Chapter 1: System Overview
This document covers the setup and operation of the FIREFLY Radio Frequency
Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) system, used in conjunction with the RouteSTAR
Meter Reading System (RouteSTAR MVP
All information presented herein assumes the installation and understanding of the
RouteSTAR MVP software and associated ROADRUNNER ruggedized, handheld
computers. Refer to the ROADRUNNER system manual for additional information.
).
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1
The RouteSTAR MVP system is designed to provide a fast, efficient method of
collecting meter reading data from a variety of sources. This includes FIREFLY AMR
meter readings as well as ProfilePlus
More specifically, utility meters are outfitted with FIREFLY Meter Interface Units
(MIUs) that transmit meter readings and associated information. Field personnel collect
these radio frequency readings via ROADRUNNERs equipped with an integrated Radio
Frequency Receiving Unit (RFRU).
Likewise, the MIUs provide a feature called ProfilePlus to keep track of historical usage
data. This data helps solve billing disputes, and enable variable rate billing and load
management studies. ROADRUNNERs are used in conjunction with
Programming/Profiling Units (PPUs) to extract this data on demand.
System Features
FIREFLY AMR System Features
ProfilePlus: Usage data based on programmable interval setting.
Quick and easy installation.
Interfacing Options
™
historical usage data.
1. Optical “through-the-glass” sensor end.
2. Pulse or encoded wire-end.
3. Under-glass interfacing (electric meters).
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Datamatic, Ltd. 2000 - 2003
2 FIREFLY AMR System Reference Manual
RF Receiver Diagnostics
The Low Output Test Transmitter (LOTT) tests the RF reception of each
ROADRUNNER.
Meter Options
Water Electric Gas
Pulse meters Single-Phase Meters Analog Index Meters
Encoded meters
Analog meters with one or
more sweep hands
Installation Options
Field installation in less than 10 minutes
Above ground.
Below ground: Pits, vaults, and basements.
Reading Methodologies
Walk-by.
Drive-by.
Customized Programming Options
Programmable ID, communications, and profiling interval.
Profiling capability: Interval consumption logging.
Equipment
ROADRUNNER Handheld Computer
Key Descriptions
There are two different types of keys on each keypad: data keys and function keys.
Data keys are the letter and number keys,
data into the ROADRUNNER.
Function keys are labeled on the keyboard or the template. They are used to perform a
special procedure or function.
The SHIFT key shifts between the numeric and alphabetic keyboard on the Telxon
860ES and activates some of the function keys.
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Datamatic, Ltd. 2000 - 2003
A - Z and 0 - 9 . They are used to insert
Chapter 1: System Overview 3
Note: Under the column for the ROADRUNNER X7, the following keys: , ,
, refer to the cursor pad located in the upper right corner of the keyboard. This
key groups together the four arrow keys, also called the direction keys.
Cursor Pad
Function ROADRUNNER
Telxon 860
X7
Menu
[F1] [F1]
Displays the Main Menu
Contrast Up
[FNCTN] [F4]
Lightens the screen intensity when the APD is
displayed.
Send
[F3] [F3]
Initiates the communication procedure to
send/receive data to/from the MVP PC.
Contrast Down
[FNCTN] [F5]
Darkens the screen intensity when the APD is
displayed.
Light
[FNCTN] [F3] [F5]
Turns the display backlight on/off. The light will
turn off automatically after approximately 2½
minutes of inactivity, to conserve power.
On/Off
[F1] / [FNCTN+F1] [ON/OFF]
Turns power on and off to the ROADRUNNER.
To conserve battery power, the ROADRUNNER
automatically turns itself off after approximately
2 ½ minutes of non-use.
Search
[F2] [A]
Initiates the Search function.
Correct
Corrects entered data; used in conjunction with
other function keys to make corrections to codes
or messages.
End
Erases data in the current field, or acts as an
escape key, exiting a menu or function and
returning to the APD.
Skip
Enters a Skip Code in the reading field which
specifies the reason a reading was not entered.
