Semprius Inc. Taps FreeWave Technologies' Wireless Data Radios for Solar Data Acquisition


Remotely controlled integrated solution deployed in successful PV tracking pilot

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 12 -- SOLAR POWER INTERNATIONAL ANNUAL CONFERENCE - Booth #1520 -- FreeWave Technologies, manufacturer of the most reliable, high-performance spread spectrum and licensed radios for critical data transmission, announced today that Semprius Inc. is using its wireless data radios as part of an integrated intelligence and communications solution supporting utility scale PV operations. Implemented in Research Development & Demonstration (RD&D) systems in North Carolina and Arizona, the pilot project has offered extremely reliable, timely on-sun and weather data remotely.

Based in Durham, North Carolina, Semprius Inc. is a leader in the development of high concentration photovoltaic (HCPV) panels for utility-scale solar power generation in sunny, dry climates. The company's unique micro-transfer printing technology increases the performance and reliability and decreases the cost of HCPV panels.

The integrated intelligence and communications solution features a controller; FreeWave FGR2-PE wireless Ethernet radio; a modular and scalable design -- 12, 16, 20 or 24 strings; built-in diagnostics for remote troubleshooting; remote PLC code upload capability via wireless interface; and, a fully labeled panel for ease of installation and maintenance.

FreeWave FGR2-PE IP wireless Ethernet radios are deployed for the pilot. In addition, FreeWave's FGR2-PE radios are deployed at the O&M office and act as stand-alone master radios. Within the integrated solution, FreeWave's radios facilitate solar panel tracking by transmitting data to the tracker's motor to determine which direction PV panels must face for optimal solar power generation.

"Implementing the FreeWave radios has gone smoothly; the entire process fits our 'Plug and Play' design philosophy," said John Gabriel, Engineer, at Semprius Inc. "In fact, we've discovered that the FreeWave radios are boringly reliable."

FreeWave's FGRplus family of radios has been successfully used for applications in alternative energy markets. It offers 2-ports each of active serial and Ethernet wireless connectors using license-free spread spectrum for long distance data communication.

Key features and benefits of the FGR2-PE include:
o Transition to IP-based communications without replacing other hardware such as RTUs.
o Compatibility with other FreeWave FGRplus family radios.
o Two Ethernet ports and two serial ports immediately activated and at NO ADDITIONAL COST.
o Best-in-class wireless serial or Ethernet communication over long distances and in difficult RF environments all in addressable, secure IP.
o Low power consumption, which makes it suitable for remote installations and leads to significant cost savings.
o An industrial-grade, small and rugged enclosure that offers mounting and installation versatility.
o Integrated security options (e.g. AES encryption) and proprietary spread spectrum technology.

FreeWave's latest technologies will be on display at booth (#1520) during Solar Power International, where FreeWave will be offering demonstrations of the integrated intelligence and communication solution.

About FreeWave Technologies

Founded in 1993, FreeWave Technologies manufactures the most reliable, high performing, lowest power consumption, spread spectrum and licensed radios for mission-critical data transmission. Through engineering excellence and a relentless commitment to best-in-class manufacturing, FreeWave customers enjoy superior radio up-time, range and the lowest cost of ownership available. Based in Boulder, Colorado, FreeWave designs and manufactures radios that are the leading choice for oil and gas, utility, military and numerous other industrial applications. Organizations that count on radio data communications for operational success - where failure and down-time are not an option - trust FreeWave for custom network design, system engineering and customer support that are unparalleled in the market. For additional information, contact FreeWave directly at 866.399.4930 or at newsinfo@freewave.com. Visit the company's website at www.freewave.com.

SOURCE FreeWave Technologies

Press Contact:
Christin Jeffers
Catapult PR-IR
303-581-7760 ext. 19
cjeffers@catapultpr-ir.com

Web Site: www.freewave.com

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