Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) systems are data collection systems that use a combination of technologies, such as wireless, power line communication, and Ethernet and fiber optic networks. There has been a big upsurge in the use of AMR systems as energy companies look for ways to reduce waste and create more efficient power distribution and monitoring systems. The increased cost of utilities and manpower has resulted in the promotion of long term, highly efficient, and more cost effective solutions.
Using Automatic Remote Metering systems was recommended to a national power company by one of MOXA's partners in Asia. MOXA's OnCell G2150I GSM/GPRS Modem will be used with electric meters to simplify and increase the reliability of monitoring electricity usage at several industrial parks. By connecting to the mobile network, central servers can monitor and collect data once every 5 days using GSM circuit-switched data calls. In such cases, power companies can save the cost of implementing land-line networks, cut the cost of manually collecting those readings, and prevent power theft. Moreover, the OnCell G2150I GSM/GPRS modem provides the meters with 2.5 KV RMS isolation protection for 1 minute, which means that serial RS-232 to RS-485 converters and separate isolators are not needed for this application. Whereas other similar modems only support RS-232, the OnCell G2150I GSM/GPRS Modem has an industrial isolation solution for connecting multiple meters using RS-485 technology.
The modem's vertical industrial design with attached magnetic antenna meets the requirements for installing and grounding both the OnCell G2150I and the meters directly on a DIN-Rail. In addition, you may also install the modem and meters in a metal cabinet.
Architecture Requirements
