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Renesas Technology PLC network layer software to add wireless connectivity to automatic meter reading applications

Renesas Technology Europe today announced that it will shortly release an updated version of its power line communications-based (PLC) Renesas Ubiquitous Network – Metering (RUN-M) network layer software. Designed for automatic meter reading (AMR) applications, the new software, RUN-M (RF), will incorporate wireless extensions that conform to the IEEE 802.15.4 MAC layer standard. Using a wireless approach will now allow AMR applications to not only meter electricity consumption but to combine gas and water usage using a single network protocol.

Analysis

8 September 2008

byNews Desk

Believed to be the first network layer to combine PLC and wireless connectivity, it will allow AMR solution designers to meet the demands from utility companies to provide a seamless, media-independent network for their metering and billing needs. The RUN-M (RF) layer provides the mechanism for metering nodes on the network to self-configure, thus avoiding the need for pre-configured devices. Also, should additional nodes be introduced or removed the dynamic features of the layer will automatically adjust the network structure.

Algorithms within the RUN-M (RF) layer ensure that the low power requirements of the IEEE 802.15.4 specification are met, allowing all reading nodes in the network to be purely battery operated.