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Part Number: 700034708000 Rev.5
All Rights Reserved © 2006
Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on
the part of Merlin Gerin SA (Pty) Ltd t/a Conlog. No part of this document may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed or translated into any language without express written permission of Merlin
Gerin SA (Pty) Ltd t/a Conlog.
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2 BEC23 Technical Manual
Table of Contents
Section 1 : Company Overview............................................................4
Section 2 : Introduction.......................................................................5
Section 3 : Standards..........................................................................6
Section 4 : Specifications.....................................................................6
Section 5 : Features............................................................................7
Protection.........................................................................................7
Security............................................................................................7
Reliability..........................................................................................7
Section 6 : Meter Overview..................................................................8
Disconnection Device........................................................................9
Latch type meter (BEC23PL)................................................................................9
Circuit Breaker type meter (BEC23PD)................................................................9
Earth Leakage type meter (BEC23PE)..................................................................9
Rate LED...........................................................................................9
Meter serial number........................................................................10
User interface.................................................................................10
Meter interface.................................................................................................10
LCD interface.................................................................................10
LCD Icon Display.............................................................................................11
Overload Indication.........................................................................................11
Low Credit Indication.......................................................................................11
Zero Credit Indication......................................................................................11
Wait (Clock) Indication.....................................................................................11
Negative Credit Indication................................................................................11
Token Acceptance Indication............................................................................12
Token Rejection Indication................................................................................12
Tamper Indication............................................................................................13
Section 7 : Special User Functions......................................................14
Meter Status....................................................................................16
Tamper detection flag......................................................................................16
Meter commissioning flag................................................................................16
Section 8 : Engineering Tokens..........................................................17
Maximum Load Limit token (Meter Specific).....................................17
Clear Credit token (Meter Specific)..................................................17
Key Change token (Meter Specific)..................................................17
Clear Tamper token (Meter Specific)................................................18
Commissioning token (Non-Meter Specific)......................................18
Meter Test token (Non-Meter Specific)..............................................19
Section 9 : Installation of the meter....................................................20
Installing the wall base....................................................................20
Wiring up the wall base..................................................................20
Testing the meter installation and sealing the unit............................21
Removing the meter........................................................................21
Section 10 : Using a BEC23 Electricity Meter.......................................22
Section 11 : Problem Solving.............................................................23
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BEC23 Technical Manual 3
Token Problems..............................................................................23
Invalid token....................................................................................................23
Used / Duplicate token.....................................................................................23
Expired token...................................................................................................24
Meter Full.........................................................................................................24
Meter Problems...............................................................................25
Error Codes on Meters....................................................................26
Section 12 : Typical Installation..........................................................27
Section 13 : Glossary Of Terms.........................................................28
Section 14 : Technical Specifications..................................................31
Section 15 : Contact Information.......................................................33
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Section 1 : Company Overview
Since the inception of the South African prepayment industry in the late 1980s, Conlog has been at the
forefront of pioneering solutions that meet the needs of utilities worldwide.
The foundation of providing simple yet technologically advanced products, coupled with an ethos of
ensuring our customers’ success, has resulted in our leadership position.
Products for today and tomorrow
Conlog specialises in providing prepayment solutions for the delivery of electricity and water services. Our
broad range of products encompasses prepayment meters, vending revenue management, support,
services, maintenance, as well as the only dedicated and accredited training facility for all aspects of
prepayment.
This comprehensive and holistic approach enables customers to reap the full benefit of their investment
and ensures sustained success, into the future.
Global footprint
The company currently has prepayment projects operating in more than 20 countries with an ever
increasing footprint that encompasses Africa, Eastern Europe, South America and South East Asia. In
addition, as a subsidiary of the global Schneider Electric group, we have access to a network of offices in
over 130 countries.
Platform of excellence
In all areas of the business, our goal is for absolute excellence. To this end, the company’s
manufacturing facilities are independently accredited with ISO 9000:2001 and ISO 14001 standards.
Our products also carry the highest international standards, and the company aims for continual
improvement through a variety of internal quality programmes such as six sigma.
A world of experience
Specialising in prepayment, Conlog has been providing customers with an unsurpassed depth of
experience and knowledge for over 15 years. The company has received a number of accolades through
the years including the inaugural Innovation Award for the prepayment industry, the Electricity Supply
Industry’s (ESI) Best Metering Company three years in a row, as well as recognition for its Black
Empowerment.
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BEC23 Technical Manual 5
Section 2 : Introduction
The BEC23 meter is a single phase, STS compliant Prepayment Electricity Meter comprising 2 parts, these
being a totally sealed metering unit and a wall base. There are different models in the BEC23 range.
These models are listed below with their technical specifications. Note the actual functionality of the
different models is identical.
BEC23PL
This is a STS single-phase prepayment electricity meter that utilizes a common
base. The data is entered by means of a keypad and the internal
disconnection switch is rated to 100A.
BEC23PLT
This is a STS single-phase prepayment electricity meter that utilizes a common
base. The data is entered by means of a keypad and the internal
disconnection switch is rated to 100A. It also has a tamper switch to detect
tampering on the meter.
BEC23PD/T
This is a STS single-phase prepayment electricity meter that utilizes a common
base. The data is entered by means of a keypad and the disconnection switch
is a double pole circuit breaker, rated to 60A.
