Flexible Fixed-Network AMI/AMR System Enhances Data Collection

Cleveland, OH — Discover the STAR® Network AMI/AMR system by Hexagram, Inc., a subsidiary of ESCO Technologies Inc. and a member of ESCO's Communications Segment, at DistribuTECH 2008, January 22-24. The STAR® Network, proven in hundreds of operating systems, offers next-generation metering intelligence to municipal and privately held water utilities. Hexagram's fixed communications network is comprised of a series of meter transmitters communicating to data collectors over private FCC-licensed channels. The collectors transfer data to the utility over a number of backhaul options including cellular signal, fiber optics, and Wi-Fi. In addition, recent improvements to leak-detection capabilities support both water conservation and reduction of non-revenue water losses. Other advantages of Hexagram's solution include:

• The ability to set custom read intervals to meet customer requirements.
• High/low consumption reporting that allows detection of problems inside residences.
• Revenue protection through leak detection at premises and distribution points.
• A 20-year battery life and low-battery notification that ensures maintenance-free operation.

The STAR® Network system expands easily to meet evolving requirements. Hexagram's data collectors offer a modular backplane that supports plug-in card modules to allow for flexible configurations. The company's transmitters are based on a universal platform and transmitter settings can be programmed using a wide variety of Windows CE-based handheld devices. Hexagram's network control software offers sophisticated consumption, management, and diagnostic reports to aid in meter-system management.

SOURCE: Hexagram, Inc.