CABA Information Series

CABA introduced this series of publications to promote information transfer relating to advanced technologies for the automation of homes and buildings. Many of these publications were prepared by or for CABA members and are reprinted by CABA with their permission. All reports are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced in whole or in part, nor may they be used for any commercial purposes without the express written consent of CABA. All CABA members receive access to the CABA Information Series as terms of their membership.

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CABA documents require Acrobat Reader. Accessible to members only.

(IS-2008-108) Preparing for the Internet Video Revolution: A Profile of the Internet-Connected Living Room Consumer
This paper by MultiMedia Intelligence predicts the business of Internet delivery of audio/video (A/V) to entertainment A/V devices rather than to PCs. Digital Media Adapters link the Internet to A/V equipment. The players in this new business include content owners, operators, equipment manufacturers and technology providers. Some equipment will be purchased by the consumer, while some will be rented from the service provider. The fastest growing adopters of home networks are in the age range of 60-69. The initial households to adopt Internet A/V are those with incomes of $100-150k.

(IS-2008-107) The Changing Face of IFE: The Re-launch of In-Flight Broadband
This paper by MultiMedia Intelligence examines customer preferences for airline entertainment and new offerings. Many customers are supplying music and movies via their personal equipment. New airline entertainment technologies are examined that costs less and weights less. Examples include WiFi access for voice, video, and data.

(IS-2008-106) Ethernet Services: WAN options mature
Verizon has compiled a collection of papers that advocates Ethernet for applications outside of local area networks (LANs). Wide area network (WAN) applications include virtual private networks and Provider Backbone Transport for long-distance packet transport. Ethernet is being proposed to replace or to complement MLPS (Multi Protocol Label Switching) for the wide area networks. The net benefits are lower costs to manage and deploy LANs and WANs.

(IS-2008-105) Utility Solar Assessment (USA) Study
Co-op America Foundation has projected that the U.S. generation of solar power could increase from the current 1/10 of 1% to 10% by 2025. The technology would involve a combination of solar photovoltaics (PV) and concentrating solar power (CSP) (typically mirrors that focus the sun rays on a collector). Cost projections show prices competitive with conventional power generation within a decade. Price parity is expected by 2015. To achieve these goals utilities must be involved and must implement a smart grid. Environmental and carbon production issues are motivating solar power. Solar can supply peak demands for power. Stable tax incentives are advocated.

(IS-2008-104) Reducing U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emission: How Much at What cost?
This report from The Conference Board examines options for reducing green house gases by 2030. The U.S. is the largest emitter of these gases, but the growth rate is much lower than in China, Indonesia, and India. 40% of US CEOs thinks that reduction of these gases is very important. The reduction goals are achievable at a "quite low" net cost with possible economic benefits. However, costs will be concentrated in certain sectors such as existing buildings and homes with inefficient heating and cooling, and existing coal power plants. Buildings and homes that implement efficiency improvements in heating and cooling, building-shell designs, and consumer and office electronics will benefit.

(IS-2008-103) TIA Standards and Technology Annual Report, 2007-2008
This is the 2007 annual report of the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) focusing of standards development. The TIA writes American National Standards and formulates United States positions for 20 international committees and working groups. Some the domestic areas relevant for home and buildings include modems, faxes, telephone, and VoIP (Internet telephony) [committee name: TR-30]; business telephone systems [TR-41]; cabling in buildings and homes [TR-42]; and fiber optics [FO-4]. International standards include home and building systems and wiring [ISO/IEC JTC1/SC25].

(IS-2008-102) Third Annual Cisco IBSG E-commerce Survey: Mobile Emerges as Growth Channel for Retail
Cisco projects the growth of Internet commerce: 50% increase from 2007 to 2011 in the US (to $300 billion) and 100% increase in Europe (to $400 billion). Some retailers are integrating web shopping with mobile data. 85% of the online population worldwide have shopped online. Suggestions for improving the online shopping experience are presented. Social networks are complementing shopping with product reviews and information.

(IS-2008-101) SMART 2020: Enabling the low carbon economy in the information age
This report from the Global eSustainability Initiative explores how the ICT (Information and Communications Technology) sector can contribute toward the reduction of greenhouse gases. ICT accounted for about 2% of total greenhouse gases as of 2007. The goal is to reduce carbon dioxide emissions 15% by 2020, rather than triple emissions if business continued as usual. Costs savings are expect to reach almost one trillion dollars. The largest opportunities for savings are in smart motors, smart logistics (delivery of fuel, electricity, and heat), smart buildings, and smart grids. The concept of SMART transformation is introduced: Standardize, Monitor, Account, Rethink, and Transform. For example, half the energy for data centers is used for backups, uninterruptible power supplies, and cooling. Tele- and videoconferences could replace 5-20% of business travel.

(IS-2008-100) Choosing Data Loggers For Green Building Projects
This report from Onset Computer Corporation explains the function and benefits of data loggers. These are devices that are installed in buildings or houses to measure parameters such as temperature, light level, electricity, or solar radiation. Applications include adjusting heating, cooling, and solar panels. The factors that determine the performance of data loggers are discussed. Aggregation of data from multiple loggers via the Internet is possible.

(IS-2008-99) High Performance Buildings
This report from the National Institute of Building Sciences to the U.S. Congress summarizes high performance buildings that conserve energy while improving environmental impact, functionality, human comfort, and productivity. The High Performance Building Council was formed in April 2007 to assess the state of knowledge in building performance and constraints imposed by design and performance standards. This study emphasizes the building life cycle that spans "design, construction, operation, occupancy, repair, usability, extendibility, and retirement." Indoor air quality, energy conservation, accessibility, enhancing worker productivity, historic preservation, and aesthetics were identified as important goals. Recommendations are provided.

(IS-2008-98) The Chief Customer/Experience Officer Playbook
Forrester Research has conducted a survey among managers of customer service to determine elements of success. Chief Customer/Experience Officers (CC/EO) from eight companies were interviewed. CC/COs need a plan and need to promote customer-centric approaches. Parts of the company without direct customer contact can effect the customer experience. Forrester recommends establishing a working team and an executive steering committee, establishing metrics for measuring the customer experience, getting feedback from customers, maintaining enthusiasm in the organization to include the customer experience, and improving the plan.

(IS-2008-97) The Increasingly Important Impact of Wireless Broadband Technology and Services on the U.S. Economy
This paper by CTIA-The Wireless Association is an economic summary of the impact on business of wireless telecommunications. By 2005, the productivity value of wireless was greater than the value of the pharmaceutical industry. The healthcare and small business sectors have benefited the most from wireless. Most of the healthcare savings will come from direct input of data via a wireless phone. Technology, computers, and telecommunications have helped the US exceed Europe and Japan in labor productivity. This should generate $860 billion additional GDP by 2016. During this time fame broadband wireless use will grow from 25% of users to 83%. Applications of "mobile telematics" like wireless automatic meter reading are discussed. The states of California, Florida, Illinois, New York, and Texas will benefit the most.

(IS-2008-96) Network Technology Integration Drives Business Success
This document provides an overview of products sold by Cisco Systems for switching and routing, voice signaling, and call processing. The features offered by Cisco for security, implementation of quality-of-service, voice-over-IP telephony, and unified WiFi/cellular phones are discussed. A roadmap for selecting Cisco product is presented.

(IS-2008-95) Carbon Down, Profits Up - Third Edition
This report by the Climate Group surveys corporate and government plans for reductions of greenhouse gas emissions. Organizations are starting to respond to reduction goals as business challenges and opportunities, rather than simply as compliance with mandates. Even though there are costs involved, there is a potential net financial benefit. For example, DuPont saved about $4 billion from 1994 through 2005 by introducing energy efficiencies and reducing CO2 emissions by 32%. Seattle City Light achieved net zero green house gas emissions through conservation and renewables to power all new loads.

(IS-2008-94) A Smarter Way to Mind the Store: IP-Surveillance
This paper from Axis Communications advocates the benefits of IP-based video surveillance for retailers. Systems can be installed that automatically identify suspicious customer or salesperson behavior. Also, the system could monitor traffic flow and congestion at cash registers. Digital cameras offer higher resolution than analog and may operate from power deliver via the data cable using Power over Ethernet technology.

(IS-2008-93) Internet of Things in 2020
The European Commission and the European Technology Platform on smart Systems Integration (EPoSS) report on a workshop on the Internet connectivity of devices anticipated over the next 20 years. IPv6 is expected to offer unique addresses for devices (not precisely defined). These devices will need to "harvest energy" in order to operate, will need to process data, and will need to communicate. Also, these devices will need to be integrated into packages and will need to interoperate. Challenges include governance, privacy, and security. Applications include retail, drugs, food, health, intelligent homes, and transportation.

