EXHIBIT 10.25

 
                          Trikon Technologies, Inc.
                                Ringland Way
                           Newport, Gwent NP6 2TA


October 27, 1998


PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL

Mr. Nigel Wheeler
Summerhill
Chapel Close, Pwllmeyric
Chepstow, Gwent NP6 6HW

Dear Nigel:

          On behalf of Trikon Technologies, Inc. ("Trikon" or the "Company"), we
are delighted to extend to you the offer to become Chief Executive Officer of
Trikon.   As Chief Executive Officer, you will report to the Board of Directors
and will be expected to perform services, acts and duties connected with your
position in such a manner as the Board of Directors from time to time may
direct.  You will also continue to serve on the Board of Directors.

          Upon your acceptance of this offer, you will receive stock options
exercisable for 200,000 shares of Common Stock of the Company pursuant to the
1991 Stock Option Plan.  On or about January 1, 1999, the Company will grant you
additional options exercisable for 500,000 shares of Common Stock.  The
aforementioned options will vest in four equal annual installments commencing on
the anniversary of your acceptance of this offer.  In addition, subject to
approval of the Company's shareholders at the Company's next annual meeting of
shareholders, if required, the Company will grant additional options exercisable
for the number of shares of Common Stock equal to 2% of the Company's then
outstanding Common Stock on a fully diluted basis.  You are authorized to direct
the Company to allocate all or a portion of such options to other members of
management.

          Except as set forth herein, the terms of your employment pursuant to
the Employment Agreement, dated November 15, 1997, between Trikon Technologies,
Inc. and you shall remain in full force and effect and is ratified and
confirmed.

          Nigel, we are excited by the prospect of you leading Trikon.  We
believe that you are the right person for the job and look forward to working
with you to rebuild Trikon.

 
                           Trikon Technologies, Inc.

Mr. Nigel Wheeler                                               October 27, 1998
                                                                          Page 2


          If you are in agreement, please sign where indicated below.


Very truly yours,


Chris D. Dobson
Chairman of the Board



Accepted this ____ day of October, 1998.

 

___________________________
Nigel Wheeler