March 16, 2012

Sony power outlets to control electricity through authentication

by ruchi

Sony is prepping up a new technology which authenticates devices via the power outlet, allowing for a few interesting applications. Based on Japanese Felica standard, the system here would allow authenticated power usage, power management for cafes and offices, as well as payments for power use. The authentication procedure is carried via a a chip inside the laptop or device or through a smartcard that user waves at the outlet.

The system here will check unauthorized usage and allow building and home owners to control power use from a central location. This technology could turn out to be a key component of energy maintenance systems and has the potential to make it to modern buildings. Logging your power outlet might seem lame at the start but if that’s what one has to do to become more eco-conscious and also tap rising power bills, then this one’s a good start.

[Via Digi Info]