Trouble
Enters a Trouble Code, designating that an
unusual condition or problem exists at the meter.
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Datamatic, Ltd. 2000 - 2003
[F4] [C]
[FNCTN] [ESC] [END]
[E] [E]
[F] [F]
4 FIREFLY AMR System Reference Manual
Function ROADRUNNER
Survey
Survey messages are displayed and allows the
meter reader to enter survey responses.
Interrogate
Allows manual interrogation of FIREFLYs one
at a time.
Special Message
Displays special messages, if present, which have
been sent from the Host. If used in conjunction
with the
[ CORRECT ] key, a special message may
be entered.
Totals
Displays the total number of normal, demand,
checks and total devices in the route. Also
displays the total devices read, skipped, blank,
with trouble codes, failed audits and the route
number.
New Meter
Adds a new meter to the current route.
Shift
On the X7, switches between upper and lower
case alpha characters. On the 860ES, switches
back and forth between the numeric function
mode and alpha mode.
Account Info
Displays the customer's name, address, account
number, and sequence number.
Meter Info
Displays the device information associated with
the device record displayed on the APD.
Information includes meter number, meter type,
number of dials and number of decimals.
Route Info
Displays route information including route
number, current date and time, meter reader ID,
total meters, total read, total skips, total blanks,
trouble codes, and failed audits. A second screen
contains vehicle information including vehicle
ID, and beginning and ending mileage.
Clear
Erases data in the current field.
Account Number
Displays the account number during a search,
correction, or view.
Meter Number
Telxon 860
X7
[G] [G]
[I] [I]
[J] [J]
[K] [K]
[L] [L]
[SHIFT]
[N] [N]
[O] [O]
[P] [P]
[FNCTN] [DEL] [CLEAR]
[Q] [Q]
[R] [R]
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Datamatic, Ltd. 2000 - 2003
Chapter 1: System Overview 5
Function ROADRUNNER
Displays the meter number during a search,
correction, or view.
Sequence Number
Displays the sequence number during a search,
correction, or view.
Top
Scrolls backward through the route and may also
be used as a backspace when entering data in a
field. Finds the beginning of a route when used
with the
[ SEARCH ] key.
TIP: Press the
TOP ] key to find the beginning of the
[ SEARCH ] then the [
route.
Instruction
Displays the instruction message during a search,
correction, or view.
Location
Displays the meter location during a search,
correction, or view.
Read Type
Displays the meter type during a search or
correction.
Bottom
Scrolls forward through the route and to the next
meter in a route. Finds the end of a route when
used with the
TIP: Press the
BOTTOM ] key to find the end of the
[ SEARCH ] key.
[ SEARCH ] then the [
Telxon 860
X7
[S] [S]
[F2]
[F2]
[T] [T]
[U] [U]
[V] [V]
[A]
[A]
route.
Blank
Displays blank devices during a search.
Constant
Displays the device constant during a search,
correction, or view.
Previous Est
Displays the previous estimate for a device.
Repeat
Repeats the last search criteria entered.
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Datamatic, Ltd. 2000 - 2003
[W] [W]
[X] [X]
[Y] [Y]
[F2] [ENTER] [A] [ENTER]
6 FIREFLY AMR System Reference Manual
Function ROADRUNNER
Telxon 860
X7
No
[ESC] [NO]
Responds "NO" to Yes/No questions.
Space
[SP] [SP]
Enters a space when typing in text.
Enter/Yes
[ENTER] [ENTER]
Accepts entry of information typed in for is the
‘Yes’ answer for Yes/No questions.
FIREFLY Menu
[F5] [SHIFT] [I]
Displays the FIREFLY Menu when the
ROADRUNNER application includes AMR.
Backspace
Move the cursor to the left one character and
erases the character.
[BKSP]
OR
Keyboards
Telxon 860ES ROADRUNNER X7
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Datamatic, Ltd. 2000 - 2003
Radio Frequency Receiving Unit (RFRU)
The ROADRUNNER Radio
Frequency Receiving Unit (RFRU)
receives and buffers radio readings,
then downloads them to the
ROADRUNNER handheld unit
when interrogated ("I" key).
