Pexx, Inc. Project Case Studies

Utility Networking

Applications

Deployment of a complex wireless communication networks for an electrical utility company to enable wireless smart meter networks with two-way communications that are capable of sending and receiving information to and from consumers and the utility company. The utility company can read these meters remotely, providing near real time usage and outage information.

Synopsis

A new wave in creating effective usage of energy and a sustainable energy distribution system is to build “smart grids” – smart energy networks that are enabled by wireless technologies to achieve real or near real-time remote data collection, energy monitoring and energy consumption management. This new technology also provides a platform for fewer and less severe outages, reduction in energy network losses and a more efficient energy market.

Smart metering systems usually include three main components: a wireless smart meter, a wireless and wired communication network and data collection/management systems.

It’s a complex wireless system that integrates many technologies. Data is transmitted from the meters to cell relays, which are wireless devices installed on power distribution poles. Cell relays pick up signals from meters in the vicinity and transmit the data via radio to a “Take out Point (TOP).” TOPs collect data from cell relays within a several-mile radius and deliver it via microwave or fiber optic cable to Utility company’s data center.

Pexx, Inc. Value Proposition

We provide turnkey solutions to build the infrastructure of this smart meter network, mainly in building telecommunication towers at “Take out Point (TOP)” and the long haul microwave radios.