individuals named in the Schedule relating to
such Transition Service (each, a "Service Coordinator"). Each party may treat an
act of another party's Primary Coordinator or Service Coordinator as authorized
by such other party without inquiring behind such act or ascertaining whether
such Primary Coordinator or Service Coordinator had actual authority so to act,
provided, however, that neither the Primary Coordinator nor the Service
Coordinator shall have authority to amend or modify the Agreement. All
communications relating to the provision of the Transition Services shall be
directed to the Primary Coordinators.

          (b)  Each of the relevant Provider and the relevant Recipient of a
Transition Service shall notify the other in writing of any change in its
Primary Coordinator and/or its Service Coordinator for each Transition Service.
Any such notice shall (i) set forth the name of the Primary Coordinator or
Service Coordinator to be replaced and the name of the replacement, and (ii)
certify that the replacement Primary Coordinator is authorized to act for such
party in all matters relating to this Agreement or that the replacement Service
Coordinator is authorized to act for such party in all matters relating to the
relevant Transition Service, as applicable, as provided in Section 1.3 (a)
above.

     1.4  Level of Transition Services.

          (a)  Each party, in its capacity as Provider, shall exercise the same
degree of care when performing Transition Services as it exercises in performing
the same or similar services for its own account, with priority equal to that
provided to its own businesses. Nothing in this Agreement shall require any
party in its capacity as Provider to favor the businesses of a Recipient over
its own businesses.

          (b)  No Provider shall be required to provide the Recipient of
Transition Services with a quantity of Transition Services in excess of that
provided by Provider as of the date of this Agreement and shall specifically not
be required to provide extraordinary levels of Transition Services, special
studies, training, or the like or the advantage of systems, equipment,
facilities, training, or improvements procured, obtained or made after the
Distribution Date by such Provider.

          (c)  Transition Services provided by third parties shall be subject to
the terms and conditions of this Agreement and any agreements between the
Provider of such Transition Services and such third parties.

     1.5  Corrective Efforts.  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary
          ------------------
contained in this Agreement, if a Provider incorrectly performs any Transition
Service, the Provider, at the Recipient's request, shall use commercially
reasonable efforts to correct or re-perform the Transition Service at no
additional cost to the Recipient, but shall have no other obligation to correct
the subject Transition Service. In the event Recipient does not request such
correction of the Transition Service or Provider does not correct the
performance, any damages recoverable by Recipient shall be limited to the amount
paid by Recipient to Provider for the item of Service in respect of which a
claim is made. IN NO EVENT SHALL EITHER PARTY BE LIABLE TO THE OTHER FOR ANY
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, OR LOSS OF PROFITS OR OPPORTUNITIES, OR ANY
EXEMPLARY OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH OF THIS AGREEMENT,
REGARDLESS OF THE CIRCUMSTANCES FROM WHICH SUCH DAMAGES AROSE.

     1.6  Force Majeure.  Any failure or omission by a party in the performance
          -------------
of any obligation under this Agreement shall not be deemed a breach of this
Agreement or create any liability, if the failure or omission arises from any
cause or causes beyond the control of the party, including, but not limited to,
the following, which for purposes of this Agreement shall be regarded as beyond
the control of each of the parties hereto: acts of God, fire, storm, flood,
earthquake, governmental regulation or direction, acts of the public enemy, war,
rebellion, insurrection, riot, invasion, strike or lockout; provided, however,
                                                            --------  ------- 
that the party shall resume the performance whenever such causes are removed.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a party cannot perform under this Agreement

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
for a period of 45 days due to such cause or causes, the affected party may
terminate this Agreement with the defaulting party by providing written notice
thereto.

     1.7  Modification of Procedures.  Each party, in its capacity as Provider,
          --------------------------                                        
may make changes from time to time in its standards and procedures for
performing any of the Transition Services for which it is responsible; provided,
                                                                       --------
however, that, except as provided in Section 1.1(b) or required by Law, no party
- ------- 
in its capacity as Provider shall implement any substantial changes affecting a
Recipient of a Transition Service unless:

          (a)  Provider has furnished Recipient notice (which shall be the same
notice such Provider shall provide its own businesses) thereof;

          (b)  Provider changes the procedures for its own businesses at the
same time; and

          (c)  Provider gives Recipient a reasonable period of time for
Recipient (i) to adapt its operations to accommodate the changes or (ii) to
reject the proposed changes. In the event Recipient fails to accept or reject a
proposed change on or before a date specified in the notice of change, Recipient
shall be deemed to have accepted the change. Subject to Section 1.8, in the
event Recipient rejects a proposed change but does not terminate the provision
of the Transition Service, Recipient shall pay any charges resulting from
Provider's need to maintain different versions of the same systems, procedures,
technologies, or services or resulting from requirements of third party vendors
or suppliers.

     1.8  No Obligation to Continue to Use Services.  Except as provided in the
          -----------------------------------------                            
Schedules, no Recipient shall have any obligation to continue to use any of the
Transition Services and a Recipient may delete any or all Transition Services
from the Transition Services that a Provider is providing to the Recipient by
giving the Provider written notice thereof in accordance with the notice
provisions of this Agreement and the applicable Schedules.

     1.9  Provider Access.  Recipient shall provide the personnel of a Provider
          ---------------                                                      
with access to its equipment, office space, plants, telecommunications and
computer equipment and systems, and any other areas and equipment to the extent
reasonably required for personnel of a Provider to perform any Transition
Service.

                                  ARTICLE II

                                 COMPENSATION

     2.1  Consideration.  As consideration for the Transition Services, each 
          -------------                                                      
party in its capacity as Recipient shall pay to each Provider the aggregate
amount specified in the Schedules relating to the Transition Services provided
by Provider to Recipient.

     2.2  Invoices.  The monthly fixed charges or fees for Transition Services
          --------  
set forth on the Schedules shall be paid on the first day of each month in which
the Transition Services are to be performed. Any fees not payable as fixed
amounts shall be invoiced monthly by the Provider to the Recipient no later than
the 30th day of the calendar month next following the calendar month in which
the Transition Services were performed. All invoices shall be sent by the
Provider to the Recipient at the following address or to such other address as
the Recipient shall have specified by notice in writing to the Provider of the
Transition Services:

          To HCS:


          Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
          3100 Hansen Way
          Palo Alto, California  94304-1030
          Attention:  Chief Financial Officer
          Fax: (___) ___-____

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
          To IB:

          Varian, Inc.                                    
          3120 Hansen Way                                 
          Palo Alto, California  94303-1030               
          Attention:  Chief Financial Officer             
          Fax: (___) ___-____                             
                                                          
          To SEB:                                         
                                                          
          Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. 
          35 Dory Road                                    
          Gloucester, Massachusetts  01930                
          Attention:  Chief Financial Officer             
          Fax: (___) ___-____                              

     2.3  Payment of Amounts Due.  Payment of all amounts due for Transition
          ----------------------                                            
Services shall be made by check or electronic funds transmission in U.S.
Dollars, without any offset or deduction of any nature whatsoever, within 30
days of the invoice date or as specified in the applicable Schedules.  All
payments shall be made in accordance with the terms of the applicable Schedules,
the instructions set forth on or accompanying the invoice or as otherwise agreed
to in writing between the relevant Provider and the relevant Recipient.  Books
and Records of a Provider pertaining to the services provided and all reimbursed
costs shall be available for inspection and audit by the Recipient during normal
business hours for three months following the delivery of the invoice for the
period for which the Transition Services were provided.

     2.4  Provider's Rights on Failure to Pay.  If any fixed fee or invoice is 
          -----------------------------------                                
not paid when due, the Provider shall have the right, in its sole and absolute
discretion, without any liability to the Recipient that has not paid such fixed
fee or  invoice or anyone claiming by or through the Recipient, to immediately
cease providing any or all of the Transition Services provided by the Provider
to the Recipient until such payment is received.

                                  ARTICLE III

                                CONFIDENTIALITY

     3.1  Obligation.
          ---------- 

          (a)  All information with respect to any Recipient obtained by a party
in its capacity as Provider shall be held and used by Provider only in
accordance with Section 6.03 of the Distribution Agreement.

          (b)  All information with respect to any Provider obtained by a party
in its capacity as Recipient shall be held and used by the Recipient only in
accordance with Section 6.03 of the Distribution Agreement.

                                  ARTICLE IV

                             TERM AND TERMINATION

     4.1  Term.  This Agreement shall become effective on the Distribution Date 
          ----                                                               
and shall remain in force with respect to a party until the expiration of the
longest Time Period specified in any Schedule affecting such party as either
Provider or Recipient, including any extension thereof, unless all of the
Transition Services to be performed or received by such party are deleted or
this Agreement is earlier terminated with respect to such party, in each case,
in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

     4.2  Extension. The Time Period for which a Transition Service shall be
          ---------                                                         
provided may be extended by written agreement among the Recipient and the
Provider of the Transition Service.

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
     4.3  Termination.  If any party (the "Defaulting Party") shall fail to 
          -----------                                                       
perform or default in the performance of any of its obligations under this
Agreement (other than a payment default subject to Section 2.4), the party
entitled to the benefit of the performance (the "Non-Defaulting Party") may give
written notice to the Defaulting Party specifying the nature of the failure or
default and stating that the Non-Defaulting Party intends to terminate this
Agreement with respect to the Defaulting Party if the failure or default is not
cured within 30 days of the written notice. If any failure or default so
specified is not cured within the 30-day period, the Non-Defaulting Party may
elect immediately to terminate this Agreement with respect to the Defaulting
Party; provided, however, that if the failure or default relates to a dispute
       --------  -------
contested in good faith by the Defaulting Party, the Non-Defaulting Party may
not terminate this Agreement pending resolution of the dispute in accordance
with Article V hereof. Such termination shall be effective upon giving a written
notice of termination from the Non-Defaulting Party to the Defaulting Party and
shall be without prejudice to any other remedy which may be available to the 
Non-Defaulting Party against the Defaulting Party.

     4.4  Termination of Obligations.  All obligations of each Provider to 
          --------------------------                                       
provide each Transition Service for which the Provider is responsible shall
immediately cease upon the expiration of the Time Period (and any extension
thereof in accordance with Section 4.2) for the Transition Service, and each
Provider's obligations to provide all of the Transition Services for which the
Provider is responsible shall immediately cease upon the termination of this
Agreement with respect to the Provider and all relevant Recipients. Upon the
cessation of a Provider's obligation to provide any Transition Service, the
Recipient of the Transition Service shall immediately cease using, directly or
indirectly, the Transition Service (including, without limitation, any and all
software of Provider or third party software provided through Provider,
telecommunications services or equipment, or computer systems or equipment).

     4.5  Survival of Certain Obligations.  Without prejudice to the survival of
          -------------------------------                                       
the other agreements of the parties, the following obligations shall survive the
termination of this Agreement: (a) the obligations of each party under Articles
III, IV and VI; and (b) each Provider's right to receive the compensation for
the Transition Services provided in Section 2.1 accruing prior to the effective
date of termination.

                                   ARTICLE V

                              DISPUTE RESOLUTION

     5.1  Distribution Agreement to Control.  Any and all controversies, 
          ---------------------------------                                 
disputes or claims arising out of, relating to, in connection with or resulting
from this Agreement (or any amendment thereto or any transaction contemplated
hereby or thereby), including as to its existence, interpretation, performance,
non-performance, validity, breach or termination, including any claim based on
contract, tort, statute or constitution and any claim raising questions of law,
whether arising before or after termination of this Agreement, shall be deemed
an Agreement Dispute as defined in Section 9.01 of the Distribution Agreement
and shall be resolved exclusively by, in accordance with, and subject to the
limitations set forth in Article IX of the Distribution Agreement.

                                  ARTICLE VI

                          INSURANCE; INDEMNIFICATION

     6.1  Insurance and Indemnity.   Each party shall comply with all applicable
          -----------------------                                               
workers' compensation statutes either by obtaining a policy with the limits
required by law or by qualifying legally to self insure.  Each party shall, or
shall cause its insurer to, waive the right of subrogation or recovery against
any other party in connection with this Agreement for any work-related injury or
disease.  Each party shall carry employer's liability insurance with minimum
limits of $1,000,000 per accident.  Each party shall carry general liability
insurance, with minimum limits of $1,000,000 per occurrence, to cover such
party's indemnification  obligations under this Agreement.  Each party shall
carry automobile liability insurance to cover claims arising out of the
operation, maintenance or use of any motor vehicles owned, hired, rented or used
by such party in connection with this Agreement.

