pulsar
reimagining manufacturing operations for the AI age
"Each new situation requires a new architecture." — Jean Nouvel.
space
Pulsar has emerged as a leader in the Industry 4.0 revolution, empowering manufacturers throughout the Americas with more productive and scalable operations. Founded by Stanford engineers Matias Castillo, Cristian Bartolomé, and Juan Cristóbal Tagle, the company has developed a platform that combines IoT sensors with AI to streamline and optimize factory operations, which are often hindered by rigid, complex, and resource-intensive solutions—or lack thereof.
As manufacturing shifts toward digitization, Pulsar addresses the critical need for real-time machine data to enhance operational efficiency. With over 80% of manufacturers still relying on manual methods—literally pen and paper—for tracking machine performance, Pulsar’s platform introduces a streamlined, non-intrusive way to monitor production lines through advanced sensors and other non-invasive methods. This solution helps manufacturers transition from inefficient, resource-intensive systems by providing seamless, connected operations that unlock the value of digitization.
Pulsar has rapidly expanded its market presence in Latin America and the US by capitalizing on the $150 billion global Industry 4.0 market—expected to grow at a 20% CAGR from now until 2030. Its ability to deploy solutions with minimal disruption to existing systems has enabled the company to capture a share of this burgeoning market with remarkable speed.
program
Pulsar operates with a subscription-based SaaS model, offering a comprehensive platform that includes non-intrusive sensors, user-friendly software, and effective customer support, allowing factory managers to focus on production so they can maximize output. This scalable business model makes it accessible to manufacturers of all sizes—from mid-market to large enterprise customers—currently using it in Mexico, Chile, Colombia, and the United States. The platform provides real-time machine monitoring, production tracking, and predictive analytics that are easy to deploy and integrate into existing ERP systems.
In addition to enhanced factory visibility—such as machine utilization—Pulsar offers real-time production control and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) monitoring, enabling AI-powered analytics and workflows to drive plant productivity. The platform’s focus on operational efficiency is crucial for manufacturers aiming to unleash their factories’ full potential and maximize performance without the heavy costs associated with legacy solutions currently available in the market.
technology
At the heart of Pulsar’s solution is its ability to combine affordable, non-intrusive IoT with state-of-the-art AI technology to deliver real-time operational insights. The company’s sensors collect digital and analog data from machines without incurring hefty implementation costs or expensive maintenance. Pulsar's AI algorithms automatically transform this data into reliable production records and real-time operational insight.
Building upon this critical operational data, Pulsar is also developing an AI layer leveraging large language models (LLMs) to analyze the data and make real-time operational recommendations. This commitment to innovation has cemented Pulsar’s position as a key player in the Industry 4.0 movement.
building
Pulsar’s rapid growth is a testament to the strength of its business model and product offering. Since its founding in 2020, the company has consistently expanded its customer base, with new logo rates growing quarterly. This expanded customer base has allowed the company to at least double its ARR yearly while maintaining healthy margins, ACVs, and net retention rates—all while keeping burn low and churn close to zero.
The recent $8 million funding round, led by Cometa, will further fuel Pulsar’s expansion into the US and other markets on the continent. The company has grown from just three founders in Palo Alto during the pandemic to a dynamic team of 40 strong across hubs in Monterrey, Mexico City, and Miami.
flow
Pulsar’s success is partly achieved through a highly efficient implementation process. The company conducts single-visit installations that do not require halting operations. It installs sensors, fine-tunes AI and machine learning algorithms, and customizes the platform seamlessly, allowing customers to see immediate results. This implementation is complemented by a comprehensive training and follow-up program, offering in-person and online training to help customers leverage the platform’s benefits and stay updated with new features. Pulsar also provides ongoing hardware and software support, quickly resolving issues to ensure smooth operations.
The platform has transformed how data flows through manufacturing plants. Capturing real-time machine performance data enables operators to make informed decisions quickly, increasing production output and reducing lead times. Integrating IoT sensors with AI-driven analytics allows companies to identify issues before they cause significant disruptions. This enhancement enables customers to increase plant efficiency by 40% and grow production by at least 30% in critical processes, resulting in a 20% daily production increase. This ROI is typically realized in less than four months, with installations often requiring only a single visit, if any at all.
context
Pulsar’s success comes at a time when Industry 4.0 is reshaping the manufacturing world. With the global Industry 4.0 market expected to grow 20% yearly, the demand for digital solutions like Pulsar’s is increasing. Additionally, nearshoring and onshoring trends are reshaping global manufacturing supply chains; Mexico alone is expected to receive over $50 billion in nearshoring-related investments in the next five years. Pulsar is well-positioned to capture a share of this growth and lead the shift in Latin America and the US. By continuously enhancing its platform to meet the evolving needs of manufacturers, Pulsar is not just participating in the Industry 4.0 revolution—it is helping to drive it forward.