Australian telcos are seriously looking at broadband over powerline (BPL), according to vendor NEC -- but interference and regulatory issues are still haunting the technology.
John Norton, executive general manager for public network solutions at NEC Australia, said the company is already in talks with some carriers over deploying BPL to provide "last mile broadband" access, but declined to name the carriers involved.
"Some of the larger [Australian] carriers are looking at it but they're not ready to make a firm commitment just yet," he said. "Some of the big European telcos, where they're having problems with ULL [unbundled local loop], showed some preliminary interest but we're right on the ground floor."
Despite a number of BPL trials undertaken by Australian energy companies Norton added that those showing an interest in broadband over powerline are telcos rather than utilities.
"The utility types are still struggling with the business model and with government policy," he said.
As well as regulatory concerns, questions remain on interference. "The interference issue still needs to be sorted. We're dealing quite closely with ACMA (the Australian Communications and Media Authority) on that," Norton noted.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Key Technologies Pioneered by DS2 Become Basis for Future IEEE Standard for Broadband over Power Line Networks
Tuesday October 30, 4:17 pm ET
VALENCIA, Spain--(BUSINESS WIRE)--IEEE P1901 Working Group is taking initial steps towards selecting a single proposal that could become the basis of a future standard for broadband powerline communications at a recent meeting. The Physical and Medium Access Control (MAC) layers of the proposal incorporate key powerline technology originally introduced by DS2, such as data rates above 200 Mbps, dense multicarrier modulation, Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) MAC and advanced Quality of Service (QoS) for Audio/Video applications. The proposal will now progress through the IEEE standard making process.
"When DS2 first demonstrated fully functional 200Mbps powerline technology in 2003, many in the industry expressed incredulity, believing that the market would not be ready for these major technology breakthroughs. We are glad to see that the IEEE standards process is moving towards the path we pioneered then. These developments validate DS2's vision of how powerline technology should progress to offer the best solution for the industry," said Jorge Blasco, DS2's CEO.
"Standards take time and a lot of work, but we are optimistic about the capabilities of our industry. Although we may have to wait until 2009 to see products compliant with the IEEE standard, we are moving in the right direction, on the road to developing a baseline. We still have a huge challenge in front of us: we need to work together as an industry to improve the quality of the existing proposal so that it can provide a technical solution to meet the needs of the BPL market," said Chano Gomez, VP Technology & Strategic Partnerships. Mr Gomez added that, "Our customers are accustomed to a very high standard of performance, reliability and manageability. The specification to be developed by IEEE P1901 needs to achieve and surpass these standards if we want it to gain market acceptance. We are confident that we can achieve this goal working together with the industry."
"Our technical leadership has allowed us to ship almost 3 million UPA-compliant 200 Mbps chips. The market for 200 Mbps powerline technology has shown a tremendous growth in the last year, and we are confident that the recent developments at IEEE P1901 will accelerate that growth even further. A large part of the Consumer Electronics (CE) industry was reluctant to integrate powerline technology in their products because of a lack of a single global standard. We now have an excellent opportunity to remove that obstacle by working together to create a single PHY/MAC specification that ensures complete interoperability between silicon vendors." said Jose Calero, DS2's CTO.
VALENCIA, Spain--(BUSINESS WIRE)--IEEE P1901 Working Group is taking initial steps towards selecting a single proposal that could become the basis of a future standard for broadband powerline communications at a recent meeting. The Physical and Medium Access Control (MAC) layers of the proposal incorporate key powerline technology originally introduced by DS2, such as data rates above 200 Mbps, dense multicarrier modulation, Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) MAC and advanced Quality of Service (QoS) for Audio/Video applications. The proposal will now progress through the IEEE standard making process.
"When DS2 first demonstrated fully functional 200Mbps powerline technology in 2003, many in the industry expressed incredulity, believing that the market would not be ready for these major technology breakthroughs. We are glad to see that the IEEE standards process is moving towards the path we pioneered then. These developments validate DS2's vision of how powerline technology should progress to offer the best solution for the industry," said Jorge Blasco, DS2's CEO.
"Standards take time and a lot of work, but we are optimistic about the capabilities of our industry. Although we may have to wait until 2009 to see products compliant with the IEEE standard, we are moving in the right direction, on the road to developing a baseline. We still have a huge challenge in front of us: we need to work together as an industry to improve the quality of the existing proposal so that it can provide a technical solution to meet the needs of the BPL market," said Chano Gomez, VP Technology & Strategic Partnerships. Mr Gomez added that, "Our customers are accustomed to a very high standard of performance, reliability and manageability. The specification to be developed by IEEE P1901 needs to achieve and surpass these standards if we want it to gain market acceptance. We are confident that we can achieve this goal working together with the industry."
"Our technical leadership has allowed us to ship almost 3 million UPA-compliant 200 Mbps chips. The market for 200 Mbps powerline technology has shown a tremendous growth in the last year, and we are confident that the recent developments at IEEE P1901 will accelerate that growth even further. A large part of the Consumer Electronics (CE) industry was reluctant to integrate powerline technology in their products because of a lack of a single global standard. We now have an excellent opportunity to remove that obstacle by working together to create a single PHY/MAC specification that ensures complete interoperability between silicon vendors." said Jose Calero, DS2's CTO.
HomePlug/Panasonic Merged Proposal Takes the First Step in Becoming a Worldwide Standard through the Efforts of the IEEE P1901 Work Group
- In-home and Access Standardization Will Unite the Industry and Help Create Rapid Market Growth as International Companies Embrace IEEE Powerline Communications Standards -
By BusinessWire
SAN RAMON, Calif., BUSINESS WIRE -- The HomePlug(R) Powerline Alliance today announced that the joint proposal, submitted by HomePlug member companies and Panasonic(R), is the sole MAC/PHY proposal remaining in the IEEE P1901 work group process for creating an international standard for in-home and access powerline communication technologies. At a meeting held two weeks ago in Boston, the voting process implemented by members of the IEEE P1901 work group voted to support the HomePlug/Panasonic proposal over competing proposals, paving the way for industry unification and greater market growth.
The merged proposal, submitted by HomePlug and Panasonic to the IEEE P1901 work group, offers the efficiency of a single MAC and the flexibility to support both the HomePlug AV and HD-PLC PHYs. Future products based on the merged 1901 proposal can be fully interoperable with existing HomePlug AV or Panasonic HD-PLC products.
This achievement validates the HomePlug Alliance's existing mission to create specifications and certify products based on a single interoperable worldwide standard for in-home and broadband powerline communications (BPL) technology. Since this proposal uses existing technology as the foundation for the IEEE 1901 international standard, development using field proven powerline communications will continue and accelerate, enabling companies to develop competitive solutions which will broaden the use of the technology, foster innovative new products, and most importantly, provide interoperability with HomePlug AV products being deployed today. HomePlug and IEEE share the common goal of unifying an industry through standardization of a technology, thus helping create ubiquity for the technology and leading to both greater availability and lower costs for consumers.
"We created specifications for a technology that would meet the stringent feature requests of service providers and equipment manufacturers the world over," said Matthew Theall, president of the HomePlug Powerline Alliance and Intel's powerline initiative manager. "The IEEE P1901 work group was comprised of many of these international companies that plan to implement this technology in applications such as HDTV, audio, surveillance, computer networking, broadband access and smart-grid solutions. As the process continues, we expect to work with members of the IEEE community and demonstrate how this technology fully serves each of these applications and more."
"Panasonic is thrilled to be working closely with HomePlug to create a common technology that will be adopted by the industry," said Dr. Stefano Galli, Lead Scientist for Panasonic. "We believe that our mutual collaboration is in the best interests of consumers and we are excited to be working towards a technology that will be broadly deployed."
The merging of the HomePlug and Panasonic proposals was a significant step towards success in the IEEE process. The next step in the process is to confirm the selected proposal, driving it forward as the technology baseline.
"The IEEE's outcome is a great vote of confidence for the HomePlug Powerline Alliance, Panasonic and the powerline communications industry as a whole," said Oleg Logvinov, president and CEO of Arkados Inc., and the Alliance's chief strategy officer. "With the adoption of the IEEE 1901 standard, we can eliminate some of the confusion created by proprietary technologies which splintered the marketplace and were not interoperable. HomePlug is confident that the merged proposal contains all the technical elements that are needed to fulfill current and future requirements of both the in-home and access marketplaces. Over the next several months, HomePlug members plan to work with all users of this technology, such as equipment manufacturers, service providers and utilities, ensuring that this specification meets or exceeds their expectations."
The IEEE process was engaged to select a powerline technology standard for in-home, access and coexistence clusters. The HomePlug/Panasonic solution is the sole technology moving forward for the in-home and access clusters, with a vote on the coexistence cluster pending.
Powerline communications is a breakthrough technology that can send very high-speed data, rich multimedia and high-definition content over common power lines, using the same wire for both electrical power and digital communications. By using the largest physical network in the world - the electrical power grid - powerline technology can be used anywhere power lines exist; in homes, on the power grid (for smart-grid technologies and broadband access), and in commercial environments.
This announcement follows several news items shared at the recent HomePlug Powerline Technology Conference where the Alliance announced the merger of their IEEE proposal with Panasonic's; that the HomePlug-developed Compliance and Interoperability (C&I) program will be expanded to certify IEEE 1901-based products; as well as that over 40 new products passed the current HomePlug AV certification process. The Alliance also announced the availability of their specification for HomePlug Command and Control, a powerline technology used for a breadth of applications, including advanced intelligent energy management, security and whole-house control, including lighting, appliances, HVAC and several other devices.
By BusinessWire
SAN RAMON, Calif., BUSINESS WIRE -- The HomePlug(R) Powerline Alliance today announced that the joint proposal, submitted by HomePlug member companies and Panasonic(R), is the sole MAC/PHY proposal remaining in the IEEE P1901 work group process for creating an international standard for in-home and access powerline communication technologies. At a meeting held two weeks ago in Boston, the voting process implemented by members of the IEEE P1901 work group voted to support the HomePlug/Panasonic proposal over competing proposals, paving the way for industry unification and greater market growth.
