Documente Academic
Documente Profesional
Documente Cultură
Technical manual
TM42-2410E
www.elster.com
Technical manual i Contents
Contents
1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
A1800 ALPHA meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Standards Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
IEC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
IEEE/ANSI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
DLMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
DIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Reliability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Maintainability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
ANSI standard communication open protocol . . . . . . 1-4
Adaptability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Meter types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Meter series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Metercat software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Alpha Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
2 Product description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Physical description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Optical port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
LCD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Nameplate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Utility information card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Cover tamper detection switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Terminal configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Communication protocols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
System architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
General theory of operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Main power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Auxiliary power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Current and voltage sensing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Meter engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Microcontroller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
EEPROM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Billing data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Metered energy and demand quantities . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Average power factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Demand calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Rolling interval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Block interval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Thermal time constant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Maximum demand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Cumulative maximum demand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Continuous cumulative maximum demand . . . . . . . . 2-12
Technical manual ii Contents
Coincident demand or power factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Demand forgiveness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Primary and secondary metering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
TOU data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Power failure data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Always Positive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Logs and data sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Event log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
History log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Self reads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Load profiling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Load profiling pulse divisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Instrumentation profiling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
TRueQ Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
Voltage sag log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
User-defined tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
Physical dimensions and mass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19
3 Operating instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Indicators and controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
LCD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Quantity identifier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Display quantity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Phase indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Energy direction indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Power/energy units identifier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Alternate display indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Error indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Low battery indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Active COM port indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Display indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Push buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
RESET button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Using the backlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Operating modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Normal mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Alternate mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Test mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Read without Power mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Demand reset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
Demand reset lockout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
Demand reset data area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
4 Meter tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
System instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
System service tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Service voltage test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
System service locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Initiating service voltage tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
Restarting the service voltage test in diagnostic mode 4-9
Service current test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Initiating the service current test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
System service error codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
TRueQ monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
TRueQ timing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
TRueQ display items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
TRueQ and relays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
TRueQ log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Technical manual iii Contents
Voltage sags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Voltage sag counter and timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
TRueQ tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
TRueQ event counters and timers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-25
Meter passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-25
Antitampering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-26
Program protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-26
5 Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Relay outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Energy pulse outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Using pulse divisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Using pulse value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Relay-related alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
LED pulse outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Output specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
6 Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Meter self test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Codes and warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Error codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Warning codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Communication codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8
Meter shop testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9
Test equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9
Test setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9
Meter testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10
Using relay outputs for testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10
Using LCD pulse count for testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10
7 Installation and removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Preliminary inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Placing the meter into service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Installing a TOU battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
Initial setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
Marking the utility information card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
Removing the meter from service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
Removing the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
8 Loss compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
What is Loss Compensation? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Availability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Software support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Calculating the correction values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Gather necessary data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
Calculate the meter configuration parameters . . . . . . . 8-2
Calculating line loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
Gather necessary data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
Calculation example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
Gather necessary data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
Enter Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12
Internal meter calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12
Meter outputs affected by compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15
Technical manual iv Contents
Testing a meter with compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15
A Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
B Display table. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1
Display format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1
Display list items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
Default display formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3
LCD test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3
General meter information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4
Meter configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4
Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-5
Metered quantities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6
Average power factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-8
Coincident demand and power factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-8
Cumulative demand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-8
System instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-9
System service tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-11
Errors and warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-12
Communication codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-12
C Nameplate and style number information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1
Nameplate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1
Utility information card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C-2
Style number information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C-3
D Wiring diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1
Direct connected . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1
CT-connected meters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .D-2
E Technical specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1
Absolute maximums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1
Operating ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1
Operating characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1
General performance characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-2
Dimensions and mass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-2
Technical manual v Contents
Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liability
There are no understandings, agreements, representations, or warranties either
expressed or implied, including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular
purpose, other than those specifically set out by any existing contract between the parties.
Any such contract states the entire obligation of the seller. The contents of this technical
manual shall not become part of or modify any prior or existing agreement, commitment,
or relationship.
The information, recommendations, descriptions, and safety notices in this technical
manual are based on Elster Electricity, LLC experience and judgment with respect to the
operation and maintenance of the described product. This information should not be
considered as all-inclusive or covering all contingencies. If further information is required,
Elster Electricity, LLC should be consulted.
No warranties, either expressed or implied, including warranties of fitness for a particular
purpose or merchantability, or warranties arising from the course of dealing or usage of
trade, are made regarding the information, recommendations, descriptions, warnings,
and cautions contained herein.
In no event will Elster Electricity, LLC be held responsible to the user in contract, in tort
(including negligence), strict liability, or otherwise for any special, indirect, incidental, or
consequential damage or loss whatsoever, including but not limited to: damage or loss of
use of equipment, cost of capital, loss of profits or revenues, or claims against the user by
its customers from the use of the information, recommendations, descriptions, and safety
notices contained herein.
