•——There were a few visions in the past on central control of home electronics, but none of the plans ever materialized in the industry.

Kobayashi: Certainly, the idea of controlling home electronics centrally is nothing new. Until now, even if the technology basis was available, not all equipments were able to connect to each other, and this is why I think it did not become a very popular concept among users.

Therefore, HD-PLC is focusing on verifying the compatibility of the connections between equipments. HD-PLC Alliance is playing a central role in developing the environment for manufacturers of HD-PLC-compliant equipments to perform compatibility tests.

To set up such an environment, HD-PLC TEST HOUSE (picture inset) was built, an actual house with a network environment using HD-PLC. This TEST HOUSE is set up with a personal computer, television, security camera and shutters, all connected with HD-PLC. Performance tests and connectivity tests based on users needs can be done right here; manufacturers don’t need to set up their own testing facilities. Only those products that have passed the connectivity tests will go on the market, so users will never have to ask again, “Will it really connect to the network?”

Making a 'Green Ubiquitous' society a reality with HD-PLC

•——If the connectivity is guaranteed, and if any home electronics can be connected easily, an “Ubiquitous” society where anyone can connect to the network anywhere may become more of a reality.

Kobayashi: We do have to keep in mind that when all equipments are connect to the network, it will have impact on the surrounding environment, such as overall power usage. Even if the power consumption of individual equipment is low, total power consumption could increase as the number of equipments connected to the network grows. Even if a very convenient society is realized with a new ubiquitous technology, it will be meaningless if it’s not eco-friendly.

This is why HD-PLC has been developing new technology for the ubiquitous society, while paying close attention to the environment. 'Green Ubiquitous' is the keyword of our slogan.

(To be continued to Part 2)