USNAP – Utility Smart Network Access Port Alliance

The USNAP Alliance is similar to the Wi-Fi Alliance for “Smart Grid” solutions.

“The mission of the Utility Smart Network Access Port (USNAP) Alliance is to create a protocol independent serial interface standard that enables any HAN (Home Area Network) standard, present and future, to use any vendor’s Smart Meter as a gateway into the home, without adding additional hardware in the Smart Meter. The USNAP Alliance fosters collaboration and education among utilities, AMI suppliers, HAN venders, industry consultants, academics and regulators who seek interoperable, secure and cost effective solutions for extending the Smart Grid to energy aware consumer products.

USNAP Port

“The term USNAP is an acronym for Universal Smart Network Access Port, a simple, yet cost effective solution that enables any HAN (Home Area Network) standard, present and future, to smart meters, energy gateways or other devices within the home. By providing industry with a protocol independent serial interface, it is possible to extend the Smart Grid directly to energy aware consumer products.”

USNAP enables smart appliances and devices.

USNAP WiFi Module in WiFi Thermostats

If you read my previous post about WiFi Thermostats and have seen the 3M Filtrete Thermostat’s at Home Depot you may have noticed that the WiFi capability was via a WiFI USNAP module. The thermostat can accommodate a second USNAP module that could someday be linked to a smart meter via ZigBee or WiFi to maximize energy savings.

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Filed under: Gadgets, WLAN Tools