Mr. Michalski illustrated typical information access problems addressed by Concur's CyberNode product line: the CyberNode offers exceptional simplicity, delivering real-time access to critical manufacturing and control information from industrial equipment. Concur's CyberNode products utilize a unique software architecture, supporting a Digital Signal Processing (DSP) based embedded network microprocessor interface. Concur uses this approach to effectively and efficiently build an Ethernet information bridge, coupling the enterprise to the wide variety of systems, devices, data structures, and output interfaces common in the industrial marketplace.

Mr. Michalski observed that "Concur's CyberNode allows both expensive legacy capital equipment and underutilized measurement and automation equipment to be integrated into an Ethernet based, open enterprise data network. "More importantly," he continued, "a CyberNode allows OEM equipment manufacturers to incorporate a standard Internet protocol interface into their new products, providing their customers with a user-friendly network interface and significant support cost reduction."

Incorporated in May 1996, Concur System Technologies has been privately funded. Concur has completed designs and is now in pre-production of core products. CyberNodes have been in beta evaluation with several large industrial customers with favorable results. "Our market research indicates that a strong pent-up demand exists for CyberNode style devices," Mr. Michalski stated. "I believe that the ability to tie many different types of equipment into the enterprise network with a single standard product makes a compelling buy decision for hard pressed manufacturing companies seeking competitive advantages."

The business model incorporated by Concur is patterned after the sales and marketing strategies of successful test and measurement suppliers. In addition, the simple, user friendly web interface unique to the CyberNode allows Concur to offer an innovative e-commerce approach to sales and support of the product.

"Concur is seeking equity funding to move into production. Concur will use this funding to mature the firms sales, marketing, and manufacturing infrastructure," Mr. Michalski concluded.