Patent ID: 8243773
Filing Date: 2012-08-14
Classification: H04B

Abstract:
1. A data transmission system, comprising: at least one frequency-hopping spread-spectrum (FHSS) transmitter configured to transmit signals on predetermined channels within a predetermined frequency band; a data source coupled to said at least one frequency-hopping spread-spectrum (FHSS) transmitter; at least one receiver configured to receive signals occurring throughout the predetermined frequency band; a microprocessor configured to construct a time of day dependent band profile of signal levels received on the predetermined channels over a predetermined time period, to identify noisy channels within the predetermined channels based on the band profile, and to enable the FHSS transmitter to adjusts its transmission of signals to transmit signals avoiding the identified noisy channels; a central station configured to receive utility consumption data transmissions; and at least one second transmitter associated with said at least one receiver, wherein said at least one second transmitter and said at least one receiver are configured to relay utility consumption data to said central station, said microprocessor is associated with said at least one second transmitter and said at least one receiver, and said data source comprises a utility meter configured to provide the utility consumption data to said FHSS transmitter.