(IS-2008-92) The ARTEMIS JU Annual Work Programme 2008
ARTEMIS (Advanced Research and Technology for Embedded Intelligence and Systems) is the European Technology Platform for Embedded Computing Systems. This paper reports on the first annual ARTEMIS Joint Undertaking (JU) Work Programme for 2008. The objective is to develop reference designs and architectures, seamless connectivity and middleware, and design methods and tools for embedded systems in industrial systems, nomadic environments, private spaces, and public infrastructure. Applications include transportation, process control, public utilities, medical applications, and energy. ARTEMIS seeks cost reductions of 15% by 2013 while complexity increases 25%. Proposals for funding are solicited.

(IS-2008-91) Expert Group on Services in the Future Internet Consultation Meeting, Brussels 12th November 2007
This 2006 report by the European Commission examines the projected growth of Internet services by 2011. Web based services will grow at 28% per year. These services will span government, business, and consumer applications. Also, users will produce services in a Web 2.0 environment. Eventually, the Internet will become an Internet of Things (IoT) interconnecting sensors and actuators. Trends include wireless access, always-on access, real-time services such as telephony, a simplified user experience, and machine-to-machine interactions.

(IS-2008-90) Integrated Energy Systems in Canadian Communities: A Consensus for Urgent Action
This report from the Quality Urban Energy Systems of Tomorrow in Canada describes how the energy industry will help achieve a 60% reduction in green house gases by 2050. The goal is make Canada "a world leader in urban integrated energy systems." Examples include district energy and small-scale urban energy systems. Urban energy consumption for homes, building, and industry account for half of the energy used. Examples are presented. Market-based pricing of carbon is proposed.

(IS-2008-89) Intelligent Middleware
This study by Forrester Research and Richards|Zeta Building Intelligence, Inc. explores middleware as a method for achieving integration among building automation subsystems. Many building automation systems include some proprietary elements. This report studies the possibility of interconnecting legacy subsystem with middleware software for integration at a high level, taking advantage of IP-based enterprise systems and web-based services. Examples are presented.

(IS-2008-88) Green Building in North America: Opportunities and Challenges
In this report, the Secretariat of the Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) recommends that North American leaders make green building a foundational driver for environmental, social, and economic improvement in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

(IS-2008-87) Super Buyers: The Key Broadband Segment Buying CE Products
Parks Associates explored the market for consumer products by surveying 2500 buyers. One quarter of the buyers accounted for 80% of all consumer electronics purchased in past year, spending more than $2000 each. These are called Super Buyers. Super Buyers are not defined by wealth, but by a positive attitude toward consumer electronics. They prefer shopping at specialty stores.

(IS-2008-86) Introduction to Commercial Building Control Strategies and Techniques for Demand Response
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory reports on field tests of demand response in 28 non-residential buildings. Most of the buildings were located in California and the rest in New York. Demand response was applied to heating/cooling and lighting. The report concluded with recommendations for tests in other climates. Also, a gradual return to full operation after a demand-response shift is advised to avoid sudden load increases.

(IS-2008-85) Estimating Demand Response Load Impacts: Evaluation of Baseline Load Models for Non-Residential Buildings in California
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory developed statistical models for calculating the baseline electric load of commercial buildings to assess the impact of demand response programs. The models are based on previous-days averages and on predictions based on weather forecasts. The accuracy of these models is reviewed. Models were tested at 32 sites in California. Results are presented.

(IS-2008-84) Demand Responsive Lighting: A Scoping Study
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has studied methods of managing the demand for electricity used for commercial building lighting, which totals 30GWh per year in California. Lighting accounts for 30-33% of the peak commercial electric load. There are opportunities to cut the peak demand with bi-level lighting (required in California) and control systems tied to occupancy sensors and dimmable ballasts. Light reduction has less of an impact on occupant comfort than heating/cooling reduction. Strategies and example of managing energy consumption for lighting are described.

(IS-2008-83) Architecture Concepts and Technical Issues for an Open, Interoperable Automated Demand Response Infrastructure
This report from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory explains the Demand Response Automation Server (DRAS) used for managing customer energy consumption. It explains how DRAS supports automated utility/customer interactions for DR bidding, automated event handing, and real-time pricing. DR bidding allows customers to notify utilities how much load they are able to shed when necessary. Auto-DR operates without human intervention as the utility interacts with the home or building. Such operations may control lighting, heating/cooling, and non-critical equipment with the option for the user to opt out. The architecture of such a system is described.

(IS-2008-82) Ethernet Provides the Solution for Broadband Subscriber Access
This paper by the Ethernet Alliance explains how the Ethernet local area network protocol is being applied to the wide area network linking homes and building to a central office or "point of presence" (connection to the Internet). This avoids the cost and inefficiency of converting to other wide area network communications protocols. Methods for carrying Ethernet packets via a fiber optics network are presented.

(IS-2008-81) Quantifying Sustainability: A Study of Three Sustainable Building Rating Systems and the AIA Position Statement
The AIA (American Institute of Architects) has reviewed three rating systems for green buildings: Green Globes for New Construction, LEED for New Construction and Major Renovations version 2.2, and SBTool 07. These rating systems score sustainability features in building design and construction. The three are compared, but not rated by the AIA. Green Globes was developed by the Green Building Initiative using ANSI protocols. LEED was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council. The International Initiative for a Sustainable Built Environment (iiSBE) created SBTool 07 to assess building performance. An overview of each system is provided.

(IS-2008-80) The Ethernet Ecosystem
The Ethernet Alliance, a trade organization, has written this paper to provide a brief history of Ethernet. The Ethernet local area network was invented by Bob Metcalf at Xerox in 1973 and originally operated at 2.94 Mbps. Ethernet applications are expanding to home entertainment networks. Some wide area and metropolitan area networks are now based on Ethernet. Interfaces are being developed between Ethernet, wireless network., and fiber optics networks.

(IS-2008-79) IBM Sensor and Actuator Solutions
This IBM paper explains the expanding roles of sensors and actuators to provide industrial and product services. Applications include retailing, supply-chain management, and product adjustment to market demands. RFID sensor applications are discussed.

(IS-2008-78) Secure Router Virtualization: Critical Solutions for Optimizing IP/MPLS Network Convergence
This Yankee Group paper explains a technology that allows efficient Internet routing of packets representing disparate services. A technique called Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) accommodates packet with various service requirements (IPTV, virtual private networks, public Internet packets) in a consolidated IP core using secure router virtualization (SRV). SRV can lead to reductions in cost and capital, and improvements in operational efficiency. The hardware and software requirements to accomplish SRV are discussed.

(IS-2008-77) Moving electronics companies from global to globally integrated
IBM reports on how the company has adapted to a global market with reduced national barriers and increased competition from all parts of the world. Five of the leading electronics brands generate 85% of their revenues outside their home countries. IBM has proposed the Globally Integrated Enterprise that does not function as a collection of country-based subsidiaries. IBM emphasizes collaboration by stating, "becoming a globally integrated company is as much about the global sourcing of ideas as it is about the sourcing of labor." Management of this enterprise is based on open collaboration rather than top-down control.

(IS-2008-76) Telecom switches emphasis
IBM surveyed 252 executives from telecommunications companies around the world to assess business changes. Some are changing business models to emphasize service subscription and collaboration with external partners. Along with delivering video and content, these companies are seeking increased ad revenues. The majority of executives expects to partner with companies such as Yahoo and Google. Most revenue is still derived from voice and broadband access.

(IS-2008-75) Technology Meets Medicine: Business Models and Distribution Strategies
Parks Associates reports on the state of technology to promote health outside of a clinical setting. Large hardware, software, and communications companies are investing in heath care technology. Congress is authorizing reimbursement for remote monitoring. Customers for health monitoring are expected to grow from 800,000 in 2008 to 5.3 million in 2012, generating revenues of almost $2.5 billion.

(IS-2008-74) IP Video's Time Has Come
This report by Video Furnace explains possible applications of Internet TV that benefit enterprises. Examples include digital signage, corporate training, and event broadcasting. The business advantages of IP video are summarized.

(IS-2008-73) Enabling the New World of Pay-TV
This report by Verimatrix summarizes the need of pay-TV companies for data security as video is delivered to customers. Content security is described as 3-dimensional: multiple networks, multiple screens, and multiple layers of protection. Users want access to pay-TV on a variety of players (PC, TV, mobile) with a single purchase. The writer advocates for an IP-centric security system where decryption keys may be delivered for each viewing.

(IS-2008-72) Delivering Secure IP Video
This paper by Video Furnace discusses security vulnerabilities of various software media players and browsers when running IP video. The problem is that media players access operating-system resources and run scripts. A solution is to have the server download with permission of the users a specialized viewer on the client.

(IS-2008-71) Open IPTV Forum Whitepaper
The Open IPTV Forum wrote this introduction to Internet Protocol Television (IPTV). IPTV can be integrated with other media such as text and may be viewed on a variety of fixed and mobile displays. About 55 million IPTV subscribers are estimated by 2010 and will spend $2.8 billion for equipment. The Open IPTV Forum is writing interoperability specifications due by mid-2008. IPTV may be offered by a service provider on a managed network or via the open Internet.


