User Manual

DRAFT
Chapter 1 - CCU4 Collector Overview 1
Chapter 1
CCU4 Collector Overview
Itron’s Cell Control Unit 4 (CCU4) collector is a self-contained device that collects energy
consumption and tamper data from Itron Encoder Receiver Transmitters (ERTs) installed on
commercial and residential utility meters, and then forwards this information over public
networks to a central data collection site (the fixed network headend). The collector’s modular
design and ability to read water, electric and gas meter data with the same unit provides a scalable
fixed network solution.
The CCU4 collector is installed outdoors on utility poles and is powered by a 120 VAC power
line. If AC power fails, the collector continues to operate on battery power for up to four hours.
The collector reads ERT Standard Consumption Messages (SCMs) and Interval Data Messages
(IDMs) at preset intervals on the 910-920 MHz unlicensed band (ISM) using a radio frequency
(RF) receiver. It then transmits the data at specified times of day to the headend through existing
telephone lines using a dial-up modem or through wireless transfer using a Cellular Digital
Packet Data (CDPD) modem and antenna. The collector also has a MAS band (952 MHz– 957
MHz) transmitter to excite ERT modules programmed as wake-up devices.
Once configured and installed, the CCU4 collector requires no onsite visits while functioning
normally. Changes to collection intervals or data transmission times, upgrades to software, and
other functions are all configured remotely from the headend. For more information on the
headend, see the Fixed Network 2.0 System Reference Guide.
Features
• Transfers data to the central data collection site over public networks, instead of the
proprietary Itron 1432 MHz network
• Internet Protocol (IP) interface provides access using standard internet-based software
applications
• Advanced digital radio technologies and full duplex radio increases the number of
readable endpoints
• Completely re-programmable from a remote location
• Scalable from a single device covering a few endpoints, to thousands of devices covering
large metropolitan areas
• Modular design allows adding different options to suit the installation and allows
increased functionality in the future
• Provides secure data transfer using standard encryption methods
• Includes 10 Base-T Ethernet interface for configuration, diagnostics, and high speed data
transfer