Leviton, the Melville, NY-based manufacturer of lighting management systems, data networking solutions and electrical wiring devices, said it plans to buy Obvius, the energy-management start-up company based in Portland, Oregon.

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With unbridled access to a variety of sophisticated computers compatible with automated work-stations, precision wire-bonders for wiring circuits on microprocessors and other devices, and the means to produce polysilicon for high-quality wafers and chips, a key facet of the Soviet industrial base could be transformed.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center For Security Policy

The devices do not include electrical wiring or battery replacements, making it a likely candidate for powering remote sensor networks and medical-sensing technologies.

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That means someone installing the smart wiring in the walls of buildings, the network firm providing the platform connecting the smart devices, the gadget-makers that provide an Apple-like user experience for every fixture, and the next-generation utility offering new forms or methods of energy delivery.

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