User's Manual

A3 Collector GPRS SmartMeter User Guide
A3 Collector 7
2 Getting Started
Please review the reference documentation before you begin the installation and use of the supporting
software.
2.1 Operations
The A3 ALPHA
®
Collector SmartMeter is an Elster A3 ALPHA
®
Collector electronic single-phase
electricity meter integrated with a SmartSynch Interface (SSI) Module, which fully supports ANSI
standards for electricity metering and is intended for use by commercial and industrial utility customers.
The A3 ALPHA
®
Collector SmartMeter offers you secure over-the-air transfer of data between the
SmartMeter and Elster’s Metering Automation Server (MAS).
2.2 Safety Precautions
The A3 ALPHA
®
Collector SmartMeter contains a Motorola G24 GPRS Cellular Engine for wireless
communication purposes. The following safety precautions pertain to the hazards related to this device’s
radio frequency (RF) functionality and must be observed during all phases of installation, operation,
service, and repair. Failure to comply with these precautions violates safety standards of design,
manufacture, and intended use of the product.
WARNING!
Use authorized utility procedures for installing, maintaining, and removing a SmartMeter.
Equipment damage, personal injury, or death can result if devices are not properly
installed and operated.
2.2.1 Interference with Medical Equipment
Before installing the A3 ALPHA
®
Collector SmartMeter on the premises of a hospital or other health care
facility, observe the restrictions on the use of mobile communication devices in sensitive areas. Some
medical equipment may be sensitive to radio frequency (RF) energy, possibly requiring the meter to be
properly shielded or placed in an alternate location.
The operation of cardiac pacemakers, hearing aids, and other implanted medical equipment can be
affected by interference from cellular devices placed too closely. Pacemaker patients are advised to
observe the same precautions recommended for handheld mobile phones while installing or operating the
A3 ALPHA
®
Collector SmartMeter.
2.2.2 Fire or Explosion Hazards
Do not install or operate the A3 ALPHA
®
Collector SmartMeter in the presence of flammable gases or
fumes. This includes gasoline stations, fuel depots, chemical plants, or sites where blasting operations
are in progress. Operation of any electrical equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres can constitute
a safety hazard.