The merged proposal, submitted by HomePlug and Panasonic to the IEEE P1901 work group, offers the efficiency of a single MAC and the flexibility to support both the HomePlug AV and HD-PLC PHYs. Future products based on the merged 1901 proposal can be fully interoperable with existing HomePlug AV or Panasonic HD-PLC products.
This achievement validates the HomePlug Alliance's existing mission to create specifications and certify products based on a single interoperable worldwide standard for in-home and broadband powerline communications (BPL) technology. Since this proposal uses existing technology as the foundation for the IEEE 1901 international standard, development using field proven powerline communications will continue and accelerate, enabling companies to develop competitive solutions which will broaden the use of the technology, foster innovative new products, and most importantly, provide interoperability with HomePlug AV products being deployed today. HomePlug and IEEE share the common goal of unifying an industry through standardization of a technology, thus helping create ubiquity for the technology and leading to both greater availability and lower costs for consumers.
"We created specifications for a technology that would meet the stringent feature requests of service providers and equipment manufacturers the world over," said Matthew Theall, president of the HomePlug Powerline Alliance and Intel's powerline initiative manager. "The IEEE P1901 work group was comprised of many of these international companies that plan to implement this technology in applications such as HDTV, audio, surveillance, computer networking, broadband access and smart-grid solutions. As the process continues, we expect to work with members of the IEEE community and demonstrate how this technology fully serves each of these applications and more."
"Panasonic is thrilled to be working closely with HomePlug to create a common technology that will be adopted by the industry," said Dr. Stefano Galli, Lead Scientist for Panasonic. "We believe that our mutual collaboration is in the best interests of consumers and we are excited to be working towards a technology that will be broadly deployed."
The merging of the HomePlug and Panasonic proposals was a significant step towards success in the IEEE process. The next step in the process is to confirm the selected proposal, driving it forward as the technology baseline.
"The IEEE's outcome is a great vote of confidence for the HomePlug Powerline Alliance, Panasonic and the powerline communications industry as a whole," said Oleg Logvinov, president and CEO of Arkados Inc., and the Alliance's chief strategy officer. "With the adoption of the IEEE 1901 standard, we can eliminate some of the confusion created by proprietary technologies which splintered the marketplace and were not interoperable. HomePlug is confident that the merged proposal contains all the technical elements that are needed to fulfill current and future requirements of both the in-home and access marketplaces. Over the next several months, HomePlug members plan to work with all users of this technology, such as equipment manufacturers, service providers and utilities, ensuring that this specification meets or exceeds their expectations."
The IEEE process was engaged to select a powerline technology standard for in-home, access and coexistence clusters. The HomePlug/Panasonic solution is the sole technology moving forward for the in-home and access clusters, with a vote on the coexistence cluster pending.
Powerline communications is a breakthrough technology that can send very high-speed data, rich multimedia and high-definition content over common power lines, using the same wire for both electrical power and digital communications. By using the largest physical network in the world - the electrical power grid - powerline technology can be used anywhere power lines exist; in homes, on the power grid (for smart-grid technologies and broadband access), and in commercial environments.
This announcement follows several news items shared at the recent HomePlug Powerline Technology Conference where the Alliance announced the merger of their IEEE proposal with Panasonic's; that the HomePlug-developed Compliance and Interoperability (C&I) program will be expanded to certify IEEE 1901-based products; as well as that over 40 new products passed the current HomePlug AV certification process. The Alliance also announced the availability of their specification for HomePlug Command and Control, a powerline technology used for a breadth of applications, including advanced intelligent energy management, security and whole-house control, including lighting, appliances, HVAC and several other devices.
FCC Releases Funding Year 2008 Eligible Services List - Distance learning and Video Conferencing is eligible for Funding
From U.S. Government News
FCC Releases Funding Year 2008 Eligible Services List - Distance learning and Video Conferencing is eligible for Funding
Posted in: Government Grants | Foundation Grants
By [unknown placeholder $article.author$]
Oct 22, 2007 - 3:11:47 PM
FCC 07-182
Released: October 19, 2007
RELEASE OF FUNDING YEAR 2008 ELIGIBLE SERVICES LIST FOR
SCHOOLS AND LIBRARIES UNIVERSAL SERVICE MECHANISM
CC Docket No. 02-6
Via this Public Notice, the Commission releases the Funding Year 2008 Eligible Services List (ESL) for the schools and libraries universal service support mechanism pursuant to section 54.522 of the Commission’s rules. [1] On July 27, 2007, the Commission released a Public Notice (FCC 07-130) seeking comment on the ESL proposed by the universal service fund’s administrator, the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), for Funding Year 2008, as required by section 54.522. [2] Those comments, where applicable, are noted in this Public Notice.
Some of the changes that have been made to the Funding Year 2008 ESL are:
· Centrex: In the 2008 ESL, Centrex service is treated as basic telephone service for purposes of the schools and libraries program with the intention of eliminating the requirement that applicants file a technology plan for Centrex service. [3]
· Internet Access for Distance Learning: We clarify that basic conduit access to the Internet for the purpose of accessing distance learning and video conferencing is eligible for funding in the Internet access category but distance learning and video conferencing tools are not eligible for funding.
· Broadband over Power Lines (BPL): We add BPL under the entry for Digital Transmission Services to allow applicants to seek funding for the transmission component of BPL as a telecommunications service. [4]
· BPL-enabled Internet access service: We add BPL-enabled Internet access service under the entry for Internet access to allow applicants to seek funding for BPL-enabled Internet access service under the Internet access category if the service is bundled with Internet access. [5]
· Ancillary Calendaring Functions: We clarify that program participants are not required to provide cost allocation for calendaring functions ancillary to E-mail service.
· Web Hosting: We clarify the eligible components of a web hosting service. [6]
· Failover Products or Services: “Failover” products or services have been added to the list of miscellaneous ineligible components. [7]
As we stated in the July 27th Public Notice, this proceeding is limited to determining what services are eligible under the Commission’s current rules and is not intended to be a vehicle for changing any eligibility rules. Therefore, those comments not addressed in the Funding Year 2008 ESL may be more appropriately filed for the Commission’s consideration in the general proceeding for the Schools and Libraries Universal Service Support Mechanism in CC Docket No. 02-6. Those comments not addressed may include comments that requested eligibility for new services or products, comments that requested that services or products currently deemed ineligible be made eligible, comments that requested that the Commission take action outside of the scope of this proceeding, or comments that requested that the Commission take action that was not permitted by the short time frame allotted for this proceeding by section 54.522 of the Commission’s rules.
In addition, section 54.522 requires the Commission to issue a public notice attaching the final eligible services list for the upcoming funding year at least 60 days prior to the opening of the funding window for the schools and libraries program. [8] W e authorize USAC to open the annual application filing window on November 7, 2007. Because the filing window would open less than 60 days after the release of this Public Notice, we therefore waive on our own motion section 54.522 of the Commission's rules requiring publication of the ESL at least 60 days prior to the commencement of the filing window. [9] We conclude that this action will facilitate the application process for E-rate beneficiaries applying for monies for funding year 2008.
For further information, contact Gina Spade, James Bachtell or Regina Brown in the Telecommunications Access Policy Division, Wireline Competition Bureau at (202) 418-7400, TTY (202) 418-0484.
Action taken by the Commission on October 18, 2007: Chairman Kevin J. Martin and Commissioners Michael J. Copps, Jonathan S. Adelstein, Deborah Taylor Tate and Robert M. McDowell.
FCC Releases Funding Year 2008 Eligible Services List - Distance learning and Video Conferencing is eligible for Funding
Posted in: Government Grants | Foundation Grants
By [unknown placeholder $article.author$]
Oct 22, 2007 - 3:11:47 PM
FCC 07-182
Released: October 19, 2007
RELEASE OF FUNDING YEAR 2008 ELIGIBLE SERVICES LIST FOR
SCHOOLS AND LIBRARIES UNIVERSAL SERVICE MECHANISM
CC Docket No. 02-6
Via this Public Notice, the Commission releases the Funding Year 2008 Eligible Services List (ESL) for the schools and libraries universal service support mechanism pursuant to section 54.522 of the Commission’s rules. [1] On July 27, 2007, the Commission released a Public Notice (FCC 07-130) seeking comment on the ESL proposed by the universal service fund’s administrator, the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), for Funding Year 2008, as required by section 54.522. [2] Those comments, where applicable, are noted in this Public Notice.
Some of the changes that have been made to the Funding Year 2008 ESL are:
· Centrex: In the 2008 ESL, Centrex service is treated as basic telephone service for purposes of the schools and libraries program with the intention of eliminating the requirement that applicants file a technology plan for Centrex service. [3]
· Internet Access for Distance Learning: We clarify that basic conduit access to the Internet for the purpose of accessing distance learning and video conferencing is eligible for funding in the Internet access category but distance learning and video conferencing tools are not eligible for funding.
· Broadband over Power Lines (BPL): We add BPL under the entry for Digital Transmission Services to allow applicants to seek funding for the transmission component of BPL as a telecommunications service. [4]
· BPL-enabled Internet access service: We add BPL-enabled Internet access service under the entry for Internet access to allow applicants to seek funding for BPL-enabled Internet access service under the Internet access category if the service is bundled with Internet access. [5]
· Ancillary Calendaring Functions: We clarify that program participants are not required to provide cost allocation for calendaring functions ancillary to E-mail service.
