A multichamber ultra high vacuum (UHV) system with novel capabilities for laser ablation synthesis of oxidic overlayers and reaction studies is presented. The system is designed for 3“ samples and dedicated for studies of model and commercial catalysts. A combination of non-conventional units and well tested designs for metallization and surface analysis makes it possible to synthesize both realistic models and new concepts for catalytic materials and to explore their performance and how it relates to surface electron structure and atomic dispersion. This system can serve as a model for how new designs and new synthesis routes can bridge the gap between model and real catalysts. A new design for a fully UHV compatible transport unit for up to five 3” samples is also presented. This ‘suitcase‘ makes it possible to supply samples to external groups and to expose synthesized structures to further tests.