Safety Information
Installation, operation, and maintenance of this product can present potentially hazardous
conditions (for example, high voltages) if safety procedures are not followed. To ensure that
this product is used safely, it is important that you:
Review, understand, and observe all safety notices and recommendations within this
manual.
Do not remove or copy individual pages from this manual, as this manual is intended for
use in its entirety. If you were to remove or copy individual pages, cross references and
safety notices may be overlooked, possibly resulting in damage to the equipment,
personal injury, or even death.
Inform personnel involved in the installation, operation, and maintenance of the product
about the safety notices and recommendations contained in this manual.
Within this manual, safety notices appear preceding the text or step to which they apply.
Safety notices are divided into the following four classifications:
Notice is used to alert personnel to installation, operation, or maintenance
information that is important but not hazard related.
Caution is used to alert personnel to the presence of a hazard that will or can
cause minor personal injury, equipment damage, or property damage if the
notice is ignored.
Technical manual vi Contents
Warning is used to alert personnel to the presence of a hazard that can cause
severe personal injury, death, equipment damage, or property damage if notice
is ignored.
Danger is used to alert personnel to the presence of a hazard that will cause
severe personal injury, death, equipment damage, or property damage if the
notice is ignored.
Revisions to This Document
The A1800 ALPHA Meter Technical Manual can be referred to by its document number:
TM422410. Each revision of this manual is designated with a letter, with the first revision
being A, the second being B, and so forth. The document number and its revision are
located at the bottom of each page.
The following table lists the revisions to this document, the date of the release, and any
notes about the changes made.
Revision Date Brief Description
A 31 August 2005 Initial release of the document.
B 22 June 2006 Grammatical corrections and corrections for clarity made throughout the manual.
Addition of partially-transparent cover in Security in Chapter 1. Addition of A1880
meter functions and other meter types in Table 1-4. Renamed manufacturer
nameplate to nameplate and renamed utility nameplate to utility information
card. Renamed open cover detection switches to cover tamper detection
switches. Added Auxiliary Power Supply in Chapter 2. Added backlight information
to LCD in Chapter 3 and Using the Backlight in Chapter 3. Program mode
renamed to program protection and is now included in Program Protection in
Chapter 4. Clarified meter types and output options in Relay Outputs in Chapter 5.
Clarified the pulse constant information in Using Pulse Divisor in Chapter 5. Added
Style Number Information in Appendix C. Corrected Appendix E, Technical
Specifications.
23 June 2006 Corrected typographical error for Pulse count for quantity (alternate-delivered) in
Appendix B.
C 31 August 2006 Grammatical corrections and corrections for clarity made throughout the document.
Corrected and clarified output specifications in Chapter 5, Outputs.
D 09 February 2007 Added IEEE standards information in Table 1-2. Added information regarding direct
connect-rated meters in Chapter 1, Chapter 5, Chapter 7, Appendix C, and Appendix
E. Corrected wiring diameter sizes in Placing the Meter into Service, in Chapter 7.
Clarified the Note regarding two-element meters in Chapter 8. Corrected Figure D-7
in Appendix D.
E 01 July 2009 In addition to grammatical corrections and minor corrections throughout the
manual: Added DLMS to Standards Compliance in Chapter 1; added Meter series
in Chapter 1; revised Communications in Chapter 2; added Communication
protocols in Chapter 2; revised General theory of operation in Chapter 2; revised
Physical dimensions and mass in Chapter 2; added Read without Power mode in
Chapter 3; revised TRueQ tests in Chapter 4; revised Warning codes in Chapter 6.
Technical manual 1-1 Introduction
1 Introduction
A1800 ALPHA meter
The A1800 ALPHA meter family provides a platform that supports a variety of metering
requirements. The A1800 ALPHA meter family is a totally electronic polyphase electricity
meter and integral register for commercial and industrial applications. The meter is
available in 3- and 4-wire configurations for 2 and 3 phases.
See Figure 1-1 for an illustration of an A1800 ALPHA meter.
Figure 1-1. A1800 ALPHA meter
CT
VT
A
V
imp/kWh(kVARh)
ELSTER SAMPLE
SERIAL #
01234567
UUf11
*01234567*
STYLE
ZE3JF4R00LM 01
R1 2-06210102AG-000000
3 x 58/100...277/480V, 60 Hz
1(10)A
0 2S
Made in USA 2006
5 000 imp/kWh
5 000 mp/kVarh
TYPE A1800
MODEL 1830RALN
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 EOI LC TC TST
- P +
Q
Q
L L L 1 2 3
COM 0 1 2
Technical manual 1-2 Introduction
Standards Compliance
IEC. The A1800 ALPHA meter meets or exceeds the following IEC standards for electricity
metering.
IEEE/ANSI. The A1800 ALPHA meter meets or exceeds the following IEEE/ANSI standards
for electricity metering, and it is intended for use by commercial and industrial utility
customers.
Table 1-1. IEC standards supported by the A1800 ALPHA meter
Number Date Edition Title
62052-11 2003 1 General requirements, tests and test conditions.
