Elster Solutions EAMOBILE1 User Manual
EA_Mobile
11:48 am, Dec 04, 2012
for the EnergyAxis®
System
Release 1.0
User Guide
TM42-4025A
Contents
EA Mobile User Guide
FCC Compliance statement (Part 15.19) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
FCC Compliance statement (Part 15.105) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
General information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Warning (Part 15.21) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
About this book . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Audience. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Automated meter reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Basic AMR components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
System overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
How the system works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
EA_Mobile overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Features and functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Interrogator unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
GPS receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Antennas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Vehicle Interactive Display (optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
How the EA_Mobile operates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Endpoint selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Data accuracy verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Meter data acquisition and processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Route data collection made fast, easy and safe . . . . . . 13
RF signals and conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
EA_Mobile range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Obstructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Transaction capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Interrogation window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Adjusting interrogation window size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Data Processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Replacement Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
2 Preparation and installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Vehicle requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Unpacking and assembling EA_Mobile components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Received equipment inventory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Unpacking the EA_Mobile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Antennas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
EnergyAxis transceiver (RX) antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Transmit (TX) antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Installing the EA_Mobile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Installing the 7 inch LCD touch screen monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
EA Mobile User Guide
Contents
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Option 1 -to a dashboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Option 2 - to a windshield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Connecting the monitor to the EA_Mobile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
3 Quick Start Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Installing the EA_Mobile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Operating the EA_Mobile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Loading a new route . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Reading endpoints. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Pausing or ending a reading session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Resuming a route . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
4 Controls and indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Controls and indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Transmit and power manager controls and indicators. . . . . . . 36
Main POWER switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
[Alarm] SILENCE button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
CHARGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
TEMP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
BATT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
LINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
POWER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
ENABLED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
EnergyAxis panel indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
ACTIVITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Removing a fuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Checking a fuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Replacing a fuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
5 Operating the EA_Mobile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Accessing EA_Mobile functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
EA_Mobile modes and menu options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Command mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Reading mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Modes and menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Command mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Reading mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
6Reading mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Discontinuing reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Change Reading mode options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Audible signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Route Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Lat/Lon option. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Establishing Lat/Lon coordinates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Using Lat/Long coordinates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
FIFO option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Assigning endpoint coordinates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
GEO option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Assigning coordinates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
EA Mobile User Guide
Contents
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Reading meters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Loading the route . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Set the Reading mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Setting Date and Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Entering Reading mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Driving the route. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Entering Command mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Resuming reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Saving a route . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Powering down the EA_Mobile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Resuming a route after powering down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Reading displayed data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Header/Status line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Reading window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
7 Command mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Routes window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Load New Route button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Loading a route . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Save Current Route button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Resume Route button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Resuming a route. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Save Old Route button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Saving an old route . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Help window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
About button. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Guide button. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Settings window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
System Setup button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Changing system settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Set Perm button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Changing permanent settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
User Accounts button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Adding a new user . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Changing an existing user . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Deleting an existing user . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Date & Time button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Changing the date or time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Summary window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
All button. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
UnRead button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Un-int button. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
M. GEO button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
In Wind button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Good button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Tamp. button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Viewing a summary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Endpoint status codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Tools window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Tx On button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Sync VID button. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Troubleshoot button
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Route Scan button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Power Off button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
EA Mobile User Guide
Contents
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A Troubleshooting the EA_Mobile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
B GUI buttons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Notes on GUI buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
EA Mobile User Guide
EA Mobile User Guide
.
FCC Compliance
statement (Part 15.19)
7
The EA_Mobile complies with Part 15 (Class A), Part 90 of the FCC.
The FCC ID is GAJEAMOBILE1
• Contains FCC ID: QZC-ILC2
• Contains IC: 4557A-ILC2
FCC Compliance statement (Part 15.105)
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class A 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 can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be 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 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.
General information
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 (Part 15.21)
Changes or modifications to the equipment not expressly approved by Elster
could void the user's authority to operate this equipment.
