How Polygon Technologies was originally founded: A Proudly South African Story of Innovation
Automation Systems Revolutionizing Everyday Operations Worldwide
Polygon Technologies began in 2002, fueled by a heady mix of blissful ignorance, bold confidence, and a generous helping of passionate hard work. At the heart of it all was Carel, who started off part-time, selling DIY hardware kits that allowed people to build their very own MP3 players. It was a modest beginning, born from a love of technology and a deep curiosity about how things work.
By 2003, a pivotal shift occurred—figuratively and literally—when Carel “lost a screw” somewhere (perhaps metaphorically, perhaps not), and made the brave decision to venture out on his own. From the cramped confines of a single garage, the seeds of what would become Polygon Technologies began to take root. Poor guy… he had no idea what kind of chaos, challenges, and breakthroughs lay ahead.
In those early years, the company operated primarily as a contract development business. Clients would approach with various requirements and ideas, and Carel would take on the job of designing and developing bespoke electronic solutions for them. It was exciting work, often unpredictable but always intellectually stimulating. From MP3 jukeboxes to gambling machines and other quirky, occasionally bizarre projects, he built whatever was needed—learning, adapting, and innovating with each new request.
As time went on—and after hitting his head quite literally a few too many times (and maybe knocking loose the last of his screws)—he came to a life-changing realization: it was time to stop building for others and start building something of his own. Something that could carry the name and vision of a real product. At that point, the word “we” was still used a bit liberally. It referred to a tiny but determined team: Carel himself, his endlessly patient and supportive wife, and, as legend has it, a few imaginative voices in his head offering creative input when needed.
After much contemplation, trial and error, and more head-banging moments, the idea for the GSM Commander was born. But even then, the journey was far from over. It took nearly two more years of development, tinkering, testing, and persistence before the product was ready to see the light of day. In 2007, the GSM Commander was officially launched. What started as a garage project had transformed into a fully realized product. Since its release, the GSM Commander has steadily grown in popularity and demand—selling over 60,000 units by 2023, and the numbers continue to climb.
Looking back, it’s been a wild ride—a rollercoaster of highs and lows, scary moments and joyful breakthroughs. But through it all, the spirit of passion, innovation, and resilience has remained at the heart of Polygon Technologies.
