Metering has come a long way since Ferraris electricity meters and diaphragm gas meters were introduced into the marketplace over 100 years ago. Modern meters can now offer data string outputs using an IEC 1107 optical port rather than just pulses. This offers the possibilities of more accurate meter readings, increased fraud information, possible system data etc. These meters may also have the ability to control the flow of energy by means of an integrated switch or valve which can be operated via their IEC 1107 interface. The command instructions for the switch/valve could be delivered by an attached module which may take the form of an AMR (automatic meter reading) unit, (radio, mains or telephony), prepayment unit (smart card, magnetic card, smart key or key pad) or any other pay as you go/information system. These meters will be able to accept different modules during their life span, therefore ensuring that an upgrade path exists as new technologies and new customer service requirements appear. This approach to domestic metering will also allow a wider range of new companies to enter the marketplace by developing modules with novel service solutions and will therefore provide the energy suppliers with a wider range of available service technologies.
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