BEC23PE
This is a STS single-phase prepayment electricity meter that utilizes a common
base. The data is entered by means of a keypad and the disconnection switch
is an earth leakage circuit breaker, rated to 20A.
BEC23PET
This is a STS single-phase prepayment electricity meter that utilizes a common
base. The data is entered by means of a keypad and the disconnection switch
is an earth leakage circuit breaker, rated to 20A. It also has a tamper switch to
detect tampering on the meter.
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6 BEC23 Technical Manual
Section 3 : Standards
Specifications
IEC 62052-11 Electricity metering equipment (AC)
General requirements, tests and test conditions.
Part 11: Metering equipment
IEC 62053-21 Electricity metering equipment (AC)
Particular requirements
Part 21: Static meters for active energy (classes 1 and 2)
IEC 62055-41 Electricity metering - Payment metering systems
Part 41: Standard Transfer Specification
IEC 60068-2-27 Environmental testing
Part 2: Tests. Test Ea and guidance: Shock
IEC 60068-2-6 Environmental Testing
Part 2: Tests - Test FC: Vibration (Sinusoidal)
IEC 62056-21 Electricity metering - Data exchange for meter reading,
tariff and load control - Part 21: Direct local data
exchange
SANS 1524-1 Electricity payment systems – Prepayment meters
ISO 14001:2004 Environmental management systems
ISO 9001:2000 Quality management systems – Requirements with
guidance for use
ESKOM
SCSSCAAA9
Particular Requirements for Pre-payment Meters
ESKOM
TRMSCAAP2
Surge Arrestors
SANS 767-1
(BEC23PE/T)
Earth leakage protection units
Part 1: Fixed earth leakage protection circuit breakers
VC 8035
(BEC23PE/T)
Earth leakage protection units
Section 4 : Specifications
Voltage Range
• 220-240VAC (phase voltage) –20% +15%
• Additional voltage ranges available on request
Supply Frequency
• 50Hz + 2%
• Additional frequency ranges available on request
Current Ratings
• Maximum current:
- 80 Amps BEC23PL/T
- 20 Amps BEC23PE/T
• Base current 5 Amps
• Starting current 0,025 Amps
Total Supply Burden
• Nominally 1.2W and 9.5VA
Disconnection Device
• 100 Amp single pole bi-stable disconnection switch (BEC23PL/T)
• 60 Amp double pole circuit breaker (BEC23PD/T)
• 20 Amp double pole earth leakage circuit breaker (BEC23PE/T)
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BEC23 Technical Manual 7
Environmental
• Operating temperature: -10°C to +55°C.
• Storage temperature: -25°C to +70°C.
• Humidity: 95% non-condensing
Accuracy
• Class 2
Enclosure
• IP51
Section 5 : Features
Protection
• Each phase is protected by Conlog’s 5kA / 5kV surge arrestor
• Electronic circuits designed to withstand 420VAC for up to 48 hours
• Short circuit current rating:
- 2.5kA (BEC23PE/T)
- 3kA (BEC23PL/T)
• Load / Line Reversal Protection
Security
• Provision for lead seals or wire seals are made
• The installation is completely sealed to prevent tampering and insect ingress
• Internal register of correctly entered tokens
• Each meter has a unique security key
• Meter can be equipped with a tamper switch
• Meter can be shipped either in a commissioned state or non-commissioned state
Reliability
• Conformal-coated PCB’s, protect against insect, dust and humidity
• Keypad has a proven reliability of more than one million operations per key
• Pick and place technology using surface mounted components ensures a high degree of
manufacturing accuracy and repeatability
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8 BEC23 Technical Manual
Section 6 : Meter Overview
BEC23PL
BEC23PE
Keypad
Rate
LED
LCD
Display
Circuit Breaker
Reset Switch
Meter Serial
Number
Security
Seals
Keypad
Rate
LED
LCD
Display
Meter Serial
Number
Security
Seals
Earth Leakage Test
Button
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BEC23 Technical Manual 9
Disconnection Device
Latch type meter (BEC23PL)
The meter uses one 100 A, 3kA single pole load switch as the disconnection device on a single-phase
meter.
This disconnection switch disconnects the consumer when the credit expires or the load limit is exceeded.
When the disconnection switch opens due to an overload limit being exceeded it remains open for
approximately 30 seconds and then re-closes. If the overload is still present it opens again. After 5
consecutive 30-second reconnection attempts the disconnection switch will remain open for 30 minutes.
This pattern is repeated indefinitely until the overload is removed.
It should be noted that the disconnection switch is not designed as an over-current protection device and
must not be used to interrupt fault currents.
Circuit Breaker type meter (BEC23PD)
The meter uses one 60A double pole circuit breaker as the disconnection device on a single-phase meter.
The circuit breaker disconnects the consumer when the credit expires or the load limit is exceeded. When
the circuit breaker trips due to the load limit being exceeded (overload), you will not be able to reset the
breaker until the overload is removed.
Earth Leakage type meter (BEC23PE)
The meter uses one 20A double pole circuit breaker as the disconnection device on a single-phase meter.
The circuit breaker disconnects the consumer when the credit expires, the load limit is exceeded or there is
a fault current detected. When the circuit breaker trips due to the load limit being exceeded (overload),
you will not be able to reset the breaker until the overload is removed. If it trips due to a fault current, a
qualified electrician should be called in to investigate the reason why it is tripping.
