30-09-2010, 06:11 PM
Power line communication (PLC) presents an interesting and economical solution for Automatic Meter Reading (AMR). A mechanism to detect the illegal electricity usage can be added in the existing PLC network. In this system , second digitally energy meter chip is used and the value of utilised energy is stored and than this is compared with the main kilo Watt-hour meter. error signal is generated and transmitted via PLC network is there is any anomaly in the reading of the meter and the value stored in the chip.
Detection of illegal electricity usage
The different ways in which the user can illegally use electricity are:
Using the mechanical objects:
This involves the use of mechanical objects to prevent the revolution of a meter.
Using a fixed magnet:
It is used to change the electromagnetic field of the current coils to alter the reading
Using the external phase before meter terminals:
The energy used from here will not be recorded in the meter.
Switching the energy cables at the meter connector box:
In this method of tampering, the current does not pass through the current coil of the meter, so that the consumption is not recorded.
The last two methods are valid for digital meters too.
Building blocks for detection
Automatic Meter Reading (AMR):
It has three main components:
- Meter interface module: It has controlling electronics , communication interface, power supply, meter sensors etc.
- Communications systems::for transmitting the telemetry data
- Central office systems equipment: This consists of modems, receivers, data concentrators, controllers, host upload links, and host computer.
Power Line Communication (PLC):
In this ,a high frequency AC carrier is injected onto the power line.This carrier is modulated with data originating from the remote meter or central station.extra cables. are not required here for transmission of data.
For full details, see this pdf:
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