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A smart switch increases resistance to monitor electricity usage during high consumption times. It accesses computer networks and can be programmed to operate at certain times. Critics argue it may not make a significant difference and could be a government control measure. It can help prevent brownouts but won’t stop energy drain alone. It will be commercially available in 2009.
A smart switch is a device used to help people monitor how much electricity they personally use or is used in general. It does this by increasing the resistance so that turning on the light becomes more difficult during times when energy consumption is highest. The smart switch is considered one of the most innovative approaches to energy saving, especially among those developed in recent years.
The smart switch accesses computer network equipment to monitor electrical usage on or near a constant basis. Some switches may be turned on or programmed to operate only at a certain time of day when electricity consumption would historically be higher. Therefore, these switches can be one of the easiest tools to use because they are automatically controlled.
Resistance to a smart switch is applied across what is known as a brake pad. Just as when the brakes are applied to a car, friction and pressure work to slow the rotation of the wheels, so too does a brake pad on a smart switch. It pushes against a plate, which then makes it more difficult to operate the switch. While the light switch can still be flipped, many may think twice if there is more resistance.
The smart switch, while not a truly controversial measure, has received some criticism. For example, critics charging the breaker makes little difference in the effort to save electricity because many people may not even notice the drag it makes. Furthermore, some conspiracy theorists have posited that this is simply a step by the government dictating to individuals when they will and will not use their interior lighting.
There are two basic ways to program the smart switch to work. It can provide resistance when there is an extremely high level of electricity consumption in the home or it can do so when the entire network is experiencing high demand levels. Some can be programmed to operate when either occurs. In theory, this can help prevent brown out. However, there’s no guarantee that turning off some lights will make a significant difference since other household electrical components use much more electricity.
The decision to use a smart switch is a very personal one and can serve as a good reminder for those concerned about saving energy. While the switch, by itself, won’t stop the energy drain, it will help keep those thoughts at the forefront. The switch, sometimes referred to as a smart switch, is expected to be commercially available in 2009.
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