Is the PowerCost Monitor WiFi?

Question: Does the PowerCost Monitor support WiFi?

Answer:
UPDATED: Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Yes! By itself, the PowerCost Monitor transmits data over the 433MHz frequency. But,
As of Today, July 27, 2010, the PowerCost Monitor supports WiFi with the addition of the new optional accessory, PowerCost Monitor WiFi Gateway.

The PowerCost Monitor works by sending energy consumption data over its Sub-1GHz classified transmitter, 433MHz frequency, from its utility meter detection unit to the display. The 433MHz frequency is a standard that is used with networks where data transmission speeds is not as important with devices such as a high speed internet connection for your home.

With the PowerCost Monitor WiFi accessory, the PowerCost Monitor’s sensor transmits data to the WiFi gateway, which then uploads the data via your wireless home network (802.11b) to Microsoft Hohm where you can read and track your electricity usage in real-time.

You can buy the PowerCost Monitor and the WiFi Gateway together as a package, the PowerCost Monitor WiFi Edition!

How does the PowerCost Monitor work?

Inside the box of every PowerCost Monitor, you will find:

The detection unit, known as the transmitter, which is affixed to an existing household electromechanical utility meter with a simple ring clamp. This transmitter tracks the energy consumed by counting turns of the meter disk. This is the only component of the PowerCost Monitor™ that will be in direct physical contact with the utility’s electromechanical meter and the clamp mechanism allows it to be attached to the outside of the meter glass. It can also be quickly attached and detached without making any changes to the existing meter.
The display unit, located inside the home, receives a wireless signal from the transmitter and displays the consumption information in real time and in dollars and cents for the end user. Other information is also displayed such as time and outside temperature.

PowerCost Monitor Benefits

Less Interference
Although the PowerCost Monitor is not capable of transmitting data over WiFi (802.11a/b/g/N or 2.4GHz/5GHz), the great thing about the 433GHz frequency is that it is less likely to be interrupted by other 2.4GHz or 5Ghz frequency devices in your home such as a cordless phone.

Easy to Install – No Electrician Required!
The PowerCost Monitor is easy to install. The transmitter is the only thing that will get your hands dirty and all that requires is attaching it to your utility meter outside your house. There’s absolutely no need to open your electrical panel.