Sierra Wireless, a provider of mobile computing and machine-to-machine (M2M) communications products, announced that Ambient Corporation that develops and markets smart grid communications equipment, selected Sierra Wireless (News - Alert) AirPrime embedded modules to offer 3G wireless connectivity for Ambient's X-series smart grid communications node.

The X-series smart grid node, which is used by telecom service providers and energy utilities, is part of the Ambient (News - Alert) Smart Grid communications platform. The Ambient Smart Grid platform offers a critical link in building an energy infrastructure to enable connection with micro-generation and renewable energy sources. 

“Real-time monitoring and communication with the grid enables energy and utility companies to provide better, more responsive service to their customers, but it does more than that,” said Ram Rao, SVP and CTO of Ambient Corporation, in a statement. “It also enables better use of a wider range of energy sources, like single windmills attached to rural homes that can provide electricity back to the grid in times of low use.”

Sierra Wireless embedded modules offers its customers a reliable, stable connection and high product quality. High quality is vital for customers especially when dealing with critical infrastructure applications.

“Ambient is helping to transform energy infrastructure to reduce energy consumption and inefficiencies,” said Mike Ardelan, vice president of OEM Sales for Sierra Wireless. “This is a perfect example of the myriad ways in which embedded wireless technology can be employed to provide better real-time information that enables companies to better serve their customers and reduce costs.”

These kinds of smart grid solutions help create a more sustainable energy system for the future. Sierra Wireless’ solutions are actively being deployed for utilities in countries such as Australia, Canada, China, France, India, Italy, New Zealand, Thailand, the United Kingdom and the United States.

In October 2010, Sierra Wireless signed a multi-year strategic agreement with TELUS to provide M2M Services Management for TELUS (News - Alert) and drive the growth of wireless M2M communication in the Canadian market.

Rajani Baburajan is a contributing editor for TMCnet. To read more of Rajani's articles, please visit her columnist page.

Edited by Jennifer Russell