Explanation...

The diagram to the left shows the Internet Energy Systems Automated Meter Reading and Demand Control architecture.

Communications Mechanisms and Hardware

The IES system requires at least one Windows 2000 server to host the server software. For larger implementations, three Windows 2000 servers can be used to split functionality between the application server, database server, and web server. The application server and web server must have IP addresses accessible from the Internet on Port 80 and 8080. IES typically uses Symantec PC Anywhere for remote technical support, and this would require two additional ports to be open through the firewall.

For narrowband HFC communications, a modulator/demodulator unit is required to be installed in the HFC cable head-end.

For wireless VHF communications, a base station transceiver with antenna is required as well as a number of digipeater units mounted on street poles. For a 5 square mile area, 15-20 digipeaters would be required.

For IP communications, the customer simply requires an always-on Internet connection. This may be provided by any broadband connection, including cable modems, BPL, or WiFi.

IES does not use these alternative communications technologies for the following reasons. The alternatives to using this infrastructure are licensed wireless, unlicensed wireless technologies such as 900 MHZ, paging systems, or narrowband power line carrier. Unlicensed wireless can never reach the reliability levels or capabilities available with fiber or HFC cable because of the low power required for unlicensed use. These systems typically use a store/forward network architecture that generally eliminates the ability to communicate directly with a device at the customer’s premise.

Another alternative, narrowband power line carrier (PLC), is also limited in speed and capability and requires expensive infrastructure installed at each feeder line. PLC is typically used in rural areas where no other communications medium is feasible. Paging systems have also been looked at as possible communications mediums for AMR systems. However, the bandwidth of the control channels, cost of equipment, limited capability, and the recurring costs involved appear to limit this approach; especially for cities with advanced telecommunications networks in place.