Our History
From a Small Lab to Global Operating Rooms:
The Story of NDI
Built on Four Decades of Precision and Progress
Founded in 1981 by Jerry Krist, NDI began in a basement with a small team of practical, hands-on University of Waterloo graduates who brought curiosity, technical skill, and a collaborative mindset to every challenge. Initially focused on precision tools for industrial measurement, the team soon saw broader potential for their work. In 1984, partnering with the university’s Department of Kinesiology, they developed WATSMART, NDI’s first Optical motion tracking system, a breakthrough that reshaped how human movement was studied in labs and clinics. That early innovation laid out the groundwork for decades of progress in research and medicine. Built on the same spirit of exploration and problem-solving that shaped its beginnings, NDI remains a pioneer in motion tracking.
After six years of dedicated research and development, NDI launched the Optotrak tracking platform in 1990, quickly setting a new benchmark in 3D Optical tracking. With the release of Polaris® in 1996, NDI’s tracking technology was integrated into OEM navigation systems used in complex neurosurgical, spine, and orthopaedic procedures.
NDI’s growth accelerated in the 2000s with global expansions into Germany and China. A significant milestone came in 2011 with its acquisition by Roper Technologies, which also brought Ascension Technology Corporation into the NDI family, creating the NDI location in Shelburne, Vermont, broadening its Electromagnetic tracking capabilities and strengthening its global reach.
Driven by the mission to advance tracking technology that supports OEM medical device innovation, NDI expanded into Electromagnetic tracking with the introduction of the Aurora® and 3D Guidance® tracking technologies. These innovations allowed for reliable tracking even when line-of-sight was limited, opening the door to integration into minimally invasive and interventional OEM systems.
Today, NDI stands as a global leader in both Optical and Electromagnetic tracking technologies, holding over 100 patents and supporting advancements across OEM medical device applications. With 40% of its workforce dedicated to Research & Development and a portfolio enriched by decades of expertise and continuous innovation, NDI remains committed to advancing tracking technology that supports OEM systems used in medical procedures worldwide.
A Legacy of Progress: Our Timeline and Milestones
1981
NDI was born. Founded by University of Waterloo students, NDI started by creating custom scientific instruments for industrial measurement.1984
Launch of WATSMART®, NDI launched its first 3D real-time Optical system. It introduced real-time Optical measurement of motion.1990
Introduction of Optotrak®, the market leader in 3D Optical tracking offering 6DOF real-time measurement.1996
Launch of Polaris®, a smaller, lighter Optical tracking platform designed for integration into OEM navigation systems.2001
NDI opens European office in Radolfzell, Germany.2002
NDI acquires Mednetix AG, opens its expanded international HQ in Waterloo and NDI Asia Pacific office opened in Hong Kong for sales.2003
Debut of Aurora®, NDI’s first magnetic tracking system through joint development with Mednetix AG.2005–2006
Launch of Polaris Vicra® and Polaris Spectra® to support compact spaces and higher tracking performance.2008
Introduction of Radix™ Lens.2011
NDI is acquired by Roper Industries (later Roper Technologies), expanding its footprint in medical tracking.2012
NDI acquires Ascension Technology Corp. to strengthen EM tracking capabilities and establish Vermont location.2016
Polaris Vega® is launched, with enhanced features for OEM integration including integrated video capability and radiation hardening.2019–2020
Polaris Vega® ST (a refresh of Polaris Vega®), VT (with video capability) and XT (our highest speed version to date) were introduced for integration into OEM platforms requiring faster speeds and greater accuracy.2023
Polaris Lyra® is launched as the successor to Polaris Vicra®, with improved tracking volume and measurement rate.Today
NDI holds over 45,000 installations worldwide and remains an established provider of Optical and Electromagnetic tracking technologies.Precision, partnership, and four decades of expertise.
Discover who we are, what we build, and how we work alongside the world’s top medical device OEMs.