(IS-2008-70) IPTV/VOD: The Open 4th Platform

This 225-page book is a collection of more that 20 papers by Alexander Cameron expressing his views of a worldwide television network using Internet TV (IPTV). Among these papers are an introduction to IPTV, IPTV applications and services, regulations, content, problems, and net neutrality. He paints a picture of the future with home automation and 5000 TV stations where IPTV is dominant in 10 years. IPTV is encoded using the MPEG-4 protocol that carries standard definition TV in 1-4 Mbps and high definition TV in 6-10 Mbps. This book is written from a U.K. perspective with lots of discussion about SkyTV, a satellite operator in the U.K.

(IS-2008-69) "Show me the money": Strategies for success in IPTV
PriceWaterhouseCoopers explores the emerging market for IPTV. They maintain that IPTV vendors need to focus on marketing, partnering, and investment in content and advertising. Long-tail content is recommended over premium sports. By 2012, 30% of TV viewing will be on-demand, compared to 5% in 2007. IPTV has two versions: delivery to PC and delivery to TV. Business arrangements and advertising to support IPTV are reviewed. IPTV needs scalable bandwidth for multiple TVs including high definition.

(IS-2008-68) Multimedia Handsets: The World's Most Ubiquitous Entertainment Device
This paper from MultiMedia Intelligence predicts the transformation of mobile phones to multi-media platforms. By 2010, 9 out of 10 mobile phones will include a camera, audio, and video. Additional features include support of games and a USB port for moving content. Handsets are moving toward high quality color with 18 or 24 bits per picture element (pixel) and resolution of at least 320 x 240. Examples of such phones are presented.

(IS-2008-67) Implementing Digital Advertising in Hardware
This paper from MultiMedia Intelligence explains the potential impact of new hardware technology on the delivery of advertising to digital devices containing displays. The technology supports interactivity with consumers, personalized databases, and personalized advertising. Consumers might opt-in to ads in exchange for a TV show. Opportunities for branding a display device and sources of hardware support are discussed. A USB plug-in could add advertising to a device.

(IS-2008-66) The Six Competitive Factors for Hot Spot Success
This paper from MultiMedia Intelligence surveys the availability of WiFi access to the Internet via public hotspots. There were about 180,000 hotspots worldwide by the end of 2007. There is a trend toward consolidation among providers, improvement in quality, location-based advertising, bundling hotspot access with mobile or broadband services, and marketing to consumers, not just to business travelers. WiMAX may pose a market threat to WiFi. A new market may be the support of WiFi phones.

(IS-2008-65) Internet Protocol (IP)-Enabled-Consumer Electronics: Semiconductors, Service Providers and Content Complete the Ecosystem
This paper from MultiMedia Intelligence explores the shift of digital video from personal computers to TVs. Examples of digital video are YouTube and MySpace, and will extend to IPTV (Internet TV). Set-top boxes will provide TVs access to digital video. By 2012 the largest segment of IP-enabled consumer electronics will be Blue-Ray DVD players and recorders. The semiconductor business to support IP-based consumer electronics will be $2.5 billion by 2012. IP content will be delivered predominantly via wired Ethernet and by power line carrier, coaxial cable, and WiFi. Consumer market awareness for digital video is limited now. Sales of 215 million units that support digital video are predicted by 2012.

(IS-2008-64) Advertising Goes Mobile
This paper from MultiMedia Intelligence explores the placement of ads on mobile devices when viewing TV as a way of subsidizing the cost of the mobile TV. A key motivator is the growth of digital video recorders (DVR) and the falling price of cell phone voice services. Mobile revenue is shifting to message and premium content. Half of the $400-billion market for TV, movies, etc. is funded by advertising. Mobile ads would be inserted in 1 to 5-minute intervals or prior to video-on-demand. Ads might be tailored to the time and location of the user.

(IS-2008-63) Advanced Controls for Demand Response and Energy Efficiency in Commercial Buildings - slides
This is a slide presentation of paper from the Lawrence Berkeley Labs paper of the same title, already reviewed.

(IS-2008-62) Advanced Controls and Communications for Demand Response and Energy Efficiency in Commercial Buildings
This paper from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory explores the potential of demand response strategies to reduce peak electricity demand from commercial buildings. These buildings account for 45% of the summer peak demand, which is estimated at 330GW nationally. Demand response may include limiting total usage (the demand) and load curtailment. These actions are motivated by time-of-use electricity rates, real time rates, or event notifications. A trial was described that achieved an average of 8% demand shedding with a peak of 56%. Demand response will not be a major driver for new building control systems but should be accommodated.

(IS-2008-61) White Paper on the Exhaust of Electronic Serial Numbers (ESNs) and Migration to Mobile Equipment Identifiers (MEIDs)
All cell phones contain a unique ID called the Electronic Serial Number (32 bits). Since 1997, the allocation of numbers has been managed by the TIA (Telecommunications Industry Association). Since the numbers are likely to be exhausted in 2008, an extended numbering scheme is planned called the Mobile Equipment Identifier (56 bits). Details are provided.

(IS-2008-60) The Promising but Plodding RFID Industry
According to the Security Industry Association (SIA), the growth of the RFID industry will not meet the expectation of investors. Inadequate standards, high costs, low reliability, and reluctance to adopt by end-users are limiting the industry. RFID tags and bar codes will co-exist. The authors maintain that manufacturers need to address privacy concerns about RFID tags and design privacy into the system. Active RFID tags (with batteries) and passive RFID tags are explained.

(IS-2008-59) Cable Component Material Innovations for Stringent Fire Safety and Environmental Compliance Requirements
This paper by David B. Kiddoo of AlphaGary Corporation discusses recent technological advances in the design of wires and cables to make commercial installations more fire resistant. Possible materials include fluoropolymers, PVCs, and halogen-free olefins. The properties of each are described. Conformance with European Restrictions on the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS) is presented.

(IS-2008-58) Integrated Energy Systems in Canadian Communities: A Consensus for Urgent Action
This document by the Quality Urban Energy Systems of Tomorrow consortium reports on a conference held in Canada last November to address the 50 per cent of total green house emissions due to homes, building, and transportation. Among the recommendations is pricing carbon appropriately and integrated urban energy systems. Examples of such communities in British Columbia and Ontario are described.

(IS-2008-57) How to improve the Performance of a Mesh Wireless Sensor Network?
This paper introduces the challenge of data communications in a mesh network intended for automatic meter reading (and other applications) and proposes a network architecture. The performance of a mesh network requires range and coverage, robustness to changes and RF interference, scalability, flexible power consumption, and ease of integration, use, and maintenance. A technology called flooding is described whereby a node sends messages to all nodes that can receive them. The timing of transmissions is controlled so not all nodes send at once. The network does not need a router.

(IS-2008-56) Addressing High Density Fiber Management Issues
The technical issues of managing fiber optics cable distribution for home services are discussed in this PennWell article. A particular challenge is terminate each fiber run as the number of homes passed increases. Terminating at the central office or at a dedicated remote facility is discussed.

(IS-2008-55) Are Consumers Ready for Quad-Play?
This report by Compete Inc. analyzes adding cell phone service to the marketing of a bundled package of TV, Internet, and telephone. More than 2500 customers were survey in March and April 2008. 43% of those surveyed are amenable to a package of all four services. 22% have purchased a bundle of services. 56% buy from multiple suppliers. They are willing to buy a bundle from a telephone or a cable company. The company first to market may have an advantage. The provider of high speed Internet has an edge. Consumer drivers are simplicity and price.

(IS-2008-54) Buildings and Climate Change
This report from the United Nations analyzes energy usage in buildings. The goal is to improve the energy efficiency especially in building operations to help achieve the carbon dioxide emission goals of the Kyoto Protocol. Methods for conserving energy in buildings are presented covering the life cycle of a building from the manufacture of the building components to the construction and operation of the building to the ultimate demolition and recycling of the building materials. China, Russia, and the U.S. are the large producers and consumers of energy. Zero-energy buildings that on average consume no energy are discussed. Recommendations are presented for policies, benchmarking, regulations, economic tools, education, understanding human behavior, public sector applications, and technology transfer.

(IS-2008-53) Refreshed Accessibility Standards and Guidelines in Telecommunications and Electronic and Information Technology
This report for the US Government explores changes that may be needed to the laws that mandate accessibility for information and communications technology equipment. Examples of such equipment include audio and video players, web access, and authoring tools. The report proposes alternative technical approaches to balance against specific standards. Accessibility applies to persons with visual, hearing, physical, speech, cognitive, and other disabilities.

(IS-2008-52) Green Building Research Funding: An Assessment of Current Activity in the United States
This is a survey of funding sources for green building research compiled by the US Green Building Council. The sources for at least one-million-dollar projects include the US Federal government, states, and one professional organization. The topics receiving the largest funding are energy, materials, and resources. The sources and recipients of green building funding from 2002-2006 are included.

