Automatic meter readings
November 1st 2007

A new range of automatic meter reading systems has been introduced by Stream Measurement, UK distributor for Sensus Water and Actaris Heat and Gas Meters.

Using M.Bus (Meter bus) technology, compliant with EN1434, the system can interface to any meter which offers a pulse, encoder or M.Bus output and can be used to monitor water, gas, electricity, heat, steam or oil meters.

In its simplest form, the system comprises a PC with a level converter and a slave per meter, with connection via a standard 2-wire telephone cable. The system can be designed to provide cost effective communications with groups of meters, from three to almost no limit on the maximum number. Meters can be connected with any wiring topology, be it line, star or tree.

Through the software,meters can be addressed individually, with each meter transmitting its metered volume data, its actual,totaliser reading, serial number and a special programmable ID address.

This reading can be taken on demand or on a programmable automatic cycle. Users are assured of an efficient meter reading without transcript errors.

Collected data can be exported in various formats to enable integration with existing systems or specifically designed reports.

Meters can be installed in difficult-to-access positions, avoiding the need to enter an area to read the meters.