Advanced Metering Infrastructure

The AMI solution has the largest transmission capacity of any PLC system, thus the solution has the ability to pull back more data, faster. This gives the utility the ability to effectively monitor Load Profile data for detailed rate studies and better handle service complaints.

This speed and bandwidth allow the utility to collect large amounts of detailed information, providing the utility the tools to optimize efficiency while improving service to their consumers.

Because all AMI modules store extensive metering data, utilities can be sure they are efficiently managing their assets. From correctly sizing system components to providing outage logs, the AMI solution helps operations and engineering professionals determine the best use of utility resources.

Browser-based reports detailing load profile data have shown users where transformers deployed on their system were undersized. Instead of reacting to an unplanned outage due to equipment failure, the utility can schedule hardware replacement and upgrades to reduce impact on the customer and utility resources. This proactive approach helps nurture strong relationships with utility customers and saves utility assets for future use.

Once a decision is made to install a AMI solution, a project team is assigned who will assist throughout the implementation process. We have highly trained technical services engineers to oversee equipment installation as well as provide job specific software training for employees. All implementation personnel are Cooper Power Systems' employees so the people implementing systems are the same ones to call for support upon completion.

Installing a PLC network does not have to be a major undertaking. The substation equipment is quick and simple to install without major substation modifications. The AMI solution does not require a transformer, thus there are no pads to pour, transformers to set, and no high-voltage underground work to complete. The main communications module is the size of a medicine cabinet and is rated for indoor or outdoor use in any climate. A crew of two can install the system in less than half a day, and its small footprint not only allows installation in even the tightest of substations but also allows easy transport of several sets of equipment in a single utility truck. Our users confirm that AMI substation infrastructure is the lowest impact, easiest install of any PLC system available.

It is common for high speed, high bandwidth communications systems of today to utilize signal repeaters, from truck radios to the Internet. Our high speed network is no different, allowing for reliable communications throughout service territories.

AMI is the only power line carrier solution offering signal repeaters for an extra push out to the meter or back to the utility office. Repeaters assist in reaching that last few percent classified as the “hard to reach” meters, allowing utilities to close in on 100% remote reads.

AMI modules have been incorporated into meters from Sensus, Itron, Landis+Gyr and Elster and we continue to expand options provided to utilities. Current single-phase underglass meter interfaces include the Sensus iCon and Itron CENTRON. These modules provide utilities with unrivaled data.

For polyphase, we offer both underglass and external interface options. The underglass options include the Elster ALPHA Plus, Landis+Gyr S4e and Itron SENTINEL. The external interfaces offered include the Elster ALPHA Plus and A3 ALPHA, Landis+Gyr S4 and S4e, Itron SENTINEL, GE kV and kV2 and KYZ pulse meters from any vendor.

Power line carrier solutions are best suited and most cost-effective for areas less densely populated. Because of this, Investor Owned Utilities often don’t consider PLC as their first option when looking to implement an AMI solution. However, often a hybrid system that combines a RF solution with a PLC solution allows large utilities to get the best value and most use out of their system.

AMI is the best fit solution for IOUs in their less densely populated areas. We will partner with all major RF vendors but are not tied directly to any one. Our feature rich-compatibility with RF technology, flexibility and ability to easily integrate to other systems makes AMI the best choice for IOU customers looking to deploy a hybrid AMI solution.

AMI is often the gateway to the intelligent grid. It is the first solution many utilities implement in an effort to increase efficiency and improve customer service through all operations and systems. With a AMI system and the Yukon Advanced Energy Services Platform, utilities have the backbone of their intelligent grid solutions. Yukon brings together AMI, demand response, intelligent capacitor bank control and distribution automation on one, easy-to-use platform. The information available from an AMI system gives utilities an on-going report card on key intelligence indicators such as reliability, power factor, load factor and voltage stability. As Cooper Power Systems' solutions expand and new offerings are engineered, utilities can be sure Yukon will be the focal point for all their systems.