(IS-2008-51) A National Green Building Research Agenda
The research agenda of the US Green Building Council is presented. US buildings consume 71% of electricity generated and produce 38% of carbon dioxide emissions and 40% of non-industrial waste. 0.2% of US federal funding is for green buildings. Among the planned research topics are tools to improve building design, operations, and processes; building finances; and metrics to identify further improvements. Other topics include building envelope performance, lighting, HVAC control, materials life cycle assessment, water management, ecological issues, and indoor environment quality.

(IS-2008-50) Energy Performance of LEED® for New Construction Buildings
The study, commissioned by the US Green Building Council correlates the actual energy performance of buildings with expected performance for 121 buildings that were LEED certified. Measurements of energy use per square foot, Energy Star rating, and comparisons to baseline modeling were performed. The LEED buildings used 24 per cent less energy per square foot than the national average. They scored 68 per cent better with Energy Star than similar buildings. However, one-fourth of the LEED buildings were below 50 per cent. There was considerable variation between predicting and measure energy consumption. Details of the study are reported.

IS-2008-49: Slashing the TCO for IVR
This paper by DataMonitor reports on the technology transformation of speech recognition from Interactive Voice Recognition (IVR) to Voice-XML. Voice-XML is based on open standards that are replacing proprietary IVR systems. The costs born by carriers to migrate to IVR are discussed. The total cost of ownership of a Voice-XML system for a carrier with 40 million subscribers is about 41 per cent less than IVR over five years.

IS-2008-48: The Global Opportunities for Digital Health Applications
According to Parks Associates, care of chronic diseases affects 90 million Americans and accounts for two-thirds of healthcare expenditures. Similar corresponding figures apply to Canada and Europe. In-home systems can help with disease management to avoid crises. Telehealth via the Internet will become important. European makers are looking are telehealth via the cell phone. Expenditures on telehealth are "quite limited."

IS-2008-47: Europe: Home Network Update
This report from Parks Associates looks at the growth in home networking in Europe spurred by a competitive telephone marketplace. Telephone operators are offering services to manage home networks and provide services with set-top boxes and DVRs (Digital Video Recorders). Europe is leading the world in home network deployment with 40 million residential gateway predicted by 2012. New broadband services will include voice over Wi-Fi and hand-off between mobile and land-based networks.

IS-2008-46: Key Trends and Outlook for 2008
Parks Associates predicts trends for 2008 in this report issued in November 2007. IP Multimedia System will facilitate bundled services from telephone companies. Movies-on-demand burned onto disks at store kiosk will be introduced. Mobile Internet access will grow. Cable operators will add home networking. Parks predicts higher quality TV on the web with targeted advertising. Other areas discussed include gaming, wireless technologies, networked consumer electronics, media servers (moving into a mass market), ad insertion for TV and web video, in-car entertainment, the need for "digital home advisors," and personal health.

IS-2008-45: TV Services in Europe: Update and Outlook
Parks Associates looks at the competitive market in Europe for video services. Regulators in Europe have provided competitive access to the local telephone lines. Competitors and incumbent telephone companies are offering new services including home networking, on-demand and interactive programming, and mobile entertainment. Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) is an important market in Europe despite cable, satellite, and telephone companies. Some telephone companies are offering DTT with pay-TV in set-top boxes. Cable operators serve 36 per cent of the European market with 80 per cent analog transmission. Satellite operators are adding interactive TV by using telephone lines. IPTV (Internet TV) is growing in Europe.

IS-2008-44: Better Living Through Wireless: The Wireless Revolution and U.S. Spectrum Policy
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) has written a position paper on public policy to encourage the development of innovative wireless products and services for consumers. CEA argues for 200 MHz in additional spectrum for consumer products (shifted from Federal and low-use commercial allocations) and further deregulation. The paper explains the role of spectrum allocation is fostering the cell phone market. The evolution of cellphone data technologies from 1G up through 4G is summarized, as are applications of wireless technology to networks in the home and beyond.

IS-2008-43: Broadband for all Americans
This survey by the Consumer Electronics Association reports on broadband penetration in the US and the impact on the US economy. About 50 per cent of US households have broadband access to the Internet. The US ranks 15th among countries in broadband deployment with South Korea being number one. Issues discussed include uniform access to all Internet service ("net neutrality") and municipal wireless access. Various services offering are summarized: VoIP (Voice over the Internet), telemedicine, and distance learning.

IS-2008-42: Who Makes What: Telco Home Gateways
This report about the Home Gateway Initiative (HGI) consortium of telephone operators presents a view of the residential gateway. The primary purpose is to translate between a wide area network and a home network. In addition the HGI offers the opportunity to control home network to deliver management services and to control devices for "new services and competitive differentiation." The role and history of the gateway are presented. The gateway might be a platform for service-provider applications, rather than loading such applications onto a home personal computer. The gateway might include a femtocell to relay cell calls into the home and possibly to include home automation and energy management services. The technology to support a gateway is described along with a list of manufacturers.

IS-2008-41: Pay-TV and the American Consumer
About 1,000 persons in the US were surveyed by ABI Research in December 2007 about TV viewing, service providers, technologies, programming, and price sensitivity. About 1/3 have media rooms and seven per cent have media servers. Although most have multiple TVs, advanced set-top boxes for premium services are used with only one TV. Cable providers are very susceptible to churn because customers are ready to switch for a better price. Prices for video services in the $100-150 range are a tipping point. Twenty per cent would like to move content from a PC to a TV, and 18 per cent want to move content to a portable device. Thirty-one per cent watch TV series online. Twenty-nine per cent have purchased pay-per-view services. However 37 per cent would accept advertising in lieu of paying. Thirty-six per cent engage in time shifting with a DVR (Digital Video Recorder). Forty per cent have HDTV, but of those only 43 per cent subscribe to an HDTV package. IPTV is being incorporated in set-top boxes in Asia and is likely to spread to the US. Forty-two per cent have a home network.

IS-2008-40: Green Building in North America
This report addresses the imperative for green buildings in North America. It was written by the Commission for Environmental Cooperation, a North American Free Trade Agreement agency located in Montreal. In the US green buildings could reduce energy use by 30 per cent, carbon emissions by 35 per cent, water usage up to 50 per cent, and waste cost by up to 90 per cent. The Commission recommends a common vision for green buildings among Canada, Mexico, and the US, targets for adopting green buildings, and strategies for supporting green building efforts. Currently about two per cent of US buildings are green with an expected increase to about five to ten per cent by 2010. Buildings in Canada consume 50 per cent of the natural resources in the country, while US building use 68 per cent of electricity produced compared to 25 per cent in Mexico. Examples of buildings that achieve some of the green goals are shown. Drivers and barriers to achieving green buildings are presented.

IS-2008-39: National Building Information Modeling Standard
This paper introduces the National Building Information Modeling Standard (BIM) from the National Institute of Building Sciences (a non-government organization in the United States). The BIM includes innovative information technologies and business structures to reduce waste and inefficiencies in the building industry. This BIM specifies machine-readable plans for all phases of a building design, construction, operation, and maintenance. BIM is composed of the Information Delivery Manual (IDM) for accessing and presenting the data and the Model View Definition (MVD) for the software interface. A key objective is to provide a uniform interface between vendors and the building managers. The process for creating BIM and planned revisions are presented.

IS-2008-38: How Hollywood can Out-Apple Apple
This paper by Parks Associates examines emerging technologies for distributing video to portable devices such as cell phones and MP3 players. The display technologies currently are inferior to conventional TV and the choice of content is limited. The author presents opportunities for content producers (mostly located in Hollywood) to tie portable video clips to the sale of theater tickets and DVDs. Free video clips will prepare a market for the sale of portable video content.

IS-2008-37: The AirAdvice State of Commercial Buildings Performance Report 2007
This document is an overview of report on building performance. It evaluates the level of comfort offered by a heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system versus cost based on a study of 300 buildings in 2007. The parameters measured were temperature variation and fluctuation from optimal set point and evidence of over-ventilation. Ninety-six per cent of the buildings examined had at least one parameter out of bounds. Possible energy saving may amount to 10 to 40 per cent of energy costs.

IS-2008-36: Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate - Amanda Kramer
This presentation was delivered to the Buildings and Appliances Task Force of the Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate on March 11, 2008 in Vancouver. The Building and Appliances Task Force addresses greenhouse gas emission in the residential and commercial sectors through improved appliances and buildings. Some of the topics covered include lighting, electric motors, high performance buildings, stand-by power for appliances, and building codes.

IS-2008-35: Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate - Rob James
This presentation was delivered to the Buildings and Appliances Task Force of the Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate on March 11, 2008 in Vancouver. The Partnership, founded in 2005, intends to develop clean technology through voluntary cooperation by government and the private sectors. Members include Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, and the USA. The current topics include renewable energy, buildings and appliances, fossil fuels, coal mining, cement, aluminum, steel, and power generation / transmission. This initiative is complementary to the United Nations climate change process. Funding is from the participating governments.

