Title
Meter Reading Equipment (NB)
Explanation
The Energy Delivery Department is responsible for reading all GRU electric, water and gas meters on a monthly basis. In order to accomplish this task specific meter reading sequences and associated route data are downloaded to handheld computers each workday morning. The utility's meter readers are given prescribed routes to complete and they enter each customer's meter information into the handheld computer as they complete their routes. At the end of each work day the information collected is downloaded for the purpose of calculating customer utility bills. The devices provide each meter reader with useful information to enhance their personal safety and efficiency. Such information includes: the location of meters, security gate codes, fenced or unfenced pets, and other special conditions.
This purchase includes replacing thirty devices which are approximately five years old and at the end of their useful life. The computerized device is regularly subject to harsh daily environmental elements, including inclement weather and temperature extremes.
The maintenance on the current units will expire in June 2011 and repairs thereafter may be costly for the obsolete units as repairs will be done on a time and materials basis. Historically, each unit is repaired about once every six months, but when excessive wet weather conditions occur, older devices are more subject to failing weather proof seals, potentially compromising the data contained in the units.
GRU has standardized on the use of Itron meter reading devices which can only be obtained from the original equipment manufacturer. The device must be compatible with GRU's existing software to successfully allow daily uploads and downloads of data. The use of this equipment eliminates the need to procure new software to accomplish the transfer of data. GRU meter readers are trained and skilled on the use of the handheld device, ensuring timely ...
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