Connecting with a wireless world

Previously, mesh networks were hardwired, but wireless networks are sufficiently low in power and cost and robust enough to ensure a solid connection.

The use of mesh networks has grown substantially since they were first introduced. The current estimations expect revenues to exceed $7 billion by 2014 with a 100 percent growth in municipal infrastructure in 2010 alone. When you take into account that there were over 8 million smart meter shipments in North America in 2009, this is quite a significant growth rate. Nearly 70 percent of the average utility bill could be influenced by wireless sensor networks, according to reports, and could control heating and lighting to reduce energy costs.

There are many applications for mesh networks aside from the military, which is where the technology was first implemented. Industrial systems rely heavily on the assurance that the critical information they use to operate efficiently is always available. For example, smart gas meters use mesh networks to ensure that billing information is sent even if there is an issue with some of the meters between the home and the receiver.

Asset tracking is another application where it is vital not only to know where shipments are within the chain of custody, but also to guarantee that nothing gets lost in the process. This is another huge growth area that is projected to reach $845 million by 2014, which in turn can save companies millions through its implementation.

You can read the rest of this article in the September issue of Electronic Specifier Design by clicking here.