Automatic Meter Reading Radio Technology
Plextek’s automatic meter reading technology uses narrow band digital radio techniques to achieve exceptionally long ranges at low data rates in the ISM bands. It is optimised for a large population of electricity meters to allow wireless transmission of their meter readings to a network of fixed base stations. The meter reading technology is also suitable for any point to multi-point low data rate applications that require low cost, small size and exceptionally long range.
The remote metering technology offering comprises a cost-optimised base station and a small low cost telemetry module for integration into the client’s meter or other equipment. It is available in European 868MHz CE or American 915MHz frequency hopping FCC variants. Plextek is also able to offer design services to optimise the form factor and interface of the telemetry module to the client’s requirements.
A typical system would include a network of base stations, each communicating with up to 6,000 meters and with backhaul by ADSL or other fixed network to the control and billing centre. The technology is bi-directional, allowing smart metering such that the meter can also receive information from the network such as billing, credit or control data.
An example of an alternative application is the successful use by Telensa for street lighting monitoring and control. Telensa monitors the power factor of the lamp and ballast and uses this information to inform maintenance crews when one needs replacing. It also saves on calibrated light sensors by controlling the on-off times of whole areas of streetlamps from one sensor mounted at a base station.
The underlying narrow band digital radio technology is also suitable for any custom telemetry application where low data rate and very long range is needed. For customers requiring a bespoke solution, Plextek can offer design services to change the frequency band and modify the protocol stack or any other aspect of the equipment.
For further information on Plextek’s remote metering technology please contact us.