IS-2008-34: Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate - Buildings and Appliances Task Force
This is a summary document of a meeting held March 11, 2008 in Vancouver by the Buildings and Appliances Task Force of the Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate. Issues of funding, goals, and projects were discussed. Topics included alignment with industry, moving toward a net-zero-energy building, and participation on the Buildings and Appliances Task Force.

IS-2008-33: EPA Region 8 Headquarters Case Study
This case study by the National Institute of Building Sciences explains the choices made in the design and construction of a new building for the Denver office of the Environmental Protection Agency. The building includes 23 floors in two towers. The developer was required to achieve a minimum LEED Silver level and Energy Star Certification. The design process is explained. The roof accommodates plantings with four-inch deep plastic trays to create a "green roof." Also, 10kW of photovoltaic solar arrays are installed on the roof. A total energy savings of 35 per cent was achieved with efficient mechanical systems, use of free cooling, day-lighting, shading, and under-floor air system.

IS-2008-32: IPD Environment Code
This paper describes an analysis tool called the Environment Code from a company called IPD Occupiers (of London) for measuring the environment impact of a building. It can help achieve code compliance, reduce environmental impact, and allow comparison among properties. The global impact of climate change is estimated at five to 20 per cent of annual global GDP, while the cost of reducing greenhouse gases is about one per cent of annual global GDP. The IPD Code is a template for collection, measurement, and analysis of environmental information. Energy from renewable sources, water, and waste are key sets of quantitative measurements. The measurements are supplemented with qualitative measurements of transportation and travel, equipment and appliances, health and well being, and adaptation to climate change.

IS-2008-31: Compendium of Champions: Chronicling Exemplary Energy Efficiency Programs from Across the U.S.
This paper summarizes the procedure used by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy to select programs as outstanding examples of energy efficiency. Ninety such projects were honored. These projects saved 2400 GWh of electricity, reduced peak demand by 400 MW, and saved 125 million therms of gas. The criteria for evaluating programs included energy savings, market transforming effects, quality of evaluation, qualitative assessment, innovation, and transferability.

IS-2008-30: GridWise Interoperability Context Setting Framework
This paper by the GridWise Architecture Council presents a context within which experts can discussion interoperability issues. An interoperability framework describes in high-level terms interactions among automation systems. It establishes a context in which to discuss alternatives. The application discussed is the integration of a utility system from generation to transmission and distribution to customer services. In abstract terms, solutions flow from designs, which flow from architectures, which flow from the framework. This report discusses interfaces between systems that are intended to collaborate. Examples based on residential and commercial electricity energy management are provided.

IS-2008-29: Utility Communications with BACnet Commercial Building for Peak Price Response
This presentation from the National Institute of Standards and Technology illustrates how a building automation system can interoperate with a utility communications network. The goal is to implement energy conservation through a program of demand response. BACnet messages to implement such interoperable communications are discussed.

IS-2008-28: GridWise Interoperability Workshop April 11-12, 2007 Proceedings Summary
This report by the GridWise Architecture Council summarizes a two-day workshop conducted by 45 experts in electric grid interoperability. The participants focused on reactions to a context-setting framework draft document. Improvements to this document were proposed. The technical, informational, and organizational aspects of interoperability were considered. A plan for enhancing the framework was developed. A follow-on Interoperability Symposium was proposed.

IS-2008-27: GridWise Architecture Council: Decision-Maker's Interoperability Checklist Draft Version 1.0
This paper by the GridWise Architecture Council explains the importance of interoperability in the system for generating, transporting, distributing, and using electricity. Distinctions are made among Technical Interoperability (physical and communications connections), Informational Interoperability (data content and meaning), and Organizational Interoperability (business and legal relationships). Interoperability will improve reliability, market operations, and will lower grid capital costs. The authors urge that interoperability be factored into equipment design as the grid is upgraded. They propose a checklist to determine if a proposed upgrade facilitates interoperability.

IS-2008-26: China Market, The Security Industry Association Report: Olympic Update
This paper by the Security Industry Association describes the plans for security systems at the August 2008 Beijing, China Olympic Games. There are 31 Olympic venues. The business organizations involved and coordination are described. Expenditures on security systems are estimated at $300 million for the Olympics. The equipment to be used and suppliers are listed.

IS-2008-25: ROADMs in Network Architectures
This document by Ciena explains the functions of Reconfigurable Optical Add/Drop Multiplexers (ROADMs) for enabling dynamic configuration of optical networks. ROADMs are designed to support Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM). DWDM supports multiple fiber optics channels of different wavelengths. ROADMs allows these channels to be added, removed, or modified automatically. The technology of ROADMs is explained.

IS-2008-24: Making the Case for Converged Ethernet Transport
This paper by Ciena explains that role of Ethernet for high-speed data transport outside of a local area network. Internet traffic is predicted to grow at a 35 per cent-compound rate between 2006 and 2012. Ethernet Internet Protocol traffic is expected to surpass time division multiplexing traffic by 2009. Technologies for optical Ethernet switches are discussed. Applications include triple play, business data services, and wireless backhaul operations.

IS-2008-23: Evolution to the 100G Transport Network
The technologies to transport 100 Gbps Internet data are discussed in this report authored by Ciena. Applications include video-on-demand and IPTV. Client connections to the Internet backbone are now reaching 10 Gbps. The backbone operates at two to 10 times the highest-speed client. 100 Gbps is considered for data centers and metropolitan and wide area network connectivity. Technologies for implementing 100 Gpbs using fiber optics are discussed.

IS-2008-22: Final Report of the California Broadband Task Force - January 2008
This paper is a report to the government of California about broadband Internet deployment in the state and policy proposals to increase availability. Benefits claimed include telecommuting, video conferencing, distant-learning, remote medical analysis, and increased civic discourse. Broadband is not widely available to rural locations where three million people live in California. It was noted that broadband costs are up to four times higher and one-tenth the speed than in other developed countries, such as a Japan. The US ranks 16th in broadband adoption and California ranks 10th compared to developed countries. The report recommends that high-speed broadband be available to all Californians "with the lowest subsidy necessary" and with tax incentives.

IS-2008-21: Compendium of Champions: ACEEE; Commercial/Industrial Retrofit Programs
This report by American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ASEEE) summarizes energy management programs instituted in six regions of the U.S. by electric utilities. Many of the programs include rate reductions. Also, the utilities offer subsidized consultants and contractors to assist enterprises to determine where energy could be saved and to implement retrofits to generate the savings. Four programs were cited as exemplary and two as honorable mention.

IS-2008-20: The Innovation Dilemma: How to Achieve High Performance through Superior R&D
This paper by Accenture summarizes a study of investments by large companies in innovation. About 37 per cent have outsourced product development in areas where other companies or universities offer more competence. Some companies "in-source" by opening research centers in foreign locations. Others acquire companies with special expertise. About 44 per cent of those surveyed have a standardized process for conducting research.

IS-2008-19: Case Study: Concordia University New Engineering Building, Montreal, Canada
This document by A. Tzempelikos & A. K. Athienitis summarizes the energy savings in a building at Concordia University resulting from the use of motorized shading, lighting control, and improved glazing. The installation of these technologies in the 16-story building allowed a $45,000 reduction in the purchase cost of the atrium cooling system. The building payback for the motorized shades is expected to be 2.8 years.

IS-2008-18: Integration of Dynamic Facades with other Building Systems
This paper by A. Tzempelikos & A. K. Athienitis summarizes the benefits from designing a building façade with technology that allows the windows and shading to adjust automatically. The objective is to integrate façade control with lighting and HVAC systems to maximize daylight without glare, and to minimize the sun heat load. With proper systems design, the expected savings in a 10-15 story building are a 40 per cent reduction in the cooling energy consumption, a 60 per cent reduction in energy for lighting, and 20-40 per cent reduction in the peak cooling load.

IS-2008-17: Enhanced Automation: Business Case Guidebook
This guide was created by the California Energy Commission to provide information for businesses on the costs and benefits of building automation technologies. This guide is aimed at businesses with buildings consuming a peak of at least 200 kW for 20,000 square feet or more. The benefits are increased employee satisfaction, higher property values, and energy savings. Energy automation includes energy management systems, energy information systems, and HVAC and lighting controls. Improved information systems can pinpoint areas that need maintenance. A step-by-step assessment procedure is described. Included is a discussion about choosing an electricity tariff that could reduce the building power bill. About a 15 per cent reduction in energy costs on average is possible.

IS-2006-16: There's No Place like Anywhere for the Holidays
This paper from the Yankee Group surveys wireless devices that facilitate access to audio, video, Internet data, and GPS (location data). The objective is to achieve connectivity anywhere. The devices reviewed for features provided and omitted include the Apple iPod, HP MediaSmart TV, HP MediaSmart Home Server, the Apple iPhone, Xbox 360 Elite, TiVo HD, and Sony PSP. Device connectivity is a product differentiator. Manufacturers are challenged to educate customers directly and via retailers.