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
     A party in its capacity as Provider shall not be responsible to a Recipient
for damage to the Recipient's real or personal property at Recipient's premises,
or any other place, when Recipient's property is in the care, custody or control
of Provider.

     All deductibles or self insured retentions, on policies of insurance
required to be maintained under this Agreement, will be borne by the responsible
parties as set forth in Sections 6.2 and 6.3 below.

     6.2  Recipients' Indemnity for Services.  Each party in its capacity as
          ----------------------------------                                
Recipient shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless each Provider, and the
Provider's directors, officers, employees and agents, against any and all
Liabilities incurred by any of them in connection with Transition Services
provided under this Agreement except to the extent arising out of, relating to
or resulting from Provider's gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

     6.3  Providers' Indemnity for Services.   Each party in its capacity as
          ---------------------------------                                 
Provider shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless each Recipient, and the
Recipient's directors, officers, employees and agents, against all Liabilities
incurred by any of them in connection with Transition Services provided under
this Agreement to the extent arising out of, relating to or resulting from
Provider's gross negligence or intentional misconduct;  provided, however, that
                                                        --------  -------      
any Liabilities claimed by Recipient and the Recipient's directors, officers,
employees and agents shall be limited to the amount of the charges paid to
Provider for such item of Transition Service in respect of which a claim is
made; and provided, further, that Provider will defend, indemnify and hold
          --------  -------                                               
harmless each Recipient of Transition Services from such Provider, and such
Recipient's directors, officers, employees and agents, against all Liabilities
incurred by any of them in connection with the Provider's operation, maintenance
or use of a motor vehicle in the course of providing Transition Services to the
Recipient.

                                  ARTICLE VII

                                 MISCELLANEOUS

     7.1  Complete Agreement; Construction.  This Agreement, including the
          --------------------------------                                
Schedules hereto, the Distribution Agreement and the other Ancillary Agreements
shall constitute the entire agreement among the parties with respect to the
subject matter hereof and shall supersede all prior agreements, negotiations,
commitments and writings with respect to such subject matter.  In the event of
any inconsistency between this Agreement and any Schedule hereto, the Schedule
shall prevail.  In the event of any inconsistency between this Agreement and the
Distribution Agreement, this Agreement shall prevail except for inconsistencies
with respect to Sections 5.05 and 6.07 and Article IX of the Distribution
Agreement, which sections shall prevail over any inconsistent provision of this
Agreement.

     7.2  Other Agreements.  This Agreement is not intended to address, and 
          ---------------- 
should not be interpreted to address, the matters expressly covered by the
Distribution Agreement and the other Ancillary Agreements.

     7.3  Counterparts.  This Agreement may be executed in two or more
          ------------                                                
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original but all of which
together shall constitute one and the same Agreement.

     7.4  Notices.  All Notices required or permitted under this Agreement shall
          ------- 
be in writing and shall be sufficiently given or made (a) if hand delivered or
sent by telecopy (with delivery confirmed by voice or otherwise), (b) if sent by
nationally recognized overnight courier or (c) if sent by registered or
certified U.S. mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, and in each case
addressed as follows:

               If to HCS:

               Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
               3100 Hansen Way
               Palo Alto, California  94304-1030
               Attn:  Chief Financial Officer
               Telecopy (650) ___-____

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
               with a copy to:


               Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
               3100 Hansen Way
               Palo Alto, California  94304-1030
               Attn:  General Counsel
               Telecopy: (650) ___-____

               If to IB:


               Varian, Inc.
               3120 Hansen Way
               Palo Alto, California  94303-1030
               Attn:  Chief Financial Officer
               Telecopy (650) ___-____

               with a copy to:


               Varian, Inc.
               3120 Hansen Way
               Palo Alto, California  94303-1030
               Attn: General Counsel
               Telecopy: (650) ___-____

               If to SEB:


               Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.
               35 Dory Road
               Gloucester, Massachusetts  01930
               Attn:  Chief Financial Officer
               Telecopy (978) ___-____

               with a copy to:


               Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.
               35 Dory Road
               Gloucester, Massachusetts  01930
               Attn: General Counsel
               Telecopy: (978) ___-____

or at such other address as shall be furnished by any of the parties in a
Notice.  Any Notice shall be deemed to have been duly given or made when the
Notice is received.

     7.5  Waivers.  The failure of any party to require strict performance by 
          -------                                                             
any other party of any provision in or  rights and remedies with respect to this
Agreement will not waive or diminish that party's right to demand strict
performance thereafter of that or any other provision hereof or right or remedy.

     7.6  Amendments.  After the execution of this Agreement by all parties, and
          ----------                                                            
solely to the extent that a change is desired by and restricted to any two
parties without affecting the rights of the third party hereto, such two parties
may separately amend in writing any provision of this Agreement which governs
the rights exchanged between them without notifying the third party hereto.
Except as expressly provided herein, this Agreement may be amended or
supplemented or its provisions waived only by an agreement in writing signed by
each of the parties.

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
     7.7  Assignment.
          ---------- 

          (a)  No party to this Agreement shall (i) consolidate with or merge
into any Person or permit any Person to consolidate with or merge into such
party (other than a merger or consolidation in which the party is the surviving
or continuing corporation), or (ii) sell, assign, transfer, lease or otherwise
dispose of, in one transaction or a series of related transactions, all or
substantially all of its Assets, unless the resulting, surviving or transferee
Person expressly assumes, by instrument in form and substance reasonably
satisfactory to the other parties, all of the obligations of the party under
this Agreement.

          (b)  Except as expressly provided in paragraph (a), neither this
Agreement nor any of the rights, interests or obligations hereunder shall be
assignable, directly or indirectly, by any party without the prior written
consent of the other parties, and any attempt to so assign without such consent
shall be void.

     7.8  Successors and Assigns.  Subject to Section 7.7, this Agreement shall
          ----------------------      
be binding upon, inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the successors
and permitted assigns of the parties.

     7.9  Third Party Beneficiaries.  This Agreement is solely for the benefit 
          -------------------------
of the parties and the members of their respective Groups and Affiliates and
their respective successors and assigns and should not be deemed to confer upon
third parties any remedy, claim, liability, reimbursement, cause of action or
other right in excess of those existing without reference to this Agreement.

     7.10 Schedules.  The Schedules shall be construed with and as an integral 
          ---------                                                             
part of this Agreement to the same extent as if they had been set forth verbatim
herein.

     7.11 Governing Law.  This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed and
          -------------                                                         
enforced in accordance with, the Law of the State of Delaware without regard to
the principles of conflicts of Laws thereunder.  Notwithstanding the foregoing,
the Federal Arbitration Act, 9 U.S.C. (S)(S)1-15, shall govern the arbitrability
of disputes.

     7.12 Severability.  If any provision of this Agreement or the application
          ------------                                                        
thereof to any Person or circumstance is determined to be invalid, void or
unenforceable in any respect, the remaining provisions hereof, the application
of such provision to Persons or circumstances other than those as to which it
has been held invalid, void or unenforceable, shall remain in full force and
effect and in no way be affected, impaired or invalidated thereby, so long as
the economic or legal substance of the transactions contemplated hereby is not
affected in any manner adverse to any party.

     7.13 Subsidiaries.  Each of the parties shall cause to be performed, and
          ------------                                                       
hereby guarantees the performance of, all actions, agreements and obligations
set forth herein to be performed by any Subsidiary of such party or by any
entity that is contemplated to be a Subsidiary of such party on and after the
Distribution Date.

     7.14 Title and Headings.  Titles and headings to sections herein are 
          ------------------  
inserted for the convenience of reference only and are not intended to be a part
of or to affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.

     7.15 Laws and Government Regulations.  Each party in its capacity as 
          -------------------------------   
Recipient shall be responsible for (a) compliance with all Laws affecting its
businesses and (b) any use it may make of the Transition Services to assist it
in complying with such Laws . While a party in its capacity as Provider shall
not have any responsibility for the compliance by any Recipient with such Laws,
Provider shall use reasonable commercial efforts to cause the Transition
Services to be designed in such manner that the Transition Services shall be
able to assist the Recipient in complying with applicable legal and regulatory
responsibilities.

     7.16 Relationship of Parties.  Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed
          ----------------------- 
to create a partnership, agency or other relationship between the parties or to
make any party liable for any debts or obligations incurred by another party.

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
     7.17  Definitions.  Capitalized terms used in this Agreement and not
           ----------- 
otherwise defined herein have the meanings ascribed to such terms in Article I,
Section 1.01 of the Distribution Agreement.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Transition Services
Agreement to be executed as of the day and year first above written.

                              VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.



                              By:_____________________________________
                                   Name:
                                   Title:


                              VARIAN, INC.


                              By:_____________________________________
                                   Name:
                                   Title:


                              VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.


                              By:_____________________________________
                                   Name:
                                   Title:
 

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
               FORM OF SCHEDULE TO TRANSITION SERVICES AGREEMENT

     Description of Transition Service (including the identity of the
Recipient(s) of such Transition Service):

     Payment:

     Time Period (including terms of extension, if any):

     Service Coordinator for Provider:

     Service Coordinator for each Recipient:

     Notice Period for Deletion of Transition Services:

     Any Other Terms:

                                       10

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 10.7

                                 VARIAN, INC.

                              OMNIBUS STOCK PLAN
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                        
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                            Page
<S>                                                                         <C> 
SECTION 1      BACKGROUND, PURPOSE AND DURATION............................   1

      1.1   Effective Date.................................................   1
      1.2   Purpose of the Plan............................................   1

SECTION 2      DEFINITIONS.................................................   1
      2.1   "1934 Act".....................................................   1
      2.2   "Affiliate"....................................................   1
      2.3   "Award"........................................................   1
      2.4   "Award Agreement"..............................................   1
      2.5   "Board"........................................................   1
      2.6   "Code".........................................................   1
      2.7   "Committee"....................................................   1
      2.8   "Company"......................................................   1
      2.9   "Consultant"...................................................   1
      2.10  "Director".....................................................   1
      2.11  "Disability"...................................................   2
      2.12  "EBIT".........................................................   2
      2.13  "EBITDA".......................................................   2
      2.14  "Earnings Per Share"...........................................   2
      2.15  "Employee".....................................................   2
      2.16  "Exercise Price"...............................................   2
      2.17  "Fair Market Value"............................................   2
      2.18  "Fiscal Year"..................................................   2
      2.19  "Grant Date"...................................................   2
      2.20  "Incentive Stock Option".......................................   2
      2.21  "Net Income"...................................................   2
      2.22  "Non-employee Director"........................................   2
      2.23  "Non-qualified Stock Option"...................................   2
      2.24  "Operating Cash Flow"..........................................   2
      2.25  "Option".......................................................   2
      2.26  "Participant"..................................................   3
      2.27  "Performance Goals"............................................   3
      2.28  "Performance Period"...........................................   3
      2.29  "Performance Share"............................................   3
      2.30  "Performance Unit".............................................   3
      2.31  "Period of Restriction"........................................   3
      2.32  "Plan".........................................................   3
      2.33  "Restricted Stock".............................................   3
      2.34  "Retirement"...................................................   3
      2.35  "Return on Assets".............................................   3
      2.36  "Return on Equity..............................................   3
      2.37  "Return on Sales"..............................................   3
      2.38  "Revenue"......................................................   3
      2.39  "Rule 16b-3"...................................................   3
      2.40  "Section 16 Person"............................................   4
      2.41  "Shareholder Return"...........................................   4
      2.42  "Shares".......................................................   4
      2.43  "Stock Appreciation Right".....................................   4
      2.44  "Subsidiary"...................................................   4
      2.45  "Termination of Service".......................................   4
      2.46  "VAI"..........................................................   4
</TABLE>

                                      -i-
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                  (continued)


<TABLE>
<CAPTION> 
                                                                            Page
<S>                                                                         <C> 
SECTION 3      ADMINISTRATION..............................................   4

      3.1  The Committee...................................................   4
      3.2  Authority of the Committee......................................   4
      3.3  Delegation by the Committee.....................................   4
      3.4  Non-employee Directors..........................................   5
      3.5  Decisions Binding...............................................   5

SECTION 4      SHARES SUBJECT TO THE PLAN..................................   5

      4.1  Number of Shares................................................   5
      4.2  Lapsed Awards...................................................   5
      4.3  Adjustments in Awards and Authorized Shares.....................   5

SECTION 5      STOCK OPTIONS...............................................   5

      5.1  Grant of Options................................................   5
      5.2  Award Agreement.................................................   5
      5.3  Exercise Price..................................................   5

