For what electricity meters were called "smart"

The neighbor installed a smart meter. And I was sure that there was no need to rush into this. But now, when they once again announced the increase in tariffs, I thought about it. Maybe it was not in vain that my friends updated their metering devices? I decided to find out if they were exaggerating by calling the device "smart." It turns out that it’s not in vain.

What a smart meter can do

reference. The term "smart meter" can only be applied to those systems that have an automated process for collecting and analyzing the data obtained.

Conventional electronic devices without this option cannot be classified in this category. However, there is now an opportunity to improve the conventional electronic device by making it “smart”.

Modern meters of the new generation, like their predecessors, are designed to read energy consumption readings. But, unlike conventional systems, they

have a special display and computer ports in their device. Another feature of the equipment is the ability to work in two or more modes at once. Thanks to this, the devices have learned to perform several useful functions:

• System collects information about spent kilowatt-hours for a specific consumer of utilities.
• If a network problem is detected, as well as in the event of a power outage for the residents of the house, the system will automatically sends information about problems to a single center.
• In addition, the device sends a request to call an electrician.
• Device controls the implementation of energy saving measures.
• Counter can interact with other smart home systems. This makes it possible to control all processes from one control panel.
• The device has intruder detection function.

Reference. In case of unauthorized connection of unauthorized consumers to the network, the system automatically signals this.

This function is possible due to the use of an hourly control system for consumed electricity.

• When tenants evade payment, the counter can automatically disconnect consumers from the network.

Is a smart meter useful for residents?

Most people accustomed to using old appliances are suspicious of innovation. However, the presented system is designed specifically to improve the quality of life. Several thousand people have already been able to appreciate the advantages of such systems and noted the simplicity and ease of use.

Of course, the benefits of such a device cannot be overlooked.

• Thanks to this equipment, all data on electricity consumption is collected automatically.
• The landlord can choose the appropriate tariff plan to save energy.
• The equipment shows all the data on the spent kilowatt-hours on an electronic console, which allows you to track the indicators every hour. Modern devices have a high degree of accuracy, according to this indicator, they are not inferior to old induction devices.

Pros and cons of devices

To make the characteristics of the device more accurate and objective, we mark it from different angles.

Advantages

• Now you do not have to constantly monitor the indicators, trying to send them in a timely manner. Everything will be done by automation.
• In case of problems, you do not need to look for an emergency telephone number. After all, the meter has a protection system and constant information about problems. And the device will also call the masters by itself.
• The meter will not only take into account how much electricity was spent in a particular apartment - it will save on payment. The fact is that a different tariff plan is provided for different times of the day. This can be taken into account when using household appliances.

Reference. The service life of the device is 32 years.

Flaws

The presented devices have one significant drawback. It lies in the fact that the system can be hacked in order to distort the readings of the consumed electricity. In addition, they can find out accurate information about the number of electrical appliances and the peculiarities of their operation from a particular tenant of the house.