Itron has unveiled its latest 4G LTE smart metering solution.
The latest technology from Itron’s cellular portfolio features an OpenWay CENTRON 4G LTE meter, offering broad territory coverage, low latency and network longevity.
The solution makes use of the fastest 4G LTE technology available to date and will be commercially available from the first quarter of 2015.
The smart cellular metering technology forms a part of Itron’s OpenWay smart grid solution.
This provides utilities an option to select any combination of cellular and RF mesh communications, including 4G LTE, all under the same network management system.
4G LTE communication can be particularly applied for hard-to-reach locations or territories or for opt-in scenarios.
Due to the low latency of the 4G LTE network, it is also useful for DA/SCADA applications or utilizing smart meters as grid sensors to monitor distribution system conditions.
Moreover, the smart meter solution includes an LTE modem from Sierra Wireless. This will also take advantage of the Verizon Wireless network, the largest 4G LTE network in the U.S., covering 97 percent of all Americans.
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In addition, with the support of Sierra Wireless and Verizon, it can deliver a cost-effective 4G LTE solution, providing longer term investment protection by utilizing the latest wireless technology platform.
In addition, Itron has the ability to adapt the solutions to utilities’ unique needs with the help of industry’s broadest portfolio of software, communications and measurement technology.
It is possible to convert the electric grid into the next-gen smart grid by enabling Itron’s OpenWay CENTRON 4G LTE smart meter to run on Verizon’s 4G LTE and intelligent IP networks.
Sabeena Wahid
[email protected]