January 13, 2010

Verizon Wireless & Ambient Launch Open Smart Grid Communications Architecture

Verizon Wireless and Ambient Corporation (OTCBB: ABTG) today announced the launch of their jointly developed Open Smart Grid Communications Architecture, an integrated smart grid solution and open communications network for utilities deploying smart grid programs.

The Open Smart Grid Communications Architecture accelerates the deployment of secure smart grids, saving utilities the operational investment and maintenance cost of deploying a proprietary communications network. The Ambient Smart Grid®, operating on Verizon Wireless’ network infrastructure, leverages the reliability and breadth of the Verizon Wireless network. The architecture provides utilities with private IP clouds of connectivity creating virtual private networks, allowing the utility to benefit from Verizon Wireless’ continuous investment in network security, speed and reliability.

“The Ambient Open Smart Grid Communications Architecture offers customers best-in-class solutions with the nation’s largest and most reliable wireless 3G network,” said Michael Brander, associate director of enterprise data for Verizon Wireless. “This is a high growth industry and Ambient gives utility customers an optimum set of solutions for long-term growth and expansion of services.”

Key features of the Open Smart Grid Communications Architecture include:

•Proven, reliable, flexible architecture
•End-to-end security measures built in
•Allows utilities to easily and rapidly deploy a communications network from the network operations center to the end-user
•Leading smart metering companies’ products already incorporated into the architecture
•Allows utilities to pick their own best-in-class smart grid applications and devices
•Devices share a reliable, low-cost network with utility-based pricing
 

“Through our joint marketing agreement, we have worked with Verizon Wireless to create a smart grid network architecture that utilities can rapidly and easily deploy, allowing connectivity to smart meters and other IP-based technologies,” stated John J. Joyce, president and CEO of Ambient Corporation.

Ambient’s newest smart grid node model, the X-3100, was recently certified by Verizon Wireless for its 3G network.

Continued Joyce, “Our X-3100 is the only commercially deployed node, certified by Verizon Wireless, incorporating core technologies and applications specially engineered to help utilities design and deploy smart grids.”

The Ambient X-3100 smart grid node also extends the connectivity of Verizon Wireless’ network via Wi-Fi, RF, power line carrier, Zigbee and/or WiMAX communications technology embedded in the node, allowing a utility to connect to end-user devices.

This announcement is a continuation of the joint marketing agreement the companies announced last year.

back