IS-2008-15: BACnet: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
This paper contains an overview of BACnet, the Building Automation Control Network. BACnet defines the messages, signaling methods, and communications media for remote control of building automation devices. Each device, such as a temperature sensor, is represented as a collection of objects with a set of properties. BACnet messages can be encoded for a variety of network transmission methods. Systems not designed for BACnet can be adapted via a gateway translator. The conformance of a device to BACnet is described in a protocol implementation conformance statement (PICS). BACnet is now a U.S. and an international (ISO) standard.

IS-2008-14: U.S. Construction Outlook 2008-2009
Reed Construction Data discussed the prospects for the U.S. construction industry in 2008-2009. The collapse of the sub-prime market is affecting funds availability for commercial building construction. Very slow growth in the economy is predicted. Charts of the national economic condition are included. As of July 2007, the highest growth was in New England with Massachusetts leading the nation. Recovery predictions for the housing market are presented. Commercial construction is expected to have peaked in 2007.

IS-2008-13: Structured Cabling System (SCS)
This tutorial from the International Engineering Consortium discusses an organized cabling system for delivering building control services. A Structured Cabling System (SCS) can save up to 30% in initial construction costs. A building management system facilitated by an SCS can lead to savings of up to 60 per cent. All building control and data cables can be combined, with the possible exception of fire alarm wiring depending on local codes. There are now national and international standards for integrated wiring of buildings. A goal of SCS is to maintain the cabling as the connected systems change over time. Cabling is reduced when an SCS is organized for distribution via subsystems. Cost calculations and potential savings in labor are presented.

IS-2008-12: Taking Television to the Next Level: The Combination of HD and IPTV
This paper from ANT Software Limited maintains that HDTV will be enhanced when users have more TV options made available by IPTV (Internet TV). IPTV offers the possibility that the use can choose programming from a huge library and can control the viewing experience (such as pause, rewind, etc.). Key to success is a consistent user interface.

IS-2008-11: A future in content(ion): Can telecom providers win a share of the digital content market?
Telephone companies are facing competition from wireless and VoIP (Voice over IP) providers as revenues from traditional services fall. This study by IBM proposes that telephone companies generate revenue from content distribution. The goal should be to deliver content anywhere, anytime, anywhere, to any device. There will be a shift from physical distribution of media (on disks) to on-line distribution. Do-it-yourself media production, such as blogs and podcasts, will be a significant factor. IBM predicts that households will need 20-Mbps Internet access for new multi-media services. Telecom operators are not likely to gain a significant base even with fiber-to-the-home. Therefore, they must become more consumer-centric by focusing on distribution services and embedded advertising.

IS-2008-10: HomePlug AV White Paper
This paper by the HomePlug Powerline Alliance presents an overview of the HomePlug AV power line carrier technology that supports broadband audio and video. HomePlug AV provides a 200-Mbps channel that delivers an effective data rate of about 150 Mbps. The channel supports a multi-access contention system plus time division multiplexing without contention, but with quality-of-service. Block diagrams are included. HomePlug includes a Central Coordinator to organize a HomePlug network and to isolate logically multiple networks sharing the same power line with unique encryption for each network.

IS-2008-09: HomePlug & Service Providers
This is a promotional piece for the use of HomePlug power line carrier technology and a survey of possible services that might be offered via the Internet and via a HomePlug home network.. Possible services include entertainment, energy management, and appliance control. Some services being planned include VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), IPTV (TV via the Internet), firewall and virus protection, spam filtering, parental controls, content-on-demand, security, network management, and home health care.

IS-2008-08: Conquering the WiMAX Test and Measurement Challenge
Test and measurements to determine the performance on a WiMAX system are described in this Rohde & Schwarz white paper. WiMAX is one of the most complex wireless systems ever deployed. It is IP-based and incorporates multiple communications protocols. WiMAX includes techniques to overcome noise, fading, and interference. Of particular note is the use of multiple antennas to support a technique called MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output). Test equipment requirements are presented. Interspersed are advertisements for the products of the paper author.

IS-2008-07: VoIP over WiMAX: Market drivers and vendor opportunities
This paper by Rethink Research Associates is an executive summary of a survey to determine business prospects for voice transmission using Internet protocol (VoIP) via wireless WiMAX. About 400 service providers planning to offer WiMAX were surveyed for their intent to deploy VoIP. WiMAX will account for 75 per cent of the broadband wireless market by 2010. About 65 per cent of WiMAX operators will offer VoIP by 2010. However, fewer than one-third of WiMAX vendors are considered strong in VoIP. Strategic alliances with VoIP partners will be pursued.

IS-2008-06: Is Your AAA up to the WiMax Challenge?
WiMAX is an emerging wireless technique for broadband voice and data communications over large areas. This paper by Bridgewater Systems discusses methods for user authentication to permit access, authorization of service levels, and accounting of service usage. Usage may be tracked according to flow-based accounting that determines how much of each type of service was used. Since WiMAX is an always-on system, authentication may occur frequently. Requirements for authentication, authorization, and accounting to support a high-growth WiMAX business are discussed.

IS-2008-05: What ISN'T Going to Happen in 2008
ABI Research presents predictions for 2008. Among technologies that will NOT blossom in 2008 are: mobile broadband, Palm (will lose market share), RFID (will not impact inventory management), navigation embedded in handsets, auto safety technology, Motorola mobile devices, mobile data traffic (until 2009), VoIP over WiFi in businesses, 802.11n (faster WiFi), improved network security, mobile WiMAX in China and 1 Gbps Internet access.

IS-2008-04: Framework for energy market communications - Part 101: General guidelines
This is a Technical Report published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), one of the three official worldwide standards organizations. This report provides an overview of XML-based database technology for e-business communications in the competitive energy market. The CABA document consists of the introduction, scope, and normative references, not the entire report (which is for sale by the IEC).

IS-2008-03: Europe's Home Networking Boom
This paper by Parks Associates surveys the rapid growth of broadband penetration in Europe from 2004 to 2006. Europe has moved from behind Asia and America to on-par with America. The growth in broadband has led to a growth in home networks in order to reach multiple personal computers.

IS-2008-02: IPTV in Europe: Digital TV in a Hyper-competitive Market
According Parks Associates the market for digital TV in Europe is very competitive and "a test bed for the rest of the world." Telephone and broadband service connections to customers are unbundled in Europe, thus encouraging new entrants. Digital Terrestrial TV is a significant delivery method in Europe. Competition is leading to new value-added services and increased support for customer-provided home networking via a utility-provided gateway. The utility ensures customer satisfaction with the value-added services at reasonable costs. IPTV is growing the fastest in Europe by offering a la carte TV programming. The author contends that convergence of multi-media, support, and billing is key to success.

IS-2008-01: Buildings as Networks: Danger, Opportunity, and Guiding Principles for Energy Efficiency
This presentation from the International Energy Agency introduces the need to address energy consumption and conservation when designing networked building automation systems. The authors are concerned that networked consumer electronics focus on features and conveniences, not on reducing the energy consumed by devices when they are not being used. Likewise, devices that are networked for building control of lighting, heating, etc. should be designed so energy consumption is reduced when the devices are quiescent. International standards are needed to specify techniques for networked devices to conserve energy.

IS-2007-80: Custom Mobile Advertising
Custom Mobile Advertising was a CABA Internet Home Alliance Research Council study that estimated the size of the maximum total addressable market for specific advertising concepts that could be offered via in-vehicle technology, mobile phone technology, and across both platforms. The goal of the study was to gauge interest in specific types of advertising content and advertising delivery mechanisms (such as voice and text). The study examined numerous consumer preferences for various features, including: connectivity options (wireless vs. wired); user interface (voice, text, on-screen menus); media and advertising storage and transfer options (mobile phone, PC, in-vehicle device, other); and user profile controls (computer, phone, in-vehicle).

IS-2007-79: ZigBee and Wireless Radio Frequency Coexistence
This paper by ZigBee Alliance explains how ZigBee and other unlicensed wireless technologies can co-exist without interference. ZigBee operates in 2.4-GHz band worldwide, in the 900-MHz band in North America and Australia, and in the 800-MHz band in Europe. Possible interference sources are WiFi, Bluetooth, portable telephones and microphones, WiMax, and microwave ovens. ZigBee avoids interfering by employing a frequency division multiple access (FDMA) communications protocol. Methods to avoid message collisions and to achieve successful reception are described. The benefit of a ZigBee mesh network is explained. Various tests supporting and criticizing ZigBee performance are presented.

IS-2007-78: ZigBee: The Choice for Energy Management and Efficiency
This report by ZigBee Alliance explains the benefits of using wireless communications for implementing energy management. ZigBee is proposed as the wireless technology for the "last foot" connection. Energy management initiatives worldwide are described. Applications of Zigbee for time-varying energy pricing and peak consumption management are explained.

IS-2007-77: Green Specs/LEED Specs
This report by Kalin Associates Inc. provides guidance to building specifiers on how to evaluate product claims about green attributes for incorporation into building designs. "By our definition, green products are those which maintain or improve the human environment while diminishing the impact of their use on the natural environment-in other words, sustainable." Characteristics of green products include green manufacturing, recycled contents, recyclable, low toxicity, and biodegradable. Who selects green products (owners, architects, engineers, and contractors) and when in the design/construction timeframe are they selected are discussed. A detailed checklist is included.