62053-21 2003 1 Particular requirements-static meters for active
energy (Classes 1.0 and 2.0)
62053-22 2003 1 Particular requirements-static meters for active
energy (classes 0,2 S and 0,5 S)
62053-23 2003 1 Particular requirements-static meters for
reactive energy (classes 2 and 3)
62053-31 1998 1 Particular requirements-pulse output devices
for electromechanical and electronic meters
(two wires only)
62053-61 1998 1 Particular requirements-power consumption
and voltage requirements
62056-21
1
1
Complies with optical port requirements only.
2002 1 Electricity metering-data exchange for meter
reading, tariff and load control-direct local data
exchange
62052-21 2004 Electricity metering-tariff and load control-
particular requirements for time switches
Table 1-2. IEEE/ANSI standards supported by the A1800 ALPHA meter
Number Date Title
IEEE 1701/
ANSI C12.18
1996 Protocol Specification for ANSI Type 2 Optical
Port
IEEE 1377/
ANSI C12.19
1997 Utility Industry End Device Data Tables
IEEE 1702/
ANSI C12.21
1999 Protocol Specification for Telephone Modem
Communications
Technical manual 1-3 Introduction
DLMS. The A1800 ALPHA meter meets or exceeds the following IEC standards for DLMS
protocol support (when the meter is enabled for DLMS protocol support). See
Communication protocols on page 2-6 for more information.
DIN. The A1800 ALPHA meter meets or exceeds the following DIN standards for electricity
metering.
Benefits
Reliability. The A1800 ALPHA meter, part of the ALPHA line of meters, uses the patented
ALPHA meter technology for measurement and accurate calculation of energy quantities.
With over 3 million ALPHA polyphase meters in operation throughout the world, the
A1800 ALPHA continues the tradition of reliable electronic meters.
The power supply in the meter operates from any available phase. A three-phase, four-
wire A1800 ALPHA meter maintains operation if the neutral line and any one or two of the
line voltages become disconnected. The meter can also operate using the auxiliary power
supply, which can power the meter from an independent power source in the situation
where main power is unavailable.
The A1800 ALPHA meter can use its internal crystal oscillator or the power line frequency to
maintain time and date functions. The crystal oscillator can be used when the power line
frequency is known to be too unstable for accurate timekeeping.
The A1800 ALPHA meter has been designed to function to provide long battery life.
Because of the low current drain, the service life of the lithium battery can exceed the life of
the meter.
The A1800 ALPHA meter uses nonvolatile memory to store billing and other critical data.
The data is preserved even if the power fails.
Maintainability. The A1800 ALPHA meter is easy to maintain. Meter register functions and
communication interfaces are fully integrated on a single, surface-mount technology
circuit board.
The meter firmware resides in flash memory, allowing the firmware to be upgraded in the
field.
Table 1-3. IEC standards supported by the A1800 ALPHA meter for DLMS protocols
Number Date Edition Title
62056-42 2002-02 1.1 Physical layer services and procedures for
connection-oriented asynchronous data
exchange
62056-46 2007-02 1.1 Data link layer using HDLC protocol
62056-53 2006-12 2 COSEM Application layer
62056-61 2006-11 2 Object identification system (OBIS)
62056-62 2006-11 2 Interface classes
Table 1-4. DIN standards supported by the A1800 ALPHA meter
1
1
For meter width and location of lower mounting holes
Number Date Title
DIN 43857 Part 2 1978 Watthour meters in moulded insulation case
without instrument transformers, up to 60 A
rated maximum current; principal dimensions
for polyphase meters.
Technical manual 1-4 Introduction
ANSI standard communication open protocol. The A1800 ALPHA meter complies
with the ANSI C12.18, C12.19, and C12.21 standards. These standards include
communication protocols for a wide range of metering products. They are the basis for
common industry data structures and a common protocol for transporting the data
structures. Supporting the ANSI protocols makes it easier to add products to existing
systems and provide an open standard for meter data communications.
Adaptability. The A1800 ALPHA meter allows configuration for custom TOU rates (tariffs),
offering a broad range of demand and TOU operations.
Most common services and mounting configurations are supported, and functional
upgrades are easily performed as new situations arise. The wide operating range allows
installation at any of the common meter voltages. Additionally, the factory-configurable
optical port accommodates ANSI and IEC standards. The 16-segment character liquid
crystal display (LCD) improves readability and provides flexibility for displaying meter
information. As an added feature, the main meter circuit board provides selectable,
independent, serial remote interfaces for RS-232 or RS-485 communication.
Economy. The A1800 ALPHA meter saves both time and money. It can increase personnel
productivity because of the following features:
no user calibration required (factory calibrated)
reduced testing times
fewer styles to learn and maintain
dual serial communications interfaces on the main meter circuit board
automated data retrieval
system service verification
on-site instrumentation displays
tamper restraint and quality monitoring (TRueQ) tests
event logging
Security. The A1800 ALPHA meter is tamper-resistant. Passwords may be specified that
prevent unauthorized access to meter data. The standard TRueQ feature or the optional
instrumentation profiling (or both) can be used to detect possible tampering of energy
measurements.
