CellReader, Trilliant’s advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) technology for commercial and industrial (C&I) utility metering, has been certified as compatible with the Verizon Wireless network, the telecompetitor announced.
Utilities are a growing source of business for Verizon, as well as other telecompetitors, as their need for secure, reliable connectivity grows along with their investments in next-generation smart grid systems. Verizon has been building up its smart grid capabilities by partnering with smart grid technology providers whose products and services complement its own expertise in wired and wireless networks.
The combination of Verizon’s wireless network and Trilliant’s CellReader communications module offers utilities “an easy-to-deploy two-way AMI solution that allows scheduled and on-demand access to all meter data,” according to the press release. The AMI modules can be retrofitted into existing meters or integrated with meters from the manufacturer.
Open standards are key to adoption, as utilities may mix and match equipment from a variety of smart grid equipment providers, as well as the need to access and integrate data with their own computing systems.
Communications and access to data in Trilliant’s CellReader’s is based on the ANSI C12.22 open standard and takes advantage of IP packet data connectivity built into the Verizon Wireless network.
“We look forward to working alongside Verizon Wireless to support Smart Grid initiatives,” said Andy White, chairman and chief executive officer of Trilliant. “Trilliant has successfully delivered tens of thousands of CellReader products on the Verizon Wireless network since 2003. Our advanced CellReader technology combined with Verizon Wireless’ excellent coverage and reliable network continues to make for a model relationship.”
“Trilliant’s certification underscores our commitment to developing the Smart Grid for the utility market,” said Mike Brander, Verizon Wireless vice president, Utility and Industrial Vertical Markets. “Our Machine to Machine (M2M) rate plans and management tools, combined with Trilliant’s CellReader, will enable our joint utility customers to effectively manage large-scale Advanced Metering Infrastructure deployments for the commercial and industrial markets.”
