Optisense to Use TI Tech for Smart Grid Measuring Units

DALLAS, TX -- Providing utility companies with a reliable, accurate and energy-efficient smart grid solution for electricity line monitoring, Optisense Network, Inc. has selected Texas Instruments Incorporated's (TI) (NYSE: TXN) embedded processing and analog technology as the preferred solution for its primary measuring units (PMU). TI's TMS320C2000 microcontroller and high-performance analog technology enables a complete monitoring solution that gives utilities real-time visibility of primary voltage lines. The PMU can be configured for primary metering, distribution automation, outage restoration, energy efficiency and power quality. The combination of Optisense's optical sensors and PMUs provides utilities with greater grid security and reliability as well as increased visibility for faster power outage response. Additionally, utilities are able to realize optimized power flows that increase capacity and energy-efficiency, helping recover 25 percent of total load loss.

"Our unique combination of optical sensors and dual processors on a single chip provide power line measurements (voltage and current) in digital format, giving the processor flexibility for system wide grid reliability and efficiency," said Yossi Harlev, CEO/CTO. "TI analog and embedded processing technology enables interface, actuation and power handling with reduced footprint and lower power consumption for a smooth transition from legacy systems to a complete smart grid solution."

"With the integration of TI's C2000 MCU and analog technology, Optisense's highly accurate smart grid solution can execute real-time measurement, analysis and control," said Emmanuel Sambuis, general manager, metering business unit. "TI is committed to providing innovative solutions that enable developers to drive smarter grid solutions for improved accuracy and efficiency."

TI's Broad Portfolio Drives Smarter Grid Solutions
TI's comprehensive utility metering portfolio includes devices targeted at electricity, water and gas metering, as well as power line communications (PLC) and radio frequency (RF) interfaces for advanced meter infrastructure (AMI) that allow customers to design smart grid solutions. From highly optimized application specific embedded processors, low power RF, high-performance analog, power management and RFID to dedicated software support for ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, WMBUS, OFDM and SFSK modulations, TI offers the most complete solution set for smart metering.

Pricing and availability
Optisense's smart grid solution has been installed at Alabama Power and in the city of Bridgeport, TX. In addition, ten power companies have committed to deployment of sensors and controls. These solutions are available for overhead as well as underground configurations, which enables lower footprint of wind farms and other renewable energy sources. This smart grid solution is currently available and more information can be found by visiting the Optisense Networks Web site.

About Optisense
Optisense Network, Inc. was founded in 2001 and is located in Bridgeport, TX. Committed to the Smart Grid upgrade of Electric Utilities, Optisense developed and field tested solutions for sensing voltage based on a patented optical sensor technology for use in Electric Distribution systems of 4,000 to 35,000 volts. In addition, Intelligent Grid Mapping Systems with Remote Terminal Units were introduced that implemented a digital interface and brings the sensor information to the customer's lap top computers. Based on requirements from Electric Utilities a combined Voltage/Current Sensor was introduced, this combined sensor opens applications for Primary Metering, Outage Restoration, Power Quality and Energy Efficiency (Volt/Var).

About Texas Instruments
Texas Instruments (NYSE: TXN) helps customers solve problems and develop new electronics that make the world smarter, healthier, safer, greener and more fun. A global semiconductor company, TI innovates through design, sales and manufacturing operations in more than 30 countries.