Abstract: A battery-powered two-way long range automatic meter reading system and method that increases battery longevity. The system includes a meter side unit (MSU) transceiver that acquires utility data, a centralized data collector (Collector) that gathers data from the MSU, and a repeater to facilitate long-range transmission by shuttling radio signals around physical or geographic transmission barriers. The MSU includes a circuit to monitor the passage of time and apply power to a transmitter in response to a predetermined elapsed period of time. The MSU transceiver monitors a predetermined radio channel for traffic. In response to the predetermined radio channel being essentially clear of signal traffic, the MSU sends utility data to the collector. The MSU scans for a reply from the collector. In response to the collector having control data to transmit to the MSU, the collector transmits this control data in response to receiving a transmission from the MSU. The MSU is configured to enter a sleep mode.

Abstract: A power cord for use by electricians to supply power to the construction area while normal electrical power has been disconnected. The present invention allows the electrician to draw power from severed power lines without the necessity of removing the insulation from the severed power lines. The power cord provides un-metered power to ground fault current interrupter and circuit breaker protected outlets.