Abstract: A wide area communications network communicating data from a plurality of network service modules through a plurality of remote cell nodes and intermediate data terminals to a central data terminal. The wide area communications network collects network data generated by a plurality of physical devices such as gas, water or electricity meters, located within a geographical area. The wide area communications network is a layered network having a hierarchical communications topology. The central data terminal controls network operation. Intelligence exists at all layers of the network, thereby easing the workload of the central data terminal. The intelligence attributed to each module is a function of the application of that module.

Abstract: A system for detection of tampering with a utility meter provides not only an indication that tampering has occurred but also sufficient information to enable an estimation of actual consumption to be made as opposed to the tampered metered consumption. The device includes a plurality of tampering sensors sensing tilt, electric field, magnetic field, temperature, sound, reverse rotation of a moving element and excessive difference between metered consumption and an approximate actual consumption. The device also measures the movement of the moving element. These sensed signals are recorded in sequential time periods of for example eight hours so that an analysis can be made on a daily basis to provide an accurate pattern of consumption as opposed to the tampered meter consumption pattern.

Abstract: A radio communications network for transmitting data from a plurality of remote stations to a central station is provided. This system is particularly proposed for automatic meter reading systems in which the remote stations are located at utility meters. The system includes an array of receiving stations arranged relative to the remote stations so that the mesages from each remote station can be received by at least two and preferably four of the receiving stations providing a high level of duplication of messages. The remote stations transmit utility usage information obtained from the previous time period at a random time subsequent to the time period so that message collisions can occur. High level of duplication provided by the increased number of receiving stations reduces the message loss. A quiet period during which the remote stations are prevented from transmitting can be used for communication between the receiving stations and the central station.