EA Mobile User Guide
1 INTRODUCTION
The EA_Mobile is the most robust interrogator in Elster’s portfolio of products for
remote and automated meter reading (AMR). The EA_Mobile has numerous
features and functions not available with smaller, handheld devices and yet is
versatile enough to be moved from vehicle to vehicle, wherever and whenever it
is needed.
About this book This EA_Mobile User Guide provides instructions for setup, installation, operation
and troubleshooting the EA_Mobile. It is structured for use as an adjunct to
system training, as well as a standalone instruction guide and reference.
Audience
This document is designed for utility industry meter readers and supervisory staff.
In order to establish appropriate levels of detail for the material, this document
assumes the following:
• The user is experienced in reading meters of the type currently compatible
with endpoints and possesses all the skills necessary to conduct meter
reading by conventional means.
• The user has little or no prior expertise with AMR technology.
• The user is competent in the basic use of computer equipment and
software.
• The user is familiar with geographic positioning concepts such as latitude
and longitude.
Conventions
In the interest of brevity and simplicity, this document uses the following
conventions:
• Additional information relevant to a given instruction step may be shown in
one of three ways:
• a numbered or bulleted item covers how-to and verification information.
•a NOTE contains relevant background information.
•a blue CAUTION contains information important to the safety of either the
user or the equipment.
•a red WARNING contains information critical to the safety of people and/
or equipment.
• Where reference to other parties is made, the generic masculine pronouns
(he, his, and him) are used. This is no way reflects bias or gender
discrimination in any manner related to the users, publishers or authors of
this book.
EA Mobile User Guide
1. Introduction
9
Automated meter
reading
The system uses radio frequency (RF) signals to allow utility personnel to read
meters from a distance while the reader is in motion. This technology is called
automated meter reading (AMR). This technology greatly increases the speed at
which routes can be covered with a high degree of accuracy.
Basic AMR components
An automated meter reading system requires the following basic components:
• Endpoint - the endpoint interfaces with meter index mechanics, translates
index reading into digital signals to capture data from meter, receives
commands from an interrogator and transmits meter data.
• Interrogator - at its simplest, the interrogator remotely reads meter data
transmitted by endpoints. At more sophisticated levels, an interrogator may
also program endpoints, store route data, selectively wake up endpoints,
verify endpoint conditions and data and set meter coordinates among other
functions.
• Antennas - both the endpoint and the interrogator use antennas to
broadcast and receive RF signals. The endpoint’s antenna is typically located
on the circuit board inside the endpoint case. Some interrogators use
external antennas (as shown in the illustration below), one for transmitting
and one for receiving. Many handheld interrogators use a single antenna
for both transmitting and receiving (antenna may be internal or external).
Figure 1-1.
System overview In addition to standard automated meter reading functions, the system portfolio
of products permits the remote recording of tamper conditions for gas and water
meters and linking of meter latitude and longitude data using a global
positioning satellite (GPS) system. With the optional EnergyAxis Vehicle Interactive
Display (EA_VID), the EA_Mobile makes driver-to-meter orientation more intuitive
and efficient.
EA Mobile User Guide
1. Introduction
Figure 1-2.
10
EA_Gas module and EA_Water module endpoints that are normally in a sleep
mode to conserve battery power wake up and periodically listen for an
interrogation signal. These endpoints will transmit data back to the interrogation
device only if it hears its unique ID and specified command and then it goes back
to sleep. REX2 and A3 ALPHA electricity meters have AC power sources and do
not require wake-up; they respond to the interrogation request without a wakeup.
How the system works
Utility personnel no longer have to walk up to each meter, look at its index and
record its reading. Once endpoints are installed on meters and programmed,
meter readers simply drive a route allowing the interrogator to request and
record meter data automatically.
Acquisition of meter information begins with the endpoint where data is stored
continuously for later retrieval and is received by the interrogator when
requested. The acquired data from a given route can be transferred to a host
computer via the supplied HP 4 GB USB flash drive for processing.
The information acquisition, storage and handling process includes several basic
elements:
Meter interface The gas and water endpoint, using a mechanical-to-
digital interface, senses the output from the index of a
utility meter and translates this into electronic form and
stores it in the endpoint’s memory. Electricity meters
measure the kilowatts used and store this usage data in
the endpoint’s memory.
