AMI/AMR

Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) is the process of reading meters remotely without needing to be physically at the meter. PLC AMR systems use power line communications (PLC) technology to provide comprehensive two-way communications over the existing electricity supply network. This system enables utilities to implement cost-effective AMR solutions.

Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is an increasingly used term in the industry. It refers to a system which is capable of collecting and managing data from smart meters at real time via a two way communications link. The utilities use the data to provide consumers with new and enhanced products in real time and to ensure a seamless service experience.

In the fact AMI is being used to describe both current-generation AMR systems that have been available on the market for a number of years, as well as new-generation systems providing more advanced architecture and capabilities.

The SIMAC AMI/AMR solution provides power utilities with advanced real time monitoring system.

The SIMAC AMI/AMR System

• A Power Line Communication (PLC) AMI/AMR is a method where electronic data is transmitted over power lines back to the substation, then relayed to a central computer in the utility's main office. This would be considered a type of fixed network system -- the network being the distribution network which the utility has built and maintains to deliver electric power. Such systems are primarily used for electric meter reading. Some providers have interfaced gas and water meters to feed into a PLC type system.
• SIMAC AMI/AMR system remotely reads customer meters at real time and then transfers the data into the billing system.
• AMI/AMR will reduce the need for meter readers to manually gather utility meter readings each month.
• The AMI/AMR System is a host driven, multi-level network system consisting of a Network Management System (NMS) SW, Data Concentrator Units (DCU), Smart Meters (SM) and a Host Display Unit (HDU). Each HDU while working independently can also be integrated with an existing corporate information management system through software interface. With additional hardware and software support, the HDU can function as a workstation in an existing Local Area Network (LAN) and becomes a member of the entire system, or several HDU can be connected together to form a network of their own.

Features:

• Compatible to the open EIA709.2 protocol, the de facto standard for AMR and control network
• Meets CENELEC EN50065-1 regulation for international operation
• High performance with features targeted at huge Asian market including lucrative Chinese market
• Low cost with single chip solution
• High noise immunity
• High receive sensitivity
• Build-in error correction
• Unique ID for each device
• Assists in managing the grid, enhancing customer services, developing new pricing options and improving operations
• Real time monitoring, control of the customer demand and load
• Time and Money saving
• Multi-tariff function
• Faulty meter detection and recording
• Increased packet success rate with built in smart repeater capabilities
• Ability to control, configure and upgrade meters through network
• High data security with data encrypted
• The throughput of SIMAC AMR system can be increased by Dual channel system and multi-carrier frequencies
• Dual modulation schemes