Analog Devices acquire technology to strengthen its power line communication capabilities

Analog Devices has acquired power-line communications technology to enhance its energy-metering applications. Analog Devices has acquired the PowerBUS RHINO power-line communications technology and all related patents, hardware, and software from a Canada based Domosys Corporation. Since electric power is expected to flow to homes in both directions (smart grid) due to the possibility of home or office generating electricity through solar installations, the metering of electric energy throws significant market opportunity for semiconductor industry. The technology called 'Advanced Metering Infrastructure' (AMI) systems is used to acquire and communicate consumption information for electricity, gas, and water. AMI systems provide two-way meter communications, allowing instructions to be sent to residences for multiple purposes, including "real-time" pricing data, demand-response actions, or remote service disconnects.

Power-line communications can transform any stand-alone meter into a device that can be controlled or monitored either locally or remotely. Signals are sent and received over existing power lines or twisted-pair wires, reducing the need for the installation of new wires or the building of new infrastructure. ADI will develop new products incorporating the PowerBUS RHINO technology and announce these offerings under the Analog Devices brand later this year.

"The global demand for AMI applications has greatly increased in recent years, especially in China, North America, and Europe," said Ronn Kliger, product line director, Energy Metering Products, Analog Devices. "The technology developed by Domosys provides ADI with an excellent foundation for expanding our energy-metering portfolio with new products for the growing AMI market as well as other markets that require no-new-wire communication systems."

"The ADI acquisition of this technology is the culmination of Domosys' research and development activities and is a testament to the superior quality of our technology," said Alain Laflamme, president of Domosys Corporation. "This acquisition will build upon the successful collaboration the two companies have had over the past few years, and we are grateful to our customers and business partners who have supported our past activities. As an outcome of this divestiture, Domosys' operations are ceasing immediately."