STAR Network AMI System
The STAR Network system is an advanced, highly robust meter reading solution that delivers comprehensive usage information through a secure, long-range wireless network using licensed radio frequencies. The STAR Network system provides the timely, high-resolution meter reading that enables gas, water, and electric utilities to eliminate on-site visits and estimated reads, reduce theft and loss, implement time-of-use billing, and profit from all of the financial and operational benefits of fixed-network AMI/AMR.
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STAR Network Components
The STAR Network Meter Transmission Units (MTUs) are small, permanently sealed modules that are connected to water meters or are integrated into electric and gas meters. MTUs read the meter and forward the meter data on an FCC-licensed wireless channel at customer-specified intervals as short as five minutes. These messages are received by one of several Data Collector Units that cover the service area.
- STAR Network Water MTUs are compatible with pulse and encoder meters from all manufacturers.
- STAR Network Gas MTUs are available for all popular North American gas meters.
- STAR Network Electric MTUs are provided as retrofit and factory-installed versions, and are compatible with many mechanical and solid-state electric meters.
- Gas and water MTUs are available in multi-port configurations to support multiple meters and dual-service installations.
STAR Network Data Collector Units (DCUs) are intelligent network devices that receive, process, and store meter reading information transmitted from STAR Network MTUs. The DCUs forward this information to the STAR Network Control Computer (NCC) located at the utility. DCUs connect to the NCC by a variety of backhaul communication networks, including fiber optic, WiFi, and cellular.
The STAR Network Control Computer (NCC) collects, validates, processes, and stores data transmitted by the STAR Network DCUs. It provides billing, customer service, operations, and other utility departments with timely access to comprehensive account information. The STAR Network system also provides a complete range of customizable management and diagnostic reports.