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A record of the road

Burke Campbell, Financial Post
Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2009

Maurice Tuff's monitor records basic driving stats on a key chain
fob - handout photo

Root Four Imagination

( rootfour.com)Founder Maurice Tuff

Location St. John's, Nfld.

Maurice Tuff's father always wanted a home energy monitor, something Mr. Tuff
didn't forget while studying electrical engineering at university. Eventually he
invented one and now markets it from Blue Line, a firm he founded with his
brother Danny Tuff. The monitor uses a sensor connected to a home's hydro meter
to wirelessly transmit power consumption in dollars and cents per hour to a
small display screen. Being able to see the power your household uses encourages
restraint, and can result in savings of 10% to 20%. The device is available from
Black & Decker, which licenses and sells it as The PowerMonitor.

Recently, Mr. Tuff launched Root Four Imagination, which makes Lemur
Autovision -- The Safe Driving Monitor. The device keeps basic stats on car
trips and is especially appreciated by parents concerned about their teen's
driving habits. The monitor plugs into the diagnostic port, near the steering
wheel and a keychain fob records the maximum speed, distance travelled, and any
sudden braking. Both the energy and driving monitors sell for about $100.

"During a recession, large corporations cut back and the field opens up. This
creates opportunities for smaller companies to establish themselves, taking new
ideas to market," says Mr. Tuff, who attributes much of his success to others.
"I work with a great team of people. As well, I've enjoyed the constant support
of family. Such things are invaluable."

More on this Story

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Danny
Tuff

Maurice
Tuff

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