           5.3.1  Non-qualified Stock Options..............................   6
           5.3.2  Incentive Stock Options..................................   6
           5.3.3  Substitute Options.......................................   6

      5.4  Expiration of Options...........................................   6

           5.4.1  Expiration Dates.........................................   6
           5.4.2  Death of Participant.....................................   6
           5.4.3  Committee Discretion.....................................   6

      5.5  Exercisability of Options.......................................   6
      5.6  Payment.........................................................   7
      5.7  Restrictions on Share Transferability...........................   7
      5.8  Certain Additional Provisions for Incentive Stock Options.......   7

           5.8.1  Exercisability...........................................   7
           5.8.2  Termination of Service...................................   7
           5.8.3  Company and Subsidiaries Only............................   7
           5.8.4  Expiration...............................................   7

      5.9  Grant of Reload Options.........................................   7

SECTION 6      STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS...................................   8

      6.1  Grant of SARs...................................................   8
      6.2  Exercise Price and Other Terms..................................   8
      6.3  SAR Agreement...................................................   8
      6.4  Expiration of SARs..............................................   8
      6.5  Payment of SAR Amount...........................................   8
      6.6  Payment Upon Exercise of SAR....................................   8

SECTION 7      RESTRICTED STOCK............................................   8

      7.1  Grant of Restricted Stock.......................................   8
      7.2  Restricted Stock Agreement......................................   8
      7.3  Transferability.................................................   8
      7.4  Other Restrictions..............................................   8

           7.4.1  General Restrictions.....................................   9
           7.4.2  Section 162(m) Performance Restrictions..................   9
           7.4.3  Legend on Certificates...................................   9
</TABLE>

                                     -ii-
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                  (continued)

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                            Page
<S>                                                                         <C> 
      7.5    Removal of Restrictions.......................................   9
      7.6    Voting Rights.................................................   9
      7.7    Dividends and Other Distributions.............................   9
      7.8    Return of Restricted Stock to Company.........................   9

SECTION 8        PERFORMANCE UNITS AND PERFORMANCE SHARES..................   9

      8.1    Grant of Performance Units and Shares.........................   9
      8.2    Initial Value.................................................   9
      8.3    Performance Objectives and Other Terms........................  10

             8.3.1  General Performance Objectives.........................  10
             8.3.2  Section 162(m) Performance Objectives..................  10

      8.4    Earning of Performance Units and Performance Shares...........  10
      8.5    Form and Timing of Payment....................................  10
      8.6    Cancellation..................................................  10

SECTION 9        NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTORS....................................  10

      9.1    Granting of Options...........................................  10

             9.1.1  Non-employee Directors.................................  10
             9.1.2  Chairman...............................................  11

      9.2    Terms of Options..............................................  11

             9.2.1  Option Agreement.......................................  11
             9.2.2  Exercise Price.........................................  11
             9.2.3  Exercisability.........................................  11
             9.2.4  Expiration of Options..................................  11
             9.2.5  Death of Director......................................  11
             9.2.6  Not Incentive Stock Options............................  11
             9.2.7  Other Terms............................................  11

      9.3    Substitute Options............................................  11
      9.4    Elections by Non-employee Directors...........................  12

SECTION 10      MISCELLANEOUS..............................................  12

      10.1   No Effect on Employment or Service............................  12
      10.2   Participation.................................................  12
      10.3   Indemnification...............................................  12
      10.4   Successors....................................................  12
      10.5   Beneficiary Designations......................................  12
      10.6   Nontransferability of Awards..................................  12
      10.7   No Rights as Stockholder......................................  12
      10.8   Withholding Requirements......................................  13
      10.9   Withholding Arrangements......................................  13
      10.10  Deferrals.....................................................  13

SECTION 11      AMENDMENT, TERMINATION AND DURATION........................  13

      11.1   Amendment, Suspension or Termination..........................  13
      11.2   Duration of the Plan..........................................  13

SECTION 12      LEGAL CONSTRUCTION.........................................  13

      12.1   Gender and Number.............................................  13
      12.2   Severability..................................................  13
      12.3   Requirements of Law...........................................  13
      12.4   Governing Law.................................................  13
      12.5   Captions......................................................  14
</TABLE>

                                     -iii-
<PAGE>
 
                                 VARIAN, INC.
                              OMNIBUS STOCK PLAN

                                   SECTION 1
                       BACKGROUND, PURPOSE AND DURATION

          1.1    Effective Date.  The Plan is effective as of the date on which
                 --------------                              
VAI distributes the Company's Shares to the stockholders of VAI, subject to the
approval of the Plan by a majority of the shares of the common stock of VAI
which are present in person or by proxy and entitled to vote at the 1999 Annual
and Special Meeting of the Stockholders of VAI.

          1.2    Purpose of the Plan.  The Plan is intended to increase
                 -------------------                                 
incentives and to encourage Share ownership on the part of (1) employees of the
Company and its Affiliates, (2) consultants who provide significant services to
the Company and its Affiliates, and (3) directors of the Company who are
employees of neither the Company nor any Affiliate. The Plan also is intended to
further the growth and profitability of the Company. The Plan is intended to
permit the grant of Awards that qualify as performance-based compensation under
section 162(m) of the Code.

                                   SECTION 2
                                  DEFINITIONS

          The following words and phrases shall have the following meanings
unless a different meaning is plainly required by the context:

          2.1    "1934 Act" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
                  --------                                              
amended. Reference to a specific section of the 1934 Act or regulation
thereunder shall include such section or regulation, any valid regulation
promulgated under such section, and any comparable provision of any future
legislation or regulation amending, supplementing or superseding such section or
regulation.

          2.2    "Affiliate" means any corporation or any other entity
                  ---------                                  
(including, but not limited to, partnerships and joint ventures) controlling,
controlled by, or under common control with the Company.

          2.3    "Award" means, individually or collectively, a grant under the
                  -----                                                        
Plan of Non-qualified Stock Options, Incentive Stock Options, SARs, Restricted
Stock, Performance Units or Performance Shares.

          2.4    "Award Agreement" means the written agreement setting forth the
                  ---------------                                               
terms and provisions applicable to each Award granted under the Plan.

          2.5    "Board" means the Board of Directors of the Company.
                  -----                                              

          2.6    "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
                  ----                                                       
Reference to a specific section of the Code or regulation thereunder shall
include such section or regulation, any valid regulation promulgated thereunder,
and any comparable provision of any future legislation or regulation amending,
supplementing or superseding such section or regulation.

          2.7    "Committee" means the committee appointed by the Board 
                  ---------         
(pursuant to Section 3.1) to administer the Plan.

          2.8    "Company" means Varian, Inc., a Delaware corporation, or any
                  -------                                                    
successor thereto.

          2.9    "Consultant" means any consultant, independent contractor, or 
                  ----------  
other person who provides significant services to the Company or its Affiliates,
but who is neither an Employee nor a Director.

          2.10   "Director" means any individual who is a member of the Board.
                  --------                                                    

                                      C-1
<PAGE>
 
          2.11   "Disability" means a permanent and total disability within the
                  ----------                                                   
meaning of section 22(e)(3) of the Code, provided that in the case of Awards
other than Incentive Stock Options, the Committee in its discretion may
determine whether a permanent and total disability exists in accordance with
uniform and non-discriminatory standards adopted by the Committee from time to
time.

          2.12   "EBIT" means as to any Performance Period, the Company's or a 
                  ----               
business unit's income before reductions for interest and taxes, determined in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

          2.13   "EBITDA" means as to any Performance Period, the Company's or a
                  ------                                                        
business unit's income before reductions for interest, taxes, depreciation and
amortization, determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles.

          2.14   "Earnings Per Share" means as to any Performance Period, the
                  ------------------                                         
Company's or a business unit's Net Income, divided by a weighted average number
of common shares outstanding and dilutive common equivalent shares deemed
outstanding, determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles.

          2.15   "Employee" means any employee of the Company or of an 
                  --------          
Affiliate, whether such employee is so employed at the time the Plan is adopted
or becomes so employed subsequent to the adoption of the Plan.

          2.16   "Exercise Price" means the price at which a Share may be 
                  --------------       
purchased by a Participant pursuant to the exercise of an Option.

          2.17   "Fair Market Value" means the last quoted per share selling 
                  -----------------            
price for Shares on the relevant date, or if there were no sales on such date,
the arithmetic mean of the highest and lowest quoted selling prices on the
nearest day before and the nearest day after the relevant date, as determined by
the Committee. Notwithstanding the preceding, for federal, state and local
income tax reporting purposes, fair market value shall be determined by the
Committee in accordance with uniform and nondiscriminatory standards adopted by
it from time to time.

          2.18   "Fiscal Year" means the fiscal year of the Company.
                  -----------                                       

          2.19   "Grant Date" means, with respect to an Award, the date that the
                  ----------                                                    
Award was granted.

          2.20   "Incentive Stock Option" means an Option to purchase Shares 
                  ----------------------        
which is designated as an Incentive Stock Option and is intended to meet the
requirements of section 422 of the Code.

          2.21   "Net Income" means as to any Performance Period, the Company's 
                  ----------       
or a business unit's income after taxes, determined in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles.

          2.22   "Non-employee Director" means a Director who is an employee of
                  ---------------------                                        
neither the Company nor of any Affiliate.

          2.23   "Non-qualified Stock Option" means an option to purchase Shares
                  --------------------------                                    
which is not intended to be an Incentive Stock Option.

          2.24   "Operating Cash Flow" means as to any Performance Period, the
                  -------------------                                         
Company's or a business unit's sum of Net Income plus depreciation and
amortization less capital expenditures plus changes in working capital comprised
of accounts receivable, inventories, other current assets, trade accounts
payable, accrued expenses, product warranty, advance payments from customers and
long-term accrued expenses, determined in accordance with generally acceptable
accounting principles.

          2.25   "Option" means an Incentive Stock Option or a Non-qualified 
                  ------           
Stock Option.

                                      C-2
<PAGE>
 
          2.26   "Participant" means an Employee, Consultant, or Non-employee
                  -----------                                                
Director who has an outstanding Award.

          2.27   "Performance Goals" means the goal(s) (or combined goal(s))
                  -----------------                                         
determined by the Committee (in its discretion) to be applicable to a
Participant with respect to an Award.  As determined by the Committee, the
Performance Goals applicable to an Award may provide for a targeted level or
levels of achievement using one or more of the following measures: (a) EBIT, (b)
EBITDA, (c) Earnings Per Share, (d) Net Income, (e) Operating Cash Flow, (f)
Return on Assets, (g) Return on Equity, (h) Return on Sales, (i) Revenue, and
(j) Shareholder Return. The Performance Goals may differ from Participant to
Participant and from Award to Award. Prior to the Determination Date, the
Committee shall determine whether any significant element(s) shall be included
in or excluded from the calculation of any Performance Goal with respect to any
Participant. "Determination Date" means the latest possible date that will not
jeopardize an Award's qualification as performance-based compensation under
section 162(m) of the Code. Notwithstanding the previous sentence, for Awards
not intended to qualify as performance-based compensation, "Determination Date"
shall mean such date as the Committee may determine in its discretion.

          2.28   "Performance Period" means any fiscal period not to exceed 
                  ------------------             
three consecutive Fiscal Years, as determined by the Committee in its sole
discretion.

          2.29   "Performance Share" means a Performance Share granted to a
                  -----------------                                        
Participant pursuant to Section 8.

          2.30   "Performance Unit" means a Performance Unit granted to a 
                  ----------------      
Participant pursuant to Section 8.

          2.31   "Period of Restriction" means the period during which shares of
                  ---------------------                                         
Restricted Stock are subject to forfeiture and/or restrictions on
transferability.

          2.32   "Plan" means the Varian, Inc. Omnibus Stock Plan, as set forth 
                  ----           
in this instrument and as hereafter amended from time to time.

          2.33   "Restricted Stock" means an Award granted to a Participant 
                  ----------------      
pursuant to Section 7.

          2.34   "Retirement" means, in the case of an Employee or a 
                  ----------      
Non-employee Director, "Retirement" as defined pursuant to the Company's or the
Board's Retirement Policies, as they may be established from time to time. With
respect to a Consultant, no Termination of Service shall be deemed to be on
account of "Retirement."

