Energy Management
A smart grid is a next-generation power grid that is intelligent enough to allow electricity to be efficiently monitored, distributed and consumed. Several regions around the world have already deployed smart grids.
Increasing use of alternative energy is one reason to deploy smart grids. While renewable energy is an answer towards a more sustainable society, nature is largely unpredictable. This creates instability in power generation and transmission, a critical service that must remain reliable at all times. With smart grids and smart appliances, power companies will be able to efficiently store and distribute energy.
The first step towards a smart grid is smart metering, where power companies and consumers can monitor the power consumption of a household. Most initial trials do not even have to use fiber. “They can use alternative connections like GSM networks to send the data of power consumption from end-customer to utility company,” Tauber said. The general consensus is more consumers will be inclined to use energy more efficiently if it is convenient and provides apparent benefits.
The next step goes beyond smart metering. Household appliances can take advantage of the smart grid by performing tasks when electricity is cheaper. Power companies can also shut down less-significant appliances during peak times to ease demand and avoid disruptions in service. This is much more demanding for bandwidth, Tauber said. “Here you are not occasionally transmitting metering data anymore. You need a reliable connection from and to the power company for real-time monitoring and controlling of millions of household appliances.”
E-HEALTH
E-health is a necessary development in nations with aging populations. Instead of relocating senior citizens to nursing homes, which can be expensive and uncomfortable, they can stay home where various health parameters can be monitored by an array of sensors. The monitored data can be reported to medical centers and notify relevant personnel if an anomaly is detected. This approach can improve quality of life for the elderly, as well as lower costs for public health care plans.
While high bandwidth is not necessary for e-health applications, high quality and secure connections are critical. Fiber networks are optimal solution because they provide better connections, higher security and can guarantee quality of service. With fiber connectivity, video conferencing can also be integrated. Infirm patients can consult with medical professionals from the comfort of their homes, Tauber said.
CLOUD SERVICES
The recent migration of data and services into the cloud is reducing the need for local equipment. With cloud services, a user is no longer required to download, install or maintain hardware or software. Fewer devices mean fewer costs for both the consumer and provider.
In addition, cloud services provide an alternative method for off-site storage. It offers additional protection for video archives, while also providing homeowners the option to remotely monitor their homes, said Render of RVA. Combined with video streaming, one can access footage on-the-go from mobile devices or any computer. With fiber networks, this becomes streamlined and cost-effective.
Managed video as a service is another example of a cloud-based service. However, the concept of MVaaS assumes a reliable, high-speed connection on both sides. This business model cannot work if data cannot be transferred quickly between devices.