TouchRead provides an easy-to-use, compact meter reading solution that’s ideal for smaller utility providers or multi-tenant complexes with less than 500 service connections. Using a handheld device, a field operator can obtain consumption data from an encoded register through a TouchCoupled or wall-mount connector. An optional extension on the handheld device can be used to access hard-to-reach areas, such as large underground meters located in hazardous spaces, or even reduce body fatigue from repetitive bending and squatting to obtain data.
Overall, a TouchRead solution helps decrease the time it takes to read your meters while reducing potential data errors at the same time.
Similar to an AMR Drive-By meter reading system, the AMR Walk-By solution uses a Radio Frequency (RF) handheld device to remotely read radios. Upon returning to the office, simply connect the handheld to your computer and upload the metering data into your system.
Radios are robust, high-powered frequency transmitters that provide inbound and outbound access to measurements and other diagnostics. The same radios are compatible with AMI, AMR Drive-By, and AMR Walk-By automated meter reading systems or a hybrid combination thereof, empowering you to upgrade and migrate your infrastructure without replacing your field assets.
In a technology-driven era, it’s more common to see cities implement automated systems to manage their utility resources. As a result, the utility enhances operational efficiency and accuracy, while maximizing resource accountability and revenue.
In the case of an AMR Drive-By solution, readings are performed with a mobile transceiver — a portable radio-based meter reading device which can be used in any vehicle providing 12-volt DC power. The operator simply sets up the system in the vehicle and loads the desired meter reading route into the computer. The meter reading data is collected while the vehicle traverses the route. Driving every street to collect meter reading information is typically not required, which helps reduce the associated costs for data collection like time and fuel.
Advancements in automated technology have contributed to substantial changes in utility operations, allowing a migration from multi-step manually captured information to complete one-click communication at a centralized location.
As Advanced Metering Infrastructures grow and produce increasing amounts of data, utility providers have a growing need to efficiently turn the data into useful information. With minute-by-minute, system-wide operational views, meter data management software is the answer for any utility seeking to maximize the value of the data collected from various intelligent devices on their distribution system. Analytics organizes data acquired from water, gas and electric network communications platforms to drive revenue, improve customer service, and promote better planning. Upon data collection, the system’s flexible user interface presents information in detailed reports for a utility’s use. Analytics enhances the capabilities of intelligent meters and communications networks, so utilities maximize the return on infrastructure investments over time.