The ROADRUNNER RFRU is an
integrated, internal unit, powered by
a rechargeable NiCad battery pack.
FCC ID: ODYD740 Datamatic,
Ltd.
This device complies with Part 15
of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not
cause harmful interference, and (2)
this device must accept any
interference received, including
interference that may cause
undesired operation.
WARNING: These devices operate
under Part 15 of the FCC rules.
Modifications to these devices not
expressly authorized by Datamatic,
Ltd. May affect your ability to
legally operate these devices.
Chapter 1: System Overview 7
Programming/Profiling Unit (PPU)
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Datamatic, Ltd. 2000 - 2003
The Programming/Profiling Unit
(PPU) is used to configure the MIUs,
and to extract ProfilePlus historical
reading information.
The PPU creates a "positive snap"
interface with the MIU for
hands-free operation, and when
cabled to the ROADRUNNER
handheld, enables communication.
The PPU is powered with one 9-volt
battery.
8 FIREFLY AMR System Reference Manual
Programming/Profiling Unit (PPU) Cable
A cable is used to connect the PPU to a ROADRUNNER for programming and
extraction of profile data.
Config Tester (CT)
The Config Tester (CT) is similar to
the PPU. It is a stand-alone device
for resetting the FIREFLY to
dormant and factory configurations.
Once coupled with the MIU and
activated, there are three lights to
display the status:
Yellow = Updating
Green = Successful
Red = Unsuccessful
FIREFLY Meter Interface Unit (MIU) – Water
The FIREFLY Meter Interface Unit
(MIU) tracks and transmits reading
data. Each MIU includes ProfilePlus
that tracks and stores over 1,700 of
the most recent readings. For
example, the MIU can be configured
to record 72+ days of hourly
consumption readings, enabling the
resolution of billing complaints.
The FIREFLY signal includes the
meter number, meter reading, battery
voltage, tamper flag, and a leak
indicator.
The FIREFLY MIU is powered with a 3.6-volt lithium chloride D-cell battery.
Material: Polycarbonate
Construction: Ultrasonic welding
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Datamatic, Ltd. 2000 - 2003
Chapter 1: System Overview 9
Temperature Rating:
Radio communications: 916.5 MHz
Radiated power: 1 milliwatt per millisecond
FIREFLY Optical Sensor
-40° F to 185° F
The FIREFLY MIU uses a unique and
highly sophisticated optical sensor unit
to track meter activity. An infrared
strobe is integrated into the sensor and
generates its own light, regardless of
ambient conditions. The sensor is
oriented so that the register needle
approaches the sensor from the cable
side and perpendicular to the cable.
The indicators on the top side of the
sensor need to be aligned with the
passing sweep hand. As the needle
sweeps past the sensor, it changes the
light reflected back from the meter
face, and an incremental count is
registered.
The Optical Sensor is affixed to the
meter face using a high-bond adhesive
tape. Specifications for the tape follow.
Optical Sensor Tape Specification
Manufacturer 3M.
Part Number 4951VHB.
Material Acrylic Foam-Closed Cell.
Thickness .045 inch.
Color White.
Release Liner .002 inch clear polyester.
Application Temp
Curing 24 hours minimum.
Peel Adhesion Test 18lb. per square inch (to stainless at room temp).
ASTM B-3330.
Tensile Strength 110 lbs. per square inch.
32°+ Fahrenheit.
D-897.
Static/Sheer Test At 72 degrees – 1250 lbs.
(Slide pressure) At 150 degrees – 500 lbs.
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10 FIREFLY AMR System Reference Manual
Temperature Tolerance 300 degrees
Electric FIREFLY MIU
Meter Reading
The Electric FIREFLY MIU unit counts disc rotations, which are typically 7.2 watthours per rotation. The meter reading is stored in a 32-bit register in units of 0.1
watt-hours with a rollover at 99,999,999.9 watt-hours. The sensor constant, watt-hours
per rotation, is set in the configuration data, and is typically initialized to 72 decimal (48
hexadecimal).
