Gefen debuts extension modules
Woodland Hills-based Gefen Inc. released three small-size extension modules that connect computer devices at long distances using interface formats such as PS/2, RS-232 and stereo audio, effectively spanning hundreds of feet between computer and device. Each extension solution operates through small sender and receiver units that are connected by network-wiring CAT5 cable and run on a five-volt power supply.
131 companies seek tech grants
The Michigan Economic Development Corp. has received 131 applications from companies seeking $24 million in funding available through the Michigan Technology Tri-Corridor. The total value of the requests was $176 million from universities, nonprofit and private research facilities, companies and individuals. Of the applications, 52 were in basic or applied research; 36 were for services related to commercialization. The remaining 43 projects deal with technology ready for commercialization. A summary of proposals can be seen the development corporation's Web site: medc.michigan.org/ttc. Final awards are to be announced in June.
CompuSonics joins Berlin Exchange
Farmington Hills-based CompuSonics Video Corp. has been listed on the Berlin Stock Exchange. CompuSonics listed on the board in an attempt to give Europeans a more convenient way to buy and sell shares of CompuSonics. CompuSonics had been developing digital TV and audio applications, but is now more focused on TreeSoft, which markets a line of engineering software.
UM Business School to host symposium
The 2004 Michigan Growth Capital Symposium is scheduled for June 15-16 at the University of Michigan Business School. The event will provide an opportunity for financiers to learn about new business technologies and venture companies. Keynote speakers include Promod Hague, managing partner of Norwest Ventures, and Jay Hoag, general partner of Technology Crossover Ventures. More information about the symposium is available at the event's Web site: www.michiganGCS.com.
EDS signs pact with American Axle
EDS Corp. of Texas announced a five-year information-technology agreement with Detroit-based American Axle & Manufacturing Inc. EDS will provide business and technical services for American Axle. The contract extends the decade-long relationship between the two companies. American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. supplies driveline systems and related components for trucks, sport-utility vehicles and cars. EDS offers IT outsourcing worldwide.
Takai joins Virtual University board
Teri Takai, director of the Michigan Department of Information Technology, joined the Michigan Virtual University board of directors. Takai has extensive experience in computer systems planning, logistics and financial lending systems, and has held senior technology positions with Federal-Mogul Corp., EDS Corp. and Ford Motor Co. Takai holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics and a master's degree in management from the University of Michigan. Michigan Virtual University is a private, nonprofit corporation established in 1998 by the state of Michigan to provide e-learning opportunities for Michigan's work force. Board members serve one-year, renewable terms.
Covansys to work on Idaho voter system
Farmington Hills-based Covansys Corp. won a $3.4 million contract from the state of Idaho to implement a voter registration system. Covansys will design, develop and install Idaho's Statewide Voter Registration System. The system is scheduled to be operational by July 1, 2005. Covansys will work with PCC Technology Group of Bloomfield, Conn., which will provide its voter registration and election management system software product known as ElectioNet. The new, statewide system will allow cities and counties to share data, exchange information, validate and identify voters, process special voter applications, scan registration cards, generate poll lists and issue reports.
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