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Itron and Ambient Earn Sprint Network CertificationOct 21, 2010 (Close-Up Media via COMTEX) -- Sprint, a provider of wireline and wireless services, announced that Itron and Ambient have received Sprint network certification. In recent weeks, Sprint announced agreements with SmartSynch, Grid Net and Landis+Gyr that will help utilities enhance network reliability, optimize service delivery, introduce renewable energy resources and enable the consumer in their energy consumption. SmartSynch and Sprint collaborated to introduce an electronic residential utility meter. This smart meter allows utilities to automate their electric grid, enabling automated metering infrastructure and demand response while utilizing the Nationwide Sprint Network. Grid Net is working with Sprint to deliver a smart grid solution that leverages Grid Net's software platforms to connect smart meters and smart grid routers via the Sprint 4G network. Grid Net software platforms are designed to integrate substation automation, distribution automation, smart meters, demand response and load management while reducing capital and operating costs. Landis+Gyr qualified the Sprint 4G network as a compatible communications vehicle to interface with Gridstream, an integrated energy management solution. "Making the electric grid more efficient is not something the average person thinks about, but Sprint does," said Tim Donahue, VP-Industry Solutions, Sprint. "Optimizing the grid is essential to our energy future. Sprint has a dedicated team to work with utilities to develop smart grid solutions. We have a long history serving the utility industry, beginning with Nextel Direct Connect, iDEN telemetry and supervisory control and data applications. We are working with our partners and customers to deliver the smart grid vision, energy management services and eco-friendly energy technologies." The utility industry is recognizing the advantages of public wireless networks and is working with Sprint to utilize both 3G and 4G technologies. Use of public carriers guarantees the latest network technology and mitigates the risk of network obsolescence and stranded asset deployment. Public wireless networks continue to evolve in coverage, reliability and communication. Sprint's high-speed 4G network provides peak download speeds of over 10 Mbps and average download speeds of 3-6 Mbps. It has been serving customers since 2008 and is available to customers in 55 markets in cities like Philadelphia, Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas and Seattle. ((Comments on this story may be sent to [email protected])) |