All A1800 ALPHA meters provide auditing capabilities that can be used to indicate potential
meter tampering like terminal cover open detection and per phase outage recording.
The A1800 ALPHA meter can be ordered with a partially-transparent terminal cover,
making it easier to see obvious tampering.
Accuracy. The A1800 ALPHA meter meets or exceeds requirements of IEC standards.
The meter precisely measures demand and energy across a wide range of voltage and
current despite variations in temperature and power factor.
The low current sensor burden may also improve the accuracy of external current
transformers when measuring light loads.
Configuration
IEC 62053-22 IEC 62053-21 IEC 62053-23
1
Class 0.2 S Class 0.5 S Class 1.0 Class 2.0 Class 2.0 Class 3.0
direct connect
1
1
Actual reactive energy accuracy is substantially better than required by the standard.
9 9 9 9
transformer-rated 9 9 9 9
Technical manual 1-5 Introduction
Meter types
Different meters within the A1800 ALPHA meter family have specific capabilities (see
Table 1-5 and Figure 1-2).
Note: Throughout this manual, the term A1800 ALPHA is used to describe any meter in
the meter family. When necessary, a specific meter designation (for example,
A1830 meter) will be used to indicate that the description applies to only one meter
in the meter family.
Table 1-5. Meter designations of the A1800 ALPHA meter family
Meter Market segment Class Standard features Optional features
A1880
1
1
See Elster for availability.
Interchange meter 0.2 Multi-protocol communications
(Modbus, DNP 3.0, DL/T 645, or
TCP/IP)
4-quadrant metering
transformer and line loss
compensation (C)
load profiling (L)
instrumentation profiling (N)
extended MB memory (X)
auxiliary power supply
4 relays
TRueQ
2 additional relays
1
A1860 Large C&I 0.2, 0.5 2 communications ports
load profiling (L)
4 relays
TRueQ
transformer and line loss
compensation (C)
4-quadrant metering (A)
extended 1 MB memory (X)
instrumentation profiling (N)
auxiliary power supply
2 additional relays
1
A1830 Large C&I 0.5, 1.0 1 communications port
load profiling (L)
4 relays
TRueQ
transformer and line loss
compensation (C)
4-quadrant metering (A)
instrumentation profiling (N)
extended 1 MB memory (X)
auxiliary power supply
Class 0.2 accuracy
2 additional relays
1
internal telephone modem (PSTN)
2
2
Same wide temperature range rating as the meter (-40 C to +85 C inside meter cover; -40 C to +60 C outside)
A1810 Mid C&I 1.0 no communications ports
no relays
TRueQ
4-quadrant metering
load profiling (L)
instrumentation profiling (N)
extended 1 MB memory (X)
auxiliary power supply
Class 0.2 or 0.5 accuracy
4 relays
internal telephone modem (PSTN)
2
A1805 Small/Mid C&I 1.0 no communication ports
no relays
TRueQ
Limited to watt/var or bidirectional
active energy only
2 relays
Technical manual 1-6 Introduction
Figure 1-2. A1800 ALPHA meter family application pyramid
Meter series
The meter series is used to indicate the options and capabilities available for the
A1800 ALPHA meter.
Series 110 and later
Optional DLMS/COSEM protocol support available
Series 150
Optional Read without Power feature available
Metercat software
Beginning with Metercat release 2.3, the following features are supported:
Enhanced TRueQ test set
Up to 8 metered quantities
Independent TOU switch times for energy and demand
Alpha Keys
Alpha Keys
=
=
=
15 i
2 i
2
i
HC THC
100
l fundamenta
l fundamenta - rms
THD
2 2
=
amps Maximum
HC
TDD
15 i
2 i
2
i
=
=
=
Technical manual 4-3 Meter tools
Voltage, current, kW, kvar, and kVA instrumentation quantities have an error of less than
0.25 %. Accuracy will diminish as the value of the quantity becomes smaller.
The meters LCD can be programmed with Elsters meter support software to display
primary instrumentation values.
If the LCD remains on an instrumentation quantity while in alternate or test
mode, the displayed instrumentation quantity updates once per second. See
button on page 3-5 for more information on locking the LCD on a desired
quantity.
The quantity identifier gives information about the quantity being displayed on the
A1800 ALPHA meter LCD, as indicated in Table 4-2.
The display quantity will show a measurement and a unit of measure on the A1800 ALPHA
meter LCD. See Figure 4-1 and Figure 4-2 for examples showing system instrumentation
quantities. See Appendix B, Display table, for information about displayable items.
