September 27, 2013 – CHICAGO – The Raspberry Pi computer can now control gateways for energy usage and automation systems using the new EnOcean Pi accessory, available from Newark element14.
EnOcean Pi is available in three versions: EnOcean Pi 868 MHz (Europe), EnOcean Pi 315 MHz (Japan, India, North America) and EnOcean Pi 902 MHz (North America). Costing $25 USD, versions of the EnOcean Pi supporting the 315 MHz and 902 MHz radio bands are available from Newark element14 and MCM in North America, and element14 in Asia Pacific.
EnOcean Pi is a wireless module which connects to EnOcean modules. Those modules, which are battery-less, are powered by energy converters that use mechanical motion, light or temperature differences as an energy source. This allows for maintenance-free sensor and actuator solutions that provide the necessary data for intelligent control.
Developers and OEMs can easily design low-cost gateways for embedded applications. Instead of developing new products from scratch, developers can use the EnOcean Pi and Raspberry Pi to process and visualize data from battery-less wireless sensors. Applications include gateways for cloud services or low-cost building automation with an interface to all EnOcean-based solutions.
The new Pi accessory is supplied with free-to-download EnOcean Link Trial Version middleware that allows users to quickly develop and integrate applications. The Raspberry Pi acts as the gateway to automate control of EnOcean-based energy harvesting wireless sensors, thermostats and switches to comfortably manage lighting, HVAC, shading and help to save energy.
EnOcean Pi also features EnOcean’s Smart Ack controller functionality, enabling bi-directional communication via radio and serial interfaces. Radio messages can be sent transparently through the serial interface in both directions to and from the Pi. EnOcean Pi can act as postmaster for up to 20 bi-directional sensors using Smart Ack technology.
“One of a suite of exclusive Raspberry Pi accessories, EnOcean Pi is a really innovative way to easily connect the Raspberry Pi with some of the most advanced energy harvesting wireless devices on the market,” said Claire Doyle, head of Raspberry Pi at element14. “It opens the door to all kinds of battery-less solutions that can help save, monitor and manage energy and increase comfort as well as security in the workplace.”
To join the discussion about Pi accessories and energy harvesting, go to the element14 Community and sign up to the Raspberry Pi accessories group and energy harvesting group.
About Newark element14
Newark element14 is a high-service distributor of technology products and engineering solutions for electronic system design, maintenance and repair. Newark element14 brings together the latest products, services and development software, all connected to an innovative online engineering community where purchasers and engineers can access peers and experts, a wide range of independent technical information and helpful tools. Whether researching a new technology, designing an electronic product, or looking for parts to repair an existing system, Newark element14 is the trusted source to find the answers and parts they need to keep projects on the fast track, right from the start. Newark element14 is the operating business of Premier Farnell plc (LSE:pfl) in North America.