· Web Hosting: We clarify the eligible components of a web hosting service. [6]
· Failover Products or Services: “Failover” products or services have been added to the list of miscellaneous ineligible components. [7]
As we stated in the July 27th Public Notice, this proceeding is limited to determining what services are eligible under the Commission’s current rules and is not intended to be a vehicle for changing any eligibility rules. Therefore, those comments not addressed in the Funding Year 2008 ESL may be more appropriately filed for the Commission’s consideration in the general proceeding for the Schools and Libraries Universal Service Support Mechanism in CC Docket No. 02-6. Those comments not addressed may include comments that requested eligibility for new services or products, comments that requested that services or products currently deemed ineligible be made eligible, comments that requested that the Commission take action outside of the scope of this proceeding, or comments that requested that the Commission take action that was not permitted by the short time frame allotted for this proceeding by section 54.522 of the Commission’s rules.
In addition, section 54.522 requires the Commission to issue a public notice attaching the final eligible services list for the upcoming funding year at least 60 days prior to the opening of the funding window for the schools and libraries program. [8] W e authorize USAC to open the annual application filing window on November 7, 2007. Because the filing window would open less than 60 days after the release of this Public Notice, we therefore waive on our own motion section 54.522 of the Commission's rules requiring publication of the ESL at least 60 days prior to the commencement of the filing window. [9] We conclude that this action will facilitate the application process for E-rate beneficiaries applying for monies for funding year 2008.
For further information, contact Gina Spade, James Bachtell or Regina Brown in the Telecommunications Access Policy Division, Wireline Competition Bureau at (202) 418-7400, TTY (202) 418-0484.
Action taken by the Commission on October 18, 2007: Chairman Kevin J. Martin and Commissioners Michael J. Copps, Jonathan S. Adelstein, Deborah Taylor Tate and Robert M. McDowell.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Ambient's presentation given at ValueRich 2007 in NYC by President & CEO, John J. JoyceMonday, October 22, 2007
A petition drive that would allow Nebraska cities and public utility companies to provide high-speed Internet service to residents has begun.
Should cities and public utility companies be allowed to provide high-speed Internet service to residents?
A petition drive that would allow Nebraska cities and public utility companies to provide high-speed Internet service to residents has begun.
10/21/07
A petition drive that would allow Nebraska cities and public utility companies to provide high-speed Internet service to residents has begun.
10/21/07
Thursday, October 18, 2007
DS2 Introduces 400 Mbps Powerline Communications Technology
www.DS2.esLaunch Event and Demos in New York City next month, November 2007
18th October 2007, Valencia, SPAIN - DS2 announced today that it has developed technology that will allow next generation powerline products to operate at a peak data rate of 400Mbps. This milestone will enable the development of new HD-capable multimedia applications, such as multi-channel HD-IPTV delivery or multi-room PVR.
Demonstrations of the 400 Mbps powerline technology will be featured at the invitation only technology launch in New York City next month. DS2 400Mbps technology will be available in next generation products from DS2 on time to satisfy the demands for extra bandwidth in the digital home and last mile applications that most analysts predict will happen from 2009 onwards. Next generation multimedia applications including multi-room IPTV and HDTV networked entertainment services, networked PVRs (personal video recorders) and multiple video streams will require bandwidth sufficient to support 5 or more simultaneous video streams.
A recent study from the Diffusion Group on ”Bandwidth Challenges to the Digital Home” (2007), confirmed that the need for bandwidth sufficient to deliver at least 3 HDTV and 2 SDTV streams to the home is foreseen as early as 2009.
DS2’s 400 Mbps technology will be compatible with existing 200Mbps products from DS2, ensuring a seamless migration path for existing users and designs, and will comply with the evolving standards. This quantum leap in performance is slated for 2009.
Jose Calero, CTO at DS2 stated, “Increased bandwidth requirements for multimedia networking applications is one of the key requirements that suppliers to the home networking, networked entertainment and last-mile BPL markets are looking for from future technology specifications. We are well on the way to developing our 3rd generation technology to ensure that suppliers will have the products available to meet the demand for multimedia applications in the future. These results are very exciting and demonstrate that we will be able to achieve the rates required to sustain the multimedia applications of the future over powerline or coax”.
The new technology builds on the success of DS2’s 200 Mbps technology, already deployed and tested by leading operators that include Belgacom, British Telecom, Portugal Telecom, Telefonica, Telecom Italia and Telia Sonera; global electricity utilities such as Endesa, Electricite de France, and Iberdrola and vendors of networking products including Buffalo, D-Link, Comtrend, Corinex Communications and Netgear. During 2008 DS2´s roadmap includes the delivery of additional features in the 200 Mbps technology, as well as reducing manufacturing costs, to give DS2 the edge in meeting customer demand for increased customization of today’s powerline enabled multimedia applications.
DS2 will continue to maintain its low-cost leadership with this 400 Mbps generation as well.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Telkonet Keeps Motel 6 Ahead With Its Energy Management Initiatives
Wednesday, October 17, 2007; Posted: 11:00 AM
GERMANTOWN, Md., Oct 17, 2007 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- TKO | charts | news | PowerRating -- Telkonet, Inc. (AMEX:TKO), the leading technology solutions provider for broadband networking, end-to-end service support and energy management, today announced that Motel 6 has signed a four year energy maintenance agreement for Telkonet SmartEnergy across thirty-nine Motel 6 properties in North America. The management agreement initially involves 4,700-plus rooms and over 10,000 rooms when fully implemented. This latest contract underlines Motel 6's long-standing commitment to green initiatives, having implemented this in-room energy management system technology beginning in 2002 to reduce energy usage in unoccupied rooms. A key element of the maintenance agreement involves Telkonet conducting preventative maintenance and regular updates on its occupancy sensors, packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC) controllers and smart thermostats to ensure optimum system efficiency and performance, while helping Motel 6 to achieve a fast return on investment.
Motel 6 holds a recognized leadership role for green energy management practices, receiving Energy Star Leader status from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2006 for improving energy efficiency.
Dan Gilligan, vice president of utilities for Motel 6 parent company, Accor North America, commented, "We have long realized the benefits of implementing energy efficiency programs, both from a financial and guest impact. Our number one priority is to enhance the guest experience and optimize guest comfort. With Telkonet's in-room energy management products, we are significantly reducing energy usage and extending our HAVC equipment life, while allowing guests to control the temperature while they are in their rooms. By augmenting this approach with an ongoing maintenance program, handled for us directly by Telkonet, we believe that we are maximizing our investment for the longer term. We are totally committed to this approach - it is socially and environmentally responsible and recognizes the value to our business as well as to our customers."
The installation of Telkonet SmartEnergy typically reduces heating and cooling related energy consumption by approximately 30%. The patented Telkonet SmartEnergy system incorporates a packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC) controller or smart thermostat which communicates with an unobtrusive occupancy sensor to monitor and adjust to conditions, such as changing weather, room temperature and HVAC efficiency. The system automatically tracks room occupancy to optimize temperature settings for room-by-room savings by relaxing the temperature when a room is empty and then recovering to guests' temperature set-points within a pre-defined number of minutes upon their return. This automated process of relaxing the HVAC unit in an unoccupied area is especially beneficial for hotels and motels to realize maximum energy savings. Telkonet SmartEnergy thermostats include programmable parameters that allow guests to adjust room temperatures within a range dictated by hotel management.
GERMANTOWN, Md., Oct 17, 2007 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- TKO | charts | news | PowerRating -- Telkonet, Inc. (AMEX:TKO), the leading technology solutions provider for broadband networking, end-to-end service support and energy management, today announced that Motel 6 has signed a four year energy maintenance agreement for Telkonet SmartEnergy across thirty-nine Motel 6 properties in North America. The management agreement initially involves 4,700-plus rooms and over 10,000 rooms when fully implemented. This latest contract underlines Motel 6's long-standing commitment to green initiatives, having implemented this in-room energy management system technology beginning in 2002 to reduce energy usage in unoccupied rooms. A key element of the maintenance agreement involves Telkonet conducting preventative maintenance and regular updates on its occupancy sensors, packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC) controllers and smart thermostats to ensure optimum system efficiency and performance, while helping Motel 6 to achieve a fast return on investment.
Motel 6 holds a recognized leadership role for green energy management practices, receiving Energy Star Leader status from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2006 for improving energy efficiency.
Dan Gilligan, vice president of utilities for Motel 6 parent company, Accor North America, commented, "We have long realized the benefits of implementing energy efficiency programs, both from a financial and guest impact. Our number one priority is to enhance the guest experience and optimize guest comfort. With Telkonet's in-room energy management products, we are significantly reducing energy usage and extending our HAVC equipment life, while allowing guests to control the temperature while they are in their rooms. By augmenting this approach with an ongoing maintenance program, handled for us directly by Telkonet, we believe that we are maximizing our investment for the longer term. We are totally committed to this approach - it is socially and environmentally responsible and recognizes the value to our business as well as to our customers."
The installation of Telkonet SmartEnergy typically reduces heating and cooling related energy consumption by approximately 30%. The patented Telkonet SmartEnergy system incorporates a packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC) controller or smart thermostat which communicates with an unobtrusive occupancy sensor to monitor and adjust to conditions, such as changing weather, room temperature and HVAC efficiency. The system automatically tracks room occupancy to optimize temperature settings for room-by-room savings by relaxing the temperature when a room is empty and then recovering to guests' temperature set-points within a pre-defined number of minutes upon their return. This automated process of relaxing the HVAC unit in an unoccupied area is especially beneficial for hotels and motels to realize maximum energy savings. Telkonet SmartEnergy thermostats include programmable parameters that allow guests to adjust room temperatures within a range dictated by hotel management.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Powerline home net camps mount urgent bid for unity
Powerline home net camps mount urgent bid for unity
Rick Merritt
(10/15/2007 9:00 AM EDT)
Santa Clara Calif. -- Opposing camps in powerline home networking will face off at an IEEE meeting in Boston this week over the path toward a unified standard. It's unclear whether anything will come of the eleventh-hour calls for compromise in advance of the Boston event, but separately players are stretching their technology to compete with everything from 802.11 to ZigBee.
