ARTICLES
Selecting an Automatic Meter Reading System
by Jim Patton
Today, AMR is a sizzling topic through out our
industry. Currently about 10% -12% of the 56,000 + Municipal Water Utilities
are in the process of implementing an Automated Meter Reading System. Every
utility must decide if implementing an AMR system is in their best interest.
In some cases, cost justification can be a daunting task even for the most
skilled Finance Director. Furthermore, keeping abreast of the rapid change of
technology adds to the equation of complexity & further confusion.
Unfortunately, there is
no AMR panacea. Every utility, large or small is unique and the requirements
and needs differ greatly from sister utilities. Consequently, it is imperative
to thoroughly evaluate your own needs, goals & objectives before going forward
with AMR.
Interestingly enough,
40% of all domestic water meters in North America are installed inside of a
habitation, i.e. house or building, etc., More times than not, this situation
created a serious challenge for the utility’s meter reader to obtain the
required reading for billing purposes. As a result, such hit & miss conditions
and probable litigation helped to cost justify the first AMR systems to be
implemented.
The remaining 60% of
the meters installed are subterranean or buried underground. As such, the
meters must withstand the elements of Mother Nature. Given the time of year
and location, this type of environment and condition can be harsh. Subjecting
AMR electronics to such elements challenged the engineers to design and
package the electronics to withstand severe conditions and to date a few have
accomplished the mission.
When evaluating an AMR
System focus on the major players, the number of end points successfully
deployed and any authorized local representation accessible for field support
to sustain & accomplish your AMR vision. Specifying a proven
product with a minimum five years of established creditability in the market
place will certainly augment the odds for your success ten-fold.
We at the Avanti
Company stand at the ready to assist you in discriminating the appropriate AMR
System for your utility, now and beyond the 21st Century.
Jim Patton has 32+ years experience in the industry
promoting water meters and automated reading systems. Please feel free
to
contact us to leverage this experience.
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