The meter reading tracks the electric meter mechanical registers, this includes both
forward and reverse rotations. That is, when the meter rotates forward, the meter reading
goes up, and if the meter rotates in reverse direction, the electronics reading decreases
just as the mechanical register decreases. The reverse rotation reading is also stored in a
32-bit register, which cumulates the reverse rotations in units of 0.1 watt-hours. This
reverse rotation register increases only with reverse rotations; it never decreases.
Demand Data
Demand data is based on the change in the meter reading register over a demand interval.
The demand interval is fixed to 15 minutes. The demand is recorded in units of kilowatts.
Demand is only calculated on the net forward power for the interval. If there is net
reverse consumption for the interval, then that interval is discarded. The peak demand of
the current 30-day cycle that is in process and the peak demand of the previously
completed 30-day cycle are stored.
Profile Data
The unit gathers and stores consumption profile data. The individual profile data
elements are calculated from the change in the meter reading over the interval time, and
then divided by the scale factor. The profile data is gathered according to configurable
parameters, interval length, and scale factor. Valid values gathered range from + 32768 to
–32767; positive and negative consumption is monitored. The data is stored in nonvolatile memory in a LIFO (Last In, First Out) manner. A total of 3,968 intervals are
saved in the LIFO. The profile data is extracted from the optical port using the optical
interface and handheld computer.
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Datamatic, Ltd. 2000 - 2003
Chapter 1: System Overview 11
Powering
The unit is powered from the 240VAC line or through the battery connector with five
to12-volts or both simultaneously. The current from the AC line has been limited to about
4 milliamps for safety considerations. Beware that the unit is not grounded, but is floating
at the AC line potential. DO NOT TOUCH the electronics when connected to 240VAC.
Also be aware that the resistors that connect to the AC line do heat up. Typically, a 1/4 to
1/2 watt is being dissipated continuously.
Electric FIREFLY Specifications
Functional
Meter reading 9 digit 99,999,999.9 watt-hours, 0.1 watt-hour units; tracks
mechanical register—forward and reverse.
Reverse meter reading 9 digits 99,999,999.9 watt-hours, 0.1 watt-hour units
cumulative reverse consumption.
Meter constant User configurable, 0.1 watt-hour revolution. Typically 7.2
watt-hours per rotation: constant 72.
Reverse rotation flags Set if reverse rotation observed, 2 day FIFO.
Demand data Units of kilowatts, constant 72 15-minute demand, and 30-day
interval, 2 interval FIFO.
Power outage Counts and day/time stamps power outage.
Profile data User set interval, between 1 minute and 4 1/4 hours.
User set scale factor.
Signed 16-bit data.
Units of 0.1 watt-hours, adjusted by scale factor.
3968 intervals in FIFO organization.
Example: 15 minutes per interval provides 43 days data.
Sensor tamper Counts and day/time stamps abnormal sensor values.
Local clock Crystal based.
Operating
Operating temperature
Operating voltage 230 VAC nominal.
Operating current 4 milliamps.
Size of unit 4.5" x 2.0" x 0.8" approx.
Size of optical sensor 1.25" oval, 1" high (to verify).
-8° to +117° F.
Weight 1.4 oz (40 grams).
Local clock Crystal based, nominal 100ppm.
Sensor Infrared, optical.
Meter disk marking Black decal/Painted disk.
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12 FIREFLY AMR System Reference Manual
Radio communications
FCC Part 15. Unlicensed low power 902-928MHz band .
Data rate 9600 BPS.
Radiated power Per low power requirement
1 milliwatt nominal.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses and radiates radio frequency energy. If
not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, it may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. There is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment causes interference to radio or television reception, as
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged
to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Optical port programming unit interface
19.2 KBPS
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Datamatic, Ltd. 2000 - 2003
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Datamatic.com, Ltd. 2000 - 2001
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