Economou started H5's predecessor in 1999, intending to build the next great Web-search tool basedontechnology developed by the father of a Wharton classmate.
The deal underpins the importance that slow-growing technology giants place on faster-growing, web-based software makers, whose products are less vulnerable to the economic downturn as there are no upfront costs for program licenses, dedicated hardware or installation.
The Chrome laptops are designed primarily to run Web-based applications, including those that use programming technology called HTML5, rather than applications stored onthe device.
Accessible through a mobile app for iOS and Android devices, or over theweb at MINDSTORMS.COM, the interactive building instructions-based on Autodesk Inventor Publisher technology-provide an alternative to traditional instructions, bringing the building experience to life.