Irvine Firm, NCE Join

General Automation Inc. of Irvine and NCE Computer Group of San Diego have agreed to combine their field service operations into a $24-million unit in an effort to broaden service coverage and increase gross margins on maintenance contracts. General Automation, which supplies computer hardware, software and services, said it expects to save $1.5 million under the combined operation. The companies will share customer service resources and field service personnel for the unit, which will be managed by NCE President Tom Wedrick.