-- Provides a point-to-point smart grid communications platform that can
facilitate data transfer to any smart grid device on any network (public or
private)
-- Can be managed by standard commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) network IT
management tools that most utilities already implement
-- Functions like any other network appliance on an IP network, such as a
PC or copy machine
-- Offers a standard, open platform that allows multiple companies to
provide value to the customer as part of an 'ecosystem of innovation'
-- Is field upgradeable -- allowing utilities to add multiple
communication technologies to their smart grid communications
infrastructure based on future needs without having to replace an entire
system backbone
Currently, utilities have no choice but to purchase and integrate
non-interoperable proprietary technologies from multiple vendors that have
purpose-built network communications. The GridRouter bridges the network
gap between these types of devices and allows each vendor to participate in
an open ecosystem, and helps utilities avoid being locked into one specific
technology or device.
"The GridRouter is the 'Rosetta Stone' of the smart grid, allowing multiple
digital energy language users to quickly understand each other for the
first time," said SmartSynch CEO Stephen Johnston. "With the GridRouter,
utilities can embrace the best technologies and future-proof the smart grid
simultaneously, which significantly reduces the technology risk factor.
Similar to how network routers transformed the Internet from slow,
one-dimensional Web sites to a high bandwidth experience with voice and
video, the GridRouter opens the door to new applications and networks,
utilizes greater bandwidth and increases functionality -- transforming the
smart electricity grid as we know it."
"The goal of the stimulus funding was to finance technology that would
provide a foundation for years or even decades, but if utilities spend
money on proprietary technology, they may have to replace it in a few
years," said metering expert Dr. Aaron Snyder of Enernex in a recent issue
of Smart Grid Today. "The vision of an interoperable, plug-and-play power
grid cannot come to pass if each of the country's 3,000 utilities is in its
own incompatible island of non-compliant technology."
Johnston said the smart grid industry should not view the GridRouter as a
competitive product, but rather a solution engineered specifically to allow
utilities to exercise choice over plug-in devices and grid assets from
different vendors into their overall smart grid infrastructure. "It allows
reclosers from Sweitzer and Cooper to be part of the same smart grid
network along with meters from Echelon and other providers," Johnston said.
"The GridRouter actually transforms competition into collaboration and
facilitates an ecosystem of innovation in which multiple companies can
provide value to utilities."
The GridRouter is available immediately. Visit www.gridrouter.com for more
information on the product, including a virtual demonstration.
About SmartSynch
SmartSynch has been the only provider of standard, IP communicating
end-to-end smart grid solutions utilizing public wireless networks for the
utility industry since 2000. Our clean-tech innovations in the two-way
delivery of real-time energy usage data over public wireless networks, in
lieu of proprietary networks, have to-date simplified deployments for 100
major North American utilities, while enabling their clean-energy
initiatives and delivering greater Returns on Resources.
As a smart grid infrastructure company, SmartSynch's IP-based solutions are
capable of delivering grid intelligence to and from any device. Our
products and services include SmartMeters™ and SmartBoxes™ that
immediately IP-enable the grid, software solutions, and network management
services for utilities and their customers, as well as clean-tech companies
in need of remote communications and control functionality for products
ranging from solar panels to plug-in hybrid vehicles.
IP-based public wireless networks enable utilities to strategically and
rapidly deploy more secure and scalable smart grid solutions with minimal
capital expenditures. IP networks and solutions may be remotely upgraded
to interface with new technologies, since they are built upon open
standards and leverage existing programs and tools. SmartSynch's IP-based
Smart Grid communications infrastructure encourages rapid application
innovation and delivery of new functionality by allowing the broadest
spectrum of ecosystem participants to focus on providing maximum benefits
to utilities and their customers.
Contact Information: Editorial Contacts: Chris Myers SmartSynch 601-362-1780 cmyers@smartsynch.com Craig Corica A&R Edelman 650-762-2917 ccorica@ar-edelman.com