Note: With this type meter a ready board or distribution board is not necessary for the installation. The
output from the meter can be connected directly to a plug socket. See Section 12, ‘Typical
Installation’.
Rate LED
The meter has a rate LED that pulses 1000 times per kWh delivered and indicates to the consumer the
rate at which electricity is being consumed.
It can be used, in conjunction with the Meter Interrogator optical reader and a test load to check the
calibration of the meter. The Rate LED can also be used together with the Meter Interrogator Kit to
perform an optical dump. This indicates the remaining credit, user total to date, meter total to date,
meter serial number and software version.
In the event of meter failure the information available from the Rate LED may also be read directly using
a MC171 Direct Probe in conjunction with an Interrogator Kit.
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Meter serial number
The Meter serial number is derived as shown below:
Example:
04 12 23 8425 6
So the interpretation of this serial number is: the meter is a Conlog meter, made in 2002 and its
sequence number is 238425.
User interface
Meter interface
• Keypad user interface with tactile feedback
• A large format LCD that supports numeric, bar graphs and icons is used
• An LED indicating the rate of consumption (Flash Rate: 1000 pulses / kWh)
• Supports the optical and direct probe using the Meter Interrogator Kit
LCD interface
The meters’ LCD interface has been standardised throughout the range of Conlog electricity meters. The
LCD display indicates credit available (in kWh), load indicator, overload indication, low credit warning,
zero credit indication, negative credit indication, wait indication, token acceptance or rejection indication,
tamper indication and special user functions. (Refer to “Special User Functions” for details)
STS Manufacturer
Number
Number of years
since 1990
Sequential Unit
Number made
Check Digit
Consumption
indicator as a % of
the maximum limit
System
Busy
Supply
Status
Token
Accept/Reject
Negative
Credit
Tamper
Status
Available
credit in
kWh
Enter token icon /
Low credit warning
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BEC23 Technical Manual 11
LCD Icon Display
Above is the display, as it would appear with all the segments in current use highlighted. When “display
test”, , is activated via the keypad, further icons will appear.
Overload Indication
The consumer is disconnected when the load power / current being consumed, averaged over a 15
second period, exceeds the load / current limit. When this happens all ten segments of the rate
consumption bar-graph flash as an indication to the consumer to switch off appliances. The load limit is
programmable allowing the supply authority to limit the maximum power an individual consumer is able
to draw.
Low Credit Indication
When the low credit threshold is reached the meter will begin to flash the icon. Only when the credit
goes above the threshold will the icon go off.
Zero Credit Indication
When the available credit reaches zero the disconnect device disconnects the load. When the credit is
zero the icon remains on continuously and the disconnect device status icon goes off or the circuit
breaker will trip.
Note: The disconnect device status icon on the LCD is not available on a circuit breaker type meter
(BEC23PE).
Wait (Clock) Indication
When the wait icon appears the system is busy and the keypad is disabled. The consumer must wait until
the wait icon disappears before entering data.
Negative Credit Indication
Under certain circumstances e.g. through switching delays or a faulty disconnection device, the consumer
may continue drawing current after the trip point has been reached. Should the meter be configured to
display negative credit values the display would include a negative sign preceding the credit value as
indicated in the display below.
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Alternatively, the meter can be configured, at the time of manufacture, so that the display continues to
indicate 0.00 kWh whilst the meter registers the negative credit in its memory. The enter credit icon
continues to be displayed and the disconnection device status icon is not displayed.
Token Acceptance Indication
On acceptance, the display will flash the entered value. The duration for displaying the value shall be 10
seconds, thereafter reverting to its default display.
The is illuminated at the start of the message display and remains active for a period of four seconds
before being extinguished.
In the example below a value of 726.04kWh is being added.
Token Rejection Indication
If the token is not accepted the token rejected icon appears for 4 seconds followed by the explanatory
code flashing for 10 seconds.
Displayed on LCD Meaning of Code
Meter Full
Duplicate Token
Data Entry Error
Token Expired
See also “Problem Solving” Section 11, for further explanation of the above codes.
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Part Number: 700034708000 Rev.5
Tamper Indication
In the event that a tamper condition has been detected the meter will initiate the tamper process. The
configuration flags in the options registers (set up at the time of manufacture) governs this. The meter
can be configured to disconnect the consumer’s supply and either display or not display the tamper
detection. If configured to display the tamper status then the “Light Bulb” icon will be displayed, as
indicated in the graphic on the following page.
To clear the tamper condition a “clear tamper” meter specific management token is required. When this
token is entered the display will flash all ‘t’s thereafter reverting to the normal credit display.
The tick will be visible for four seconds, thereafter the “t”s will be displayed (flashing) for a further six
seconds (a total display time of 10 seconds).
Light bulb is
flashing
Supply
suspended
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Part Number: 700034708000 Rev.5
Section 7 : Special User Functions
The following information can be obtained from the meter by entering the following hash commands via
the keypad:
Keypad Entry Display Reading
Average Power in kW
The amount of electrical power in kW’s currently being
used averaged over a 15 second period. It will be
displayed for 10 seconds before reverting to the normal
credit display. The example shows consumption of 9.21
kWh.
Total User Consumption To Date
The total amount of electricity consumed by the customer,
in kWh, since the last clear credit token was entered will be
displayed. After 10 seconds it will revert to the normal
credit display.
