Product review - the business case for AMR

Journal Article · · Electric Perspectives; (United States)

OSTI ID:6653412

Alexander, R D

The electric utility of the future will use not just one technology for automated meter reading (AMR), but combine several technologies simultaneously in a systemwide solution. A combination of telephone-based, radio, powerline carrier, or walk-by radio systems will provide the most economic mix of technologies and be responsive to each utility's requirements. Utilities that previously viewed these as separate technologies competing for a sole-source selection now see them as complementary options for a solution that fits the unique needs of their service areas. There are three basic classifications of meter-reading technologies: Hand-held terminals are a popular choice for improving the efficiency of walking meter-readers, but for the most part do not replace the walker. Products in this category include portable data terminals that require the meter-reader to enter readings manually; remote disks that communicate meter data to locations more easily accessible by the meter-reader; two-way radios (portable terminals or vehicle-mounted) that allow the meter-reader to take readings even while off-site. There are two basic telephone-based AMR options. With a dial-inbound system, each meter automatically calls the utility on a scheduled basis to report its reading. With a dial-outbound system, the utility initiates the call. Electricity-based AMR is attractive to some utilities because it offers them more control of the communication network. The long hops use telephone lines or utility-owned radio channels; local communication from pole-top to meter is over power lines or by short-range radio. All these options are available today, though none of them can meet all needs. It's up to each electric utility to analyze its own needs, then match its requirements with the choices available. With an AMR network, meters become peripheral input devices in a giant information system that gives utilities an instantaneous status of consumption throughout the network.

• OSTI ID: 6653412
• Journal Information: Electric Perspectives; (United States), Journal Name: Electric Perspectives; (United States) Vol. 17:2; ISSN 0364-474X; ISSN ELPED9
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
296000* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Electric Power
AUTOMATION
DATA ACQUISITION SYSTEMS
DATA TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS
ELECTRIC POWER
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
MEASURING METHODS
METERS
POWER
SERVICE SECTOR
TELEPHONES