Glossary of terms used on this site
All
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
Alerts |
A notice by the AMR system that something function in it is outside acceptable parameters. For example, a meter that has not registered any advancement over a long period of time would generate a “non-advancing meter” alert. See also: burst pipe alert, non-advancing meter alert, possible tampering alert, and slow-leak alert. |
Allocation |
Often used interchangeably with RUBS (see RUBS). Also, see Utility Allocation. |
Allocation types |
The basis by which utility expenses are apportioned to users. Common types include unit count, occupant count, occupant ratio, square footage, and a combination of occupant count and square footage. Less common types include bathroom count and fixture count. Essentially, all allocation types use some sort of rule of thumb to guess how much water was used. |
AMR |
Acronym for Automated Meter Reading. A technology used in utility meters for collecting the data that is needed for billing, administration, and management purposes. AMR works by extracting consumption reads in either pulse or encoded format from the meters and transmitting the information to a control center. AMR technology does not require physical access or visual inspection. |
Backhaul |
A term probably derived from the trucking industry; in submetering it is taken to mean getting data to a point from which it can be distributed over a network (usually the Internet). See also: GPRS, LAN, WiFi. |
BMP |
Acronym for best management practice(s). |
Cellular data |
The ability to transmit digital information over a cellular network. There are many protocols to enable this process including GPRS and UMTS. |
Control Center |
Software package that receives measurement data from the Gateway and can be used to analyze it and transform it for use in billing. |
Cubic feet |
A frequently used unit of water measurement, one cubic foot is equal to 7.48 U.S. gallons |
DCU |
Acronym for Data Collection Unit. In an AMR system, a legacy central device that collects usage data from meters. Also known as Data Collector Device, Central Station and other, similar variations. DCUs are slightly outdated technology and are generally being phased out. |
Drive-by AMR |
Legacy AMR technology where measuring personnel would have to slowly drive by a meter in order for their radio receivers to pick up the metering data. See also: Walk-by AMR. |
DU |
Acronym for “dwelling unit” |
Encoded meters |
A water, gas, or electricity meter whose output can be read digitally. Encoded meters are both more accurate and more expensive than Pulse meters. |
End-point |
Alternate name for a radio transmitter attached to a meter. |
EPA |
Environmental Protection Agency |