EA Mobile User Guide
1. Introduction
11
Endpoint data acquisition The endpoint is programmed with a unique serial
number at the time of manufacture. Upon installation on
a meter, the current (or baseline) meter index reading is
also programmed into the endpoint’s memory. As the
meter reading advances it automatically updates the
endpoint memory. For gas and water meters, the
endpoint also records changes to the tamper detection
sensor.
Compensation factor For gas and water endpoints, a compensation factor can
also be programmed into the endpoint memory ensuring
the endpoint readings match the compensated
mechanical index reading.
Route information loading Route data includes the meter account number, address,
latitude/longitude coordinates (when available), and
endpoint serial number. This information, along with
Guide and Start files, is downloaded to the interrogator
prior to commencing automated meter reading. By
tracking the vehicle or interrogator’s coordinates, a GPSequipped system determines which endpoints in the
route are within range at any given time and transmits
those serial numbers requesting meter data.
Interrogation Once placed in an interrogation mode by the meter
interrogator; the interrogator transmits serial numbers of
the desired endpoints along with a command requesting
the contents of each endpoint’s memory. Endpoints are
selected for reading on the basis of route and meter
location information stored in the interrogator and
presence of the endpoint within range of the interrogator.
Route data processing Meter data from endpoints is stored in the interrogator’s
memory and can be transferred to the utility’s host
computer for processing.
EA_Mobile overview The EA_Mobile is a portable data retrieval and storage system designed to
provide remote meter reading of mechanical indexes via meter endpoints.
The EA_Mobile is designed for use in vehicles for fast, accurate automated meter
reading at maximum range and at normal residential driving speeds.
Caution: Use only automatic EA_Mobile operation while the vehicle is in
motion. To change EA_Mobile settings or view data, safely
move the vehicle off the roadway and park in a secure location.
Features and functions
The EA_Mobile along with several primary components is transported in a
wheeled case. Those components are:
• EA_Mobile interrogator unit
• GPS receiver
• Transmitting antenna
• EnergyAxis transceiver antenna
• LCD touch screen display
• Power supply cable
EA Mobile User Guide
Front view
Back view
1. Introduction
Figure 1-3.
12
Note: Optional EA_VID is shipped separately.
Interrogator unit
The interrogator unit is the heart of the EA_Mobile, containing within its rugged
case these core components:
• Wake-up transmitter
• EnergyAxis transceiver module
• Power supply (backup)
• Computer - CPU (microprocessor)
• Connection receptacles, controls and indicators
GPS receiver
The EA_Mobile interfaces with a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) system to
provide data, including latitude and longitude information for the interrogator/
vehicle (the data can be used to determine the location of the vehicle and
determine if meter endpoints are within the interrogation window).
Antennas
The EA_Mobile employs separate transmit wake-up and transceiver antennas for
faster acquisition of endpoint data.
Display
The user interface for the EA_Mobile is accomplished via a 7 inch LCD Monitor
with Touch Screen.
Vehicle Interactive Display (optional)
The EnergyAxis Vehicle Interactive Display (EA_VID) (installed on a ruggedized
laptop computer) is an optional graphical user interface (GUI) terminal for the
EA_Mobile that provides a more visual and intuitive means to interact with the
EA_Mobile and view information.
How the EA_Mobile operates
1. On power up, the EA_Mobile will turn off the transmitter.
2. The user plugs in the HP 4 GB USB flash drive, from which a route can be
selected and loaded.
EA Mobile User Guide
1. Introduction
13
3. Once the route is loaded the reading mode can be entered. In reading
mode the interrogator issues the necessary commands to interrogate the
endpoints while the user drives along the route with the EA_Mobile
operating.
4. The EA_Mobile sends out an interrogation signal searching for the
endpoints that are determined to be within its current interrogation window.
5. When a endpoint receives a signal with its unique ID and specific command,
the endpoint replies by transmitting the requested data (transmitted data
depends on the type of meter).
