Automated utility metering system

摘要

An automatic metering system in accordance with the principles of the invention comprises a plurality of groups of geographically related utility meters. Each utility meter comprises an interface unit operable to accumulate usage data and to transmit the usage data over power lines utilizing power line carrier. The system further comprises a plurality of data forwarding apparatus each comprising power line carrier communication apparatus operable to receive usage data from each utility meter in its group of utility meters. Each data forwarding apparatus comprises a first wireless communication module. Each data forwarding apparatus has a geographic relationship to its corresponding group of utility meters. A computer is located geographically apart from the plurality of data forwarding apparatus. The central computer comprises a second wireless communication module and operates cooperatively with each data forwarding apparatus to upload usage data from all of the utility meters via the plurality of data forwarding apparatus.