IS-2007-76: Cost of Green Revisited
According to a study of 221 buildings, green buildings cost about the same as conventional buildings. Eighty-three of these buildings were designed with the intent of being sustainable. Some green features were present in the non-green buildings. A majority of the green buildings did not cost more because of the green features. Detailed costing methods are included. This study recommends that green should be included in building planning, not as an added requirement.

IS-2007-75: Commercial Buildings - Eco-Efficiency
The Sustainable Development Technology Canada foundation was formed by the Canadian government to develop and demonstrate clean technologies. These technologies apply in energy exploration and production, power generation, energy utilization, transportation, agriculture, forestry and wood products, and waste management. Recommendations are provided in the form of business cases. The methodology for determining where investments are warranted is explained. A case study of energy, water, and sold waste production for commercial office buildings in Canada (380,000 buildings in 2004) is presented. A goal for 2030 is to reduce the energy used in these buildings by 50 percent , the water by 65 per cent, and the solid waste by 85 per cent.

IS-2007-74: LEED In Healthcare
This paper explains how hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics can implement energy conservation and achieve LEED certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) even though LEED was developed for office buildings. Methods for water savings are presented, emphasizing substitutes for potable water in laboratory and cooling applications. Some LEED standards such as indoor-air-quality and temperature control are generally in-place in healthcare facilities. The U.S. Green Building council is preparing "The LEED Application Guide for Healthcare."

IS-2007-73: FTTH/FTTP Update
According to a market research study by RVA LLC, fiber optics for distribution of home services passed almost 10 million homes as of September 2007, is being marketed to about 8 million, and has been adopted by two million. About one million households receive video by fiber optics and 2 per cent of households get Internet access via fiber optics. The technology for fiber optics distribution varies by company. About 25 per cent of consumers who are offered fiber optics services adopt some. Customers with Internet access via fiber optics are more satisfied than those receiving Internet via cable or DSL (telephone lines). About half of fiber optics Internet access is at 5-10 Mbps for download and 1-2 Mbps for upload. The dominant supplier is Verizon. The writers claim that subscription to fiber optics services stimulates the purchase of various consumer electronics, increases home values, saves energy, and reduced pollution.

IS-2007-72: Digital Content Unleashed: The Slow but Inevitable Race Toward a Friction-Free Media World
This consumer survey from ABI Research reports on how consumers access audio and video (A/V) through retail purchases and downloads, and predicts access modalities in 2012. Impediment to the adoption of new A/V distribution and playback methods are difficulty in set-up, lack of content, and interoperability problems, all creating "friction" in A/V distribution. About 12 per cent of those surveyed bought on-line video in 2007 compared to less than 5 per cent in 2006. Now, most A/V is stored on CDs and DVDs. Over time, physical storage will migrate to network storage. This will facilitate place-shifting (alternate viewing locations) and time-shifting. Eventually, A/V will be stored on a home service and/or and Internet-based server. "Friction-free" access to A/V will benefit device manufacturers, software makers, content owners, and network operators.

IS-2007-71: High-Speed Services for Internet Access: Status as of December 31, 2006
The U.S. Congress has mandated that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) encourage the deployment of advanced telecommunications. Therefore, the FCC reports annually on the adoption of Internet service access nationwide. This report for 2006 notes a 61 per cent increase in high-speed access from 51.2 million subscribers to 65.0 million. High-speed access is provided by cable modems for 38.9 per cent of customers and by ADSL for 30.8 per cent. Other high-speed access modes include fiber optics, satellite, broadband over power line (BPL), and terrestrial mobile. High speed is defined as faster than 200 kbps in at least one direction. 59.5 millions lines were faster than 200 kbps in both directions, of which 53.6 per cent were cable and 39.1 per cent were ADSL.

IS-2007-70: Small and Medium Business IT Market Evolution: An Opportunity and a Challenge for Channel Partners
CompTIA investigates the IT costs for small and medium-sized businesses. Growth partners show companies moving from personal computers to Internet access and networks to virtual private networks and wide area network. Many of these companies depend on IT support from outside vendors and value-added resellers. Many companies are starting to make purchase decisions based on the total cost of ownership. They are seeking IT solutions that can scale as the company grows. Therefore, IT vendors should help companies evaluate the long-term benefits of various IT solutions.

IS-2007-69: Innovative Approaches to Win the US Bundled Pricing Game
This paper from Accenture discusses pricing strategies for bundled services including Internet, TV, and wired/wireless telephone. Accenture maintains that bundled prices are eroding due to competition even while customer retention is growing. They propose that cable and telephone companies price by "customer value segment" rather than uniformly. For example, packages tailored for families or young professionals or baby-boomers might be offered with higher prices because of the perceived value.

IS-2007-68: Towards a High-Bandwidth, Low-Carbon Future
This paper from Climate Risk Pty Ltd in Australia was commissioned by Telstra, a communications provider in Australia, to investigate the benefits of telecommunications in reducing carbon usage and the deleterious effects of greenhouse gas emissions. Examples of savings are described, such as telecommunications to control appliance energy usage in standby mode or when a user is not present. Telecommuting or commuting to a nearby regional office is another savings opportunity, as is teleconferencing. An overview of global warming is included. It was noted that telecommunications equipment contributes to greenhouse gasses by using power for operations and for cooling. On balance, telecommunications could reduce 4.9 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions in Australia.

IS-2007-67: State of California: Energy Action Plan II
This paper summarizes policy decisions by the State of California regarding energy. The goal is for energy in California to be "adequate, affordable, technologically advanced, and environmentally-sound." Policies are outlined, including plans for dynamic pricing of power and demand response to managing loads. The States plan to generate 20 per cent of electricity from renewable sources by 2010 and 33 per cent by 2020. The rate-setting process for the investor-owned utilities will be made more transparent. Alternative fuels for transportation will be investigated. California is seeking to reduce greenhouse gases to 1990 levels by 2020 and 80 per cent below these levels by 2050.

IS-2007-66: Building the Green Way
According to this article, an emphasis on evaluating whether a building is "green" and sustainable has been developing since 2000. Some green buildings have achieved 40 per cent energy reduction and 30 per cent water reduction over similar non-green buildings. Some green building employees are more productive because out-gassing from building materials is reduced. A green building is estimated to increase costs by 0.8 per cent. Green concepts must be integrated in building design for the greatest savings. For example, building orientation can reduce lighting needs and the cooling needed to remove heat generate by these lights. Older buildings need to be upgraded to be green in order not to lose value.

IS-2007-65: Value Proposition for Enterprise Interoperability
The European Commission reports on a strategic investigation of enterprise interoperability (EI): how businesses can benefit from exchange of information and communications technology (ICT) to create new product and services and to operate more efficiently. ICT and EI can help companies deal with change and value creation. The report concludes, "[t]he potential created by new offerings and new business models together reflects radically new opportunities to generate value with EI."

IS-2007-64: ANSI/ASHRAE Addendum e to ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 135 -2004
The purpose of this addendum is to revise ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 135-2004. The modifications in this addendum are the result of change proposals made pursuant to the ASHRAE continuous maintenance procedures and of deliberations within Standing Standard Project Committee 135. The addendum focuses on BACnet: a data communication protocol for building automation and control networks.

IS-2007-63: Service Providers Affirm the Strategic Value of Policy Management
The Yankee Group surveyed service providers for planned expenditures on the management of policies for network access and bandwidth management. Such policies can affect revenue, subscriber access, quality-of-service, network security from threats, and operational efficiency and costs. Bandwidth allocation will become important as subscribers access IPTV, video-on-demand, and enhanced video services. Policy management includes the placement of advertising adjacent and relevant to video-on-demand programming. Also, customers will be able to upgrade services automatically.

IS-2007-62: When Should I Use a Managed Ethernet Switch?
This white paper from Contemporary Controls describes the functions of an Ethernet switch. First the differences between a hub and an unmanaged switch are explained. Then the functions possible in a managed switch are listed. A managed switch can control the data rate delivered to each port. Also, diagnostic tools are available using the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP).

IS-2007-61: The Market Survey of the Energy Industry 2004
The Association of Energy Engineers surveyed 456 association members on the state of the energy market to help determine a national energy policy and the benefits of energy management. Energy efficiency and management was judged most important. New generation sources are needed, global warming must addressed, and investment tax credits are beneficial. A slim majority thinks that mergers will hurt the energy industry. The best incentive for utilities to encourage energy management is through rebates. This survey is based on 49 questions. Detailed answers are provided.

IS-2007-60: Technology Contracting: Designing Systems for Efficiency and Interoperability
Johnson Controls reports on the benefits of centralizing responsibility for the management of building automation systems through technology contracting. Instead of subcontracting HVAC, lighting, security, IT networking, etc. to separate companies with separate responsibilities, an overall manager is assigned. This is particularly useful when the building systems are integrated. This approach saves time, reduces risk and blame, cuts capital costs, reduces construction costs, cuts operating costs, and enables system interoperability. The process for technology contracting is described with a few examples.