Endpoint selection
Endpoints can be queued for reading by the EA_Mobile according to three types
of criteria:
Proximity to EA_Mobile (Lat/
Lon mode)
Sequential (FIFO mode) The FIFO, or first-in-first-out, method simply means the
Combination (GEO mode) GEO mode is a combination of Lat/Lon and FIFO. If a
All endpoints with Lat/Lon coordinates within range of the
EA_Mobile are polled until readings are obtained. This is
the most efficient reading method because the
EA_Mobile only attempts to read endpoints that are
within its range. (Endpoints without Lat/Lon coordinates
cannot be read in Lat/Lon mode.) The EA_Mobile limits
route files to 50176 lines when in this mode.
EA_Mobile will begin at the top of the route list,
continuously searching for all unread endpoints on the
list. As the route is covered and endpoints reply to the
interrogation signal with valid data, the list becomes
shorter. This is the least efficient reading method because
the EA_Mobile may be polling endpoints that are out of
range. The EA_Mobile limits routes to 300 endpoints
when in this mode.
endpoint has Lat/Lon coordinates, the EA_Mobile will
attempt to read this unit ONLY if it is currently within the
interrogation window. All endpoints without Lat/Long
coordinates are constantly polled until readings are
obtained. The EA_Mobile limits the number of endpoints
without Lat/Lon coordinates (GEO transponders) to 100.
Data accuracy verification
The EA_Mobile uses a module to preform RF communication using the EA_LAN
protocol. The EA_Gas module and the EA_Water module use various methods for
error detection including a check sum algorithm.
Meter data acquisition and processing
When the data stream from a endpoint meets the above criteria for accuracy, the
EA_Mobile records the meter index reading along with endpoint status, time and
the vehicle position at the time of the read. If desired, this data can be stored in an
output file on the supplied HP 4GB USB flash drive. At the end of a shift or upon
terminating data collection for a particular route, the HP 4GB USB flash drive is
removed for later use or for further processing by the utility.
Route data collection made fast, easy and safe
Once the EA_Mobile is initialized with the proper route data and the interrogation
command is given by the user, the system will collect readings automatically, with
little or no further intervention from the meter reader as the user drives the
EA Mobile User Guide
1. Introduction
14
specified route. The EA_Mobile can be set to give an audible signal upon
acquiring meter data so that the driver never has to take his eyes off the road
while the vehicle is in motion.
RF signals and conditions
EA_Mobile range
As a rule, residential gas endpoints within a line-of-sight distance of
approximately 1200 feet of the EA_Mobile should be able to receive interrogation
signals and respond appropriately when the EA_Mobile is in FIFO mode (Note:
the line-of-sight distance for water endpoints may vary based on installation
parameters). In GEO or L/L mode interrogations are limited to the size of the
window. Certain fixed or transient conditions in the immediate environment
surrounding the endpoint or EA_Mobile may increase or reduce this range.
Obstructions
Line-of-sight (no obstructions between the EA_Mobile antennas and the
endpoint) provides the optimum transaction range. Although the EA_Mobile can
typically read endpoints through walls and fences, any obstacles between the
EA_Mobile and the endpoint will reduce the range at which successful
communications may be conducted. Metallic obstacles (vehicles, trash cans,
metal sheds, etc.) in the path will severely limit interrogation range.
Transaction capacity
The EA_Mobile can interrogate one EA_Gas module endpoint a second,
retrieving 35 daily reads in addition to the current read in extremely dense
populations under ideal conditions.
Interrogation window
The interrogation window is a virtual space that simply defines which endpoints
the EA_Mobile will seek to read at any given time. Depending upon the selected
reading mode, the interrogation window may include:
• Endpoints having Lat/Lon coordinates that are determined to be within the
interrogation window of the EA_Mobile at the moment (Lat/Lon mode).
• All endpoints, regardless of Lat/Lon coordinates or proximity to the
EA_Mobile (FIFO mode).
• A combination of the above, seeking those Lat/Lon endpoints determined to
be within the interrogation window at the moment and in addition also
seeking all endpoints without Lat/Lon coordinates regardless of proximity to
the EA_Mobile (GEO mode).