Figure 4-1. Instrumentation line 1 voltage
Table 4-2. System instrumentation quantity identifiers
Quantity identifier Description
L123 System instrumentation measurements
L1 Line 1 measurements
L2 Line 2 measurements
L3 Line 3 measurements
L1 H2-15 Line 1 total harmonic distortion
L2 H2-15 Line 2 total harmonic distortion
L3 H2-15 Line 3 total harmonic distortion
L1 H1 Line 1 1st harmonic
L2 H2 Line 2 1st harmonic
L3 H2 Line 3 1st harmonic
L1 H2 Line 1 2nd harmonic
L2 H2 Line 2 2nd harmonic
L3 H2 Line 3 2nd harmonic
L1 TDD Line 1 total demand distortion
L2 TDD Line 2 total demand distortion
L3 TDD Line 3 total demand distortion
P +
L L L 1 2 3
Technical manual 4-4 Meter tools
Figure 4-2. Instrumentation system kVA
Immediately before displaying a system instrumentation quantity, the meter begins to
measure that quantity. If the result of the instrumentation measurement is not immediately
available, dashes (-) will be shown in the display quantity until the measurement is
complete. See Figure 4-3 and Figure 4-4 for examples of system instrumentation display
quantities while the measurement is in progress and when a result is available.
Figure 4-3. Instrumentation line 2 current in progress
Figure 4-4. Instrumentation line 2 current measurement (secondary)
Figure 4-5. Instrumentation line 2 current measurement (primary)
If an A1800 ALPHA meter is programmed to display a system measurement quantity for a
phase that does not exist (for example, Line 2 on a two-element meter), then that display
quantity will be skipped automatically. This allows different meter types to be programmed
with similar configurations using Elster meter support software.
P +
L L L 1 2 3
P +
L L L 1 2 3
P +
L L L 1 2 3
P +
L L L 1 2 3
Technical manual 4-5 Meter tools
System service tests
System service tests can be performed to determine the validity of the electrical service that
the A1800 ALPHA meter is metering. The system service tests consist of a service voltage
test and a service current test.
Service voltage test
The service voltage test is intended to assist in identifying the following:
incorrectly wired or misapplied voltage transformers
open or missing line fuses
The following are validated by this test:
phase voltages
phase voltage angles
phase rotation
The meter measures each phase voltage and phase voltage angle and attempts to match
the measurements to a stored list of valid services.
If the service voltage test is successful, the validated service is shown on the meters
LCD and the meter will continue to the next display quantity in the sequence.
If the test is not successful, a warning is set. Also, the LCD will indicate a service error
by displaying SE plus a code on the LCD. See System service error codes on page 4-
10 for more information about system service error codes.
The following conditions can cause the service voltage test to fail:
phase voltage angles not within 15 of the expected service phase angles
phase voltage magnitudes not within the tolerance of the nominal service voltages
programmed into the meter with Elster meter support software
System service locking. Once a service voltage test has detected a valid service, it can
be locked into the A1800 ALPHA meter memory. A locked valid service is used as a basis
for future system service tests and TRueQ tests. The following information will be stored in
the meter when the service is locked:
service type identification
nominal service voltage
voltage phase rotation
service voltage and current limits
voltage sag detection threshold
The A1800 ALPHA meter can lock a valid service in either of these ways:
smart autolock
manual lock
To indicate that a service voltage test is complete, the LCD displays the following (an
example is shown in Figure 4-6):
phase rotation (for example, L1-2-3 or L3-2-1)
voltage magnitude (for example, 120 or 240)
service type showing the number of wires and the service type, for example:
1L is a single phase service
3 is a 3-wire delta service
4Y is a 4-wire wye service
Technical manual 4-6 Meter tools
Figure 4-6. Sample service voltage test result
The voltage magnitude and service type are surrounded by brackets to indicate that the
service is locked (see Figure 4-7).
Figure 4-7. Sample display of locked service voltage
Smart autolock. When smart autolock is enabled through Elster meter support software,
the A1800 ALPHA meter will attempt to lock the service automatically once it is determined
to be valid. Both the voltage magnitude and phase angle of the service are compared to a
table of valid relationships stored within the meter memory. The meter accepts the service
that most closely matches one of the stored values in the A1800 ALPHA meter.
The A1800 ALPHA meter periodically checks the service. Under certain conditions, the
smart autolocked service may lock on a different service. This is useful because the meter
may have been moved to a new service. The service voltage test will be performed and the
service may be changed in response to the following events:
power up
exit of test mode
after a data-altering communication session
If a new, valid service is detected, the meter locks on the new service. If a valid service
cannot be detected, the meter responds in the following manner:
the meter remains locked on the last known valid service
the LCD displays an error code
Manual lock. When configured through Elster meter support software for manual lock, the
A1800 ALPHA meter will detect and evaluate the service in the same manner as it does
when autolock is enabled. The identified service information will also be shown on the
LCD; however, the RESET button must be pressed in order to lock the detected service (see
Using to lock service on page 3-5).
When the service type has been detected, the phase rotation, voltage magnitude, and the
service type will be displayed on the LCD. If the RESET button is not pressed to accept the
service, the LCD will alternate between L1-2-3 ------ and the detected service
information until the service has been manually locked.
Once manually locked, the service never unlocks automatically. To move the
A1800 ALPHA meter to a new installation with a different type of service, the
service must be unlocked using Elster meter support software. The new service
type can then be detected and manually locked.
