Two UT Dallas computer science faculty will be working closely with AgileMesh Inc., a North Texas company that has received $2 million from the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (TETF) to further develop its technology.

“We will be helping AgileMesh build technology in the area of mobile ad hoc networks, an area of wireless networks that enables instant deployment,” said Dr. S. Venkatesan, an associate professor of computer science in the University’s Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science. “This has immediate application in disaster areas, rescue efforts and other situations in which installed communication infrastructure does not exist or is inadequate.”

Venkatesan and Dr. Ravi Prakash, also an associate professor of computer science, have more than 30 years of experience in the field. They’ll be developing methods that enhance AgileMesh’s products by significantly improving usability and performance.

“Through the Texas Emerging Technology Fund, Texas continues to support world-class researchers and a wide variety of technology companies, encouraging innovation and helping keep Texas at the forefront of cutting-edge technology,” said Texas Gov. Rick Perry in announcing the TETF investment.

AgileMesh’s technology provides portable, easily deployable wireless communication networks for on-site video surveillance and security for law enforcement, tactical teams, event surveillance and first-responder units.

AgileMesh co-founder and vice president Dennis K. Smith noted that a UT Dallas test lab will be particularly useful in helping make the company’s products more robust.

The TETF is a $200 million initiative created by the Texas Legislature in 2005. It has allocated more than $132.25 million to 104 early-stage companies and $153 million in grant matching and research superiority funds to Texas universities.