Companies as diverse as Cisco, Echostar, Philips and Intel expressed support for powerline at the annual HomePlug Alliance convention here last week. But they also called on all sides to embrace standards and lower costs in a highly competitive environment.
Indeed, the Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA), a rising star among cable TV service providers, will turn up the heat this week, when it announces a 1.1 version of its spec that delivers 175 Mbits/second at the media access control level and supports parameterized quality-of-service.
By contrast, the two leading powerline technologies claim data rates of 95 and 65 Mbits/s and lack the parameterized QoS some service providers require.
On a brighter note, the HomePlug group has ratified a spec for a 700-kbit/s control network that will challenge ZigBee for networking of lights, alarms and white goods. The competing Universal Powerline Association (UPA) is working on a similar spec, which could be announced before mid-2008.
Meanwhile, executives from HomePlug, the UPA and the Consumer Electronics Powerline Communication Alli- ance (CEPCA), a group of mainly Japanese conglomerates, were in discussions last week on whether they could hammer out a joint proposal in time for this week's Boston meeting of the IEEE 1901 committee, which aims to set an overarching global standard for powerline home nets.
The IEEE 1901 group is considering two competing proposals. One brings together separate technologies from HomePlug and Pana- sonic; the other is from the UPA and has some backing from CEPCA.
HomePlug backers say they could have enough members to force and win a vote on their proposal in Boston. The effort defines a protocol that ensures separate HomePlug and Panasonic networks will not interfere and will be able to share data, as long as vendors support both entities' separate physical-layer technologies.
Not surprisingly, Oleg Logvinov, chief strategy officer of HomePlug and chief executive of Arkados Inc., which makes HomePlug chips, expects to see the Boston meeting select the HomePlug proposal. HomePlug now has 75 members, including Cisco, Comcast, Intel, Motorola, Sharp and Texas Instruments.
"That [outcome] would be bad for everyone," countered Chano Gomez, vice president of technology for Design of Systems on Silicon S.A. (DS2; Valencia, Spain), currently the sole chip maker for the UPA approach.
A pitch for unified PHY
UPA members say the better solution would be to define one physical-layer technology on which all parties could agree--even if doing so would require all sides to revise their silicon. Both HomePlug and UPA members said they would be willing to rework their chips, but it's not clear the camps can reach consensus on a single proposal.
"Right now, e-mails are flying back and forth between senior people in each organization to try to move this process forward," Brian Donnelly, chairman of the UPA marketing group, said in an interview last week. "We want to have an agreement before going into the [Boston] meeting."
Donnelly is also vice president of marketing and business development at Corinex Communications Corp., which sells powerline systems based on chips from DS2. "If we have to force our primary silicon provider to make concessions, we will do that, and we have buy-in from DS2," he said.
"We need a standard going forward," said Martin Manniche, senior director of engineering at Linksys, a unit of Cisco Systems that makes Wi-Fi and powerline networking gear.
At the HomePlug event, Manniche called on chip makers to design more-integrated parts, in order to drive down costs of powerline modules to $50 per pair. He also called on the industry to adopt extensions defined by Cisco to the Universal Plug and Play Forum's QoS standards. Cisco's so-called Video Quality Experience spec lets systems restrict access to a network to ensure uninterrupted video delivery.
A separate UPnP effort for similar QoS capabilities "will mostly likely take another 12 to 18 months" to complete, Manniche said, "and the industry can't wait."
Whatever happens in Boston, the HomePlug approach commands a majority of the powerline market and is expected to continue to do so, said Joyce Putscher, principal analyst for home networking at market watcher In-Stat (Scottsdale, Ariz.).
"Having a standard is not always 100 percent critical, because you can also have a de facto standard," she said.
Donnelly said Corinex is selling systems using the UPA approach to more than 30 service providers and 40 utilities worldwide. It switched from HomePlug to DS2 silicon in 2005 because DS2 was the first to deliver chips that offered 95-Mbit/s throughput--data rates the HomePlug group is only beginning to approach this year.
Last week's conference was a coming-out party for the HomePlug AV standard, which delivers 65 Mbits/s at the MAC layer. The alliance announced it had thus far certified 40 products to the specification.
But the new spec is not backward compatible with HomePlug 1.0. Thus, users like Echostar, which has shipped 2 million satellite receivers using HomePlug 1.0, will not migrate to AV. Instead, Echostar will maintain HomePlug as a data network and adopt MoCA as a video delivery network, in part because of the latter's support for parameterized QoS.
Broadcom and Conexant are developing chips for the MoCA standard, as is Entropic Communications, which pioneered the technology.
Powerline backers are trying to catch up, at least in the throughput race. Both sides are researching techniques that could appear in products in 2009 or later.
The HomePlug proposal to the IEEE group includes a modified-physical-layer chip that would achieve about 40 percent greater throughput than the Home- Plug AV spec, said Logvinov. Higher spectral efficiency and better forward error correction are likely techniques the HomePlug group will use in next-generation approaches, he added.
The UPA's proposal uses its existing physical-layer technology, but the al- liance's road map will embrace data rates in "multiples of the 200 Mbytes/s we offer today [at the physical layer]," said Donnelly.
Gomez said DS2 is studying three ways to provide that boost. It could increase spectral efficiency beyond today's 6.6 bits/s per Hz. It could employ spectrum in the 30 to 80 MHz not used by today's products. Or it could dynamically shift power levels to accommodate multiple nets on a link, a technique pioneered in wireless networks.
Powerline backers may have more success expanding at the low end by attacking areas served by control networks such as ZigBee.
Startup Yitran (Beer-Sheva, Israel) is showing a controller, smaller than a postage stamp, that will sample early in 2008 using the HomePlug Command and Control spec the company helped define. The Yitran module taps a new, 180-nm MAC/PHY device that will sell for about $2.50, plus external components costing another 50 cents.
The module is said to enable a 7-kbit/s control network in the 100- to 400-MHz powerline band. The startup has licensed its technology to Renesas, which is expected to have its own chips late next year. Other chip makers now can license the HomePlug control spec at no charge up front. Royalties are about 5 cents per device in high volumes.
Yitran hopes to get the module embedded in white goods, lights, security systems and other household de- vices. It has a design win with a utility in Spain that could drive sales of as many as 20 million units, said Avner Matmor, the company's chief executive.
Control-net protocol
The HomePlug group expects to finish work by the end of the year on a standard protocol for the control net. In the meantime, Yitran is using the Simple Control Protocol defined by Microsoft, an early investor in the startup.
The UPA started working on a similar spec in September but will not divulge details until sometime in 2008. Members Cypress, DS2 and Toshiba are among the likely candidates to make chips for the spec. Cypress and Toshiba are already said to be working on broadband powerline chips using the DS2 technology.
Despite the heady competition, the market for all home networks is growing, said Michael Greeson, principal analyst at The Diffusion Group (Plano, Texas). The market watcher estimates as many as 185 million homes will have in-house networks by 2011, with an average of six devices on each net.
"Increasingly, consumer vendors see network connectivity as a way to differentiate their products," said Greeson, who added that connectivity will hit mainstream products by 2010.
"The biggest competitor is Wi-Fi," he said, "but it is inadequate for video and can be a nightmare to set up, and that's driving product returns."
A representative from Philips said the company is about to roll out an integrated Internet Protocol TV set using 802.11n chips from Atheros. Philips is also investigating powerline for products including speakers, DVD recorders and set-top boxes.
But powerline will probably not be used in Philips TVs at least until 2010, the spokesman said.
Rick Merritt
(10/15/2007 9:00 AM EDT)
Santa Clara Calif. -- Opposing camps in powerline home networking will face off at an IEEE meeting in Boston this week over the path toward a unified standard. It's unclear whether anything will come of the eleventh-hour calls for compromise in advance of the Boston event, but separately players are stretching their technology to compete with everything from 802.11 to ZigBee.
Companies as diverse as Cisco, Echostar, Philips and Intel expressed support for powerline at the annual HomePlug Alliance convention here last week. But they also called on all sides to embrace standards and lower costs in a highly competitive environment.
Indeed, the Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA), a rising star among cable TV service providers, will turn up the heat this week, when it announces a 1.1 version of its spec that delivers 175 Mbits/second at the media access control level and supports parameterized quality-of-service.
By contrast, the two leading powerline technologies claim data rates of 95 and 65 Mbits/s and lack the parameterized QoS some service providers require.
On a brighter note, the HomePlug group has ratified a spec for a 700-kbit/s control network that will challenge ZigBee for networking of lights, alarms and white goods. The competing Universal Powerline Association (UPA) is working on a similar spec, which could be announced before mid-2008.
Meanwhile, executives from HomePlug, the UPA and the Consumer Electronics Powerline Communication Alli- ance (CEPCA), a group of mainly Japanese conglomerates, were in discussions last week on whether they could hammer out a joint proposal in time for this week's Boston meeting of the IEEE 1901 committee, which aims to set an overarching global standard for powerline home nets.
The IEEE 1901 group is considering two competing proposals. One brings together separate technologies from HomePlug and Pana- sonic; the other is from the UPA and has some backing from CEPCA.
HomePlug backers say they could have enough members to force and win a vote on their proposal in Boston. The effort defines a protocol that ensures separate HomePlug and Panasonic networks will not interfere and will be able to share data, as long as vendors support both entities' separate physical-layer technologies.
Not surprisingly, Oleg Logvinov, chief strategy officer of HomePlug and chief executive of Arkados Inc., which makes HomePlug chips, expects to see the Boston meeting select the HomePlug proposal. HomePlug now has 75 members, including Cisco, Comcast, Intel, Motorola, Sharp and Texas Instruments.
"That [outcome] would be bad for everyone," countered Chano Gomez, vice president of technology for Design of Systems on Silicon S.A. (DS2; Valencia, Spain), currently the sole chip maker for the UPA approach.