          2.35   "Return on Assets" means as to any Performance Period, the
                  ----------------                                         
percentage equal to the Company's or a business unit's EBIT before incentive
compensation, divided by average net Company or business unit, as applicable,
assets, determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

          2.36   "Return on Equity" means as to any Performance Period, the
                  ----------------                                         
percentage equal to the Company's Net Income divided by average stockholder's
equity, determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

          2.37   "Return on Sales" means as to any Performance Period, the 
                  ---------------     
percentage equal to the Company's or a business unit's EBIT before incentive
compensation, divided by the Company's or the business unit's, as applicable,
Revenue, determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

          2.38   "Revenue" means as to any Performance Period, the Company's or
                  -------        
a business unit's net sales, determined in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles.

          2.39   "Rule 16b-3" means Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the 1934 Act, 
                  ----------           
as amended, and any future regulation amending, supplementing or superseding
such regulation.

                                      C-3
<PAGE>
 
          2.40   "Section 16 Person" means a person who, with respect to the 
                  -----------------       
Shares, is subject to section 16 of the 1934 Act.

          2.41   "Shareholder Return" means as to any Performance Period, the 
                  ------------------       
total return (change in share price plus reinvestment of any dividends) of a
Share.

          2.42   "Shares" means shares of the Company's common stock, $.01 par 
                  ------         
value.

          2.43   "Stock Appreciation Right" or "SAR" means an Award, granted 
                  ------------------------    
alone, in connection or in tandem with a related Option, that pursuant to
Section 6 is designated as a SAR.

          2.44   "Subsidiary" means any corporation in an unbroken chain of
                  ----------                                               
corporations beginning with the Company if each of the corporations other than
the last corporation in the unbroken chain then owns stock possessing fifty
percent (50%) or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock
in one of the other corporations in such chain.

          2.45   "Termination of Service" means (a) in the case of an Employee, 
                  ----------------------     
a cessation of the employee-employer relationship between an Employee and the
Company or an Affiliate for any reason, including, but not by way of limitation,
a termination by resignation, discharge, death, Disability, Retirement, or the
disaffiliation of an Affiliate, but excluding any such termination where there
is a simultaneous reemployment by the Company or an Affiliate; (b) in the case
of a Consultant, a cessation of the service relationship between a Consultant
and the Company or an Affiliate for any reason, including, but not by way of
limitation, a termination by resignation, discharge, death, Disability, or the
disaffiliation of an Affiliate, but excluding any such termination where there
is a simultaneous re-engagement of the consultant by the Company or an
Affiliate; and (c) in the case of a Non-employee Director, a cessation of the
Non-employee Director's service on the Board for any reason.

          2.46   "VAI" means Varian Associates, Inc., a Delaware corporation.
                  ---                                                        

                                   SECTION 3
                                ADMINISTRATION

          3.1    The Committee.  The Plan shall be administered by the 
                 -------------       
Committee. The Committee shall consist of not less than two (2) Directors. The
members of the Committee shall be appointed from time to time by, and serve at
the pleasure of, the Board. Each member of the Committee shall qualify as (a) a
"non-employee director" under Rule 16b-3, and (b) an "outside director" under
section 162(m) of the Code. If it is later determined that one or more members
of the Committee do not so qualify, actions taken by the Committee prior to such
determination shall be valid despite such failure to qualify.

          3.2    Authority of the Committee.  It shall be the duty of the 
                 --------------------------     
Committee to administer the Plan in accordance with the Plan's provisions. The
Committee shall have all powers and discretion necessary or appropriate to
administer the Plan and to control its operation, including, but not limited to,
the power to (a) determine which Employees and Consultants shall be granted
Awards, (b) prescribe the terms and conditions of the Awards (other than the
Options granted to Non-employee Directors pursuant to Section 9), (c) interpret
the Plan and the Awards, (d) adopt such procedures and subplans as are necessary
or appropriate to permit participation in the Plan by Employees, Consultants and
Directors who are foreign nationals or employed outside of the United States,
(e) adopt rules for the administration, interpretation and application of the
Plan as are consistent therewith, and (f) interpret, amend or revoke any such
rules. Notwithstanding any contrary provision of the Plan, the Committee may
reduce the amount payable under any Award (other than an Option) after the grant
of such Award.

          3.3    Delegation by the Committee.  The Committee, in its sole 
                 ---------------------------       
discretion and on such terms and conditions as it may provide, may delegate all
or any part of its authority and powers under the Plan to one or more directors
and/or officers of the Company; provided, however, that the Committee may not
delegate its authority and powers (a) with respect to Section 16 Persons, (b) in
any way which would jeopardize the Plan's qualification under Rule 16b-3, or (c)
with respect to awards which are intended to qualify as performance-based
compensation under section 162(m) of the Code.

                                      C-4
<PAGE>
 
          3.4    Non-employee Directors.  Notwithstanding any contrary provision
                 ----------------------    
of this Section 3, the Board shall administer Section 9 of the Plan, and the
Committee shall exercise no discretion with respect to Section 9. In the Board's
administration of Section 9 and the Options and any Shares granted to Non-
employee Directors, the Board shall have all of the authority and discretion
otherwise granted to the Committee with respect to the administration of the
Plan.

          3.5    Decisions Binding.  All determinations and decisions made by 
                 -----------------    
the Committee, the Board, and any delegate of the Committee pursuant to the
provisions of the Plan shall be final, conclusive, and binding on all persons,
and shall be given the maximum deference permitted by law.

                                   SECTION 4
                          SHARES SUBJECT TO THE PLAN

          4.1    Number of Shares.  Subject to adjustment as provided in Section
                 ----------------         
4.3, the total number of Shares available for grant under the Plan shall not
exceed 4,200,000, plus such number of Shares as are granted pursuant to
substitute Options under Sections 5.3.3 and 9.3 in connection with the
distribution of Shares to the stockholders of VAI. Shares granted under the Plan
may be either authorized but unissued Shares or treasury Shares.

          4.2    Lapsed Awards.  If an Award terminates, expires, or lapses for
                 -------------                                         
any reason, any Shares subject to such Award again shall be available to be the
subject of an Award. In addition, if any Shares are tendered to the Company
(whether by physical delivery or attestation) as full or partial payment for the
exercise of an Option or in satisfaction of a tax withholding obligation
pursuant to an Award, only the net Shares issued shall be deemed granted for
purposes of determining the maximum number of Shares that may be granted under
Section 4.1.  Also, Shares granted pursuant to Awards assumed or granted in
substitution of other awards in connection with the acquisition by the Company
of an unrelated entity shall not reduce the maximum number of Shares issuable
under Section 4.1.

          4.3    Adjustments in Awards and Authorized Shares.  In the event of
                 -------------------------------------------             
any merger, reorganization, consolidation, recapitalization, separation,
liquidation, stock dividend, split-up, Share combination, or other change in the
corporate structure of the Company affecting the Shares, the Committee shall
adjust the number and class of Shares which may be delivered under the Plan, the
number, class, and price of Shares subject to outstanding Awards, and the
numerical limit of Section 5.1 in such manner as the Committee (in its sole
discretion) shall determine to be appropriate to prevent the dilution or
diminution of such Awards.  In the case of Options granted to Non-employee
Directors pursuant to Section 9, the foregoing adjustments shall be made by the
Board, and any such adjustments also shall apply to the future grants provided
by Section 9.  Notwithstanding the preceding, the number of Shares subject to
any Award always shall be a whole number.

                                   SECTION 5
                                 STOCK OPTIONS

          5.1    Grant of Options.  Subject to the terms and provisions of the
                 ----------------                                     
Plan, Options may be granted to Employees and Consultants at any time and from
time to time as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion. The
Committee, in its sole discretion, shall determine the number of Shares subject
to each Option, provided that during any Fiscal Year, no Participant shall be
granted Options covering more than 1,000,000 Shares. The Committee may grant
Incentive Stock Options, Non-qualified Stock Options, or a combination thereof.

          5.2    Award Agreement.  Each Option shall be evidenced by an Award
                 ---------------                                             
Agreement that shall specify the Exercise Price, the expiration date of the
Option, the number of Shares to which the Option pertains, any conditions to
exercise of the Option, and such other terms and conditions as the Committee, in
its discretion, shall determine.  The Award Agreement shall specify whether the
Option is intended to be an Incentive Stock Option or a Non-qualified Stock
Option.

          5.3    Exercise Price.  Subject to the provisions of this Section 5.3,
                 --------------                                 
the Exercise Price for each Option shall be determined by the Committee in its
sole discretion.

                                      C-5
<PAGE>
 
                 5.3.1   Non-qualified Stock Options.  In the case of a 
                         ---------------------------             
Non-qualified Stock Option, the Exercise Price shall be not less than one
hundred percent (100%) of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the Grant Date.

                 5.3.2   Incentive Stock Options.  In the case of an Incentive
                         -----------------------                      
Stock Option, the Exercise Price shall be not less than one hundred percent
(100%) of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the Grant Date; provided, however,
that if on the Grant Date, the Employee (together with persons whose stock
ownership is attributed to the Employee pursuant to section 424(d) of the Code)
owns stock possessing more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting
power of all classes of stock of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries, the
Exercise Price shall be not less than one hundred and ten percent (110%) of the
Fair Market Value of a Share on the Grant Date.

                 5.3.3   Substitute Options.  Notwithstanding the provisions of
                         ------------------                                    
Sections 5.3.1 and 5.3.2, in the event that the Company or an Affiliate
consummates a transaction described in section 424(a) of the Code (e.g., the
acquisition of property or stock from an unrelated corporation), persons who
become Employees or Consultants on account of such transaction may be granted
Options in substitution for options granted by their former employer.  If such
substitute Options are granted, the Committee, in its sole discretion and
consistent with section 424(a) of the Code, shall determine the exercise price
of such substitute Options.

          5.4    Expiration of Options.
                 --------------------- 

                 5.4.1   Expiration Dates.  Each Option shall terminate no later
                         ----------------              
than the first to occur of the following events:

                         (a)  The expiration of ten (10) years from the Grant
Date; or

                         (b)  The expiration of three (3) months from the date
of the Participant's Termination of Service for a reason other than the
Participant's death, Disability or Retirement; or

                         (c)  The expiration of one (1) year from the date of
the Participant's Termination of Service by reason of Disability; or

                         (d)  The expiration of three (3) years from the date of
the Participant's Retirement (subject to Section 5.8.2 regarding Incentive Stock
Options); or

                         (e)  The date of the Participant's Termination of
Service by the Company for cause (as determined by the Company); or

                         (f)  The date for termination of the Option determined
by the Committee in its sole discretion and set forth in the written Award
Agreement.

                 5.4.2   Death of Participant.  Notwithstanding Section 5.4.1, 
                         --------------------     
if a Participant who is an Employee dies prior to the expiration of his or her
Options, his or her Options shall be exercisable until the expiration of three
(3) years after the date of death.  If a Participant who is a Consultant dies
prior to the expiration of his or her Options, the Committee, in its discretion,
may provide that his or her Options shall be exercisable for up to three (3)
years after the date of death.

                 5.4.3   Committee Discretion.  Subject to the limits of Section
                         --------------------    
5.4.1 and 5.4.2, the Committee, in its sole discretion, (a) shall provide in
each Award Agreement when each Option expires and becomes unexercisable, and (b)
may, after an Option is granted and before such Option expires, extend the
maximum term of the Option (subject to Section 5.8.4 regarding Incentive Stock
Options).

          5.5    Exercisability of Options. Options granted under the Plan shall
                 -------------------------        
be exercisable at such times and be subject to such restrictions and conditions
as the Committee shall determine in its sole discretion. After an Option is
granted, the Committee, in its sole discretion, may accelerate the
exercisability of the Option. If a 

                                      C-6
<PAGE>
 
Participant dies while an Employee, the exercisability of his or her Options
shall be fully accelerated to the date of Termination of Service.

          5.6    Payment.  Options shall be exercised by the Participant's 
                 -------           
delivery of a written notice of exercise to the Secretary of the Company (or its
designee), setting forth the number of Shares with respect to which the Option
is to be exercised, accompanied by full payment for the Shares.

          Upon the exercise of any Option, the Exercise Price shall be payable
to the Company in full in cash or its equivalent.  The Committee, in its sole
discretion, also may permit exercise (a) by tendering previously acquired Shares
having an aggregate Fair Market Value at the time of exercise equal to the total
Exercise Price, or (b) by any other means which the Committee, in its sole
discretion, determines to both provide legal consideration for the Shares, and
to be consistent with the purposes of the Plan.

          As soon as practicable after receipt of a written notification of
exercise and full payment for the Shares purchased, the Company shall deliver to
the Participant (or the Participant's designated broker), Share certificates
(which may be in book entry form) representing such Shares.