Adjusting interrogation window size
The user can manually increase or decrease the interrogation window in order to
change the scope of the EA_Mobile’s search for endpoints. A smaller
interrogation window would be desirable, for example, in urban areas where the
endpoint population is extremely dense. In rural areas where endpoints are few
and far between, a larger Interrogation window may be used to detect endpoints
at a greater distance.
EA Mobile User Guide
1. Introduction
Replacement Parts Below is a list of the replacement parts that can be ordered from Elster.
15
Data Processing
At the end of a route, data acquired automatically by the EA_Mobile can be
saved to a HP 4 GB USB flash drive disk for transfer to the utility company’s host
computer for administrative processing.
Maintenance The EA_Mobile has no user-serviceable parts.
Item Part Name Quantity Part #
1 EA_Mobile Transmitter Antenna – 28
inches
1 40811 G001
2 EA_Mobile Transceiver Antenna – 12
inches
3 EA_Mobile GPS Receiver 1 52860K001
4 EA_Mobile Power Cord (Optional) 1 52860K002
5 HP 4 GB USB flash drive 1 7S1969 H001
6 Direct Battery Cable Assembly
(recommended option)
7 Monitor, Xenarc 705 series 7 inch LCD
Monitor with USB Touch Screen
(Required when NOT using EA_VID)
8 Adhesive, dashboard mount for the
touch screen.
Note: Required when NOT using the
EA_VID.
9 Suction, wind-shield mount for the
touch screen. (Optional)
10 Cable, Xenarc 26 pin input
Note: Required when NOT using the
EA_VID.
11 Cigarette lighter Cable, Xenarc 12V
DC
Note: Required when NOT using the
EA_VID.
1 1B11917G01
1 52860G050
1 7S1911 H001
1 7S1941 H002
1 7S1941 H001
1 7S1978 H001
1 7S1977 H001
14 Cable, CAT5e, Crossover,6’
.(Only required when using EA_VID)
1 7S1943 H001
Caution: Only use the USB drive provides by Elster.
EA Mobile User Guide
2 PREPARATION AND
INSTALLATION
This section details the procedures for unpacking the EA_Mobile, assembling its
components and installing them in and on your selected vehicle. This section also
specifies EA_Mobile requirements, conditions and cautions.
Vehicle requirements The EA_Mobile typically uses 100 Watts of power (8 Amps current) and is powered
by a vehicle’s standard 13.8 Volt electrical systems using the direct battery
connection cable (recommended configuration). If the optional outlet power cable
is used, the vehicle accessory outlet should be rated for 20 Amps continuous.
Unpacking and
assembling EA_Mobile
components
Figure 2-1.
Operating the EA_Mobile with the optional EA_VID requires a separate accessory
outlet for each device.
When you receive the EA_Mobile, it will contain all components inside a single,
hard-shelled case that has wheels on the bottom and a handle on top for easy
transport.
Note: The optional EA_VID is shipped separately.
EA Mobile User Guide
2. Preparation and installation
17
EA_Mobile unpacking and set-up will take about five minutes using the
procedure described below. No special tools are required.
Received equipment inventory
The EA_Mobile is shipped with the following components inside its case:
• Interrogator unit (transceiver, CPU, USB flash drive, etc.)
• EA_Mobile-to-vehicle power cable and connector
• GPS receiver, cable and connector
• Transmit antenna, cable and connector
• EnergyAxis transceiver antenna, cable and connector
• 7 inch LCD touch screen and connector cables
Note: The optional EA_VID is shipped separately.
Unpacking the EA_Mobile
The EA_Mobile wheeled carrying case contains all the basic EA_Mobile
equipment and materials listed above.
1. Set the carrying case on a sturdy flat surface with the wheels and sliding tow
handle on the bottom.
2. Remove any locks that may have been attached for security purposes.
3. Release both latches and open the case.
4. Remove the handheld touch screen from the top of the EA_Mobile unit.
5. Remove the cables and antennas from beside the EA_Mobile.
6. Lift the EA_Mobile unit from the case and remove the packing wrap.
7. Leave packing materials in the case for future use and stow the case in a
secure location.
Antennas
Antennas are fully assembled and can not be disassembled
Caution: Attempting to disassemble antennas with black Mag from
mount bases will cause damage to the antennas and possibly
to the EA_Mobile.
