ENABLING THE HOME AREA NETWORK MARKET

The idea is market proven and simple. Rather than force manufacturers to build and integrate thermostats for each communication protocol deployed, why not offer a simple circuit card that can be “plugged” or “snapped” into a thermostat to connect it to the native AMI network? That way, when one state or utility adopts protocol A and another adopts protocol B, manufacturers can offer the same exact product in multiple markets. The same standard for thermostats can be applied to other HAN devices such as in-home displays, load control modules and even kitchen appliances. The U-SNAP card provides an affordable solution that can be deployed during the manufacturing process or in the field. Utilities can continue deployment of their smart meters using their protocol of choice, knowing that HAN devices will be compatible today, tomorrow and well into the future. Utilities will save money by not having to bear the extra cost of HAN communication cards in their meters, while consumers will benefit from standardized products available from multiple suppliers, including traditional retail and DIY channels. Utilities interested in extending AMI to the HAN can allow consumers to purchase standard products through traditional retail channels and ship a pre-configured U-SNAP card to their customers. Once received, consumers simply “snap” the card into the open slot in a compatible product. The utility can then connect, communicate and/or control the device using the existing AMI network.
Benefits for Utilities HAN product availability is extremely limited today. Manufacturers are reluctant to build products for specific AMI programs that are geographically limited. By incorporating the U-SNAP specification into AMI program bids, manufacturers will be empowered to produce a full-range of products sold through traditional retail channels. Utilities and consumers will benefit from broad availability of affordable and compatible products from multiple suppliers. The U-SNAP specification provides connectivity to both proprietary and non-proprietary meter interfaces offered by AMI suppliers, along with protection against future changes associated with HAN standards that may occur over the life of the meter. Consumers can install U-SNAP cards, reducing the risk of potential errors through utility configuration and eliminating the added cost of rolling a truck to install or remove the card. As consumers move from one utility program to another, they can bring their products with them due to standardization and compatibility. This model supports a rapid and cost effective return on investment for utility AMI and HAN programs. Benefits for Manufacturers Manufacturers of HAN devices are struggling with the lack of industry standardization of protocols and interfaces. By incorporating the U-SNAP design into their products, manufacturers can significantly reduce product development and channel support costs, while utilizing existing retail supply channels. Inventory costs will be reduced as standard products can operate on either a stand-alone basis or as part of a secure home area network. U-SNAP compliant products sold today will be able to support any HAN deployment today or in the future. Benefits for Consumers Consumer awareness and confidence will rise, as they feel empowered to purchase products that are compatible with their current smart meter, while remaining transferable so that they can take them with them if they move. The USNAP approach supports DIY or professional installation facilitating a range of deployment options. Consumers will have access to a large cross section of competitively priced products from multiple interoperable suppliers. Consumers participating in utility opt-in energy programs will feel further empowered by having access to energy aware appliances, products, and related information services. U-SNAP Framework 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. 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. 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.
U-SNAP Alliance The U-SNAP Alliance is a non-profit mutual benefit (501(c)6) corporation formed to create a low cost interoperable connectivity standard for linking Home Area Network (HAN) devices to Smart Meters. The U-SNAP Alliance fosters collaboration and education among industry stakeholders such as utilities, AMI suppliers, HAN venders, industry consultants, academics and regulators who seek interoperable, secure and cost effective solutions for extending the Smart Grid to a broad ecosystem of energy aware consumer products. The purposes of the alliance include: Define a serial interface connector standard for HAN devices to accommodate one or more communication protocol modules; Make appropriate use of standards created by other standards bodies, agencies and associations wherever possible; Promote the ratification, approval and adoption of such specifications developed by the Corporation to utilities, regulators and device manufacturers; Establish certification guidelines and procedures to ensure compatibility and interoperability of the standard among third party products; Provide a forum and environment whereby the Corporation’s Members may meet to approve suggested revisions and enhancements that evolve the relevant specifications; and provide a forum whereby users may meet with developers and providers of related products and services to identify requirements for interoperability and general usability; Educate the business and consumer communities as to the value, benefits and applications for such a standard in consumer and commercial products and services through public statements, publications, trade shows demonstrations, seminar sponsor-ships and other programs established by the Corporation. U-SNAP Alliance membership consists of three classes: Promoter Membership consists of companies interested in leading the organization by sitting on the Board of Directors, leading committees, contributing specification development and approving the final specification. Contributor Membership consists of manufacturers, suppliers and other companies interested in producing compliant products based on the specification. Contributor Members participate in the development and promotion of the specification through committees and work groups. Influencer Membership consists of non-manufacturers such as utilities, regulators, consultants and academics interested in obtaining specification proposals and use of logos for marketing purposes. Conclusion As millions of smart meters are deployed worldwide, utilities can instill confidence that their meters can communicate cost effectively, reliably and securely with products installed within the home today and in the future. Over 1 million U-SNAP cards are expected to ship in 2009 through traditional retail channels and utility specific programs. Having learned valuable lessons from the computer industry, the U-SNAP Alliance is providing a solid foundation for the next wave in consumer energy aware products. The emerging Home Area Network industry can now focus its efforts on developing and selling products to consumers and utilities rather than spending the next decade debating standards. More information can be obtained on the U-SNAP Alliance by visiting www.usnap.org.