Start-up Profile: Communications is Key for 21CenNet

One of the more exciting aspects of the pen-based computing experience has been the combination of new technologies and new companies to deliver those technologies that have come into existence. In this and future issues, we’ll spotlight some of those companies. In some cases, companies we’ll look at — like 21CenNet in this issue — don’t yet have products on the market, but their niche, strategy, or technology is interesting enough to bear examination. We encourage you to keep your own scorecard on how well they achieve success.

As their somewhat ambitious moniker implies, 21CenNet is a start-up with its sights set on communications and networks solutions for the next century. In particular, company VP Gary Slagel recently told us, 21CenNet will develop data communications software tools for connecting mobile workers with their corporate information systems via a combination of public telephone and wireless networks.

Products the company will eventually release are based on what 21CenNet calls “MobileWare” technology that integrates mobile PC platforms with in-house networks. Editors’ Note: It is interesting that both 21CenNet and PI Systems claim MobileWare as a trademark (see page 3). The products will support multiple functions such as email, FAX, remote printing, data access and transfer, and the like.

Central to 21CenNet’s philosophy is that certain carriers — cellular, RF, wire-based land lines, and so on — are appropriate for certain kinds of data or communications. If users can better match up their communications needs with appropriate data carriers, the communication link would be more reliable and economical. To that end, the 21CenNet end-to-end solution supports a multiple carrier approach to connectivity by comprehending various data types and carrier options.

Initially, 21CenNet will target companies that already have field deployment of mobile computers which need to communicate time-critical or database-sensitive information with the base office via a bi-directional link.

Although the company has not formerly announced any products (applications are expected to be released before the end of this year), their mission statement and product plans have been impressive enough to raise see $5 million in funding from InterWest Partners, Sevin Rosen Funds, and Compaq Computer.

Contact:

21CenNet, Inc.
2425 North Central Expressway
Suite 1001
Richardson, TX 75080-2748
214-690-6181
FAX: 214-690-6185