GainSpan, RF Digital has partnered with Our Home Spaces (OHS) to deliver a Wi-Fi U-SNAP module for consumers to connect their home appliances to their Wi-Fi networks for remote monitoring and control.
U-SNAP is a standard developed by the U-SNAP Alliance to ensure compatibility of devices as the smart grid extends into homes.
GainSpan said that based on its GS1011 system-on-chip operating at up to 11 Mbps, U-SNAP Wi-Fi module can be easily provisioned through Wi-Fi protected setup (WPS) push button method or through a USB interface connected to a computer, if WPS is not available. It can be quickly adapted to ‘WiFi enable’ home appliances and devices such as white appliances, hot water heaters, baseboard heaters, PV solar arrays, and sidewalk de-icers.
Our Home Spaces Total Energy Management System (TEMS) allows monitoring, controlling, and receiving alerts from the consumer’s appliances through their computers, picture frames, handheld mobile devices, and iPhones. It also allows rapid integration of these appliances and devices with Smart Grid initiatives and pilot programs.
Reportedly, Radio Thermostat Company of America (RTCOA), is launching an entire line of programmable communicating thermostats that will have U-SNAP ports.
Janet Peterson, CEO of Our Home Spaces, said: This solution allows consumers to use their existing Wi-Fi home networks to connect to their devices and appliances and control their comfort level and energy consumption.
“As electrical utilities roll out time-of-use pricing for residential customers, the ability to monitor and reduce appliance usage during peak rate times and the ability to receive instant alerts on their phones and computers will become increasingly valuable to consumers.
The U-SNAP module is currently operating in numerous beta sites. Product is expected to be available in early fourth quarter of 2009.
