Image Industries

US Conec started in 1992 as an equity venture of three leading communications technology companies: Corning Cable Systems, leading United States manufacturer of fiber optic cables and connection hardware for telecommunications and premises SAN/LAN; Fujikura Ltd., a leading manufacturer of electrical, fiber optic, and specialty materials products in Japan; and NTT Advanced Technology Corp., a subsidiary of NTT Corp. that provides leading edge communications and information technology products and services for global business development. More than 25 years ago NTT saw the value of multifiber technology and patented the first multifiber ferrules. NTT went on to install over 25 million MT connectors in their network, and to pioneer the first multifiber push-on connector, the first multifiber backplane connector, and a ferrule alignment system using guide pins. With the formation of US Conec in 1992, the MT multifiber technology was introduced to North America. Since that time, US Conec has continued to improve the multifiber technology and adapt it for higher density and lower cost communications links. US Conec has a location in Hickory, N.C.

SimplexGrinnell designs, engineers and installs life safety systems. It specializes in fire detection alarms, sprinklers, extinguishers, fire suppression, integrated security systems, health care communications and time clocks. It also provides services after the installation, such as inspection, testing, maintenance, monitoring and 24-hour emergency service. SimplexGrinnell employs more than 10,000 technicians, installers and other professionals who serve customers through a network of local offices that cover all of North America, including one in Charlotte, N.C. The company was formed in 2001, when Simplex was acquired by Tyco International and merged with Grinnell Fire Protection. The company s corporate headquarters are in Boca Raton, Fla., and its sales and marketing location is in Westminster, Mass.