          5.7    Restrictions on Share Transferability.  The Committee may 
                 -------------------------------------       
impose such restrictions on any Shares acquired pursuant to the exercise of an
Option as it may deem advisable, including, but not limited to, restrictions
related to applicable Federal securities laws, the requirements of any national
securities exchange or system upon which Shares are then listed or traded, or
any blue sky or state securities laws.

          5.8    Certain Additional Provisions for Incentive Stock Options.
                 --------------------------------------------------------- 

                 5.8.1   Exercisability.  The aggregate Fair Market Value 
                         --------------      
(determined on the Grant Date(s)) of the Shares with respect to which Incentive
Stock Options are exercisable for the first time by any Employee during any
calendar year (under all plans of the Company and its Subsidiaries) shall not
exceed $100,000.

                 5.8.2   Termination of Service.  If any portion of an Incentive
                         ----------------------                                 
Stock Option is exercised more than three (3) months after the Participant's
Termination of Service for any reason other than Disability or death  (unless
(a) the Participant dies during such three-month period, and (b) the Award
Agreement or the Committee permits later exercise), the portion so exercised
shall be deemed a Non-qualified Stock Option.

                 5.8.3   Company and Subsidiaries Only.  Incentive Stock Options
                         -----------------------------     
may be granted only to persons who are employees of the Company or a Subsidiary
on the Grant Date.

                 5.8.4   Expiration.  No Incentive Stock Option may be exercised
                         ----------                                             
after the expiration of ten (10) years from the Grant Date; provided, however,
that if the Option is granted to an Employee who, together with persons whose
stock ownership is attributed to the Employee pursuant to section 424(d) of the
Code, owns stock possessing more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined
voting power of all classes of the stock of the Company or any of its
Subsidiaries, the Option may not be exercised after the expiration of five (5)
years from the Grant Date.

          5.9    Grant of Reload Options.  The Committee may provide in an Award
                 -----------------------                                        
Agreement that a Participant who exercises all or part of an Option by payment
of the Exercise Price with already-owned Shares, shall be granted an additional
option (a "Reload Option") for a number of shares of stock equal to the number
of Shares tendered to exercise the previously granted Option plus, if the
Committee so determines, any Shares withheld or delivered in satisfaction of any
tax withholding requirements. As determined by the Committee, each Reload Option
shall (a) have a Grant Date which is the date as of which the previously granted
Option is exercised, and (b) be exercisable on the same terms and conditions as
the previously granted Option, except that the Exercise Price shall be
determined as of the Grant Date.

                                      C-7
<PAGE>
 
                                   SECTION 6
                           STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS

          6.1    Grant of SARs.  Subject to the terms and conditions of the 
                 -------------      
Plan, SARs may be granted to Employees and Consultants at any time and from time
to time as shall be determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion. The
Committee shall have complete discretion to determine the number of SARs granted
to any Participant, provided that during any Fiscal Year, no Participant shall
be granted SARs covering more than 1,000,000 Shares.

          6.2    Exercise Price and Other Terms.  The Committee, subject to the
                 ------------------------------                                
provisions of the Plan, shall have complete discretion to determine the terms
and conditions of SARs granted under the Plan.  However, the exercise price of
an SAR shall be not less than one hundred percent (100%) of the Fair Market
Value of a Share on the Grant Date.

          6.3    SAR Agreement.  Each SAR grant shall be evidenced by an Award
                 -------------                                                
Agreement that shall specify the exercise price, the term of the SAR, the
conditions of exercise, and such other terms and conditions as the Committee, in
its sole discretion, shall determine.

          6.4    Expiration of SARs.  A SAR granted under the Plan shall expire 
                 ------------------           
upon the date determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion, and set forth
in the Award Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the rules of Section 5.4
also shall apply to SARs.

          6.5    Payment of SAR Amount.  Upon exercise of a SAR, a Participant 
                 ---------------------         
shall be entitled to receive payment from the Company in an amount determined by
multiplying:

                 (a)  The difference between the Fair Market Value of a Share on
the date of exercise over the exercise price; times

                 (b)  The number of Shares with respect to which the SAR is
exercised.

          6.6    Payment Upon Exercise of SAR.  At the discretion of the 
                 ----------------------------   
Committee, payment for a SAR may be in cash, Shares or a combination thereof.

                                   SECTION 7
                               RESTRICTED STOCK

          7.1    Grant of Restricted Stock.  Subject to the terms and provisions
                 -------------------------      
of the Plan, the Committee, at any time and from time to time, may grant Shares
of Restricted Stock to Employees and Consultants in such amounts as the
Committee, in its sole discretion, shall determine. The Committee, in its sole
discretion, shall determine the number of Shares to be granted to each
Participant, provided that during any Fiscal Year, no Participant shall be
granted more than 100,000 Shares of Restricted Stock.

          7.2    Restricted Stock Agreement.  Each Award of Restricted Stock 
                 --------------------------  
shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement that shall specify the Period of
Restriction, the number of Shares granted, any price to be paid for the Shares,
and such other terms and conditions as the Committee, in its sole discretion,
shall determine. Unless the Committee determines otherwise, Shares of Restricted
Stock shall be held by the Company as escrow agent until the restrictions on
such Shares have lapsed.

          7.3    Transferability.  Shares of Restricted Stock may not be sold,
                 ---------------                                              
transferred, pledged, assigned, or otherwise alienated or hypothecated until the
end of the applicable Period of Restriction.

          7.4    Other Restrictions.  The Committee, in its sole discretion, may
                 ------------------                                             
impose such other restrictions on Shares of Restricted Stock as it may deem
advisable or appropriate, in accordance with this Section 7.4.

                                      C-8
<PAGE>
 
                 7.4.1   General Restrictions.  The Committee may set 
                         --------------------      
restrictions based upon the achievement of specific performance objectives
(Company-wide, business unit or individual), applicable federal or state
securities laws, or any other basis determined by the Committee in its
discretion.

                 7.4.2   Section 162(m) Performance Restrictions.  For purposes 
                         --------------------------------------- 
of qualifying grants of Restricted Stock as "performance-based compensation"
under section 162(m) of the Code, the Committee, in its discretion, may set
restrictions based upon the achievement of Performance Goals. The Performance
Goals shall be set by the Committee on or before the latest date permissible to
enable the Restricted Stock to qualify as "performance-based compensation" under
section 162(m) of the Code. In granting Restricted Stock which is intended to
qualify under section 162(m) of the Code, the Committee shall follow any
procedures determined by it from time to time to be necessary or appropriate to
ensure qualification of the Restricted Stock under section 162(m) of the Code
(e.g., in determining the Performance Goals).

                 7.4.3   Legend on Certificates.  The Committee, in its 
                         ----------------------      
discretion, may legend the certificates representing Restricted Stock to give
appropriate notice of such restrictions. For example, the Committee may
determine that some or all certificates representing Shares of Restricted Stock
shall bear the following legend:

     "The sale or other transfer of the shares of stock represented by
     this certificate, whether voluntary, involuntary, or by operation
     of law, is subject to certain restrictions on transfer as set
     forth in the Varian, Inc. Omnibus Stock Plan, and in a Restricted
     Stock Agreement. A copy of the Plan and such Restricted Stock
     Agreement may be obtained from the Secretary of Varian, Inc."

          7.5    Removal of Restrictions.  Shares of Restricted Stock covered by
                 -----------------------                            
each Restricted Stock grant made under the Plan shall be released from escrow as
soon as practicable after the last day of the Period of Restriction. The
Committee, in its discretion, may accelerate the time at which any restrictions
shall lapse, and remove any restrictions. After the restrictions have lapsed,
the Participant shall be entitled to have any legend or legends under Section
7.4 removed from his or her Share certificate, and the Shares shall be freely
transferable by the Participant.

          7.6    Voting Rights.  During the Period of Restriction, Participants
                 -------------                                                 
holding Shares of Restricted Stock granted hereunder may exercise full voting
rights with respect to those Shares, unless otherwise provided in the Award
Agreement.

          7.7    Dividends and Other Distributions.  During the Period of
                 ---------------------------------                       
Restriction, Participants holding Shares of Restricted Stock shall be entitled
to receive all dividends and other distributions paid with respect to such
Shares unless otherwise provided in the Award Agreement. If any such dividends
or distributions are paid in Shares, the Shares shall be subject to the same
restrictions on transferability and forfeitability as the Shares of Restricted
Stock with respect to which they were paid.

          7.8    Return of Restricted Stock to Company.  On the date set forth 
                 -------------------------------------        
in the Award Agreement, the Restricted Stock for which restrictions have not
lapsed shall revert to the Company and again shall become available for grant
under the Plan.

                                   SECTION 8
                   PERFORMANCE UNITS AND PERFORMANCE SHARES

          8.1    Grant of Performance Units and Shares.  Performance Units and
                 -------------------------------------                        
Performance Shares may be granted to Employees and Consultants at any time and
from time to time, as shall be determined by the Committee, in its sole
discretion. The Committee shall have complete discretion in determining the
number of Performance Units and Performance Shares granted to any Participant,
provided that during any Fiscal Year no more than 100,000 Performance Units or
Performance Shares may be granted to any Participant.

          8.2    Initial Value.  Each Performance Unit shall have an initial 
                 -------------         
value that is established by the Committee on or before the Grant Date, provided
that such value shall not exceed the Fair Market Value of a Share 

                                      C-9
<PAGE>
 
on the Grant Date. Each Performance Share shall have an initial value equal to
the Fair Market Value of a Share on the Grant Date.

          8.3    Performance Objectives and Other Terms.  The Committee shall
                 --------------------------------------                        
set performance objectives in its discretion which, depending on the extent to
which they are met, will determine the number or value of Performance Units or
Shares that will be paid out to the Participants. The Committee may set
performance objectives based upon the achievement of Company-wide, business
unit, or individual goals, or any other basis determined by the Committee in its
discretion. The time period during which the performance objectives must be met
shall be called the "Performance Period." Each Award of Performance Units or
Shares shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement that shall specify the
Performance Period, and such other terms and conditions as the Committee, in its
sole discretion, shall determine.

                 8.3.1   General Performance Objectives.  The Committee may set
                         ------------------------------                        
performance objectives based upon the achievement of Company-wide, business unit
or individual goals, or any other basis determined by the Committee in its
discretion.

                 8.3.2   Section 162(m) Performance Objectives.  For purposes of
                         -------------------------------------                  
qualifying grants of Performance Units or Shares as "performance-based
compensation" under section 162(m) of the Code, the Committee, in its
discretion, may determine that the performance objectives applicable to
Performance Units or Shares shall be based on the achievement of Performance
Goals.  The Performance Goals shall be set by the Committee on or before the
latest date permissible to enable the Performance Units or Shares to qualify as
"performance-based compensation" under section 162(m) of the Code.  In granting
Performance Units or Shares which are intended to qualify under section 162(m)
of the Code, the Committee shall follow any procedures determined by it from
time to time to be necessary or appropriate to ensure qualification of the
Performance Units or Shares under section 162(m) of the Code (e.g., in
determining the Performance Goals).

          8.4    Earning of Performance Units and Performance Shares.  After the
                 ---------------------------------------------------            
applicable Performance Period has ended, the Participant shall be entitled to
receive a payout of the number of Performance Units or Shares earned during the
Performance Period, depending upon the extent to which the applicable
performance objectives have been achieved.  After the grant of a Performance
Unit or Share, the Committee, in its sole discretion, may reduce or waive any
performance objectives for Award.

          8.5    Form and Timing of Payment.  Payment of earned Performance 
                 --------------------------                            
Units or Performance Shares shall be made as soon as practicable after the
expiration of the applicable Performance Period. The Committee, in its sole
discretion, may pay such earned Awards in cash, Shares or a combination thereof.

          8.6    Cancellation.  On the date set forth in the Award Agreement, 
                 ------------      
all unearned or unvested Performance Units or Performance Shares shall be
forfeited to the Company, and again shall be available for grant under the Plan.

                                   SECTION 9
                            NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTORS

          9.1    Granting of Options.
                 ------------------- 

                 9.1.1   Non-employee Directors.  Each Non-employee Director 
                         ----------------------        
shall be granted an Option to purchase 10,000 Shares (an "Initial Grant") on the
later of (a) ten (10) business days after the Effective Date of the Plan or (b)
the date of the Non-employee Director's appointment or election as a Non-
employee Director. Thereafter, for so long as the Non-employee Director serves
as such, he or she annually shall be granted an Option for an additional 5,000
Shares (each a "Subsequent Grant"). Each such Subsequent Grant shall be made on
the first business day after each Annual Meeting of Stockholders occurring after
the date of the Initial Grant or previous Subsequent Grant, but only if the Non-
employee Director has continuously served as such through the Grant Date.

