NES vs. Traditional AMR
Traditional automatic meter reading systems do just that: They read meters for energy use data. End of story.
The NES System does so much more. Our state-of-the-art, future-proof smart metering system benefits every aspect of a utility’s operation, from metering and customer services to distribution operations and value-added business. What's more, it provides an economical upgrade path for future value-added services.
Here are some of the differences between NES and traditional AMR systems:
The NES System |
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Traditional AMR Systems |
- Open, bidirectional, high-bandwidth communication
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- Proprietary, often one-way, very slow communication
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- Meter and communication functionality on one board
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- Communication modules bolted (retro-fitted) onto or inside meters
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- Extensive range of services
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- Provides only meter reading
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- Built-in disconnect switch
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- Built-in disconnect switch unavailable or an expensive add-on
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- Metering infrastructure delivers demand response
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- Parallel infrastructure needed for demand response
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- No value-added services possible
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- Economical upgrade path for value-added services
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- Must visit each meter to upgrade software
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- Multiple suppliers of NES meters
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- Meter can be remotely converted to a prepay meter
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- Prepay requires a service call and a meter replacement
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- Tariffs and load profiles can be remotely changed
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- Post-installation changes require a service call
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