The example shows a user total consumption to date of
47723.9kWh
Keypad Test / Display Test
Initiating a keypad test and pressing each of the keys will
test the keypad. The display will fill with characters relative
to the key being tested. The example shows the key
having been pressed.
Type and the segment display test will be
invoked. Once the test is complete it will revert to the
normal credit display.
Total User Credit To Date
The total amount of credit entered into the meter since the
last clear credit token was entered will be displayed.
After 10 seconds the display will revert to the normal credit
display.
The example shows the total credit entered to be 9030.8
kWh.
Meter Status
The meter status register is displayed in bit form. After 10
seconds the display will revert to the normal credit display.
The table ‘Meter Status’ below shows the meaning of each
bit of information. Bit 0 starts on the right hand side of the
LCD display, moving across to Bit 7 on the left hand side
of the display. After a few seconds it will revert to the
normal credit display.
The example indicates a meter that has been
commissioned and is not in tamper.
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BEC23 Technical Manual 15
Display Supply Group Code (SGC)
The SGC is programmed into the meter at the time of
manufacture. The example shows a SGC of 399999.
When a key change has been performed this value is
cleared to zero. It should be noted that the key change
tokens do not contain any information pertaining to the
SGC number, therefore the SGC register cannot be
updated.
To
Last 10 STS Token 20-Digit Numbers
The most recent token entered can be selected by the hash
key 11, the second most recent token by the hash key 12
and so on. The actual 20 digit token is displayed as read,
from left to right.
To
Last 10 STS Token Transfer Amounts in kWh
If the information contained within the token is not a kWh
value, then the class and sub-class of the token is
displayed. The only token carrying kWh information is the
credit. Both the power overload setting and Phase
Imbalance tokens have a value depicted as kW.
The graphic on the top graphic shows an example where
the token does not contain a numeric kWh value; it is a
clear credit token.
The graphic below shows an example where the token
does contain a numeric kWh value; it’s a credit token of
726.04kWh. No Class or Sub-Class is shown.
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Meter Status
Type on the keypad and the meter configuration register status will be displayed. The table
below shows the meaning of each bit of information. Bit 0 starts on the right hand side of the LCD display
with Bit 7 on the left hand side of the display. After a few seconds it will revert to the normal credit
display.
BIT Status Flag Detail
Bit 7 Tamper detection flag
0 = No tamper detected
1 = Tamper detected
Bit 6 Not Used
Bit 5 Meter commissioned flag
0 = Meter not commissioned
1 = Meter commissioned
Bit 4 Reserved for Internal Use
Bit 3 Not Used
Bit 2 Reserved for Internal Use
Bit 1 Reserved for Internal Use
Bit 0 Reserved for Internal Use
Table 1- Meter status register
The example below indicates a meter that has been commissioned and is not in tamper.
Tamper detection flag
When this flag is clear the meter has not detected a tamper condition. When set the meter has detected a
tamper condition and the appropriate display / icons will be enunciated. Various operational
configurations are available for the tamper detect condition.
Meter commissioning flag
The commissioning configuration flag is set or cleared during production or via the meter specific
commissioning configuration token. If the flag is set (1) the disconnection device will close if all other
requirements for closing the disconnection device are met. The meter will also detect tamper (if
configured) whenever the meter is removed from the base. If the flag is cleared (0) the consumers’ supply
will be disconnected and the tamper detection functionality within the meter will be disabled (if
configured).
Tamper flag
Commissioned flag
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BEC23 Technical Manual 17
Section 8 : Engineering Tokens
There are a group of tokens used to configure the meter and perform additional special operations. The
Electricity Vending Unit issues them. Some tokens will only be accepted by a specific meter (known as
“Meter Specific” tokens) and may only be used once while others work in all meters (“Non-Meter Specific”
tokens) and are reusable.
Maximum Load Limit token (Meter Specific)
This token is used to adjust the load limit of the meter and is issued by the Electricity Vending Unit. The
BEC23 meter with an internal disconnection device may be set from 0.23 kW to 18,4 kW. (At unity
power factor, this would equate to a programmable range between 1A and 80A at 230VAC). The BEC23
meter with a circuit breaker may be set from 0.23kW to 13.8kW. (At unity power factor, this would equate
to a programmable range between 1A and 60A at 230VAC). This token is meter specific and may only
be used once.
Clear Credit token (Meter Specific)
This token is used to clear the “credit remaining” register and the “user total consumption to date”
register. It does not clear the “meter total consumption to date” register. This token is meter specific and
may only be used once.
Key Change token (Meter Specific)
This token is used to replace the existing key with a new one i.e. when changing the Supply Group Code,
Tariff Index or Key revision. It is a 40-digit number for the keypad meter.
On completion of the first 20-digit token the display announces its acceptance of the token by the normal
icon, displayed for 4 seconds, while displaying the decimal points for a further 6 seconds before
returning to the default display.
At this time a 4-minute timer is initiated waiting entry of the second 20-digit token. If for some reason the
second token is not entered, the key will not be changed and the meter will continue to accept tokens
based on the existing key.
When the second key change token has been entered the key change information is processed. If
successful the following key change acceptance message is given.
The acceptance of the token is indicated by the normal icon, displayed for 4 seconds, keeping the
display of the character C’s for a further 6 seconds before returning to the default display.