                                      C-10
<PAGE>
 
                 9.1.2   Chairman.  Each Chairman of the Company who is a Non-
                         --------                                            
employee Director shall be granted an Option to purchase 50,000 Shares (an
"Initial Chairman's Grant") on the later of (a) ten (10) business days after the
Effective Date of the Plan or (b) the date such individual becomes Chairman. Any
Initial Chairman's Grant shall be in lieu of any Initial Grant or Subsequent
Grant the Chairman otherwise would be entitled to under Section 9.1.1 while he
or she serves as Chairman.  If a Chairman ceases to serve as such but remains a
Non-employee Director, he or she shall be entitled to Subsequent Grants under
Section 9.1.1, provided he or she has continuously served as a Non-employee
Director through the applicable Grant Date.

          9.2    Terms of Options.
                 ---------------- 

                 9.2.1   Option Agreement.  Each Option granted pursuant to this
                         ----------------                                       
Section 9 shall be evidenced by a written stock option agreement which shall be
executed by the Non-employee Director and the Company.

                 9.2.2   Exercise Price.  The Exercise Price for the Shares 
                         --------------         
subject to each Option granted pursuant to this Section 9 shall be one hundred
percent (100%) of the Fair Market Value of such Shares on the Grant Date.

                 9.2.3   Exercisability.  Each Option granted pursuant to this
                         --------------                                       
Section 9 shall be fully exercisable on the Grant Date.

                 9.2.4   Expiration of Options.  Each Option shall terminate 
                         ---------------------    
upon the first to occur of the following events:

                         (a)  The expiration of ten (10) years from the Grant
Date; or

                         (b)  The expiration of three (3) months from the date
of the Non-employee Director's Termination of Service for a reason other than
death, Disability, resignation or Retirement; or

                         (c)  The expiration of three (3) years from the date of
the Non-employee Director's Termination of Service by reason of completion of
the Participant's term as a Director, Disability or Retirement; or

                         (d)  The expiration of one (1) month from the date of
the Non-employee Director's Termination of Service by reason of resignation.

                 9.2.5   Death of Director.  Notwithstanding Section 9.2.4, if 
                         -----------------     
a Non-employee Director dies prior to the expiration of his or her options in
accordance with Section 9.2.4, his or her options shall terminate three (3)
years after the date of his or her death.

                 9.2.6   Not Incentive Stock Options.  Options granted pursuant 
                         ---------------------------        
to this Section 9 shall not be designated as Incentive Stock Options.

                 9.2.7   Other Terms.  All provisions of the Plan not 
                         -----------           
inconsistent with this Section 9 shall apply to Options granted to Non-employee
Directors; provided, however, that Section 5.2 (relating to the Committee's
discretion to set the terms and conditions of Options) shall be inapplicable
with respect to Non-employee Directors.

          9.3    Substitute Options.  Notwithstanding the provisions of Section
                 ------------------                                            
9.2.2, in the event that the Company or an Affiliate consummates a transaction
described in section 424(a) of the Code (e.g., the acquisition of property or
stock from an unrelated corporation), persons who become Non-employee Directors
on account of such transaction may be granted Options in substitution for
options granted by their former employer. If such substitute Options are
granted, the Committee, in its sole discretion and consistent with section
424(a) of the Code, shall determine the exercise price of such substitute
Options.

                                      C-11
<PAGE>
 
          9.4    Elections by Non-employee Directors.  Pursuant to such 
                 -----------------------------------       
procedures as the Board (in its discretion) may adopt from time to time, each
Non-employee Director may elect to forego receipt of all or a portion of the
annual retainer, committee chair fees, meeting attendance fees and other cash
compensation otherwise due to the Non-employee Director in exchange for Shares.
The number of Shares received by any Non-employee Director shall equal the
amount of foregone compensation divided by the Fair Market Value of a Share on
the date that the compensation otherwise would have been paid to the Non-
employee Director, rounded up to the nearest whole number of Shares.

                                  SECTION 10
                                 MISCELLANEOUS

          10.1   No Effect on Employment or Service.  Nothing in the Plan shall
                 ----------------------------------                            
interfere with or limit in any way the right of the Company to terminate any
Participant's employment or service at any time, with or without cause. For
purposes of the Plan, transfer of employment of a Participant between the
Company and any one of its Affiliates (or between Affiliates) shall not be
deemed a Termination of Service. Employment with the Company and its Affiliates
is on an at-will basis only.

          10.2   Participation.  No Employee or Consultant shall have the right 
                 -------------        
to be selected to receive an Award under this Plan, or, having been so selected,
to be selected to receive a future Award.

          10.3   Indemnification.  Each person who is or shall have been a
                 ---------------                                              
member of the Committee, or of the Board, shall be indemnified and held harmless
by the Company against and from (a) any loss, cost, liability, or expense that
may be imposed upon or reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with or
resulting from any claim, action, suit, or proceeding to which he or she may be
a party or in which he or she may be involved by reason of any action taken or
failure to act under the Plan or any Award Agreement, and (b) from any and all
amounts paid by him or her in settlement thereof, with the Company's approval,
or paid by him or her in satisfaction of any judgment in any such claim, action,
suit, or proceeding against him or her, provided he or she shall give the
Company an opportunity, at its own expense, to handle and defend the same before
he or she undertakes to handle and defend it on his or her own behalf. The
foregoing right of indemnification shall not be exclusive of any other rights of
indemnification to which such persons may be entitled under the Company's
Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws, by contract, as a matter of law, or
otherwise, or under any power that the Company may have to indemnify them or
hold them harmless.

          10.4   Successors.  All obligations of the Company under the Plan, 
                 ----------         
with respect to Awards granted hereunder, shall be binding on any successor to
the Company, whether the existence of such successor is the result of a direct
or indirect purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise, of all or
substantially all of the business or assets of the Company.

          10.5   Beneficiary Designations.  If permitted by the Committee, a
                 ------------------------                                   
Participant under the Plan may name a beneficiary or beneficiaries to whom any
vested but unpaid Award shall be paid in the event of the Participant's death.
Each such designation shall revoke all prior designations by the Participant and
shall be effective only if given in a form and manner acceptable to the
Committee. In the absence of any such designation, any vested benefits remaining
unpaid at the Participant's death shall be paid to the Participant's estate and,
subject to the terms of the Plan and of the applicable Award Agreement, any
unexercised vested Award may be exercised by the administrator or executor of
the Participant's estate.

          10.6   Nontransferability of Awards.  No Award granted under the Plan 
                 ----------------------------   
may be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned, or otherwise alienated or
hypothecated, other than by will, by the laws of descent and distribution, or to
the limited extent provided in Section 10.5. All rights with respect to an Award
granted to a Participant shall be available during his or her lifetime only to
the Participant.

          10.7   No Rights as Stockholder.  Except to the limited extent 
                 ------------------------     
provided in Sections 7.6 and 7.7, no Participant (nor any beneficiary) shall
have any of the rights or privileges of a stockholder of the Company with
respect to any Shares issuable pursuant to an Award (or exercise thereof),
unless and until certificates representing such Shares shall have been issued,
recorded on the records of the Company or its transfer agents or registrars, and
delivered to the Participant (or beneficiary).

                                      C-12
<PAGE>
 
          10.8   Withholding Requirements.  Prior to the delivery of any Shares 
                 ------------------------      
or cash pursuant to an Award (or exercise thereof), the Company shall have the
power and the right to deduct or withhold, or require a Participant to remit to
the Company, an amount sufficient to satisfy federal, state, local and foreign
taxes (including the Participant's FICA obligation) required to be withheld with
respect to such Award (or exercise thereof).  Notwithstanding any contrary
provision of the Plan, if a Participant fails to remit to the Company such
withholding amount within the time period specified by the Committee (in its
discretion), the Participant's Award may, in the Committee's discretion, be
forfeited and in such case the Participant shall not receive any of the Shares
subject to such Award.

          10.9   Withholding Arrangements.  The Committee, in its sole 
                 ------------------------    
discretion and pursuant to such procedures as it may specify from time to time,
may permit or require a Participant to satisfy all or part of the tax
withholding obligations in connection with an Award by (a) having the Company
withhold otherwise deliverable Shares, or (b) delivering to the Company already-
owned Shares having a Fair Market Value equal to the amount required to be
withheld. The amount of the withholding requirement shall be deemed to include
any amount which the Committee determines, not to exceed the amount determined
by using the maximum federal, state, local and foreign jurisdiction marginal
income tax rates applicable to the Participant with respect to the Award on the
date that the amount of tax to be withheld is to be determined. The Fair Market
Value of the Shares to be withheld or delivered shall be determined as of the
date that the taxes are required to be withheld.

          10.10  Deferrals.  The Committee, in its sole discretion, may permit a
                 ---------                                                      
Participant to defer receipt of the payment of cash or the delivery of Shares
that would otherwise be delivered to a Participant under the Plan. Any such
deferral elections shall be subject to such rules and procedures as shall be
determined by the Committee in its sole discretion.

                                  SECTION 11
                      AMENDMENT, TERMINATION AND DURATION

          11.1   Amendment, Suspension or Termination.  The Board, in its sole
                 ------------------------------------                         
discretion, may amend or terminate the Plan, or any part thereof, at any time
and for any reason. The amendment, suspension or termination of the Plan shall
not, without the consent of the Participant, alter or impair any rights or
obligations under any Award theretofore granted to such Participant.  No Award
may be granted during any period of suspension or after termination of the Plan.

          11.2   Duration of the Plan.  The Plan shall commence on the date 
                 --------------------        
specified herein, and subject to Section 11.1 (regarding the Board's right to
amend or terminate the Plan), shall remain in effect thereafter. However,
without further stockholder approval, no Incentive Stock Option may be granted
under the Plan after ten (10) years from the Effective Date.

                                  SECTION 12
                              LEGAL CONSTRUCTION

          12.1   Gender and Number.  Except where otherwise indicated by the 
                 -----------------       
context, any masculine term used herein also shall include the feminine; the
plural shall include the singular and the singular shall include the plural.

          12.2   Severability.  In the event any provision of the Plan shall be 
                 ------------           
held illegal or invalid for any reason, the illegality or invalidity shall not
affect the remaining parts of the Plan, and the Plan shall be construed and
enforced as if the illegal or invalid provision had not been included.

          12.3   Requirements of Law.  The granting of Awards and the issuance 
                 -------------------       
of Shares under the Plan shall be subject to all applicable laws, rules and
regulations, and to such approvals by any governmental agencies or national
securities exchanges as may be required.

          12.4   Governing Law.  The Plan and all Award Agreements shall be 
                 -------------       
construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of
California, but without regard to its conflict of law provisions.

                                      C-13
<PAGE>
 
          12.5   Captions.  Captions are provided herein for convenience only, 
                 --------          
and shall not serve as a basis for interpretation or construction of the Plan.

                                   EXECUTION

          IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Varian, Inc., by its duly authorized officer, has
executed the Plan on the date indicated below.

                                             VARIAN, INC.


Dated: _______________, ____                 By________________________________
                                                Name:
                                                Title:

                                      C-14

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 10.8

                                 VARIAN, INC.