P +
L L L 1 2 3
P +
L L L 1 2 3
Technical manual 4-7 Meter tools
Initiating service voltage tests. When enabled, the service voltage test is initiated at any
of the following times:
after power up, a data-altering communications session, or exiting test mode
at midnight
Service voltage tests can also be initiated at any of these times, depending on meter
configuration:
as a display item
as a TRueQ test (for meters with TRueQ capabilities)
The behavior of the service voltage test depends on these factors:
the event that initiates the service voltage test
the state of the service lock
After power up, data-altering communications session, or exiting test mode. The following
table explains meter behavior when the service voltage test is performed after any of the
following:
power is applied to the meter
data-altering communications session
exiting test mode
If the service voltage test is interrupted (for example, the button is pressed or there is a
communications session), the meter restarts the service voltage test after handling the
interruption.
Smart autolock
Manual lock
Current state is locked
Manual lock
Current state is unlocked
1 The meter initiates the service voltage
test.
2 The meter attempts to detect a valid
service.
If a valid service is detected, the
meter automatically locks on the
detected service. The LCD displays
the locked valid service.
If a valid service cannot be found,
the meter displays SE 555000.
The meter restarts the service
voltage test in diagnostic mode
(see Restarting the service voltage
test in diagnostic mode on
page 4-9). However, the meter
remains locked on the last valid
service until a new valid service is
detected.
1 The meter initiates the service voltage
test.
2 The phase indicator voltage threshold
levels are based on the currently
locked service.
3 The meter attempts to match the
service.
If the service matches the presently
locked service, then the LCD
displays the locked valid service.
If the service does not match the
presently locked service, then the
LCD displays the service test error.
The meter restarts the service
voltage test in diagnostic mode
(see Restarting the service voltage
test in diagnostic mode on
page 4-9).
1 The meter initiates the service voltage
test.
2 The phase indicator voltage
thresholds are set at the default
values.
3 The meter attempts to detect a valid
service.
If a valid service is found, the LCD
displays the data for the service it
detected.
If a valid service is not found, the
LCD displays SE 555000. The
meter restarts the service voltage
test until a valid service is found.
4 While a valid service is displayed, the
user can manually lock the service.
The user presses the RESET button
to lock the service. The LCD displays
the locked service.
If the user does not lock the service,
the meter returns to the service test
until a valid service is found and
locked.
Technical manual 4-8 Meter tools
At midnight. If the service is locked, the meter checks the service at midnight. The meter
always does the following when the service voltage test is run at midnight:
If the service test is interrupted (for example, the button is pressed or there is a
communications session), the meter restarts the service test after handling the interruption.
If the service has not been locked, the test is not performed and the LCD displays
SE 555000.
As a display item in a display sequence. Using Elster meter support software, the service
voltage test can be programmed as a displayable quantity in any display sequence. The
service test is initiated when the service test quantity is displayed on the LCD.
As a TRueQ test. When the service voltage test is programmed as a TRueQ test, the service
test is performed only if the service is locked. TRueQ tests are available only on meters with
TRueQ capabilities. See Service voltage test on page 4-5 for more information.
Smart autolock
Manual lock
Current state is locked
1 The meter initiates the service test.
2 The phase indicator voltage threshold
levels are based on the currently locked
service.
3 The meter attempts to match the service.
If the service matches the presently
locked service, then the LCD displays
the locked valid service.
If the service does not match the
presently locked service, then the LCD
displays SE 555000. The meter
restarts the service voltage test in
diagnostic mode (see Restarting the
service voltage test in diagnostic
mode on page 4-9). However, the
lock remains on the last valid service
until a new valid service is detected.
1 The meter initiates the service test.
2 The phase indicator voltage threshold
levels are based on the currently locked
service.
3 The meter attempts to match the service.
If the service matches the presently
locked service, then the LCD displays
the locked valid service.
If the service does not match the
presently locked service, then the LCD
displays a service test error. The meter
restarts the service voltage test in
diagnostic mode (see Restarting the
service voltage test in diagnostic
mode on page 4-9). However, the
lock remains on the last valid service
until a new valid service is detected.
Smart autolock
Manual lock
Current state is locked
Service locking disabled
1 The meter initiates the service test.
2 The meter attempts to match the
service.
If the service detected matches the
presently locked service, then the
LCD displays the locked valid
service.
If the service does not match the
presently locked service, then the
LCD displays a service test error.
3 After the LCD displays the locked valid
service or the service test error, the
LCD continues to the next item in the
display sequence.
The service test is performed as the
autolock.
1 The meter initiates the service test.
If a valid service is detected, the
LCD displays the valid service.
If a valid service cannot be found,
the meter displays SE 555000.
2 After the LCD displays the valid service
or the service test error, the LCD
continues to the next item in the
display sequence.
Technical manual 4-9 Meter tools
Restarting the service voltage test in diagnostic mode. Depending on how the
service voltage test was started, the test restarts in diagnostic mode if the test fails. The
A1800 ALPHA meter uses the diagnostic mode if the service voltage test was started in
these ways:
after power up, data-altering communications session, or exiting test mode
at midnight
The diagnostic mode cycles through performing the service voltage test and displaying
information about the service that may be useful in determining why the test failed, as
listed below:
1. Perform the service voltage test.
2. Display line 1 voltage.
3. Perform the service voltage test.
4. Display line 2 voltage.
5. Perform service voltage test.
6. Display line 3 voltage.
7. Perform service voltage test.
8. Display line 2 voltage angle.
9. Perform service voltage test.
10. Display line 3 voltage angle.
If at any point a valid service is found and locked, the meter displays the locked service on
the LCD and continues to the next item in the display sequence. Otherwise, the cycle
restarts at step 1.