A pitch for unified PHY
UPA members say the better solution would be to define one physical-layer technology on which all parties could agree--even if doing so would require all sides to revise their silicon. Both HomePlug and UPA members said they would be willing to rework their chips, but it's not clear the camps can reach consensus on a single proposal.
"Right now, e-mails are flying back and forth between senior people in each organization to try to move this process forward," Brian Donnelly, chairman of the UPA marketing group, said in an interview last week. "We want to have an agreement before going into the [Boston] meeting."
Donnelly is also vice president of marketing and business development at Corinex Communications Corp., which sells powerline systems based on chips from DS2. "If we have to force our primary silicon provider to make concessions, we will do that, and we have buy-in from DS2," he said.
"We need a standard going forward," said Martin Manniche, senior director of engineering at Linksys, a unit of Cisco Systems that makes Wi-Fi and powerline networking gear.
At the HomePlug event, Manniche called on chip makers to design more-integrated parts, in order to drive down costs of powerline modules to $50 per pair. He also called on the industry to adopt extensions defined by Cisco to the Universal Plug and Play Forum's QoS standards. Cisco's so-called Video Quality Experience spec lets systems restrict access to a network to ensure uninterrupted video delivery.
A separate UPnP effort for similar QoS capabilities "will mostly likely take another 12 to 18 months" to complete, Manniche said, "and the industry can't wait."
Whatever happens in Boston, the HomePlug approach commands a majority of the powerline market and is expected to continue to do so, said Joyce Putscher, principal analyst for home networking at market watcher In-Stat (Scottsdale, Ariz.).
"Having a standard is not always 100 percent critical, because you can also have a de facto standard," she said.
Donnelly said Corinex is selling systems using the UPA approach to more than 30 service providers and 40 utilities worldwide. It switched from HomePlug to DS2 silicon in 2005 because DS2 was the first to deliver chips that offered 95-Mbit/s throughput--data rates the HomePlug group is only beginning to approach this year.
Last week's conference was a coming-out party for the HomePlug AV standard, which delivers 65 Mbits/s at the MAC layer. The alliance announced it had thus far certified 40 products to the specification.
But the new spec is not backward compatible with HomePlug 1.0. Thus, users like Echostar, which has shipped 2 million satellite receivers using HomePlug 1.0, will not migrate to AV. Instead, Echostar will maintain HomePlug as a data network and adopt MoCA as a video delivery network, in part because of the latter's support for parameterized QoS.
Broadcom and Conexant are developing chips for the MoCA standard, as is Entropic Communications, which pioneered the technology.
Powerline backers are trying to catch up, at least in the throughput race. Both sides are researching techniques that could appear in products in 2009 or later.
The HomePlug proposal to the IEEE group includes a modified-physical-layer chip that would achieve about 40 percent greater throughput than the Home- Plug AV spec, said Logvinov. Higher spectral efficiency and better forward error correction are likely techniques the HomePlug group will use in next-generation approaches, he added.
The UPA's proposal uses its existing physical-layer technology, but the al- liance's road map will embrace data rates in "multiples of the 200 Mbytes/s we offer today [at the physical layer]," said Donnelly.
Gomez said DS2 is studying three ways to provide that boost. It could increase spectral efficiency beyond today's 6.6 bits/s per Hz. It could employ spectrum in the 30 to 80 MHz not used by today's products. Or it could dynamically shift power levels to accommodate multiple nets on a link, a technique pioneered in wireless networks.
Powerline backers may have more success expanding at the low end by attacking areas served by control networks such as ZigBee.
Startup Yitran (Beer-Sheva, Israel) is showing a controller, smaller than a postage stamp, that will sample early in 2008 using the HomePlug Command and Control spec the company helped define. The Yitran module taps a new, 180-nm MAC/PHY device that will sell for about $2.50, plus external components costing another 50 cents.
The module is said to enable a 7-kbit/s control network in the 100- to 400-MHz powerline band. The startup has licensed its technology to Renesas, which is expected to have its own chips late next year. Other chip makers now can license the HomePlug control spec at no charge up front. Royalties are about 5 cents per device in high volumes.
Yitran hopes to get the module embedded in white goods, lights, security systems and other household de- vices. It has a design win with a utility in Spain that could drive sales of as many as 20 million units, said Avner Matmor, the company's chief executive.
Control-net protocol
The HomePlug group expects to finish work by the end of the year on a standard protocol for the control net. In the meantime, Yitran is using the Simple Control Protocol defined by Microsoft, an early investor in the startup.
The UPA started working on a similar spec in September but will not divulge details until sometime in 2008. Members Cypress, DS2 and Toshiba are among the likely candidates to make chips for the spec. Cypress and Toshiba are already said to be working on broadband powerline chips using the DS2 technology.
Despite the heady competition, the market for all home networks is growing, said Michael Greeson, principal analyst at The Diffusion Group (Plano, Texas). The market watcher estimates as many as 185 million homes will have in-house networks by 2011, with an average of six devices on each net.
"Increasingly, consumer vendors see network connectivity as a way to differentiate their products," said Greeson, who added that connectivity will hit mainstream products by 2010.
"The biggest competitor is Wi-Fi," he said, "but it is inadequate for video and can be a nightmare to set up, and that's driving product returns."
A representative from Philips said the company is about to roll out an integrated Internet Protocol TV set using 802.11n chips from Atheros. Philips is also investigating powerline for products including speakers, DVD recorders and set-top boxes.
But powerline will probably not be used in Philips TVs at least until 2010, the spokesman said.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Arkados and MainNet Team to Bridge Smart Power Grids with Consumer Electronics, Enabling ''Green Entertainment''
Thursday October 11, 12:08 pm ET
Significant industry milestone employs the visionary usage of broadband powerline communications technology by combining Smart-Grid applications with consumer electronic devices in the home.
PISCATAWAY, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Arkados (OTC BB: AKDS - News), known as "the HomePlug® Applications Company," and MainNet Communications, Ltd., a leader in the broadband over powerline (BPL) communications market, have entered into a strategic collaboration to create commercial hardware and software solutions for Smart-Grid applications. The two companies plan to jointly develop applications to improve the reliability and efficiency of electrical grids, connect consumer electronic devices over power lines, enable energy-saving initiatives, and deliver Broadband content to homes and offices.
The details of the collaboration include a financial arrangement that gives MainNet incentives to purchase 600,000 Arkados 200 Mb/s chipsets (HomePlug AV) over the next three years. Subject to the terms of the agreement and the completion of certain milestones, MainNet is expected to pre-pay up to $500k for the delivery of Arkados solutions in calendar year 2008.
Combining MainNet's unique layer 2 system with Arkados' core technology, the planed applications will offer easy and seamless access to Internet-based services for the consumer over the existing electrical grid, while also acting as a window into energy savings by offering Command and Control energy applications. These applications help to save operational costs through energy conservation, and could contribute to a greener environment.
This collaboration represents an evolutionary step in an approach that provides utility companies with Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) solutions, and consumers with access to broadband communication services. Thus, it meets with the US national policy to support the modernization of the electricity transmission and distribution system to incorporate digital information and control technology, and to share real-time pricing information with electricity customers to achieve Advanced Smart-Grid and continual environmental improvement in the production and distribution of electricity (Smart-Grid Facilitation Act of 2007).
"MainNet found in Arkados a strong technology partner with the same vision of what powerline communications technology can achieve," said Joe Marsilii, CEO of MainNet. "Using Arkados' HomePlug chips with our BPL smart repetition mechanism, utility companies will get a future proof, easy to install, cost effective and secured Smart-Grid system. Concurrently, this scenario enables easy ways for consumers to access on-demand broadband services, which will help to further realize the vision of the connected home."
"Arkados is very impressed with the rich collection of functions that MainNet's Smart-Grid systems enable," said Oleg Logvinov, president and CEO of Arkados. "Not only do they have an extraordinary portfolio of solutions that detect, measure, and report on energy use, but they have added the additional valuable component of interaction with the consumer. Their solutions enable consumer to be actively involved in energy saving, while using that same broadband communication channel for traffic updates, weather reports, stock quotes, and entertainment options. By bridging connected devices with connected services, Arkados and MainNet are moving toward implementing the vision that our companies share."
Broadband powerline communications technology enables an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) for improved Smart-Grid applications, including demand response and demand-side management for more efficient use of energy resources, detecting power outages, tampering and theft, load balancing, and the integration of "smart" appliances and consumer devices. All are designed to achieve intelligent grid and maximized revenues for utility companies worldwide.
Significant industry milestone employs the visionary usage of broadband powerline communications technology by combining Smart-Grid applications with consumer electronic devices in the home.
PISCATAWAY, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Arkados (OTC BB: AKDS - News), known as "the HomePlug® Applications Company," and MainNet Communications, Ltd., a leader in the broadband over powerline (BPL) communications market, have entered into a strategic collaboration to create commercial hardware and software solutions for Smart-Grid applications. The two companies plan to jointly develop applications to improve the reliability and efficiency of electrical grids, connect consumer electronic devices over power lines, enable energy-saving initiatives, and deliver Broadband content to homes and offices.
The details of the collaboration include a financial arrangement that gives MainNet incentives to purchase 600,000 Arkados 200 Mb/s chipsets (HomePlug AV) over the next three years. Subject to the terms of the agreement and the completion of certain milestones, MainNet is expected to pre-pay up to $500k for the delivery of Arkados solutions in calendar year 2008.
Combining MainNet's unique layer 2 system with Arkados' core technology, the planed applications will offer easy and seamless access to Internet-based services for the consumer over the existing electrical grid, while also acting as a window into energy savings by offering Command and Control energy applications. These applications help to save operational costs through energy conservation, and could contribute to a greener environment.
This collaboration represents an evolutionary step in an approach that provides utility companies with Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) solutions, and consumers with access to broadband communication services. Thus, it meets with the US national policy to support the modernization of the electricity transmission and distribution system to incorporate digital information and control technology, and to share real-time pricing information with electricity customers to achieve Advanced Smart-Grid and continual environmental improvement in the production and distribution of electricity (Smart-Grid Facilitation Act of 2007).