Note: The use of this token erases the SGC display. When running a “Meter Test” token (Refer to “Meter
Test Token”) or #10#, the display will be zero, although the SGC is still resident in the meter.
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Clear Tamper token (Meter Specific)
If the ‘Tamper Detect’ has been enabled on your meter at the factory, then you might need to use this
token. If a meter is removed from the common base without isolating the power to this meter, the meter
will go into a tamper state. To clear this tamper state you will need to make a ‘Clear Tamper’ token at a
vending unit, power up the meter again and enter the 20 digits Make sure that you isolate the power
from the meter before removing it from the base to avoid the meter going into this state. This token is
meter specific and may only be used once.
Commissioning token (Non-Meter Specific)
The commissioning token is a non-meter specific token 1275 4194 1448 6450 5970. The meter can be
configured with or without commissioning. If configured, the meter is supplied with the disconnection
device open and the tamper detection circuitry inactive.
On entering the token the meter will connect the consumer’s supply (internal disconnection device meter)
or allow the manual reset of the circuit breaker. The tamper detection will also be activated in whatever
configuration is set up during production, if enabled.
The message above flashes for a period of 10 seconds once the token has been successfully entered. The
token accept icon initially appears for a period of 4 seconds to indicate a valid token and the wait icon
will be on while “ACTIVE” is flashing on the display
Multiple entry of this token does not change the commissioned status of the meters, however, it will
display EEEEEEEE on the screen if entered more than once.
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BEC23 Technical Manual 19
Meter Test token (Non-Meter Specific)
This token, defined as STS 0, is used to perform a series of tests on the meter.
Typing in the 20-digit code, initiates the test, which continues to step through the sequence automatically
whilst displaying the data shown for each step. These steps will change from meter to meter and detailed
below are the various steps that each meter will go through and what each step indicates, this is an
example of the results.
Note: On a non-tamper meter, Step 10 below (8 on meter display) will not be shown, so it will jump
from Step 9 to Step 11.
The 20 Digit number is: 5649 3153 7254 5031 3471.
Step 1 Step 2 Step 3
Open contactor / trip breaker if there
is credit in the meter
Perform LCD display test.
Perform optical dump via rate LED
Positive credit – disconnection device
opens and closes
Negative Credit – disconnection
device is not activated
Step 4 Step 5 Step 6
User Total Consumption To Date. Meter Total Consumption To Date. Key Revision Number.
Step 7 Step 8 Step 9
Key Type. Tariff Index. Load limit. The power in Watts
Step 10 Step 11 Step 12
Tamper Status
00 – Meter not in tamper mode
01 – Meter in tamper mode
Average Power Consumption. Meter Software Revision Number.
If positive credit the disconnection
device will open and close again.
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20 BEC23 Technical Manual
Section 9 : Installation of the meter
Installing the wall base
1. Determine the cable entry point and meter position (between 1.3 and 1.5m above floor level) with
user.
2. Position the template in the above position not closer than 1 meter from the nearest tap and not
directly above a stove or water.
3. Tape the template to the wall.
4. Drill the holes through the template with a 6mm masonry bit deep enough to accommodate wall
plugs.
5. Drill holes in wall base for cables / glands.
6. Fit wall plugs and screw the wall base to the wall. Do not over tighten as this could twist the wall
base.
Wiring up the wall base
Caution: The wiring is to be performed by a certified installation electrician and must conform to the
prevailing Government standards and safety regulations.
1. Wire the wall base using cable glands appropriate for the installation.
2. Connect the incoming supply to the top set of terminals (above the horizontal partition).
3. Connect the live wire to the terminal on the right and the neutral wire to the left.
4. Connect the earth wire to the earth terminal.
5. Connect all outgoing wires to the bottom set of terminals. Live to the right terminal, neutral to the left
and the earth to the earth terminal.
6. The outgoing wires from the wall base should be connected to a ready board, if the earth leakage
type meter is not being used. Refer to Section 12 for “Typical Installations”.
Note: This meter is equipped with a Line / Load Reversal Detector. If the line and load wiring is
swapped around then the first time the meter draws a load in excess of 40 Watts, the meter will
trip.
Line
Wiring
Area
Neutral
Terminal
Earth
Terminal
Live
Terminal
Surge
Arrestor
Template
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BEC23 Technical Manual 21
Testing the meter installation and sealing the unit
1. Plug the meter into the wall base by positioning the top of the meter first, hold the top in position and
snap the bottom of the meter into place.
2. Screw the active unit onto the base with the screws provided
3. Restore power.
4. Enter the 20-Digit commissioning token if the meter was shipped in a decommissioned state.
5. Perform the STS 0 meter test.
6. After successful completion of the test, the meter must be sealed using both the meter plastic seals
and wire seals as designated by the Supply Authority.
7. Explain the basic functionality to the customer.
Note: If you perform the STS0 meter test and the meter trips and goes “dead”, it means that you have
swapped the line and load wiring. Remove the meter and correct the wiring.
If the meter is “dead” when you put it into the base and it was shipped in a decommissioned
state, this will also indicate that the wiring has been swapped around. Remove the meter and
correct the wiring.
Removing the meter
1. Isolate the power.
2. If the power cannot be isolated ensure that all tools are insulated.
3. Remove the wire seals.
4. Taking care not to damage the front housing of the meter whilst removing the plastic seals.
5. Remove the security screws and unplug the meter from the wall base.
Note: The plastic clips can be re-used and are removed by inserting a flat screwdriver (small) under the
left or right hand corner and gently lifting the clip as shown below.