EnergyAxis transceiver (RX) antenna
Screw-in BNC connector.
Transmit (TX) antenna
Screw-in N connector.
Installing the EA_Mobile This section describes the procedure for installing the EA_Mobile and
components in the selected vehicle.
EA Mobile User Guide
2. Preparation and installation
18
Caution: The EA_Mobile base unit contains sensitive electronic
components. Handle with care and do not drop. Use carrying
case to transport the EA_Mobile wherever possible.
1. Verify the vehicle requirements (see “Vehicle requirements” on page 16) are
met.
2. Place the EA_Mobile unit in the vehicle:
• Set the EA_Mobile on a passenger seat or on any other firm and
reasonably level surface where it will not interfere with the vehicle’s
operation yet is accessible to the user.
• Situate the EA_Mobile with its front toward the user/driver and its back
and cooling fan away from any objects or surfaces that might impede air
flow.
Caution: Failure to provide adequate cooling can cause EA_Mobile to
overheat, which can damage components.
• Position the front panel so that the operator can view the indicator lights
and access the USB flash drive when the vehicle is parked.
Caution: The EA_Mobile should only be used for automated functions
when the vehicle is in motion. To interact with the EA_Mobile,
the user must first stop and park the vehicle safely off the
roadway.
Installing the 7 inch LCD touch screen monitor
You can select to install the 7-inch LCD monitor in either of the following positions:
• Option 1 -to a dashboard
• Option 2 - to a windshield
Note: The suction mount needed to install the LCD monitor is an
optional component and, if required, must be ordered
separately.
If you are using a suction windshield mount instead of the adhesive, dashboard
mount, see “Option 2 - to a windshield” on page 19.
Option 1 -to a dashboard
Note: Elster recommends mounting the 7 inch LCD touch screen
monitor onto the dashboard.
To mount the monitor to the dashboard:
1. Mount the LCD monitor to its dashboard holder by sliding the monitor into
the mounting stand and then secure the height position by adjusting the
knob.
• Choose an area near the driver’s side dashboard for the mount.
• Make sure the area does not block the driver’s view of the road when the
touch screen monitor is installed.
• Position the holder in such a way so when the monitor is installed, the
monitor can be easily reached by the operator when the vehicle is safely
parked.
EA Mobile User Guide
2. Preparation and installation
19
• Use an area below the driver’s line of sight
2. Clean the selected location.
3. Remove the adhesive cover from the holder’s base and securely mount the
holder and the monitor on the selected location of the dashboard.
Option 2 - to a windshield
1. Mount the LCD monitor to its suction windshield holder by sliding monitor
into the mounting stand, then, secure the height position by adjusting knob.
• Choose an area near the driver’s side windshield for the mount.
• Make sure the area does not block the driver’s view of the road when the
touch screen monitor is installed.
• Position the holder in such a way so when monitor installed, the monitor
can be easily reached by the operator when the vehicle is safely parked.
• Use an area below the driver’s line of sight, close to the dashboard.
2. Clean the selected location with the glass cleaner.
3. Remove the protecting film covering the suction cup.
4. Press the suction cup against the flat area of the selected location and use
the release lever to secure the holder.
Figure 2-2. EA_Mobile back panel
Connecting the monitor to the EA_Mobile
To connect the touch screen monitor with the EA_Mobile after mounting the
monitor on the dashboard or on the windshield:
1. Connect the power cable to the POWER receptacle on the back of the
monitor (Figure 2-2).
2. Have a certified vehicle mechanic connect the other end of the direct
connect power cable to the vehicle’s battery post.
3. Connect the LCD monitor to the EA_Mobile by connecting the VGA, Line Out
and USB 1 into the corresponding sockets on the EA_Mobile front panel as
shown in Figure 2-3.
EA Mobile User Guide
2. Preparation and installation
Figure 2-3. EA_Mobile front panel
20
Caution: The monitor must be connected before powering up the
EA_Mobile for the touch screen to function correctly.
4. Install the antennas, including GPS, on the roof of the vehicle (as shown in
Figures 2-4 and 2-5).