IS-2007-59: Wireless Consumer and Business User Profiles
ABI Research conducted a survey among 1,223 cell phone users across the U.S. Results of the survey are reported in the following categories: cell phone brands, monthly usage, cell phone features including multimedia, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi access. Business users of cell phone voice services spend 19 per cent more on voice and 80 per cent more on data than consumers. Twenty-four per cent would like Internet access on their cell phones. Femtocells extend cell phone service via a broadband connection into buildings and homes where service might have been poor. Seventy-two per cent were not interested in this service. About one-third of business users would add a cellular modem to their laptop for Internet access via cell phone service.

IS-2007-58: National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency
The US Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency organized a study on improving energy efficiency in homes, buildings, schools, governments, and industry. Recommendations were developed for utilities, regulators, and partner organizations. Demand for energy is expected to increase 30 to 40 per cent for electricity by 2030. Energy efficiency programs could eliminate the need for 40 new 500-MW plants over the next 10 to 12 years. Among the recommendations in this extensive report are policy changes through rate designs to move utilities towards energy efficiency.

IS-2007-57: The Cost-Effectiveness of Commercial-Buildings Commissioning
This research report issued by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory describes a process of building commissioning to detect and remedy problems. Such problems include design flaws, construction defects, equipment problems, and needed maintenance. A methodology was developed based on analyzing 224 buildings. HVAC presented the most problems. New buildings have three times the defects of existing buildings. System-level interactions were tested. Problems were found in valves, filters, controls, etc. Non-energy benefits include improved equipment lifetime, productivity, and indoor-air quality. Detailed data and charts are included.

IS-2007-56: Advanced Controls and Communications for Demand Response and Energy Efficiency in Commercial Buildings
The impact of commercial buildings on the peak demand for energy is investigated by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the U.S. Department of Energy in this report. According to the report, US commercial buildings account for a significant portion of the summer peak demand. Methods of demand response are explained, including pricing incentives and load shedding. Communications methods for the utility to reach the building controls include a gateway and an Internet relay. Trials in California and New York are presented.

IS-2007-55: Energy Use in Canada
This paper by the Government of Canada addresses methods for government agencies to meet the need for energy in Canada through 2020 as population grows 11 per cent and GDP by 43 per cent. Methods and tools to improve energy efficiency and conservation are discussed. It was noted that large-appliance energy consumption has dropped, but consumers bought more small appliances where conservation is not regulated. On-site energy generation is discussed. . Energy efficiency methods are included for buildings, industry, and transportation.

IS-2007-54: Fluorescent Lamp and Ballast Options
This paper, by Natural Resources Canada, constitutes a review of fluorescent lighting technology. The benefits of electronic ballasts in place of electromagnetic ballasts are discussed. The ballast is required to generate a high-voltage start-up surge. The advantage of the T-8 lamp over older models is summarized. Potential savings in an office building are included.

IS-2007-53: Monitoring and Targeting Techniques in Buildings
This paper, by Natural Resources Canada, presents a technique adopted from industry for managing energy consumption in buildings. It consists of data gathering, data analysis, and a resulting action plan. Specific factors that affect building energy consumption, such as occupancy, are measured. A regression analysis determines the relationship between the energy consumption and these factors. Examples are presented.

IS-2007-52: Businesses Worldwide Plan to Increase Spending on Network Security Next Year by as Much as 20 Percent
This Cisco Systems press release describes a study of IT security for mobile communications. A study of 700 IT personnel found that almost half expect IT security expenditures to increase 10 per cent, while almost 10 per cent think that there will be a 20 per cent increase. These outlays are motivated by regulatory compliance, increased mobility, and a growing labor force. Only nine per cent worldwide said security spending was because of loss or theft. However, 26 per cent in the U.S. said this is a motivation.

IS-2007-51: Study Reveals Insight, Opportunity for IT to Protect Mobile Wireless Users
This is a press release for a Cisco Systems study of methods to improve IT security for users of mobile communications. The study was conducted in North America, Europe, and Asia among 700 users. Most users did not pay attention to IT security. Recommended actions include educating and protecting employees' mobile communications practices. Some specific suggestions are included.

IS-2007-50: A Global Analysis of Mobile Wireless Security: Behavioral Challenges & IT Opportunities

Cisco Systems surveyed 100 users of mobile service and 100 IT persons worldwide about security issues. Forty per cent of users do not following company security policies. More than 25 per cent are not concerned about security. Twenty per cent never protect data, mostly because they do not know how. IT persons say that viruses are the biggest threat. One-third of respondents back-up their data. Sixty per cent of companies encrypt transmitted and stored data. Spending on security is expected to grow 20 per cent next year because of lost mobile devices and new hires.

IS-2007-49: Hiding in Plain Sight: Service Innovation, A New Priority for Chief Executives
This paper from IBM describes opportunities to improve customer relations and generate revenue from providing after-sales service. IBM recommends focusing on service-innovation model, operations, and growth. Service may expand beyond traditional product support to advisory and financial services. Examples of successful service offerings are the Best Buy Geek Squad and General Motors OnStar. Companies should devote as much discipline and rigor in creating service offerings as they do in creating new products.

IS-2007-48: M2M Remote Device Management in Business: A Study of Current Users
Harbor Research surveyed manufacturers about investments in remote access to products in the field. Half of the respondents are already equipping products for remote maintenance and support. The links to the products include wired Ethernet, Wi-Fi, cellular, and satellite. The basic reason is to manage the cost of providing service. Nine vertical markets amenable to remote access were identified: buildings, consumer & home, industrial, healthcare & life sciences, energy, retail, transportation, public safety & defense, and IT networks. Remote access can also be used to optimize performance and upgrade products. Some companies charge separately for remote product management. Examples from various companies are presented.

IS-2007-47: Workforce Demographics: Addressing an Aging Workforce in the Natural Gas Distribution Sector
This paper by the Canadian Gas Association addresses challenges to finding labor in the Canadian natural gas industry as the general population ages. The industry supports increased immigration and employment of Canadian Aboriginal peoples. Information transfers between retirees and new labor is encouraged.

IS-2007-46: Broadband Connectivity Competition Policy
The US Federal Trade Commission held a workshop in February 2007 to solicit information from advocates and experts about broadband Internet access and net neutrality (uniform treatment of all data packets). The impact of enforcing net neutrality on consumer welfare is investigated. A key debate is about prioritizing Internet traffic and possibly blocking some content based on prior business arrangements. There is debate on just how competitive is the Internet market. Some claim it is a duopoly between the cable operators and the telephone companies. The applicability of anti-trust laws is considered. Also discussed is the impact on consumer privacy of Internet packet content examination.

IS-2007-45: The Internet's Capacity To Handle Fast-Rising Demand for Bandwidth
This article by the US Internet Industry Association explores business models that will support increasing demands for Internet bandwidth. The number of subscribers is not growing as fast as the increasing demands for bandwidth by the existing subscribers. Internet subscribers have reached 70 per cent of the population in many developed countries. Various schemes for charging for bandwidth are discussed. Examples of bandwidth-intensive applications include IPTV, peer-to-peer file sharing, and collaborative gaming.

IS-2007-44: Telecom Predictions: TMT Trend 2007
The Deloitte ToucheTohmatsu Technology, Media & Telecommunications Industry Group predicts trends based on internal and external interviews. Key among these is the possibility that the Internet is reaching capacity because of video data. The need for Internet appliances other than the PC, such as specialized products for e-mail, music, or streaming radio, is discussed as a method to gain additional customers for Internet Service Providers. The added revenue would pay for expanding the capacity of the Internet. Mobile operators should not focus on TV, but on video capture and improved in-home and in-building reception by linking with wireless LANs. Also, the mobile phone could become the control element for home automation. IPTV should not be a clone of traditional TV. Some ISPs and telecommunications companies want to charge content providers for carrying the content.

IS-2007-43: Internet Service Providers in the 21st Century
According to this US Internet Industry Association report, the business environment for Internet Service Providers (ISPs) is changing with the advent of broadband. A dial-up Internet business required much less capital than a broadband business. The paper presents four business models for an ISP. The ISP provides customers with a link between transport methods (telephone, wireless, power line, etc.) and content. Guidelines for running a successful ISP are presented.

IS-2007-42: MasterFormat 2004 Edition 2007 Implementation Assessment
This paper, published by the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) and Construction Specifications Canada (CSC) provides a candid, real-world assessment of conversion penetration to the MasterFormat 2004 Edition. The 2004 edition marked a significant change in the construction industry as a new 50-division organizational structure replaced the familiar 16-division MasterFormat structure that dated back to 1964.

IS-2007-41: e-Health and America's Broadband Network
This paper, originally published by the US Internet Industry Association, is an examination of how broadband services enhance health care in America. The paper argues that the emergence of "eHealth" has been