"MainNet found in Arkados a strong technology partner with the same vision of what powerline communications technology can achieve," said Joe Marsilii, CEO of MainNet. "Using Arkados' HomePlug chips with our BPL smart repetition mechanism, utility companies will get a future proof, easy to install, cost effective and secured Smart-Grid system. Concurrently, this scenario enables easy ways for consumers to access on-demand broadband services, which will help to further realize the vision of the connected home."
"Arkados is very impressed with the rich collection of functions that MainNet's Smart-Grid systems enable," said Oleg Logvinov, president and CEO of Arkados. "Not only do they have an extraordinary portfolio of solutions that detect, measure, and report on energy use, but they have added the additional valuable component of interaction with the consumer. Their solutions enable consumer to be actively involved in energy saving, while using that same broadband communication channel for traffic updates, weather reports, stock quotes, and entertainment options. By bridging connected devices with connected services, Arkados and MainNet are moving toward implementing the vision that our companies share."
Broadband powerline communications technology enables an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) for improved Smart-Grid applications, including demand response and demand-side management for more efficient use of energy resources, detecting power outages, tampering and theft, load balancing, and the integration of "smart" appliances and consumer devices. All are designed to achieve intelligent grid and maximized revenues for utility companies worldwide.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
FCC gives approval to IBEC's broadband electric service
FCC gives approval to IBEC's broadband electric service
Thursday, October 11, 2007By GINA HANNAHTimes Business Writer gina.hannah@htimes.com
Rural areas in the U.S.,international marketswill soon reap benefits
Huntsville-based International Broadband Electric Communications Inc., said Wednesday it will begin deploying broadband Internet service to rural areas within the next month.
The move comes after IBEC's BPL (broadband over power line) Regenerator Unit and Customer Service Unit both gained certification from the Federal Communications Commission.
IBEC will initially begin installing the devices for three rural electric cooperatives in Alabama, Indiana and Virginia, providing broadband service for some 105,000 customers, the company said in a news release.
In Alabama, IBEC will install its BPL products for Cullman Electric Cooperative.
IBEC received a $19.2 million loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Utility Service to make the technology available to underserved areas.
Historically, rural communities have had their Internet service limited to dial-up, which can be much slower than broadband. IBEC plans to take its products to rural areas around the country, as well as international markets where phone lines are unreliable or unavailable.
"IBEC's focus since its inception has been to provide BPL services to rural electric utilities and the underserved residents of rural America - those citizens who are often neglected but who have the same need for broadband services as those living in urban and suburban America," said Scott E. Lee, IBEC's CEO. "IBEC's BPL equipment, coupled with the USDA funding, will allow IBEC to begin building the broadband networks necessary to serve rural America and close the digital divide."
In 2005, the Federal Communications Commission approved the use of power lines for delivering broadband services. With BPL service, customers can plug a modem into a wall power outlet to gain access to broadband services.
Thursday, October 11, 2007By GINA HANNAHTimes Business Writer gina.hannah@htimes.com
Rural areas in the U.S.,international marketswill soon reap benefits
Huntsville-based International Broadband Electric Communications Inc., said Wednesday it will begin deploying broadband Internet service to rural areas within the next month.
The move comes after IBEC's BPL (broadband over power line) Regenerator Unit and Customer Service Unit both gained certification from the Federal Communications Commission.
IBEC will initially begin installing the devices for three rural electric cooperatives in Alabama, Indiana and Virginia, providing broadband service for some 105,000 customers, the company said in a news release.
In Alabama, IBEC will install its BPL products for Cullman Electric Cooperative.
IBEC received a $19.2 million loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Utility Service to make the technology available to underserved areas.
Historically, rural communities have had their Internet service limited to dial-up, which can be much slower than broadband. IBEC plans to take its products to rural areas around the country, as well as international markets where phone lines are unreliable or unavailable.
"IBEC's focus since its inception has been to provide BPL services to rural electric utilities and the underserved residents of rural America - those citizens who are often neglected but who have the same need for broadband services as those living in urban and suburban America," said Scott E. Lee, IBEC's CEO. "IBEC's BPL equipment, coupled with the USDA funding, will allow IBEC to begin building the broadband networks necessary to serve rural America and close the digital divide."
In 2005, the Federal Communications Commission approved the use of power lines for delivering broadband services. With BPL service, customers can plug a modem into a wall power outlet to gain access to broadband services.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Asoka's New 200 Mbps Powerline Network Solutions Power up the Digital Home
Three new additions to the PlugLink(R) Powerline network solutions family offer simple, secure, and reliable connectivity for IPTV and High-Definition video streaming
By PR Newswire
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Oct. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Asoka USA, a leading Powerline Network Solutions provider, today debuted the latest additions to its popular PlugLink Powerline network solutions family -- the Pluglink AV 9164 Digital Power Center (PL9164-4SW), the PlugLink AV 9560 Wireless Adapter (PL9560-WAP) and the PlugLink AV 9660 Ethernet Adapter (PL9660-ETH). All three are designed for HomePlug(R) AV standards compliance, boasting connection speeds of up to 200 Mbps over existing home electrical wiring. Asoka is showcasing all three products this week at the 2007 HomePlug Technology Conference in Santa Clara, California.
The PlugLink AV 9164 Digital Power Center (PL9164-4SW) features 6-AC sockets with comprehensive surge protection, advanced AC powerline noise filtering for better picture and sound, and a HomePlug 200 Mbps 4-port Ethernet switch for overall digital home entertainment network connectivity. The PlugLink AV 9164 Digital Power Center (PL9164-4SW) is the ideal solution for growing digital entertainment needs, providing a simple, secure and reliable network solution while offering world-class performance and protection for your AV components.
The PlugLink AV 9560 Wireless Adapter (PL9560-WAP) is an integrated HomePlug AV 200 Mbps Ethernet Adapter with an 802.11b/g access point. The PlugLink AV 9560 Wireless Adapter (PL9560-WAP) is the ideal wireless network extender for your home or office. It provides instant extended wireless coverage without complicated Ethernet wires or unreliable and complicated wireless repeaters.
The PlugLink AV 9660 Ethernet Adapter (PL9660-ETH) is a HomePlug AV 200 Mbps Ethernet bridge that makes it quicker and easier than ever to set up a home network or small business network. Featuring advanced push-button encryption technology for immediate security and a LED performance indicator, the PlugLink AV 9660 Ethernet Adapter (PL9660-ETH) provides a flexible High Definition (HD) multimedia-ready network solution for the digital home.
"Our new PlugLink 200 Mbps AV suite offers our Carriers and customers a pervasive and reliable network backbone for services such as Broadband, VoIP, IPTV and Home Monitoring," said Dano Ybarra, CEO of Asoka. "Asoka is dedicated to delivering the ultimate experience in digital home entertainment through innovative and unique designs as demonstrated in our PlugLink AV 9164 Digital Power Center, advanced push-button encryption, and LED performance indicator."
"Asoka's latest HomePlug AV portfolio represents the continued momentum of the HomePlug Powerline Alliance," added Matthew Theall from Intel Corporation, who also serves as the President of the HomePlug Powerline Alliance. "Innovative integrated HomePlug designs like these from Asoka truly help proliferate the value of this technology."
Pricing and Availability
The PlugLink AV 9660 Ethernet Adapter (PL9660-ETH) is immediately available and the Suggested Retail Price is $99.99 for one adapter. The PlugLink AV 9560 Wireless Adapter (PL9560-WAP) and the PlugLink AV 9164 Digital Power Center (PL9164-4SW) are scheduled to ship in 1Q 2008. The Suggested Retail Price is $119.99 and $139.99 respectively. These products will be available through Asoka's network of resellers, Service Providers and Asoka's own online store, http://www.asokausa.com.
By PR Newswire
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Oct. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Asoka USA, a leading Powerline Network Solutions provider, today debuted the latest additions to its popular PlugLink Powerline network solutions family -- the Pluglink AV 9164 Digital Power Center (PL9164-4SW), the PlugLink AV 9560 Wireless Adapter (PL9560-WAP) and the PlugLink AV 9660 Ethernet Adapter (PL9660-ETH). All three are designed for HomePlug(R) AV standards compliance, boasting connection speeds of up to 200 Mbps over existing home electrical wiring. Asoka is showcasing all three products this week at the 2007 HomePlug Technology Conference in Santa Clara, California.
The PlugLink AV 9164 Digital Power Center (PL9164-4SW) features 6-AC sockets with comprehensive surge protection, advanced AC powerline noise filtering for better picture and sound, and a HomePlug 200 Mbps 4-port Ethernet switch for overall digital home entertainment network connectivity. The PlugLink AV 9164 Digital Power Center (PL9164-4SW) is the ideal solution for growing digital entertainment needs, providing a simple, secure and reliable network solution while offering world-class performance and protection for your AV components.
The PlugLink AV 9560 Wireless Adapter (PL9560-WAP) is an integrated HomePlug AV 200 Mbps Ethernet Adapter with an 802.11b/g access point. The PlugLink AV 9560 Wireless Adapter (PL9560-WAP) is the ideal wireless network extender for your home or office. It provides instant extended wireless coverage without complicated Ethernet wires or unreliable and complicated wireless repeaters.
The PlugLink AV 9660 Ethernet Adapter (PL9660-ETH) is a HomePlug AV 200 Mbps Ethernet bridge that makes it quicker and easier than ever to set up a home network or small business network. Featuring advanced push-button encryption technology for immediate security and a LED performance indicator, the PlugLink AV 9660 Ethernet Adapter (PL9660-ETH) provides a flexible High Definition (HD) multimedia-ready network solution for the digital home.
