ATLANTA, Nov. 2, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- Deploying a stationary automated meter reading (AMR) system that can read meters daily or even more frequently can provide many benefits beyond meter reading and customer service. But while some utilities move forward with deployments of "fixed" AMR networks as the costs of such systems drop, many continue to study the technology until the time -- and price -- is right. Others have deployed less expensive drive-by technology that reduces meter reading costs, but does not provide the value-added benefits of more advanced systems.
Chartwell's AMR Fixed Networks Audio Conference on Tues., Nov. 16, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., will provide discussion and insight into a number of pertinent questions surrounding fixed AMR systems, such as:
-- Are AMR fixed networks worth the cost?
-- Can you migrate from a drive-by (mobile) system to a stationary
network that provides daily reads?
-- Are mesh technologies ready for large-scale deployment?
-- What benefits can mesh technologies provide over traditional
fixed-wireless networks?
-- What departments beside meter reading and customer service can
benefit from information provided by AMR fixed networks?
-- What are the advantages and disadvantages of powerline carrier vs.
wireless fixed networks?
Be on the leading edge without all the bleeding. Through this conference you will hear directly from utility professionals and experts who have been through numerous AMR and advanced metering trials and business cases. Getting approvals for advanced metering systems as well getting the most out of these technologies can be difficult, but speakers for Chartwell's AMR Fixed Networks Audio Conference can provide real-world insights into these challenges.
Speakers will include:
-- Dennis Stephens, Director -- Electric Asset Management, Xcel
Energy: Mr. Stephens will discuss his recently completed work on
Xcel Energy's implementation of the Utility of the Future Project
and how AMR fits into that strategy.
-- Bruce Carpenter, General Manager for Residential and Business
Services, Portland General Electric: Mr. Carpenter will explain
Portland General's network meter reading strategy and its
experience with various fixed networks, including mesh and
traditional wireless technologies as well as powerline carrier.
-- Ed Malemezian, President, Ed Malemezian Consulting Inc.: Mr.
Malemezian will answer questions from Garrett Johnston, manager
of Chartwell's Metering Research Series, regarding the current
and future states of fixed networks.
Audience members will also have a chance to ask questions following the presentations.
To register for Chartwell's AMR Fixed Network Audio Conference, go to www.chartwellinc.com or call Robin Roux at (404) 237-9099 or (800) 432-5879. The cost is $195 for non-Chartwell Premier members and $95 for Chartwell Premier Members.
If your utility is considering a multi-million dollar investment in advanced metering, you need to attend Chartwell's Fixed Network Audio Conference.