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APPA2004 Business & Finance
Conference
Meter Reading & Field Technology Update
September, 21, 2004
Agenda
Basic Overview Books vs. Handhelds: Why Invest
the Money? What’s Out There? Features vs. Fluff Features to Look For Current Providers
Meter Reading
Basic TerminologyEMR = Electronic Meter Reading. First
step from meter books. Involves using handheld computer and may include some probes.
AMR = Automatic Meter Reading. Term refers in general to automating meter reading using a variety of technologies including RF, PLC, Touch Reads, etc.
Basic Components of a Handheld Meter Reading System
Handheld Computer Docking/Charging Device Route Management Software Billing System Interface
Billing System Interface
Route Management Software
Why Use Handhelds?
Accuracy Hi/Lo Audit Checking Automated Data Transfer
Meter Reader Tracking Meter/Account/Premise Search Resequencing Efficiency
Myths
Handhelds will improve meter reader efficiency by 50%
Handhelds will eliminate all meter reader errors
Handhelds never fail Handhelds are all the same Handhelds make good dog clubs
Handheld Examples
Features vs. Fluff Memory
Large MB’s of data storage are largely just overkill 8 MB will typically hold 20,000 accounts
Processor Speed Even the slowest models are significantly faster than
previous models Data Transfer Speed
How fast do you need it? “Ruggedized Case”
All models are built to rigid specifications All will break
Features to Look For Operating System – CE or DOS Data Entry Storage
Stored on Hard Drive –or- Stored on Flash Card
High Resolution Screen Test the unit in bright sunlight, dark closet
Computer connections USB Support? Serial Port?
Features to Look For (cont) Intuitive keyboard Upgradeable How long has the model been out? Configurable screen Multiple security level options Battery type
NiCad Lithium Ion Other
Probe support Support
Route Management SoftwareFeatures to Look For
Ease of Use Interface to Billing System Upgradeable
AMR, Mobile, Fixed Error Tracking Reporting Capabilities
Custom Reports? Support
What About Cost?
Typical entry-level system ranges from about $6,000 - $10,000
Variables include billing interface & training fees
Major Suppliers
Itron Schlumberger Datamatic Radix Meter Manufacturers
Further Information
Hometown ConnectionsBill SmartNational Sales Director – [email protected]
Steve VanderMeer National Sales Director – [email protected]