"Our new PlugLink 200 Mbps AV suite offers our Carriers and customers a pervasive and reliable network backbone for services such as Broadband, VoIP, IPTV and Home Monitoring," said Dano Ybarra, CEO of Asoka. "Asoka is dedicated to delivering the ultimate experience in digital home entertainment through innovative and unique designs as demonstrated in our PlugLink AV 9164 Digital Power Center, advanced push-button encryption, and LED performance indicator."
"Asoka's latest HomePlug AV portfolio represents the continued momentum of the HomePlug Powerline Alliance," added Matthew Theall from Intel Corporation, who also serves as the President of the HomePlug Powerline Alliance. "Innovative integrated HomePlug designs like these from Asoka truly help proliferate the value of this technology."
Pricing and Availability
The PlugLink AV 9660 Ethernet Adapter (PL9660-ETH) is immediately available and the Suggested Retail Price is $99.99 for one adapter. The PlugLink AV 9560 Wireless Adapter (PL9560-WAP) and the PlugLink AV 9164 Digital Power Center (PL9164-4SW) are scheduled to ship in 1Q 2008. The Suggested Retail Price is $119.99 and $139.99 respectively. These products will be available through Asoka's network of resellers, Service Providers and Asoka's own online store, http://www.asokausa.com.
DS2 analyses the future of 'Digital Home Networking' for telecoms IPTV services
Broadband World Forum Europe, Berlin 2007
DMN Newswire--2007-10-9--DS2, the leading technology innovator and a global provider of high-speed semiconductor solutions for Powerline Communications applications, will hold a discussion panel at Broadband World Forum Europe 2007, giving new insight into powerline technology as the future of multimedia home networking and networked entertainment applications. Victor Dominguez, DS2's Business Development Director, will chair the panel, which will focus on the rapidly growing consumer demand for 'The Digital Home', a home where electronic devices communicate and interact, which is emerging as the key driver for new services in the telecommunications sector. The panel will look at the requirements of home network-based services beyond triple play and the demands that this places on today's enabling technologies, such as unterminated coax, wireless or powerline, to deliver real-time interactive and secure multimedia and broadband applications.
The panel - which will include industry thought leaders from Microsoft, Portugal Telecom and British Telecom (BT Retail), as well as technology providers Comtrend Communications and Pirelli Broadband Solutions - will offer opinions and experiences of multimedia home networking applications. Forum topics will include consumer benefits, current applications for home networking in IPTV and triple play services, as well as the latest home networking trends plus performance, coverage and Quality of Service requirements.
Harold Fitch, Comtrend's General Manager, Europe and South America, and a supplier of high-speed Powerline Communications technology for commercial IPTV services such as British Telecom's self-install BT Vision package, and Telefónica, will also be among the panel of speakers fielding questions and discussing next generation networking. Mr Fitch stated: "We use DS2's UPA Plugtested powerline technology because of its speed, reliability and all-round performance. Setting up a powerline network is so easy. Configuration is automatic, the network itself is secure and delivers whole home connectivity, plus it supports multimedia networking applications delivering prime-time viewing quality, which is why operators, such as BT, are opting to include our high speed Powerline products in their IPTV roll-outs. As the underlying technology becomes fully integrated into currently popular applications, the scope for innovation and new consumer products will grow significantly."
"We believe that a completely interoperable digital home network is the future," commented Victor Dominguez, Business Development Director at DS2. "The powerline market is growing at a rate of 100 per cent p.a. because of a spiralling consumer demand for a 'Digital Home', which offers state-of-the-art applications such as online gaming, audio distribution and HD video streaming, without complex or expensive installation. Powerline technology enables integration into current applications and ensures the best possible end-user experience."
The Panel, entitled track E2 - Beyond Triple Play: Home Network-Based Services, is open to Broadband World Forum Europe, Berlin 2007 attendees at the Estrel Convention Centre at 2:00pm on Wednesday 10th October.
About DS2
DS2 is the world's leading supplier of the 200 Mbps technology that enables home networking and broadband access over power line, coaxial cable, and telephone wire. DS2 pioneered the industry with the introduction of its 200 Mbps chipsets, creating the fastest and highest performance solution for simultaneous data, digital audio and high-definition video transmission. Two pre-eminent industry groups, the Universal Powerline Association (UPA) and the European Union consortium OPERA (Open PLC European Research Alliance) have adopted DS2 technology in support of multi-vendor standard certified product. For more information, please visit www.ds2.es
DMN Newswire--2007-10-9--DS2, the leading technology innovator and a global provider of high-speed semiconductor solutions for Powerline Communications applications, will hold a discussion panel at Broadband World Forum Europe 2007, giving new insight into powerline technology as the future of multimedia home networking and networked entertainment applications. Victor Dominguez, DS2's Business Development Director, will chair the panel, which will focus on the rapidly growing consumer demand for 'The Digital Home', a home where electronic devices communicate and interact, which is emerging as the key driver for new services in the telecommunications sector. The panel will look at the requirements of home network-based services beyond triple play and the demands that this places on today's enabling technologies, such as unterminated coax, wireless or powerline, to deliver real-time interactive and secure multimedia and broadband applications.
The panel - which will include industry thought leaders from Microsoft, Portugal Telecom and British Telecom (BT Retail), as well as technology providers Comtrend Communications and Pirelli Broadband Solutions - will offer opinions and experiences of multimedia home networking applications. Forum topics will include consumer benefits, current applications for home networking in IPTV and triple play services, as well as the latest home networking trends plus performance, coverage and Quality of Service requirements.
Harold Fitch, Comtrend's General Manager, Europe and South America, and a supplier of high-speed Powerline Communications technology for commercial IPTV services such as British Telecom's self-install BT Vision package, and Telefónica, will also be among the panel of speakers fielding questions and discussing next generation networking. Mr Fitch stated: "We use DS2's UPA Plugtested powerline technology because of its speed, reliability and all-round performance. Setting up a powerline network is so easy. Configuration is automatic, the network itself is secure and delivers whole home connectivity, plus it supports multimedia networking applications delivering prime-time viewing quality, which is why operators, such as BT, are opting to include our high speed Powerline products in their IPTV roll-outs. As the underlying technology becomes fully integrated into currently popular applications, the scope for innovation and new consumer products will grow significantly."
"We believe that a completely interoperable digital home network is the future," commented Victor Dominguez, Business Development Director at DS2. "The powerline market is growing at a rate of 100 per cent p.a. because of a spiralling consumer demand for a 'Digital Home', which offers state-of-the-art applications such as online gaming, audio distribution and HD video streaming, without complex or expensive installation. Powerline technology enables integration into current applications and ensures the best possible end-user experience."
The Panel, entitled track E2 - Beyond Triple Play: Home Network-Based Services, is open to Broadband World Forum Europe, Berlin 2007 attendees at the Estrel Convention Centre at 2:00pm on Wednesday 10th October.
About DS2
DS2 is the world's leading supplier of the 200 Mbps technology that enables home networking and broadband access over power line, coaxial cable, and telephone wire. DS2 pioneered the industry with the introduction of its 200 Mbps chipsets, creating the fastest and highest performance solution for simultaneous data, digital audio and high-definition video transmission. Two pre-eminent industry groups, the Universal Powerline Association (UPA) and the European Union consortium OPERA (Open PLC European Research Alliance) have adopted DS2 technology in support of multi-vendor standard certified product. For more information, please visit www.ds2.es
Leading New York City Developer Selects MSTI Holdings To Provide ''Quadruple Play'' Services For New Residential Building
By BusinessWire
HAWTHORNE, N.J., BUSINESS WIRE -- MSTI Holdings, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: MSHI), a carrier class communications technology company that specializes in providing "quadruple play" services consisting of video, voice, Internet and Wi-Fi to multi-tenant unit and multi-dwelling unit residential, hospitality and commercial properties, announced today that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Microwave Satellite Technologies, Inc. ("MST") (NuVisions(TM)) has entered into an agreement with a leading New York City real estate conglomerate to provide quadruple play services to 396 residential units. The building, located in New York City, is a new luxury rental building located in New York's Financial District. MST will also provide its new IPTV service to customers at that location.
"We are pleased that one of the largest real estate management companies in New York City has selected NuVisions(TM) for this project," said Frank Matarazzo, CEO and founder of MST. "Our ability to cost-effectively deliver a suite of communication services represents a powerful advantage for both building owners and tenants. As a result of the unique value proposition we offer, building owners in the tri-State area and in our other target markets are increasingly selecting NuVisions to meet their communications and entertainment requirements."
HAWTHORNE, N.J., BUSINESS WIRE -- MSTI Holdings, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: MSHI), a carrier class communications technology company that specializes in providing "quadruple play" services consisting of video, voice, Internet and Wi-Fi to multi-tenant unit and multi-dwelling unit residential, hospitality and commercial properties, announced today that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Microwave Satellite Technologies, Inc. ("MST") (NuVisions(TM)) has entered into an agreement with a leading New York City real estate conglomerate to provide quadruple play services to 396 residential units. The building, located in New York City, is a new luxury rental building located in New York's Financial District. MST will also provide its new IPTV service to customers at that location.
"We are pleased that one of the largest real estate management companies in New York City has selected NuVisions(TM) for this project," said Frank Matarazzo, CEO and founder of MST. "Our ability to cost-effectively deliver a suite of communication services represents a powerful advantage for both building owners and tenants. As a result of the unique value proposition we offer, building owners in the tri-State area and in our other target markets are increasingly selecting NuVisions to meet their communications and entertainment requirements."
