Method and apparatus for automatic meter reading and local communication

摘要

A method and apparatus for automatic meter reading and local communication are provided in which a meter reader (16) automatically reads a meter (14). The meter reader (16) is coupled to a local communications network (18). Powered devices (22 and 24) are also coupled to the local communications network (18). Furthermore, a load controller (26) and a gateway (28) are also coupled to the local communications network (18). The gateway (28) is coupled to a telecommunications network (30), as is a central host (10). <IMAGE>