Elster Electricity, part of Elster Group, and Distribution Control Systems, Inc. (DCSI), a subsidiary of ESCO Technologies Inc. (NYSE: ESE), have announced the release of the Universal Metering Transponder (UMT-C-A3) for Elster's A3 ALPHA meter. The UMT-C transponder expands the capabilities of the TWACS power line communications network to retrieve critical meter data from the A3 ALPHA meter at commercial and industrial metering locations.

In addition to the quality meter reading features of TWACS CMTs, the
UMT-C-A3 provides enhanced outage tracking and analysis, demand reset, and more mapped registers (up to 32). The UMT-C communicates with the A3 ALPHA meter using ANSI C12.19-1997 standard tables to provide remote retrieval of meter data for energy consumption, maximum demand, power factor, reactive energy, apparent energy, reverse energy notification, and per phase voltage readings. Status and alarms originating in the meter are also retrieved and reported.

"Elster is pleased to be working with DCSI to offer our A3 ALPHA meter as part of the TWACS power line communications network," stated Mike Longrie, director of product management. "Elster is dedicated to developing and manufacturing standards-based meters that allow us to work with communications network providers."

"DCSI recognizes the importance of partnerships and technology collaborations in the advanced metering infrastructure industry," said Mark Day, executive director of product marketing at DCSI. "Elster and DCSI's efforts offer utilities a powerful addition to their power line communications network."

The UMT-C provides a seven-day history of daily consumption readings and supports up to four channels of interval data with a data capacity of up to
35 days depending on the DCSI host system used. These channels can be used to record interval data of forward, reverse, net, or secure energy in 15, 30, or 60 minute interval periods. The transponder is capable of supporting Fast Poll inquiries that allow quick and easy outage assessment using DCSI's PROASYST software application. UMT-C transponders fully support detailed outage information in the form of blink and sustained outage information.

The UMT-C complements the A3 ALPHA meter with its wide voltage range capabilities. The A3 ALPHA equipped with the UMT-C transponder may be installed on any meter with voltages between 120V and 480V. This wide voltage application reduces the number of meter/transponder combinations that would be required to meet the variety of electrical services provided by the utility, thereby reducing inventory and operation costs.

The A3 ALPHA meter with UMT-C-A3 transponder is available for ordering now in ANSI meter Forms 1S and 2S (Class 200 and 320) self-contained single phase applications and Forms 3S and 4S (Class 20) for transformer-rated single phase applications. Polyphase meter Forms 12S and 16S are available (Class 200 and 320), as well as Forms 9S, 35S, 36S, 45S, and 56S (Class 20).

About DCSI
DCSI, located in St. Louis, Missouri, provides its customers with reliable and complete advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) solutions. TWACS by DCSI is a proven power line and radio frequency communication system with full two-way access to and from the meter providing useful information to utilities. Over 235 utilities rely on proven TWACS fixed network technology to connect with their customers. For additional information, click here.

About Elster Electricity
Elster Electricity, part of Elster Group, is a leading provider of electricity metering products and services throughout the world. Located in Raleigh, North Carolina, Elster Electricity offers integrated, cost-effective solutions including smart meters, communication solutions, and metering automation systems for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Elster Electricity serves customers through a global sales force. For additional information, click here.

About Elster Group
Elster Group is the world's leading manufacturer and supplier of highly accurate, high quality, integrated metering and utilization solutions to the gas, electricity and water industries. In addition, through its subsidiary Ipsen International, it is the leading global manufacturer of high level thermochemical treatment equipment. The group has over 8,500 staff, operations in 38 countries and serves over 115 markets around the world.

Elster's high quality products and systems reflect the wealth of knowledge and experience gained from over 170 years of dedication to measuring precious resources and energy. For additional information, click here.

Wed Sep 05 12:24:00 CDT 2007