The Internet of Things moves a step closer with open source, ultra-low-power JenNet-IP

Much has been written about the "internet of things." Right now, not every human being has an IP but in the very near future, low cost smart chips will be added to every device to give it an IP address and everything in one's life will become part of your private secure network to be monitored and controlled (and hence become smart) via a smartphone, tablet or PC.

Earlier this week, Dutch-based NXP Semiconductors announced its GreenChip, which for the cost of about US$1.00, enables every light bulb to have its own wireless IP address. NXP has subsequently announced it is to make its JenNet-IP, ultra-low-power, IEEE 802.15.4-based, wireless network layer software available under an Open Source license in Q4, 2011.

This development is very significant as it reduces the cost and greatly simplifies adding "smart" connectivity and two-way communication into a wide range of devices, and might well establish a cross-application standard for wireless connectivity in both residential and industrial environments.