User's Manual

DRAFT
6 FIREFLY AMR REFERENCE MANUAL
DRAFT
©
Datamatic.com, Ltd. 2000 - 2005
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11
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Chapter 1: System Overview
This document covers the setup and operation of the FIREFLY Radio Frequency
Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) system, used in conjunction with the RouteSTAR

Meter Reading System (RouteSTAR MVP

).
All information presented herein assumes the installation and understanding of the
RouteSTAR MVP software and associated ROADRUNNER ruggedized, handheld
computers. Refer to the ROADRUNNER system manual and Training Guides for
additional information.
The RouteSTAR MVP system is designed to provide a fast, efficient method of
collecting meter reading data from a variety of sources. This includes FIREFLY AMR
meter readings as well as ProfilePLUS
™
historical usage data.
More specifically, utility meters are outfitted with FIREFLY Meter Interface Units
(MIUs) that transmit meter readings and associated information. Field personnel collect
these radio frequency readings via ROADRUNNERs equipped with an integrated Radio
Frequency Receiving Unit (RFRU) or ROADRUNNER Mobile.
Likewise, the MIUs provide a feature called ProfilePLUS to keep track of historical
usage data. This data helps solve billing disputes, and enable variable rate billing and
load management studies. ROADRUNNERs are used in conjunction with
Programming/Profiling Units (PPUs) for water FIREFLYs to extract this data on
demand.
System Features
FIREFLY AMR System Features
! ProfilePLUS: Usage data based on programmable interval setting.
! Quick and easy installation.
Interfacing Options
! 1. Optical “through-the-glass” sensor end.
! 2. Pulse or encoded wire-end.