September 8, 2008—EnOcean, the inventor of self-powered wireless sensors and modules, has released 315 MHz versions of its ultra-low power radio modules. The development enables integrators to install wireless sensors networks into buildings using a frequency band that is far less crowded than the others available, such as 2.4 GHz.
The development concept was simple, according to EnOcean. Low power devices, such as thermostats and occupancy sensors, should not share air waves with higher power devices such as WiFi routers, ZigBee coordinators and microwave ovens. For building automation, the 315 MHz frequency inherently provides range and performance advantages over the higher 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz frequencies.
The 315 MHz frequency band is able to carry data through materials, such as building walls, more efficiently than the higher 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz frequencies, the company notes.
Automated control systems inject energy-efficiencies into energy-inefficient buildings. Occupancy-based systems, for example, reduce the amount of energy wasted heating, cooling and lighting unoccupied rooms. Demand response systems allow utilities to avoid brown and black-outs. Master ON/OFF controls simplify compliance to government regulations such as California Title 24. Self-powered wireless sensors and switches simplify the installation of all the aforementioned systems.
The 315 MHz radio modules are available in a development kit that also features EnOcean’s energy harvesting technologies. For information on the self-powered wireless development kit ($999 retail); visit EnOcean Web site.
