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U-SNAP Specification
The U-SNAP specification defines the hardware interface, physical dimensions, data transfer, message contents and protocol specifics for HAN devices. The root of the specification relies on the Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) port found on most communication chips as the transport layer.
The goal is to provide a very inexpensive interface to enable virtually any consumer product to be connected to a HAN. The connector and plastic housing are expected to cost less than $0.10. Adding a communication chip and support circuitry will add another $5 to $10 in cost depending on the technology of choice. The card itself is approximately 1.5 inches square (3.81cm), making it small enough to fit into virtually any energy consuming product.
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Since the U-SNAP specification is protocol agnostic, it can support a wide range of current and future device protocols. There are several U-SNAP cards available now through traditional retail channels, supporting ZigBee, Z-Wave, RDS (Radio Data System), WiFi and FlexNet. U-SNAP cards for other industry protocols are under development.
The U-SNAP specification will support a variety of device classes to enable a full-range of energy-aware consumer products to be attached to the HAN. Device classes for thermostats and in-home displays are available in the preliminary specification. Members of the U-SNAP Alliance will evolve the specification to include other popular device classes over time.
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Device security will be tied to the specific device protocol selected. Most protocols contain a unique ID or address, security firmware, and a binding mechanism. The intention of the spec is to use industry best practices and existing standards to ensure HAN security, device registration and authentication.
Click here to download the U-SNAP Serial Interface Specification.
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