by Matt Bossom
Contributing Editor - WIIE
While many utilities still rely on hard-wired networks for data and voice communication, these brittle systems are being replaced and augmented by wireless networks that support both traditional and multimedia data traffic. Wireless networks allow utilities to scale easily, to improve communication, and to access systems remotely.

When comparing the option of wired versus wireless, concerns about security, infrastructure, and regulations can make a utility wary of change.

by Todd Gibson

Co-Founder and Co-Editor - WIIE

Consumers are continually showing growing interests in wirelessly enabled consumer electronics (i.e. MP3 players, phones, cameras, portable game consoles, digital picture frames), automobiles, and other types of electronics.  The manufacturers are enabling more and more of their new products with either Bluetooth or Wi-Fi including Chrysler’s new Wi-Fi enabled car.  The only caveat for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technologies is that the areas where the consumer can utilize the broadband wireless radios is limited to a small areas which are primarily indoors (i.e. home, office, hotspot).