HAN
Open Protocol Provides Flexibility Today and for the FutureThe EnergyAxis LAN is made up of meter points (nodes) and collectors which together create a redundant, self configuring and self-healing local area network. Each node in the network has 900 MHz FHSS communications integrated onboard under the glass of the meter. This 900 MHz radio is based on a reference design that allows third parties to build in-home equipment that will integrate with and further expand the infrastructure. Read more at EnergyAxis LAN.
Alternatively, each meter can be fitted with an option board to further expand the communication options and support Demand Response and Load Management activities. Option boards already demonstrated with EnergyAxis include 433 MHz, 2.4 GHz, and ZigBee®. This allows the utility an even broader range of potential third party in-home solutions including smart thermostats, in-home displays, and load control relays.
The ZigBee protocols use small, low-power digital radios based on the IEEE 802.15.4 standard for wireless home area networks. ZigBee operates in the 2.4 GHz ISM radio bands. The technology is intended to be simpler and cheaper than other WPANs such as Bluetooth. Once finalized, the ZigBee protocols will offer another standard for utility-based home automation and AMI applications.
Elster has already demonstrated the capability to integrate with a number of technologies and third-party manufacturers. Elster will continue to leverage its standards-based design and open system to expand future functionality and communications support. These products can be organized into three categories:
- In-Home Displays
- Smart Thermostats
- Load Control Devices
EIS seeks out and welcomes input and suggestions by our utility and industry partners regarding new/additional protocols, features, capabilities, third party providers, and manufacturers for consideration and integration into our EnergyAxis AMI solution. This approach helps ensure that we provide you with options that best align with your business needs.
It is our goal to leverage the unique strengths inherent in the EnergyAxis AMI solution; specifically interoperability, brought about by the standards-based and open architecture design to the fullest extent possible.