Patent ID: 8378846
Filing Date: 2013-02-19
Classification: G01D,H04Q,Y02B,Y04S

Abstract:
1. A utility meter interface circuit for use in an automatic meter reading network, wherein the utility meter interface circuit is adapted for installation at a metering site, wherein the utility meter interface circuit is configured to transmit a first plurality of radio frequency signals during a reporting interval within each 24-hour period, wherein said first plurality of radio frequency signals are transmitted in a condition for reception by a fixed network receiver, and wherein the utility meter interface circuit is also configured to transmit a second plurality of radio frequency signals in a condition for reception by a mobile network receiver; the utility meter interface circuit comprising: a CPU for executing instructions in a stored control program; wherein the CPU is configured to control transmission and reception of radio frequency signals according to instructions in the stored control program; and the utility meter interface circuit further comprising; a radio frequency modulation section for modulating meter data signals into RF signals for transmission; and a radio frequency demodulation section for demodulating data from RF signals from device within a network; and wherein the said utility meter interface circuit is configured to periodically check for a back-up condition, and upon occurrence of the back-up condition, the utility meter interface circuit repeatedly transmits the second plurality of radio frequency signals in a condition for reception by the mobile network receiver until a next reporting interval for transmitting the first plurality of radio frequency signals to the fixed network receiver.