Alias Systems Corporation

Alias Systems Corporation (formerly Alias|Wavefront), headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, is a software company that produces high-end 3D graphics software. The company was formed in 1995 when Silicon Graphics bought Alias Research, which was founded in 1983, and Wavefront Technologies, founded in 1984, then merged the two companies.

Related Topics:
Toronto - Ontario - Canada - Software - 3D graphics - Silicon Graphics

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Alias' most well known product, the 3D modeling and animation package Maya, was delivered in 1998 and is now in its seventh version. Other products include the industrial design package StudioTools, which is used extensively in the automotive industry.

Related Topics:
Maya - StudioTools

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In 2003, the company's name was changed from Alias|Wavefront to Alias. In June 2004, Silicon Graphics sold Alias to Accel-KKR, a technology-focused private equity investment firm, for U.S. $57.1 million. In September 2004, Alias acquired Kaydara, adding the company's character animation and motion editing products to Alias' line of software.

Related Topics:
2003 - June 2004 - Accel-KKR - U.S. $ - September 2004

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On October 4, 2005, Autodesk, makers of 3D Studio Max and AutoCAD drafting software, announced plans to acquire Alias in a cash aquisition valued at US$182 million dollars. The deal still needs regulatory approval and should be completed in about 4-6 months time.

Related Topics:
Autodesk - 3D Studio Max - AutoCAD - US$

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