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Section 10 : Using a BEC23 Electricity Meter
STEP 1
Before using electricity, credit must be purchased from the nearest electricity sales point. If the meter ID
card is not available the meter serial number (shown on the bar code) must be known to enable the
purchase of a token.
Important:
The token can only be used for the nominated meter.
The token can only be used once.
Token Expiry: Conlog meters embody a unique token expiry system, which employs a stack of 50
tokens. Each token in the stack has its date and time recorded. Should the fifty-first
token be older than the oldest token in the stack it will be rejected as an old token.
STEP 2
The 20-digit number from the token must be keyed into the meter. As the numbers are keyed in, they will
be shown on the display. This allows confirmation that the numbers keyed in are the same as those on
the token. If a mistake is made, use the backspace key to clear one number at a time until the
mistake is cleared.
If it is necessary to start from the beginning again, press the key . This will clear all the numbers
entered so far and allow the re-entry of the numbers.
STEP 3
After entry of the 20-digit number, the meter will check it. If the number is valid the display will flash the
amount of credit purchased for a short time and the icon will appear. The internal latch will then
automatically connect the electricity or the circuit breaker can be set manually in the up direction. After a
few seconds the total remaining credit will be displayed.
STEP 4
When switching on lights or any appliances, the Rate LED will begin to flash.
The more appliances switched on, the faster the LED will flash. This indicator will act as a reminder to
switch off appliances that are not in use.
STEP 5
When the credit level starts running low (below 25.5kWh), the icon on the display will start flashing.
This is a warning that another token must be purchased. If the meter runs out of credit, the internal latch
or the circuit breaker will trip and disconnect the electricity supply. To reconnect the electricity supply, a
token must be purchased and the 20-digit number from the token keyed into the meter.
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BEC23 Technical Manual 23
Section 11 : Problem Solving
Token Problems
Invalid token
When a token has been entered and found to be invalid the display will indicate this by flashing the
following message;
This message flashes at a rate of once per second for a period of 10 seconds, then clearing for five
seconds before reverting to the default display.
The icon is activated at the start of the message display and stays on for a period of 4 seconds.
One of the following reasons could be why a token is invalid:
• The meter serial number on the token doesn’t match the physical meter number on the meter.
• The tariff index on the token is not the same as the tariff index as programmed into the meter.
• The supply group code that the token was made on differs to the supply group code in the meter.
• The token was entered into the meter incorrectly.
• The key revision number of the token differs to the key revision number as programmed into the
meter.
• The meter might be in a tamper status.
• The commissioning token has been entered into a meter that is already commissioned.
Check the printout of the token and then if necessary run the STS0 meter test token to compare the
parameters of the meter. All the information should be validated to ascertain why the token didn’t work.
Used / Duplicate token
A token entered with a Token ID that already exists in the token transaction table will be rejected as a
“used” or “duplicate” token. The display will indicate this condition by flashing the following display for a
period of 10 seconds. All active icons and segments of the bar graph will remain unaffected.
On completion of this display the meter will revert to its default display.
The icon is activated at the start of the message display and stays on for a period of 4 seconds. This
token can be thrown away.
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Expired token
A token with an ID that is older than the oldest token in the meter’s token ID table will be rejected as an
“expired token”. The display will flash the following indication for 10 seconds before reverting to the
default meter display. This token can be thrown away.
Meter Full
In the situation where the credit being entered would take the credit remaining over the limit of the meter
the meter will display the “FULL” message.
The credit will not be added and the token ID will not be put in the table, thereby allowing the token to be
entered at a later stage when the sum of the remaining credit and the added credit will not be in excess
of what the meter can handle.
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BEC23 Technical Manual 25
Meter Problems
Question The meter trips and there is still credit remaining.
Answer The meter may have been overloaded by the use of too many appliances at once.
Turn off all appliances and the meter should reconnect automatically if it has an internal
disconnection switch or re-set the circuit breaker manually. Turn the appliances on one
by one, if it trips out again, it could mean one of the appliances is faulty or you are
definitely exceeding the maximum load limit.
Question The meter trips and there is still credit remaining.
Answer If the meter has been enabled for tamper, it could be that the meter has gone into a
tamper state. This will be depicted by the enter credit icon being on permanently and
the tamper icon will be flashing. You will need a clear tamper token from the
vending unit to get this meter out of the tamper status.
Question Should the meter show a negative credit?
Answer No, it is a prepayment meter and should not display a negative credit. The supply
authority should be contacted if the meter displays a negative value.
Question There is no credit on the meter, but electricity is still being delivered.
Answer It could be that the meter has been by passed, look for indications that there has been
tampering with the meter seals. It could also mean that the meter has been set not to
display negative credit at the factory.
Question What happens when the icon appear on the display?
Answer When the icon is on the display it means the meter is processing information and the
keypad will be disabled, wait for the symbol to disappear before proceeding.
Question The display is blank
Answer It could be the key has been depressed. The display reverts to blank for
approximately 15 seconds when is typed and not followed by further entries. Type
and the display will revert to its normal state. The display could also be faulty, check
the display by pressing . If nothing happens call the supply authority
Question When running a STS0 meter test token the meter dies. What could cause this?
