Automatic Meter Reading (AMR)
Automated Meter Reading (AMR) relates to the use of a device which communicates resource consumption information (normally energy, gas or water) measured by a meter to a supplier. It is normally one directional, in that the meter communicates only for example with an energy supplier, say once a month reporting the amount of energy being used.
These devices avoid manual reading which can be time-consuming, unreliable or difficult to achieve, if for example water meters are located in difficult to access areas, or occupants are unavailable to give access. AMRs can normally be installed alongside existing meters, rather than requiring a new meter entirely, communicating measurements, potentially without an Internet connection.
Advanced Meter Integration (AMI) describes a smarter system that relies on a newer smarter meters to replace existing ones. These communicate data in real-time to whatever specification is required. This is the precursor to what we commonly now call the smart meter, which can be a two way device, most commonly used to measure, assess and track commercial or residential energy use. Some AMRs today however have similar functionalities as smart meters.
The AMR was first patented in 1974 by T.Paraskevakos who developed radio based fire, security and medical alarm systems for Boeing before the internet enabled wi-fi accessible devices. The first commercially available system was launched in 1977 by Metretek.
AMR's, AMI and smart meters are often key components in Measurement and Verification (M&V) of resource (especially energy) consumption for individual buildings or facilities and in the implementation, testing and assessment of Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs) of those facilities.
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