Jim ‘Slim’ Mimlitz, SCADAmetrics
SCADAmetrics is pleased to announce the release of its improved model PTE Pulse Encodalizer!
The new release contains additional features that are based upon our first two years of PTE experiences:
A “Hybrid-Power” option was added, which allows users to apply DC mains power (8-28Vdc) — thereby utilizing the battery pack only during periods of mains power loss.
A “Strong Pullup Resistor” option was added, which allows users to interface with an even wider range of solid-state pulse output meters, including those with inadequate pulse signals. Background: In the first 3 years of PTE v1 experience, it was discovered that many pulse type flow meters utilize “cheap” NPN transistors to construct their open-collector pulse outputs. In the open-circuit state, these transistors can have an impedance of 400-500 KΩ, which was interpreted as a closed-circuit state — thereby rendering themselves incompatible. In contrast, a “quality” MOSFET N-Channel transistor will present an adequate open-circuit impedance in excess of 50-100 MΩ, or even more.
An “Encoder-to-Encoder” option was added, which allows for the PTE to accept a 3-wire encoded input (Sensus, Neptune, or Elster K-Frame Protocol), and convert to Sensus or Neptune Protocol. Digit-stripping is supported in this mode, as well. Example: Input 9 digit Sensus protocol, Output 6-digit Sensus protocol.
The following table summarizes the differences between the legacy (v1) PTE and the new release (v2) PTE:
| Feature | PTE v1 codename “Blue Board” | PTE v2 codename “Red Board” |
|---|---|---|
| Translates Pulse Signal into UI.1203 (Sensus) Protocol | YES | YES |
| Translates Pulse Signal into Neptune Protocol | YES | YES |
| 2×16 LCD Display of Pulse Count | YES | YES |
| Ability to Pre-Set Starting Pulse Count | YES | YES |
| De-Bounce Filter for Mechanical Pulses | YES | YES |
| Battery-Powered | YES | YES |
| Hybrid-Powered (Mains with Battery-Backup) | — | YES |
| Translates Elster K-Frame Protocol into UI.1203 (Sensus) Protocol | — | YES |
| Translates Elster K-Frame Protocol into Neptune Protocol | — | YES |
| Translates Neptune Protocol into UI.1203 (Sensus) Protocol | — | YES |
| Translates UI.1203 (Sensus) Protocol into Neptune Protocol | — | YES |
| “Strong Pullup Resistor” Option for Leaky Open-Collector Pulse Inputs | — | YES |
Want to Learn More?…
Are you interested in learning more about how SCADAmetrics flow instrumentation, when paired with pulse-type or encoder-type flow meters, can provide enhanced 3-wire encoded signaling to your AMI/AMR system? Give us a call!… We’ll be glad to discuss the details!