Answer The Line and Load wiring has been swapped around, hence when the internal
disconnection device or circuit breaker opens, during the running of the test, it removes
power from the internal electronics of the meter thus the meter shut downs. Remove the
meter and correct the wiring.
Question When putting a meter in the wall base there is no power on the meter. The upstream
breaker is on and there is power in the wall base.
Answer The Line and Load wiring has been swapped around, and the meter has left the factory
with no credit or in the decommissioned state. This means the internal disconnection
device or circuit breaker is open therefore there is no power to the internal electronics of
the meter thus the meter doesn’t power up. Remove the meter and correct the wiring.
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Error Codes on Meters
Tabled below are error codes that could appear on the meter display. These error messages will normally
indicate a severe malfunction of the meter and the meter would normally have to be returned to the
factory in Durban for corrective action. An example of the actual screen error is shown below the table.
Error Code on Display Corrective Action
Send meter back to Conlog
Send meter back to Conlog
Send meter back to Conlog
Send meter back to Conlog
Send meter back to Conlog
Send meter back to Conlog
Check communications cable
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BEC23 Technical Manual 27
Section 12 : Typical Installation
As can be seen from the diagram below, this is what a typical BEC23 (> 20 Amps) installation looks like.
The meter is mounted on the left hand side of the ready board. The ready board is to the right that comes
pre-wired with a common base, earth leakage, a light and three plug points.
As can be seen from the diagram below, this is what a typical BEC23PE (< 20 Amps) installation looks
like. The meter is mounted on the left hand side of the 4X4 plug box. No external earth leakage device is
needed as the meter has a built in 20 Amp earth leakage circuit breaker.
Note: Under no circumstance is this method to be used if the meter is not a BEC23PE.
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28 BEC23 Technical Manual
Section 13 : Glossary Of Terms
B
BEC Budget Energy Controller. See Meter.
C Circuit Breaker It is a disconnection device for a meter. It has two contacts that isolates’
the incoming supply (Line), Live and Neutral wires from the out going
supply (Load) Live and Neutral wires.
Commissioning Token This token is used to commission a meter when it is installed. It will
activate the disconnection device and the tamper device in the meter. If
this token isn’t played in a new meter the meter will not function.
Contactor See Disconnection Device
D Direct Probe MC171
A contact type probe with a circular pin configuration conforming to the
requirements of the Eskom specification MC171. It is used in
conjunction with an Interrogation Kit to extract information from a
meter that can no longer be powered up.
Disconnection Device /
Switch
It is a device that isolates the incoming supply (Line) Live wire from the
out going supply (Load) Live wire. It could be in the form of a latch,
contactor, relay or circuit breaker
E ED See Meter
Earth Leakage This is a device that will protect the end users from an electrical shock in
the event of a fault current. A fault current is seen as a current
exceeding 30mAmps flowing between the Live connection and the Earth
connection.
Engineering Tokens These are specialised STS tokens that can only be made by an operator
who has been granted permission. The engineering types are as
follows:
• Meter Test
• Maximum Power Load
• Clear Credit
• Clear Tamper
• Key Change
Any Conlog or STS Meter will accept the above engineering tokens.
F
Field Service Terminal This function will allow you to import a file from the Conlog Interrogator
Kit program into the management system.
I
Icon Pictorial representation of a function and used as part of a display
ID Card See Swipe Card
Interrogator Kit A collection of parts used together with a Notebook PC to obtain
parameters embedded in a meter.
K KRN Key Revision Number.
Keypad The device on a meter, which allows you to interface to the meter using
numerical buttons. This interface allows you to enter tokens into the
meter as well as activating special use functions.
Key Change Token Key change tokens are produced for a specific customer when selecting
this function. These tokens are used to update the Key Revision
Number; Tariff Index and/or Supply Group Code stored in a customer’s
meter.
L LCD Liquid Crystal Display
LED Light Emitting Diode
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BEC23 Technical Manual 29
Lead Seal This is a piece of wire that is threaded through pre-manufactured holes
in the meter and then bought together and bonded with a piece of
lead. The lead is usually marked with logo or initials of the utility or
electrician sealing the meter.
Line Line refers to the incoming supply to a meter.
Load Load refers to the outgoing supply from a meter.
Load Switch See Disconnection Device
M Meter This refers to the metering device, which is placed inside the customer’s
home or premises. The meter allows the drawing of electricity or water
to the value of credit available on the meter. Also known as a Water
Meter or Electricity Meter.
Meter ID Card A plastic meter ID card is the card supplied (with every electricity meter)
to a customer. The card contains the customer’s specific information,
such as Tariff index and the meter serial number. This card may be
used to accurately capture the customer’s data when the customer
makes a credit purchase. Customer information may however be given
verbally. An authorised Operator can produce Meter ID Cards, on a
Magstar.
Meter Number Refers to the unique number of the meter determined by the
manufacturer. It appears on the front legend plate on the meter and is
programmed in to the meter memory. Conlog proprietary meters have
a 7-digit serial number that is preceded by a prefix ‘C’. STS meters are
characterised by an 11-digit serial number. (This number, the swipe
card or an old token is required when purchasing tokens).
Meter Specific Refers to a token that will only work in the meter that has that specific
meter number, SGC, KRN and tariff index.
