Abstract: One aspect of the present invention provides a meter reading system. The meter reading system includes an endpoint device and a reader. The endpoint device is configured to operably couple to a utility meter and includes a receiver, a control block, and a transmitter. The receiver is configured to periodically turn on for a first time period to measure a signal strength. The control block is configured to keep the receiver turned on for a second time period if the measured signal strength is at least equal to a threshold value so as to enable the receiver to receive a subsequent wake-up message. The transmitter is configured to transmit an endpoint signal in response to the wake-up message. The reader is configured to transmit the wake-up message and to receive the endpoint signal.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention provides a meter reading system. The meter reading system includes an endpoint device and a reader. The endpoint device is configured to operably couple to a utility meter and includes a receiver, a control block, and a transmitter. The receiver is configured to periodically turn on for a first time period to measure a signal strength. The control block is configured to keep the receiver turned on for a second time period if the measured signal strength is at least equal to a threshold value so as to enable the receiver to receive a subsequent wake-up message. The transmitter is configured to transmit an endpoint signal in response to the wake-up message. The reader is configured to transmit the wake-up message and to receive the endpoint signal.