Cyrus Azar - Chief Technologist

Cyrus Azar has over twenty-five years experience in software engineering and management.  He has created class leading technology in areas such as image processing, data compression, networking and home automation. Azar has frequently been at the forefront of his field, leading the development and successful commercialization of technologies, years before they become commonplace.  In 1981, Azar co-founded Symplex Communications of Ann Arbor, Michigan, a worldwide manufacturer of data communications and internetworking equipment.  During Azar’s involvement, Symplex grew from a Silicon Valley start-up to more than $22.5 million in annual sales and employed more than 100 staff.  After Symplex, Azar went on to co-found Full House Control, a manufacturer of home automation equipment.  Under Azar’s direction, Full House Control was the first vendor to demonstrate full Home Plug and Play interoperability and the first controller class device to get interim certification.  Azar has served as Chairman of the LIP working group of the EIA and as a key member of the CEBus Industry Council Core Team.  Azar graduated with Highest Honors and has a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree with a minor in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana.

George Brostoff - CEO

For nearly 30 years, Brostoff has been an industry-recognized entrepreneur in the computers, security and communications industry. In 1997 Brostoff was one of two founders of Ensure Technologies, where Brostoff helped pioneer computer security using Radio Frequency badges. In 1981, Brostoff founded Symplex Communications of Ann Arbor, Michigan, a worldwide manufacturer of data communications and internetworking equipment. Under Brostoff's leadership, the company grew to more than $22.5 million in annual sales and employed more than 100 staff. Brostoff transitioned Symplex from innovative startup to an established company, attracted outside capital, and successfully positioned the company for the next stage of growth including an initial public offering. Brostoff began his career as a manufacturers' representative for ARC Associates of Cleveland, Ohio and became highest producing salesperson in the company.

Brostoff has been a frequent speaker at trade shows and industry conferences including Networld+Interop and COMDEX. He has received several industry awards and accolades including: Entrepreneur of the Year from Ernst & Young and Merrill Lynch; Inc. Magazine's Fastest Growing Companies; Michigan Business Magazine's Fastest Growing Company; Michigan Leading Edge Technologies Award presented by Arthur Anderson, Detroit Free Press and Michigan Technology Council; Outstanding Entrepreneur by University of Michigan; and the Governor of Michigan Certificate of Appreciation for Outstanding Business Achievement. Brostoff is a Lifetime Member of The Institute of American Entrepreneurs. Brostoff studied economics at the University of Michigan.