Importance

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Abstract

A meter reading system preferably includes an external modem module (EMM), a hub and a data collection system. The EMM communicates with one or more utility meters and, as such, is preferably selected on the basis that it incorporates a communication format that is compatible with the communication format of the utility meter such that the utility meter does not require modification to be communicatively coupled to the EMM. The EMM obtains meter data from the utility meter and converts to a radio frequency communication format. The radio frequency formatted data is then transferred to the hub. The hub then translates the radio frequency data into an analog or digital telephone communication format, which is then transferred to the data collection system for use by the utility as desired, e.g. utility billing, tracking, control, etc. The data collection system need only recognize one communication format rather than attempting to accommodate numerous message formats such as wires, coaxial cable, optical fiber, or radio frequency.

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First Claim