                           MANAGEMENT INCENTIVE PLAN
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                            Page
<S>                                                                         <C> 
SECTION 1      BACKGROUND, PURPOSE AND DURATION............................   1

      1.1  Effective Date..................................................   1
      1.2  Purpose of the Plan.............................................   1

SECTION 2      DEFINITIONS.................................................   1

      2.1  "Actual Award"..................................................   1
      2.2  "Affiliate".....................................................   1
      2.3  "Base Salary"...................................................   1
      2.4  "Board".........................................................   1
      2.5  "Code"..........................................................   1
      2.6  "Committee".....................................................   1
      2.7  "Company".......................................................   1
      2.8  "Disability"....................................................   1
      2.9  "EBIT"..........................................................   1
     2.10  "EBITDA"........................................................   2
     2.11  "Earnings Per Share"............................................   2
     2.12  "Employee"......................................................   2
     2.13  "Fiscal Year"...................................................   2
     2.14  "Maximum Award".................................................   2
     2.15  "Net Income"....................................................   2
     2.16  "Operating Cash Flow"...........................................   2
     2.17  "Participant"...................................................   2
     2.18  "Payout Formula"................................................   2
     2.19  "Performance Goals".............................................   2
     2.20  "Performance Period"............................................   2
     2.21  "Plan"..........................................................   2
     2.22  "Retirement"....................................................   2
     2.23  "Return on Assets"..............................................   3
     2.24  "Return on Equity"..............................................   3
     2.25  "Return on Sales"...............................................   3
     2.26  "Revenue".......................................................   3
     2.27  "Shareholder Return"............................................   3
     2.28  "Shares"........................................................   3
     2.29  "Target Award"..................................................   3
     2.30  "VAI"...........................................................   3

SECTION 3      SELECTION OF PARTICIPANTS AND DETERMINATION OF AWARDS.......   3

      3.1  Selection of Participants.......................................   3
      3.2  Determination of Performance Goals..............................   3
      3.3  Determination of Target Awards..................................   3
      3.4  Determination of Payout Formula or Formulae.....................   3
      3.5  Determination of Actual Awards..................................   3

SECTION 4      PAYMENT OF AWARDS...........................................   4

      4.1  Right to Receive Payment........................................   4
      4.2  Timing of Payment...............................................   4
      4.3  Form of Payment.................................................   4
      4.4  Payment in the Event of Death...................................   4

SECTION 5      ADMINISTRATION..............................................   4

      5.1  Committee is the Administrator..................................   4
      5.2  Committee Authority.............................................   4
      5.3  Decisions Binding...............................................   4
      5.4  Delegation by the Committee.....................................   5
</TABLE>

                                      -i-
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                  (continued)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION> 
                                                                            Page
<S>                                                                         <C>
SECTION 6      GENERAL PROVISIONS..........................................   5

      6.1  Tax Withholding.................................................   5
      6.2  No Effect on Employment or Service..............................   5
      6.3  Participation...................................................   5
      6.4  Indemnification.................................................   5
      6.5  Successors......................................................   5
      6.6  Beneficiary Designations........................................   5
      6.7  Nontransferability of Awards....................................   5
      6.8  Deferrals.......................................................   6

SECTION 7      AMENDMENT, TERMINATION AND DURATION.........................   6

      7.1  Amendment, Suspension or Termination............................   6
      7.2  Duration of the Plan............................................   6

SECTION 8      LEGAL CONSTRUCTION..........................................   6

      8.1  Gender and Number...............................................   6
      8.2  Severability....................................................   6
      8.3  Requirements of Law.............................................   6
      8.4  Governing Law...................................................   6
      8.5  Captions........................................................   6
</TABLE>

                                     -ii-
<PAGE>
 
                                 VARIAN, INC.
                           MANAGEMENT INCENTIVE PLAN

                                   SECTION 1
                       BACKGROUND, PURPOSE AND DURATION

          1.1  Effective Date. The Plan is effective as of the date on which VAI
               --------------
distributes shares of the Company's common stock to the stockholders of VAI,
subject to the approval of the Plan by a majority of the shares of the common
stock of VAI which are present in person or by proxy and entitled to vote at the
1999 Annual and Special Meeting of Stockholders of VAI.

          1.2  Purpose of the Plan. The Plan is intended to increase shareholder
               -------------------
value and the success of the Company by motivating key executives (1) to perform
to the best of their abilities, and (2) to achieve the Company's objectives. The
Plan's goals are to be achieved by providing such executives with incentive
awards based on the achievement of goals relating to the performance of the
Company and its business units. The Plan is intended to permit the grant of
awards that qualify as performance-based compensation under section 162(m) of
the Code.

                                   SECTION 2
                                  DEFINITIONS

          The following words and phrases shall have the following meanings
unless a different meaning is plainly required by the context:

          2.1  "Actual Award" means as to any Performance Period, the actual
                ------------
award (if any) payable to a Participant for the Performance Period. Each Actual
Award is determined by the Payout Formula for the Performance Period, subject to
the Committee's authority under Section 3.5 to reduce the award otherwise
determined by the Payout Formula.

          2.2  "Affiliate" means any corporation or other entity (including, but
                ---------
not limited to, partnerships and joint ventures) controlling, controlled by, or
under common control with the Company.

          2.3  "Base Salary" means as to any Performance Period, the
                -----------
Participant's annualized salary rate on the last day of the Performance Period.
Such Base Salary shall be before both (a) deductions for taxes or benefits, and
(b) deferrals of compensation pursuant to Company-sponsored plans.

          2.4  "Board" means the Board of Directors of the Company.
                -----                                              

          2.5  "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
                ----
Reference to a specific section of the Code or regulation thereunder shall
include such section or regulation, any valid regulation promulgated thereunder,
and any comparable provision of any future legislation or regulation amending,
supplementing or superseding such section or regulation.

          2.6 "Committee" means the committee appointed by the Board (pursuant
               ---------
to Section 5.1) to administer the Plan.

          2.7  "Company" means Varian, Inc., a Delaware corporation, or any
                -------
successor thereto.

          2.8  "Disability" means a permanent and total disability determined in
                ----------                                                      
accordance with uniform and nondiscriminatory standards adopted by the Committee
from time to time.

          2.9  "EBIT" means as to any Performance Period, the Company's or a
                ----
business unit's income before reductions for interest and taxes, determined in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

                                      D-1
<PAGE>
 
          2.10  "EBITDA" means as to any Performance Period, the Company's or a
                 ------
business unit's income before reductions for interest, taxes, depreciation and
amortization, determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles.

          2.11  "Earnings Per Share" means as to any Performance Period, the
                 ------------------
Company's or a business unit's Net Income, divided by a weighted average number
of common shares outstanding and dilutive common equivalent shares deemed
outstanding, determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles.

          2.12  "Employee" means any employee of the Company or of an Affiliate,
                 --------
whether such employee is so employed at the time the Plan is adopted or becomes
so employed subsequent to the adoption of the Plan.

          2.13  "Fiscal Year" means any fiscal year of the Company.
                 -----------                                       

          2.14  "Maximum Award" means as to any Actual Award to any Participant
                 -------------
for any Performance Period, the lesser of two hundred percent (200%) of Base
Salary or $2 million.

          2.15  "Net Income" means as to any Performance Period, the Company's
                 ---------- 
or a business unit's income after taxes, determined in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles.

          2.16  "Operating Cash Flow" means as to any Performance Period, the
                 -------------------
Company's or a business unit's sum of Net Income plus depreciation and
amortization less capital expenditures plus changes in working capital comprised
of accounts receivable, inventories, other current assets, trade accounts
payable, accrued expenses, product warranty, advance payments from customers and
long-term accrued expenses, determined in accordance with generally acceptable
accounting principles.

          2.17  "Participant" means as to any Performance Period, an Employee
                 ----------- 
who has been selected by the Committee for participation in the Plan for that
Performance Period.

          2.18  "Payout Formula" means as to any Performance Period, the formula
                 --------------
or payout matrix established by the Committee pursuant to Section 3.4 in order
to determine the Actual Awards (if any) to be paid to Participants. The formula
or matrix may differ from Participant to Participant.

          2.19  "Performance Goals" means the goal(s) (or combined goal(s))
                 -----------------
determined by the Committee (in its discretion) to be applicable to a
Participant for a Target Award for a Performance Period. As determined by the
Committee, the Performance Goals for any Target Award applicable to a
Participant may provide for a targeted level or levels of achievement using one
or more of the following measures: (a) EBIT, (b) EBITDA, (c) Earnings Per Share,
(d) Net Income, (e) Operating Cash Flow, (f) Return on Assets, (g) Return on
Equity, (h) Return on Sales, (i) Revenue, and (j) Shareholder Return. The
Performance Goals may differ from Participant to Participant and from award to
award. Prior to the Determination Date, the Committee shall determine whether
any significant element(s) shall be included in or excluded from the calculation
of any Performance Goal with respect to any Participants. "Determination Date"
means the latest possible date that will not jeopardize a Target Award's
qualification as performance-based compensation under section 162(m) of the
Code.

          2.20  "Performance Period" means any fiscal period not to exceed three
                 ------------------                                             
consecutive Fiscal Years, as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion.

          2.21  "Plan" means the Varian, Inc. Management Incentive Plan, as set
                 ----
forth in this instrument and as hereafter amended from time to time.

          2.22  "Retirement" means, with respect to any Participant,
                 ----------
"Retirement" as defined by the Company's Retirement Policies, as they may be
established from time to time.

                                      D-2
<PAGE>
 
          2.23  "Return on Assets" means as to any Performance Period, the
                 ----------------
percentage equal to the Company's or a business unit's EBIT before incentive
compensation, divided by average net Company or business unit, as applicable,
assets, determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

          2.24  "Return on Equity" means as to any Performance Period, the
                 ----------------
percentage equal to the Company's Net Income divided by average stockholder's
equity, determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

          2.25  "Return on Sales" means as to any Performance Period, the
                 ---------------
percentage equal to the Company's or a business unit's EBIT before incentive
compensation, divided by the Company's or the business unit's, as applicable,
Revenue, determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

          2.26  "Revenue" means as to any Performance Period, the Company's or a
                 -------
business unit's net sales, determined in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles.

          2.27  "Shareholder Return" means as to any Performance Period, the
                 ------------------ 
total return (change in share price plus reinvestment of any dividends) of a
Share.

          2.28  "Shares" means shares of the Company's common stock, $.01 par
                 ------
value.

          2.29  "Target Award" means the target award payable under the Plan to
                 ------------
a Participant for the Performance Period, expressed as a percentage of his or
her Base Salary, as determined by the Committee in accordance with Section 3.3.

          2.30  "VAI" means Varian Associates, Inc., a Delaware corporation.
                 ---                                                        

                                   SECTION 3
             SELECTION OF PARTICIPANTS AND DETERMINATION OF AWARDS

          3.1   Selection of Participants. The Committee, in its sole
                -------------------------
discretion, shall select the Employees of the Company who shall be Participants
for any Performance Period. Participation in the Plan is in the sole discretion
of the Committee, and on a Performance Period by Performance Period basis.
Accordingly, an Employee who is a Participant for a given Performance Period in
no way is guaranteed or assured of being selected for participation in any
subsequent Performance Period or Periods.

          3.2   Determination of Performance Goals. The Committee, in its sole
                ----------------------------------
discretion, shall establish the Performance Goals for each Participant for the
Performance Period. Such Performance Goals shall be set forth in writing.

          3.3   Determination of Target Awards. The Committee, in its sole
                ------------------------------
discretion, shall establish a Target Award for each Participant. Each
Participant's Target Award shall be determined by the Committee in its sole
discretion, and each Target Award shall be set forth in writing.

          3.4   Determination of Payout Formula or Formulae.  On or prior to the
                -------------------------------------------                     
Determination Date, the Committee, in its sole discretion, shall establish a
Payout Formula or Formulae for purposes of determining the Actual Award (if any)
payable to each Participant.  Each Payout Formula shall (a) be in writing, (b)
be based on a comparison of actual performance to the Performance Goals, (c)
provide for the payment of a Participant's Target Award if the Performance Goals
for the Performance Period are achieved, and (d) provide for an Actual Award
greater than or less than the Participant's Target Award, depending upon the
extent to which actual performance exceeds or falls below the Performance Goals.
Notwithstanding the preceding, no Participant's Actual Award under the Plan may
exceed his or her Maximum Award.

          3.5   Determination of Actual Awards. After the end of each
                ------------------------------
Performance Period, the Committee shall certify in writing the extent to which
the Performance Goals applicable to each Participant for the Performance Period
were achieved or exceeded. The Actual Award for each Participant shall be
determined by

                                      D-3
<PAGE>
 
applying the Payout Formula to the level of actual performance which has been
certified by the Committee. Notwithstanding any contrary provision of the Plan,
the Committee, in its sole discretion, may (a) eliminate or reduce the Actual
Award payable to any Participant below that which otherwise would be payable
under the Payout Formula, and (b) determine what Actual Award, if any, will be
paid in the event of a termination of employment prior to the end of the
Performance Period. The total aggregate Actual Awards under the Plan with
respect to any Performance Period shall not exceed eight percent (8%) of the
Company's EBIT (but before incentive compensation) for the most recent completed
Fiscal Year. If the total aggregate Actual Awards with respect to a Performance
Period would exceed this aggregate limit, all such Actual Awards shall be pro-
rated on an equal basis among all Participants according to a formula
established by the Committee.