Service current test
The service current test validates system currents and is intended to assist in identifying the
following:
incorrectly wired or misapplied current transformers
open or missing load-side fuses
If the service current test is successful, L1-2-3 OK is shown on the A1800 ALPHA meter
LCD. The meter will continue to the next item in the display sequence. See Figure 4-8 for an
example of a successful service current test.
Figure 4-8. Service current test successful completion
If the test is not successful, a warning is set. Also, the LCD will indicate a service error by
displaying SE and a code, an example of which is shown in Figure 4-9. See System service
error codes on page 4-10 for more information. The following conditions can cause the
service current test to fail:
current remains on one phase while no current is on any other phase
current on any single phase is below the programmed low current limit
current on any phase is greater than the programmed absolute maximum
current is negative on any phase (reverse power)
power factor on any phase is less than the limit set for leading or lagging power
factor
P +
L L L 1 2 3
Technical manual 4-10 Meter tools
If all phases are below the absolute minimum current threshold, the low and missing
current failure will not be reported. It is assumed that this is a valid, no-load condition. In
this case, the low and zero current warnings will display if the condition exists.
Figure 4-9. Service current test error
Initiating the service current test. The service current test can be initiated in any of the
following ways:
the service current test may be placed in any display sequence. The service current
test will be performed when the quantity is displayed in the display sequence.
the service current test may be included in the TRueQ tests if the A1800 ALPHA meter
is equipped with this feature. The results of the TRueQ test will not be seen on the
LCD. See TRueQ monitoring on page 4-12 for more details on TRueQ.
the service current test may be programmed to be performed after successful
service voltage tests that perform automatically (but not as part of a display list)
If the A1800 ALPHA meter does not have a locked service, then the system service current
test will be skipped regardless of how the test is initiated.
Parameters regarding the system service current tests can be changed without requiring
the meter to be unlocked and then relocked or requiring the meter to be reset. These
parameters (configurable with Elster meter support software) include the following:
enable or disable per phase reverse power tests
absolute minimum current
per phase low currents
absolute maximum current
per phase leading and lagging power factor limits
System service error codes
When SE is shown on the LCD, the displayed quantity is a numeric code representing a
system service error. This indicates that there is a service problem detected by the
A1800 ALPHA meter. Table 4-3 and Table 4-4 show all possible system service error codes.
Table 4-3. System service voltage test error codes
Service error condition (SE)
Error code
Voltage phase
L1 L2 L3
Low nominal voltage on line 1 1 0 0 0 0 0
Low nominal voltage on line 2 0 1 0 0 0 0
Low nominal voltage on line 3 0 0 1 0 0 0
High nominal voltage on line 1 2 0 0 0 0 0
High nominal voltage on line 2 0 2 0 0 0 0
High nominal voltage on line 3 0 0 2 0 0 0
Unrecognized service 5 5 5 0 0 0
P +
L L L 1 2 3
Technical manual 4-11 Meter tools
Bad phase angle on line 1 8 0 0 0 0 0
Bad phase angle on line 2 0 8 0 0 0 0
Bad phase angle on line 3 0 0 8 0 0 0
Low voltage & bad phase angle on line 1 9 0 0 0 0 0
Low voltage & bad phase angle on line 2 0 9 0 0 0 0
Low voltage & bad phase angle on line 3 0 0 9 0 0 0
High voltage & bad phase angle on line 1 A 0 0 0 0 0
High voltage & bad phase angle on line 2 0 A 0 0 0 0
High voltage & bad phase angle on line 3 0 0 A 0 0 0
Table 4-4. System service current test error codes
Service error condition (SE)
Error code
Current phase
L1 L2 L3
Missing line 1 current 0 0 0 1 0 0
Missing line 2 current 0 0 0 0 1 0
Missing line 3 current 0 0 0 0 0 1
Low line 1 current 0 0 0 2 0 0
Low line 2 current 0 0 0 0 2 0
Low line 3 current 0 0 0 0 0 2
Missing and low current on line 1 0 0 0 3 0 0
Missing and low current on line 2 0 0 0 0 3 0
Missing and low current on line 3 0 0 0 0 0 3
Low PF on line 1 0 0 0 4 0 0
Low PF on line 2 0 0 0 0 4 0
Low PF on line 3 0 0 0 0 0 4
Reverse power on line 1 0 0 0 5 0 0
Reverse power on line 2 0 0 0 0 5 0
Reverse power on line 3 0 0 0 0 0 5
Low PF & low current on line 1 0 0 0 6 0 0
Low PF & low current on line 2 0 0 0 0 6 0
Low PF & low current on line 3 0 0 0 0 0 6
Reverse power & low current on line 1 0 0 0 7 0 0
Reverse power & low current on line 2 0 0 0 0 7 0
Reverse power & low current on line 3 0 0 0 0 0 7
Excess current on line 1 current 0 0 0 8 0 0
Table 4-3. System service voltage test error codes
Service error condition (SE)
Error code
Voltage phase
L1 L2 L3
Technical manual 4-12 Meter tools
If service current errors are present on more than one phase, a single error code is
displayed to represent all detected errors. For example, SE 000308 indicates missing
current on line 1 and excess current on line 3.
