Smart thermostat
Another major feature of smart thermostats is their ability to connect to the internet. Smart thermostats are designed with a WiFi module that allows the thermostat to connect to the users home or office network and interface with a web portal or smartphone application, allowing users to control the unit remotely. The WiFi feature also has the ability to send reports on energy usage and HVAC system performance via the web portal, informing the user on their energy efficiency and how it compares to other smart thermostat users. It also alerts users when a problem arises with their HVAC system or when it is time for equipment maintenance. The thermostat also uses the WiFi connection to display current weather conditions and the weather forecast.
Weightless (wireless communications)
Weightless is a wireless communications protocol designed to connect Smart Machines to the Internet – so-called Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communications – over distances ranging from a few metres to about 10 km.Other technologies which use the white space – the channels not used for terrestrial television broadcast in a particular area – are also being developed. One is Wi-Fi under the developing standard IEEE 802.11af.