Hardware Solutions for Gas Utilities

INTRODUCTION
The ORION® Field Application 2.5.x s oftware application is designed for use with the Trimble® Ranger 3 handheld
computer for utility meter route reading. This manual is the guide for using the software application. Instructions for
operating the handheld are also included.
Audience and Purpose
This manual is intended to be used by field technicians for collecting accurate utility meter readings from residential and
commercial locations using the handheld. Equipped with the ORION Field Application meter reading software, the handheld
can be used for reading endpoints in the field.
OTE:N To provide the best solution for our customers, Badger Meter continually improves software programs and updates
this manual periodically to reflect upgrades. Therefore, some discrepancies may be detected between the installed
software and this manual.
System Overview
The Trimble Ranger 3 handheld computer is a flexible and easy-to-use tool which can be used with various meter reading
technologies. It provides utilities with a handheld interrogator that can be operated with a touch screen and a customized
keypad for data entry.
The handheld is compatible with ORION manual and touch read systems, including these ORION endpoints.
• The ORION Fixed Network endpoint (SE) is a full functioning two-way water endpoint for use in either mobile or
fixed network mode of operation. Once installed, ORION Fixed Network endpoints operate in mobile mode and
automatically transition to fixed network mode of operation when ORION network gateway transceivers and
ReadCenter software are deployed. ORION Fixed Network endpoints automatically transition to a backup mobile
mode of operation if the network is disrupted for a period of time.
OTE:N When in fixed network mode, the handheld does not receive transmissions from the ORION Fixed
Network endpoint.
• The ORION Migratable endpoint (ME) is a full functioning two-way water endpoint for mobile applications with the
capability of migrating to fixed network mode to support future utility growth. In addition to providing the current
reading, the two-way functionality of the ORION Migratable endpoint allows users to capture data profile information
wirelessly, without having to access the endpoint during the normal reading process.
• The ORION Classic endpoint (CE) is a one-way endpoint designed for mobile meter reading. ORION Classic endpoints
support data profile and may be transitioned to fixed network application through approved electric connectivity
partner solutions, or with strategic deployment of ORION gateway 4.0 and 2.0 receivers.
About This Manual
This manual is arranged as follows:
• User Guide
The User Guide provides step-by-step instructions for program start up and meter reading using the handheld with
the ORION Field Application meter reading software which includes two-way communication functionality.
• Handheld Operation
This section covers the initial handheld setup along with the overall care and operation of the handheld.
• Appendix
The appendix includes a glossary, route load and unload instructions, troubleshooting and Badger Meter Technical
Support contact information.
INTRODUCTION
Page 5 April 2014 ORION® Field Application for Trimble® Ranger 3