Caution: Use of antennas other than those supplied with the EA_Mobile
or improperly connected antennas may result in reduced
performance and/or EA_Mobile damage. Use of unauthorized
antennas will void your warranty.
• Position the antennas so they are separated by a minimum of 2 feet.
• Antennas should also be placed a minimum of 2 feet from the edge of
the vehicle or metal surface.
The transceiver antenna should be place as close to the front edge of the
vehicle as possible to get the antenna nearly vertical.
The figures below show the ideal placement of antennas mounted on
roof of a mini van and pickup. Vehicles with larger roof area can provide
greater antenna separation.
EA Mobile User Guide
2. Preparation and installation
21
Figure 2-4. Placement of GPS receiver and RF antennas (van or SUV)
a. Place the transceiver antenna on the roof of the vehicle near the front and
secure its magnetic mount to the roof.
b. Place the transmit antenna on the roof of the vehicle near the back and
secure its magnetic mount to the roof.
See the figure below for recommended mounting configuration on a pickup truck.
Figure 2-5. Placement of GPS receiver and RF antennas (truck)
EA Mobile User Guide
2. Preparation and installation
22
5. Route both antenna coaxial cables to the inside of the vehicle, preferably
from the passenger side.
Caution: Ensure routing method secures cables without crimping or
crushing and provides proper safety for occupants and
equipment.
6. Mount the GPS receiver on the front right for a van or the back middle for a
truck:
a. Attach the GPS receiver to the roof using the magnetic mount on the flat
(bottom) side of the receiver.
b. For optimal satellite reception, mount the receiver with the flat side down
and as nearly horizontal as possible.
c. To minimize interference to and from antennas, mount GPS at least 2 to 3
feet away from antennas.
7. Route the GPS receiver cable to the inside of the vehicle.
Caution: Ensure cable routing method secures cable without crimping or
crushing and provides proper safety for occupants and
equipment.
Figure 2-6.
8. Connect the antennas and GPS receiver cables to the EA_Mobile (see Figure
2-6):
a. Connect transmitter antenna to the TRANSMITTER receptacle on the
EA_Mobile back panel by turning the screw-type connector until fingertight.
b. Connect the Transceiver antenna to toe EnergyAxis receptacle on the
EA_Mobile back panel by aligning the pin and pushing the coax
connector on and twisting it ¼ turn until locked in placed.
c. Connect the GPS receiver by aligning the 4 connector holes, slotted side
up, with the 4 GPS receptacle pins on the EA_Mobile back panel and turn
screw-type connector until finger tight.
Warning: Do not block air flow to the EA_Mobile cooling fan located on
the back panel to the left of the power connector.
EA Mobile User Guide
2. Preparation and installation
23
9. Connect EA_Mobile power:
a. Align the 2 connector holes, slotted side up, with the 2 receptacle pins on
the EA_Mobile back panel (Figure 2-6) and turn screw-type connector
until finger tight.
b. Firmly insert the other end of the power cable into the vehicle’s accessory/
cigarette lighter receptacle and push until snug.
Warning: If using the EA_VID option, you must use a separate car
accessory sockets to power the EA_VID and utilize the
EA_Mobile direct battery connect cable (Part #:52860G050) to
power the EA_Mobile. Any other means of powering the
EA_VID and EA_Mobile units may result in product and/or
vehicle damage and may void product warranties.
10.Secure the EA_Mobile in the vehicle so as to prevent accidental movement.
Standard seat-belts and custom-designed mounting harnesses or brackets
may be part of a system used for properly restraining the EA_Mobile in a
given vehicle.
Caution: Failure to secure the EA_Mobile in the vehicle may result in
injury to occupants and/or damage to vehicle or EA_Mobile in
the event of an accident or abrupt vehicle movement. The user
is responsible for providing a system appropriate to each
vehicle used that ensures the safety and protection of persons
and equipment in that vehicle.
The EA_Mobile is now properly set up and ready to receive a route. See Chapter
3, “Quick Start Guide” and Chapter 5, “Operating the EA_Mobile” for operating
instructions.
