Editor's note: This article by Carl Ford was originally posted on Smart-Grid.TMCnet.com. Follow the link to view the full article.  

WiFi has become pervasive and with carriers using it to support traffic offload, it is logical to think that more solutions for the “Internet of things” will incorporate WiFi.

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Given that we want WiFi in our homes anyway, the ability to connect to the Internet via our existing network is very compelling. In my humble opinion, as Zigbee becomes an over-the-top protocol riding on WiFi, I would expect more companies to develop using GainSpan as SoC of choice. 

The markets GainSpan is focused on not only include the 2B WiFi devices currently deployed, but the 9B embedded microcontrollers. While not aimed at my phone, or my computer, it does represent solutions for home use that I expect will start creeping into our lives in the near future. The connection of water heaters and other large appliances are probably going to be slow going; but as the electric car and home entertainment and fitness systems get added, the use of WiFi will manifest itself in not only remote monitoring and management but innovative blended applications.

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