                                   SECTION 4
                               PAYMENT OF AWARDS

          4.1  Right to Receive Payment. Each Actual Award that may become
               ------------------------
payable under the Plan shall be paid solely from the general assets of the
Company. Nothing in this Plan shall be construed to create a trust or to
establish or evidence any Participant's claim of any right other than as an
unsecured general creditor with respect to any payment to which he or she may be
entitled.

          4.2  Timing of Payment. Payment of each Actual Award shall be made
               -----------------
within 120 days after the end of the Performance Period during which the Award
was earned.

          4.3  Form of Payment. Each Actual Award normally shall be paid in cash
               ---------------
(or its equivalent) in a single lump sum. However, the Committee, in its sole
discretion, may declare any Actual Award, in whole or in part, payable in stock
granted under the Company's Omnibus Stock Plan. The number of Shares granted
shall be determined by dividing the cash amount foregone by the fair market
value of a Share on the date that the cash payment otherwise would have been
made. For this purpose, "fair market value" shall mean the closing price on the
Nasdaq National Market for the day in question.

          4.4  Payment in the Event of Death. If a Participant dies prior to the
               -----------------------------
payment of an Actual Award earned by him or her prior to death for a prior
Performance Period, the Award shall be paid to his or her estate.

                                   SECTION 5
                                ADMINISTRATION

          5.1  Committee is the Administrator. The Plan shall be administered by
               ------------------------------
the Committee. The Committee shall consist of not less than two (2) members of
the Board. The members of the Committee shall be appointed from time to time by,
and serve at the pleasure of, the Board. Each member of the Committee shall
qualify as an "outside director" under section 162(m) of the Code. If it is
later determined that one or more members of the Committee do not so qualify,
actions taken by the Committee prior to such determination shall be valid
despite such failure to qualify.

          5.2  Committee Authority. It shall be the duty of the Committee to
               -------------------
administer the Plan in accordance with the Plan's provisions. The Committee
shall have all powers and discretion necessary or appropriate to administer the
Plan and to control its operation, including, but not limited to, the power to
(a) determine which Employees shall be granted awards, (b) prescribe the terms
and conditions of awards, (c) interpret the Plan and the awards, (d) adopt such
procedures and subplans as are necessary or appropriate to permit participation
in the Plan by Employees who are foreign nationals or employed outside of the
United States, (e) adopt rules for the administration, interpretation and
application of the Plan as are consistent therewith, and (f) interpret, amend or
revoke any such rules.

          5.3  Decisions Binding. All determinations and decisions made by the
               -----------------
Committee, the Board, and any delegate of the Committee pursuant to the
provisions of the Plan shall be final, conclusive, and binding on all persons,
and shall be given the maximum deference permitted by law.

                                      D-4
<PAGE>
 
          5.4  Delegation by the Committee. The Committee, in its sole
               ---------------------------
discretion and on such terms and conditions as it may provide, may delegate all
or part of its authority and powers under the Plan to one or more directors
and/or officers of the Company; provided, however, that the Committee may
delegate its authority and powers only with respect to awards that are not
intended to qualify as performance-based compensation under section 162(m) of
the Code.

                                   SECTION 6
                              GENERAL PROVISIONS

          6.1  Tax Withholding. The Company shall withhold all applicable taxes
               ---------------
from any Actual Award, including any federal, state and local taxes (including
the Participant's FICA obligation).

          6.2  No Effect on Employment or Service. Nothing in the Plan shall
               ----------------------------------
interfere with or limit in any way the right of the Company to terminate any
Participant's employment or service at any time, with or without cause. For
purposes of the Plan, transfer of employment of a Participant between the
Company and any one of its Affiliates (or between Affiliates) shall not be
deemed a Termination of Service. Employment with the Company and its Affiliates
is on an at-will basis only. The Company expressly reserves the right, which may
be exercised at any time and without regard to when during a Performance Period
such exercise occurs, to terminate any individual's employment with or without
cause, and to treat him or her without regard to the effect which such treatment
might have upon him or her as a Participant.

          6.3  Participation. No Employee shall have the right to be selected to
               -------------
receive an award under this Plan, or, having been so selected, to be selected to
receive a future award.

          6.4  Indemnification. Each person who is or shall have been a member
               ---------------
of the Committee, or of the Board, shall be indemnified and held harmless by the
Company against and from (a) any loss, cost, liability, or expense that may be
imposed upon or reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with or
resulting from any claim, action, suit, or proceeding to which he or she may be
a party or in which he or she may be involved by reason of any action taken or
failure to act under the Plan or any award, and (b) from any and all amounts
paid by him or her in settlement thereof, with the Company's approval, or paid
by him or her in satisfaction of any judgment in any such claim, action, suit,
or proceeding against him or her, provided he or she shall give the Company an
opportunity, at its own expense, to handle and defend the same before he or she
undertakes to handle and defend it on his or her own behalf. The foregoing right
of indemnification shall not be exclusive of any other rights of indemnification
to which such persons may be entitled under the Company's Certificate of
Incorporation or Bylaws, by contract, as a matter of law, or otherwise, or under
any power that the Company may have to indemnify them or hold them harmless.

          6.5  Successors. All obligations of the Company under the Plan, with
               ----------
respect to awards granted hereunder, shall be binding on any successor to the
Company, whether the existence of such successor is the result of a direct or
indirect purchase, merger, consolidation, or otherwise, of all or substantially
all of the business or assets of the Company.

          6.6  Beneficiary Designations. If permitted by the Committee, a
               ------------------------
Participant under the Plan may name a beneficiary or beneficiaries to whom any
vested but unpaid award shall be paid in the event of the Participant's death.
Each such designation shall revoke all prior designations by the Participant and
shall be effective only if given in a form and manner acceptable to the
Committee. In the absence of any such designation, any vested benefits remaining
unpaid at the Participant's death shall be paid to the Participant's estate.

          6.7  Nontransferability of Awards. No award granted under the Plan may
               ----------------------------
be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned, or otherwise alienated or hypothecated,
other than by will, by the laws of descent and distribution, or to the limited
extent provided in Section 6.6. All rights with respect to an award granted to a
Participant shall be available during his or her lifetime only to the
Participant.

                                      D-5
<PAGE>
 
          6.8  Deferrals. The Committee, in its sole discretion, may permit a
               ---------
Participant to defer receipt of the payment of cash that would otherwise be
delivered to a Participant under the Plan. Any such deferral elections shall be
subject to such rules and procedures as shall be determined by the Committee in
its sole discretion.

                                   SECTION 7
                      AMENDMENT, TERMINATION AND DURATION

          7.1  Amendment, Suspension or Termination. The Board, in its sole
               ------------------------------------
discretion, may amend or terminate the Plan, or any part thereof, at any time
and for any reason. The amendment, suspension or termination of the Plan shall
not, without the consent of the Participant, alter or impair any rights or
obligations under any Target Award theretofore granted to such Participant. No
award may be granted during any period of suspension or after termination of the
Plan.

          7.2  Duration of the Plan. The Plan shall commence on the date
               --------------------
specified herein, and subject to Section 7.1 (regarding the Board's right to
amend or terminate the Plan), shall remain in effect thereafter.

                                   SECTION 8
                              LEGAL CONSTRUCTION

          8.1  Gender and Number. Except where otherwise indicated by the
               -----------------
context, any masculine term used herein also shall include the feminine; the
plural shall include the singular and the singular shall include the plural.

          8.2  Severability. In the event any provision of the Plan shall be
               ------------
held illegal or invalid for any reason, the illegality or invalidity shall not
affect the remaining parts of the Plan, and the Plan shall be construed and
enforced as if the illegal or invalid provision had not been included.

          8.3  Requirements of Law. The granting of awards under the Plan shall
               -------------------
be subject to all applicable laws, rules and regulations, and to such approvals
by any governmental agencies or national securities exchanges as may be
required.

          8.4  Governing Law. The Plan and all awards shall be construed in
               -------------
accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of California, but without
regard to its conflict of law provisions.

          8.5  Captions. Captions are provided herein for convenience only, and
               --------
shall not serve as a basis for interpretation or construction of the Plan.

                                   EXECUTION

          IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Varian, Inc., by its duly authorized officer, has
executed the Plan on the date indicated below.

                                        VARIAN, INC.


Dated: ____________________________     By:__________________________________
                                            Name:
                                            Title:

                                      D-6

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    Exhibit 21

                         Subsidiaries of Varian, Inc.

The Registrant currently has no subsidiaries; on or prior to the Distribution, 
the Registrant will have the following subsidiaries:

                                                   Country of
Subsidiaries                                       Incorporation
- ------------                                       -------------

Varian Australia L.L.C.                            USA, DE 
Varian Argentina, Ltd.                             USA, DE
Varian China, Ltd.                                 USA, DE
Varian India Pvt. Ltd.                             USA, DE
Varian Technologies Japan, Ltd.                    USA, DE
Varian Instruments of Puerto Rico, Inc.            USA, DE
Varian Technologies Asia, Ltd.                     USA, DE
Varian Inter-American Corp.*                       USA, CA
Chrompack, Inc.*                                   USA, New Jersey
Varian Australia Pty. Limited                      Australia
Varian Holdings (Australia) Pty. Limited           Australia
Varian Gesellschaft m.b.H.                         Austria
Varian Chrompack Belgium B.V.*                     Belgium
Varian Belgium N.V.                                Belgium
Intralab Instrumentacao Analytica Ltda             Brazil
Varian Industria e Comercio Limitada               Brazil
Varian Canada Inc.                                 Canada
Varian Chrompack France S.a.r.l.*                  France
Varian S.A.                                        France
Varian Chrompack Germany GmbH                      Germany
Varian Germany G.m.b.H.                            Germany
Varian Chrompack Italia s.r.l.*                    Italy
Varian S.p.A.                                      Italy
Varian Technologies Korea, Ltd.                    Korea
Varian S.A.                                        Mexico
Caribbean Charter Company*                         Netherlands
Chrompack B.V.*                                    Netherlands
Chrompack Holding B.V.*                            Netherlands
Varian Chrompack International B.V.                Netherlands
Chrompack Lease B.V.*                              Netherlands
Varian Chrompack Nederland B.V.*                   Netherlands
Europe Chemical Services Beheer B.V.*              Netherlands
Chrompack Onroerend Goed B.V.                      Netherlands
Varian B.V.                                        Netherlands
Chrompack Norge AS*                                Norway
Varian Iberica S.L.                                Spain
Chrompack Sverige AB*                              Sweden
Varian AB                                          Sweden
Varian A.G.                                        Switzerland
Varian Chrompack UK Ltd.                           United Kingdom
Varian Technologies, C.A.                          Venezuela

_______________
*   To be merged or dissolved

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
 
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM COMBINED
STATEMENT OF EARNINGS AND COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS FOR THE INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS
OF VARIAN ASSOCIATES, INC. AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>                     <C>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   YEAR                   YEAR                              YEAR              
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          OCT-02-1998             SEP-26-1997                   SEP-27-1996          
<PERIOD-START>                             SEP-27-1997             SEP-28-1996                   SEP-30-1995      
<PERIOD-END>                               OCT-02-1998             SEP-26-1997                   SEP-27-1996      
<CASH>                                               0                       0                             0
<SECURITIES>                                         0                       0                             0
<RECEIVABLES>                                  143,836                 131,641                             0
<ALLOWANCES>                                         0                       0                             0
<INVENTORY>                                     71,575                  64,797                             0
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               241,671                 221,161                             0
<PP&E>                                         219,385                 201,373                             0
<DEPRECIATION>                                 124,666                 114,448                             0
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 404,099                 357,906                             0
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                          149,578                 144,059                             0
<BONDS>                                              0                       0                             0
                                0                       0                             0
                                          0                       0                             0
<COMMON>                                             0                       0                             0
<OTHER-SE>                                     243,467                 203,296                             0
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   404,099                 357,906                             0
<SALES>                                        557,770                 541,946                       504,394    
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               557,770                 541,946                       504,394       
<CGS>                                          336,387                 330,845                       310,753  
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  518,606                 515,144                       492,947  
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                     0                       0                             0
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                     0                       0                             0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                                   0                       0                             0
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 39,164                  26,802                        11,447 
<INCOME-TAX>                                    15,736                  12,597                         5,277
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                             23,428                  14,205                         6,170
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0                       0                             0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0                       0                             0
<CHANGES>                                            0                       0                             0
<NET-INCOME>                                    23,428                  14,205                         6,170
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                     0.78                    0.47                          0.20  
<EPS-DILUTED>                                     0.78                    0.47                          0.20
        

</TABLE>


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