LG Electronics' Cool Internet Air Conditioner

By
iApplianceWeb
(04/30/01, 08:20:44 AM EDT)

LG Electronics' Internet enabled air conditioner can be remotely controlled and monitored over the Web. Two-way information transmission through home networking and the Internet allows users to both send and receive information from the air conditioner.

LG Electronics set the price of the new model, the LP-336CDB, lower than conventional air conditioners of the same grade as a way to facilitate growth of the Internet AC market. The new Internet air conditioner not only offers Web access like other home network products, but also has remote monitoring and self-diagnostics. This means that the air conditioner can detect malfunctions and feed this information back to the manufacturer or reseller, potentially saving money on repairs.

LGE has a significant investment in the project, including 40 researchers, $4 million, and 3 years development time. Along the way they have registered over 170 patents.

The Internet Air Conditioner uses a RC232C communication port connecting through an Internet browser to the IOP (I-@bale Operation Program) developed by LGE for Internet access.

Users connect the air conditioner to a PC and then register at LGE's air conditioner product group Website. On connect, the service assigns the user an account with log on and password. Through this account, users can access their units even when they are away from home. A standard web browser offers a selection of features, like remote control, unit monitoring, and self-diagnostics. Air conditioning programs for setting temperature profiles that match lifestyles can also be downloaded.