N Non Meter Specific Refers to a token that will work in any meter. Such as the meter test
token or the commissioning token.
O Optical Probe A probe, which uses the rate LED on the meter to optically pick up the
data from the meter and dump into the interrogation kit, during the
meter test token initiation.
P
PPM Pre-Payment Meter. See Meter.
Pre-payment Meter See Meter.
R
Rate LED This LED indicates the rate at which the end user is consuming
electricity. The faster the LED flashes the more the end user is
consuming and visa versa. For every 1000 pulses 1kWh is consumed.
S
SM See Security Module
SGC See Supply Group Code
STS Standard Transfer Specification, which defines the standard token
coding method and format.
STS Token Tokens that are made to work in meters that use the STS algorithium.
The encrypted data that is used to load credit into a meter. Can be
either a pushbutton token (20 numeric digits printed out on a printer) or
a magnetic token (a paper token with the 20 digits encrypted onto the
magnetic strip on to back of the token).
Security Key See Supply Group Code
Security Module This is a security device that has the SGC’s for a particular utility
programmed into it. It also contains the encryption algorithm used for
manufacturing STS tokens as used by STS electricity meters.
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Security Seal These are seals that are used to protect a meter from tampering,
normally if these seals are broken or tampered with in any means, the
liable owner can be prosecuted for fraud. These seals are either in the
form of wire, lead or plastic.
Serial Number See Meter Number
Supply Group Code This is a 6-digit number programmed into a STS meter, which serves
the same function as the Project Code in a proprietary meter. The SGC
restricts the sale of electricity by using this code as part of the encryption
technique at the time of the meter coding and at the time of a token
sale.
Swipe Card Also known as the ID card. It is a non-disposable magnetic card with
the customer’s meter serial number embossed on the front and
encoded on the magnetic stripe together with the Supply Group Code
and meter tariff index.
T
Tamper Refers to the illegal opening or modifications of a meter. If a meter is
fitted with a tamper device then the meter will shut down if tampered
with.
Tariff Index This index is programmed into all STS meters. It provides an indication
of the tariff rate applicable to the consumer. The Vending Unit is able to
store up to 99 different tariff rates, per SGC, in its database.
Test Load A resistance of known value used with an Optical Probe to check the
calibration of a meter.
Token This refers to the disposable push-button token issued to the customer’s.
The push-button tokens consisting of 20-digits are printed on an audit /
slip printer and are discarded after use.
W
Wall Base The passive back section of an installation that houses the connection
terminals for the line and load cables and the surge arrestor.
Wire Seals See Lead Seal or Security Seal
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BEC23 Technical Manual 31
Section 14 : Technical Specifications
Voltage Range 220-240VAC (phase voltage) -20% +15%
Additional voltage ranges available on request
Supply Frequency 50 Hz ± 2%
Additional frequency ranges available on request
Current Ratings BEC23PL
Maximum current (I
max
) 80 A
Base current (Ib) 5 A
Minimum current (0,005 Ib) 0,025 A
BEC23PE
Maximum current (I
max
) 20 A
Base current (Ib) 5 A
Minimum current (0,005 Ib) 0,025 A
Supply Burden Nominally 1.2W & 9.5VA
Disconnection BEC23PL
100 Amp, single pole bi-stable load
switch
BEC23PE
20 Amp, double pole circuit breaker
Accuracy Class 2 meter in accordance with IEC 62053-21
Maintained throughout life cycle of product
Over Voltage Rating 420VAC for up to 48 hours
Short Circuit Rating BEC23PL
Short-circuit current 3kA
BEC23PE
Short-circuit current 2.5kA
Environmental Operating temperature: -10°C to +55°C
Storage temperature: -25°C to +70°C
Humidity: 95% non-condensing
Degree of protection IP51
Customer Displayed
Information
Status of incoming supply
Available credit
Disconnection status (BEC23PL)
Low credit warning
Token accept/reject
Consumption rate LED
Last 10 STS tokens entered
Meter status register
Decryption Algorithm Credit is transferred using a 20 digit token entered on the keypad
The credit is transferred in kWh
Meter specific credit tokens
Management and engineering tokens
STS Compliant (Standard Transfer Specification)
Installation Meter utilises standard wallbase
Easy installation, two fixing screws
Two sacrificial security seals and 2 wall base seals
Stainless steel wire and ferrule seal (optional extra)
Functional Product
Components
Electricity measurement circuit
Consumer electricity supply disconnect
Tamper detection circuit (optional)
LCD consumer display interface
Lightning protection (on the wallbase)
Keypad customer interface
Autonomous earth leakage circuit (BEC23PE)
Other Functions Rear entry direct probe port
Optical reader to check meter accuracy
Comprehensive earth leakage protection (BEC23PE)
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32 BEC23 Technical Manual
Standards IEC 62052-11
IEC 62053-21
IEC 62055-41
IEC 60068-2-27
IEC 60068-2-6
IEC 62056-21
SANS 1524-1
ISO 14001:2004
ISO 9001:2000
ESKOM SCSSCAAA9
ESKOM TRMSCAAP2
SANS 767-1 (BEC23PE/T)
VC 8035 (BEC23PE/T)
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BEC23 Technical Manual 33
Section 15 : Contact Information
Physical: 270 Brickfield Road
Durban
4001
KwaZulu-Natal
South Africa
Post: P O Box 2332
Durban
4000
South Africa
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