An automatic meter reading (AMR) system stripped down to its most basic elements consists of meter endpoints, concentrating and collection devices, network servers and, finally, the utility’s meter data management system. A robust and reliable communications system is essential to con-
nect these building blocks. It is often this communications component, not the metering hardware, that proves to be the weak link in an AMR system. The choice of AMR communication technology is very important and should be matched with the utility’s ultimate business needs for its system.
A typical AMR communication system consists of three necessary components: the transmitter, the communications path and the receiver. Most AMR system offerings make use of either wireless radio frequency (RF) or wired power line carrier communication paths and transceivers located at meter endpoints and collection points.
Two communication system types associated with AMR are
one-way and two-way. One-way systems are push capable while
34 UA April 2007
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