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
HomePlug® Powerline Alliance Announces Intent to Certify IEEE 1901 Products Based on Its Recent Merged Proposal
October 09, 2007 07:57 AM Eastern Daylight Time
HomePlug Adds New Session at Upcoming Annual Conference to Provide Insight on Latest IEEE P1901 Developments
HomePlug Powerline Technology Conference
SAN RAMON, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The HomePlug® Powerline Alliance today announced it has added a new session to the upcoming HomePlug Powerline Technology Conference which will focus on recent developments in the IEEE P1901 Work Group and its intent to certify IEEE 1901 products. This certification will be based on the HomePlug Alliance’s recently merged proposal to ensure compliance with the IEEE specification and will be designed to be interoperable with other products in the market. The HomePlug Powerline Technology Conference will be held on October 10 and 11 at the Hyatt Regency Santa Clara in Santa Clara, California. Registration is open now, and details on the session and conference can be found at http://2007conference.homeplug.org.
The conference will also share the success of the HomePlug-developed Compliance and Interoperability (C&I) program, its history to date, and how the program will be expanded to certify IEEE 1901-based products. The C&I program has already certified many of the over 10 million HomePlug products in the powerline communications market, and the program has recently been expanded with compliance processes geared toward silicon manufacturers.
“The HomePlug Powerline Alliance is truly excited about our involvement in the IEEE’s Broadband over Powerline efforts. From the beginning, the HomePlug Alliance has always been committed to a single interoperable standard for this breakthrough technology, and HomePlug’s member companies have been deeply involved in the IEEE work groups,” said Oleg Logvinov, president and CEO of Arkados, Inc., who serves as chief strategy officer of the HomePlug Powerline Alliance.
“The HomePlug Alliance has had great success with our strict Compliance and Interoperability program, and HomePlug certification assures consumers that products are interoperable with another. Extending our comprehensive program to include IEEE 1901 standard products is a logical step for the entire industry,” said Craig Cedros from Intel Corporation, who serves as chair of the Compliance and Interoperability Work Group.
Founded in 2000, the HomePlug Alliance remains the only compliance, interoperability and standards organization in the powerline technology industry. The merged proposal submitted by HomePlug and Panasonic to the IEEE P1901 Work Group offers the efficiency of a single MAC and the flexibility to support both the HD-PLC and HomePlug AV PHYs. As a result, future products based on the merged proposal will be designed to be interoperable with existing powerline products.
The IEEE P1901 Work Group is expected to approve a proposal later this year. For more information on the HomePlug Powerline Alliance and the Annual HomePlug Powerline Technology Conference, please visit www.homeplug.org.
HomePlug Adds New Session at Upcoming Annual Conference to Provide Insight on Latest IEEE P1901 Developments
HomePlug Powerline Technology Conference
SAN RAMON, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The HomePlug® Powerline Alliance today announced it has added a new session to the upcoming HomePlug Powerline Technology Conference which will focus on recent developments in the IEEE P1901 Work Group and its intent to certify IEEE 1901 products. This certification will be based on the HomePlug Alliance’s recently merged proposal to ensure compliance with the IEEE specification and will be designed to be interoperable with other products in the market. The HomePlug Powerline Technology Conference will be held on October 10 and 11 at the Hyatt Regency Santa Clara in Santa Clara, California. Registration is open now, and details on the session and conference can be found at http://2007conference.homeplug.org.
The conference will also share the success of the HomePlug-developed Compliance and Interoperability (C&I) program, its history to date, and how the program will be expanded to certify IEEE 1901-based products. The C&I program has already certified many of the over 10 million HomePlug products in the powerline communications market, and the program has recently been expanded with compliance processes geared toward silicon manufacturers.
“The HomePlug Powerline Alliance is truly excited about our involvement in the IEEE’s Broadband over Powerline efforts. From the beginning, the HomePlug Alliance has always been committed to a single interoperable standard for this breakthrough technology, and HomePlug’s member companies have been deeply involved in the IEEE work groups,” said Oleg Logvinov, president and CEO of Arkados, Inc., who serves as chief strategy officer of the HomePlug Powerline Alliance.
“The HomePlug Alliance has had great success with our strict Compliance and Interoperability program, and HomePlug certification assures consumers that products are interoperable with another. Extending our comprehensive program to include IEEE 1901 standard products is a logical step for the entire industry,” said Craig Cedros from Intel Corporation, who serves as chair of the Compliance and Interoperability Work Group.
Founded in 2000, the HomePlug Alliance remains the only compliance, interoperability and standards organization in the powerline technology industry. The merged proposal submitted by HomePlug and Panasonic to the IEEE P1901 Work Group offers the efficiency of a single MAC and the flexibility to support both the HD-PLC and HomePlug AV PHYs. As a result, future products based on the merged proposal will be designed to be interoperable with existing powerline products.
The IEEE P1901 Work Group is expected to approve a proposal later this year. For more information on the HomePlug Powerline Alliance and the Annual HomePlug Powerline Technology Conference, please visit www.homeplug.org.
Thursday, October 04, 2007
FP&L to invest $2.4 billion on 'smart grid,' solar and outreach
FP&L to invest $2.4 billion on 'smart grid,' solar and outreach
October 2007
Florida Power & Light plans to invest up to $500 million to create a "smart network" -- what we often call "smart grid" -- to give customers enhanced energy management . . . http://www.bpltoday.com/
October 2007
Florida Power & Light plans to invest up to $500 million to create a "smart network" -- what we often call "smart grid" -- to give customers enhanced energy management . . . http://www.bpltoday.com/
BPL Solutions Provider Asoka Gets $7 Million in Venture Capital, Appoints New CEO
$7M Jolt for Broadband-Over-Power-Line Firm
04 October 2007, 12:18
by Ken Schachter
Broadband over power line equipment maker Asoka USA has hired a new chief executive and reeled in $7 million in venture capital from Venrock Associates and Storm Ventures, the company said Thursday.
Dano Ybarra succeeded founder T.K. Chan as chief executive of the 6-year-old company which until now had been bootstrapped.
Mr. Ybarra has worked in executive, operations and marketing roles at Netopia, FlowPoint, Efficient Netwoks, Siemens and Adobe.
Broadband over power line, or BPL, has been touted for years as a potential rival to Internet services delivered by cable and telecom companies, but U.S. electric companies have yet to roll out the offering to a mass market.
In May, the HomePlug Powerline Alliance, an industry group, said more than nine million power line communications devices had been shipped by members worldwide. With BPL, Internet service is delivered via standard electrical lines into homes and businesses.
Google, Goldman Sachs, Duke Energy, General Electric and others have lavished more than $130 million in venture capital on leading U.S. BPL provider Current Group, but that company’s footprint remains limited to the Dallas/Forth Worth and Cincinnati markets.
Asoka, with headquarters in Foster City, California, and research and development facilities in Shenzhen, China, offers equipment for home networking as well as gear that allows hotels and multi-tenant residential and commercial properties to make electrical outlets do double duty as Internet connections.
"Mr. Ybarra has demonstrated the ability to build teams capable of growing young companies into world leaders," Tae Hea Nahm of Storm Ventures said in a statement.
04 October 2007, 12:18
by Ken Schachter
Broadband over power line equipment maker Asoka USA has hired a new chief executive and reeled in $7 million in venture capital from Venrock Associates and Storm Ventures, the company said Thursday.
Dano Ybarra succeeded founder T.K. Chan as chief executive of the 6-year-old company which until now had been bootstrapped.
Mr. Ybarra has worked in executive, operations and marketing roles at Netopia, FlowPoint, Efficient Netwoks, Siemens and Adobe.
Broadband over power line, or BPL, has been touted for years as a potential rival to Internet services delivered by cable and telecom companies, but U.S. electric companies have yet to roll out the offering to a mass market.
In May, the HomePlug Powerline Alliance, an industry group, said more than nine million power line communications devices had been shipped by members worldwide. With BPL, Internet service is delivered via standard electrical lines into homes and businesses.
Google, Goldman Sachs, Duke Energy, General Electric and others have lavished more than $130 million in venture capital on leading U.S. BPL provider Current Group, but that company’s footprint remains limited to the Dallas/Forth Worth and Cincinnati markets.
Asoka, with headquarters in Foster City, California, and research and development facilities in Shenzhen, China, offers equipment for home networking as well as gear that allows hotels and multi-tenant residential and commercial properties to make electrical outlets do double duty as Internet connections.
"Mr. Ybarra has demonstrated the ability to build teams capable of growing young companies into world leaders," Tae Hea Nahm of Storm Ventures said in a statement.
Groups team for Powerline audio project
Groups team for Powerline audio project
John Walko
EE Times Europe
10/02/2007 4:44 PM
LONDON — Broadband over Powerline networking chip specialist SiConnect (Swindon, England) has teamed with Taiwanese group ST&T Corporation to develop powerline communication based audio equipment.
ST&T (Tainin, Taiwan) will use SiConnect's single-chip audio powerline transceiver in the development project.
The chip uses the compnay's patented POEM technology which brings low cost, high fidelity throughput, native uncompressed audio streaming, coexistence with other powerline applications, mesh networking and global EMC compliance.
SiConnect CEO, Chris Wade, commented: "ST&T's knowledge of the powerline market is second-to-none and we look forward to helping them address new opportunities for interconnecting consumer electronics in the home. We are both committed to the rapid deployment of powerline applications in the home and our jointly developed audio powerline products will set new price-performance benchmarks for the sector."
John Walko
EE Times Europe
10/02/2007 4:44 PM
LONDON — Broadband over Powerline networking chip specialist SiConnect (Swindon, England) has teamed with Taiwanese group ST&T Corporation to develop powerline communication based audio equipment.
ST&T (Tainin, Taiwan) will use SiConnect's single-chip audio powerline transceiver in the development project.
The chip uses the compnay's patented POEM technology which brings low cost, high fidelity throughput, native uncompressed audio streaming, coexistence with other powerline applications, mesh networking and global EMC compliance.
SiConnect CEO, Chris Wade, commented: "ST&T's knowledge of the powerline market is second-to-none and we look forward to helping them address new opportunities for interconnecting consumer electronics in the home. We are both committed to the rapid deployment of powerline applications in the home and our jointly developed audio powerline products will set new price-performance benchmarks for the sector."
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