User Manual

1600 Alabama Highway 229, Tallassee AL 36078 (334)293-6555
the meter reader. A walk-by handheld, mobile unit, or fixed network receives the
data and stores it to be downloaded into the utility billing system for processing.
The R900i SP is easily installed and operates within an RF band which does
not require an operating license. The R900i SP meets FCC regulations part
15.247 allowing higher output power and greater range. The R900i SP uses
frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology to avoid RF interference and
enhance security. The transmitted data is updated at 15-minute intervals and is
transmitted every 14 seconds. A unique 10-digit MIU ID is included in the transmission
of data. This allows the meter to be read by a walk-by handheld, mobile, or
fixed network data collection units. The R900i SP is designed to offer advantages
to utility organizations of all sizes:
• Increases meter reading accuracy
• Eliminates "hard to read" meters
• Protects utility liability by increasing meter reader safety
• Requires no external wiring or programming
• Provides enhanced 8-digit AMR meter reading
• Provides proactive customer service benefits (leak, tamper and backflow
detection)
Figure 1 R900i SP Inside and Pit Versions
Product Description
2 R900i SP Inside and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
R900i SP Programming
The R900i SP is NOT field-programmable. At the factory, each of the following
items is programmed into the MIU:
• Serial number - Each MIU is given a unique 10-digit serial number/identification
number.
• Time between MIU transmissions - The time between MIU transmissions is set
for approximately 14 seconds. Custom time is not available.
• Meter size and change gear information.
RF Protocol Error Detection
The RF protocol is comprised of a header, data packet, and an error detection
mechanism that reduces the erroneous data.
RF Frequency Control Algorithm
The MIU's frequency-hopping spread-spectrum has a sequence of at least 50 different
channels for transmitting data. Associated with the 50 channels are 50 frequencies
that can be pre-selected in a pseudo-random manner. These 50 frequencies are
coded into the software.
RF Transmission Period and Randomness
The random period generation uses the same random seed created for the channel
definition to generate the transmission randomness. The randomness algorithm is
defined so that no two consecutive transmissions from two MIUs will interfere
with one another.
R900i SP Inside and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide 3
2 Specifications
This section provides you with the specifications for the R900i SP.
Electrical Specifications