EA_Mobile front
shown with LCD touch
screen monitor
EA_Mobile back
EA Mobile User Guide
3 QUICK START GUIDE
This chapter provides a streamlined version of the installation and operating
instructions for those who simply wish to set up and begin acquiring endpoint
data quickly on fully automated routes.
Note: This chapter assumes all systems and operations perform
properly and that all meters desired to be read automatically on
the route are equipped with endpoints. For detailed instructions
and troubleshooting tips regarding these and other types of
route conditions, refer to the applicable chapter and section in
the book.
Installing the EA_Mobile 1. Position EA_Mobile with front accessible to operator, and its back and
Figure 3-1.
cooling fan free of obstacles.
2. Secure EA_Mobile properly.
3. Mount transmit and transceiver antennas on top of vehicle at least 2-3 feet
apart.
4. Mount GPS receiver on top of vehicle with flat side down and as horizontal
as possible at least 2-3 feet from antennas.
5. Route antenna cables and GPS cable to inside of vehicle and connect to
proper receptacles on EA_Mobile back.
6. Connect the LCD touch screen monitor to the EA_Mobile. (See “Installing the
EA_Mobile” on page 17 for more details on how to connect the LCD.)
7. Connect the power cable to the receptacle on the back of EA_Mobile and
plug the other end into the vehicle’s accessory/cigarette lighter receptacle.
8. Turn on the LCD monitor.
EA Mobile User Guide
3. Quick Start Guide
25
Operating the EA_Mobile Note: If using the EA_VID, there is no longer a need to load the route
on the EA_VID. The EA_Mobile will copy the data to the EA_VID.
1. Obtain an HP 4 GB USB flash drive that has been properly loaded with
routes created using Elster’s Route Manager for use on the EA_Mobile.
Note: All route directories must be the part of the parent directory
named TraceVRT. To load the route successfully, each route
directory must include the following three files: a Start file, a
Guide file, and a Reading.rte file.
• The route disk must include the following directory structure if the USB
flash drive will be used for multiple routes:
TraceVRT
0311
001rte
guide
Reading.rte
Start
.
.
.
999rte
guide
Reading.rte
Start
• TraceVRT is the top level directory and must be included.
•The 0311 directory represents the top route directory for March 2011
(mmYY format).
•The 001rte directory will contain all the files necessary for EA_Mobile to
interrogate the 001 route.
When the route is complete and the Save Current Route button is
selected, the 0010311.van file will be stored in the 001rte directory.
Note: Ensure that no directory name is longer than 8 characters and
that the following characters: ’+’, ’,’’;’ ’=’ ’[’ ’]’ and space are not
used in the directory name. Additionally, the ddirectory structure
is limited to three levels deep.
2. Use the directions detailed in “Installing the EA_Mobile” on page 17 to install
the EA_Mobile and the LCD touch screen monitor.
3. Insert the HP 4 GB USB flash drive in the socket labelled USB 2 on the
EA_Mobile.
4. Turn on the EA_Mobile main power switch located on the front panel
labeled POWER/AMP MGR.
If using an EA_VID, wait a few minutes until the red XMIT status on the
EA_VID changes from a ‘?’ to ‘off’, otherwise wait until the monitor displays
the EA_Mobile Login Screen.
EA Mobile User Guide
3. Quick Start Guide
Figure 3-2.
26
Figure 3-3.
5. Enter the user name and the password and then press the OK button.
Note: The initial user name is ‘ELSTER’ and the initial password is
‘357837’. For security purposes, this user account may be
removed after new user accounts are created and logged in.
Note: Make sure to enter the user name in all capital letters.
If the log in is successful, the system displays the Main Menu as shown
below.
EA Mobile User Guide
3. Quick Start Guide
Figure 3-4.
27
Note: The Reading and Summary buttons will be disabled (that is,
grayed out and unselectable) until a route is loaded.
Loading a new route
To load a new route:
1. From the Main Menu, press the Routes button.
The Routes menu is displayed with the following buttons: Load New Route,
Save Current Route, Resume Route, Save Old Route, and Close, as shown
below.
Note: The Save Current Route button will be disabled until a route is
loaded.
2. Press the Load New Route button.
The File Manager window is displayed as shown below with a usb0
subfolder.
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