TRueQ monitoring
All A1800 ALPHA meters are equipped with the tamper restraint and quality (TRueQ)
monitoring features that can monitor circuit parameters on a cyclic basis, 24 hours a day
throughout the billing period. TRueQ tests may be turned on or off through Elster meter
support software.
TRueQ tests will recognize any deviation beyond the thresholds. When shipped, the meter
is stored with default values for the thresholds. Using Elster meter support software, these
thresholds can be edited.
Most TRueQ tests are performed individually so that circuit parameters are not being
monitored continuously. Each subsequent test will begin immediately after the previous
one has ended. The momentary voltage sag test, however, uses the per phase rms
voltage calculation which is part of the voltage sensing process within the meter engine.
The rms voltages are calculated once every 2 line cycles, so the momentary voltage sag
test is capable of recognizing any phase voltage deviation that remains below a specified
threshold for as few as 2 line cycles.
TRueQ timing
In addition to defining thresholds for each test, a minimum time may also be defined. Once
the monitored parameter falls outside the threshold and remains there longer than the
minimum time, the failure will be stored and the cumulative count will increment by one. A
cumulative timer will also be activated and will run for as long as the event is detected. The
cumulative count and timer for each test can be retrieved through Elster meter support
software.
TRueQ display items
The meter can be programmed to display a warning code on the LCD when a TRueQ test
fails. Warning codes can be enabled or disabled on a test-by-test basis using Elster meter
support software.
TRueQ and relays
If one or more relays are installed in the A1800 ALPHA meter, the relay can be
programmed to close when the failure occurs. When a failure condition is no long present,
the warning code will automatically clear; and any relays will open.
Excess current on line 2 current 0 0 0 0 8 0
Excess current on line 3 current 0 0 0 0 0 8
Excess current & low PF on line 1 0 0 0 C 0 0
Excess current & low PF on line 2 0 0 0 0 C 0
Excess current & low PF on line 3 0 0 0 0 0 C
Excess current & reverse power on line 1 0 0 0 d 0 0
Excess current & reverse power on line 2 0 0 0 0 d 0
Excess current & reverse power on line 3 0 0 0 0 0 d
Table 4-4. System service current test error codes
Service error condition (SE)
Error code
Current phase
L1 L2 L3
Technical manual 4-13 Meter tools
TRueQ log
All A1800 ALPHA meters record TRueQ events in the TRueQ log. Meters with TOU capability
will also record the date and time of any TRueQ failure in the TRueQ log. See TRueQ Log
on page 2-18 for more information about the TRueQ log.
A qualified TRueQ failure causes the W2 020000 warning code to be shown on
the LCD. See W2 020000: TRueQ test failure warning on page 6-7 for more
details.
Voltage sags
A momentary sag in voltage can reset process control equipment and computer systems.
The momentary voltage sag monitor watches for decreases in voltage that last for a
measured number of cycles. This monitor can detect any voltage decrease that falls below
a programmed threshold for as few as 2 line cycles. Threshold and duration are defined
using Elster meter support software.
The voltage sag threshold is defined as a percentage of the lowest nominal per phase
voltage and recommended to be in the range of 60 % to 99.9 %.
A sag is defined as a drop in phase voltage below the threshold for a duration greater
than the sag minimum time and less than the sag maximum time. If the condition exceeds
the maximum sag time, it will not be considered a sag event. The sag times can be
configured to a resolution of 8 milliseconds. The minimum time range can be from 32
milliseconds to 2.04 seconds. The maximum time range can be a time up to 546 seconds.
The potential indicators on the A1800 ALPHA meter LCD will indicate when voltage is below
the sag level threshold. When a phase voltage drops below the voltage sag threshold, the
corresponding potential indicator will blink.
Voltage sag counter and timer. Each phase voltage has a voltage sag counter and
timer associated with it. Each counter can accumulate up to 65,535 before rolling over to
zero. Each cumulative timer can record time for 414 days.
A voltage sag event is only counted if the voltage remains below the voltage sag threshold
for more than the minimum time and less than the maximum time. A voltage that remains
below the voltage sag threshold for longer than the maximum time is considered to be a
low voltage condition, and it is not counted by the momentary voltage sag monitor.
The counter and timer for each phase are maintained within the A1800 ALPHA meter
memory. These values can be reported and can be reset through Elster meter support
software.
See Voltage sag log on page 2-18 for more information about the log of momentary
voltage sag events.
TRueQ tests
TRueQ tests do not interfere with any meter functions related to energy measurement.
These tests run separately from the metering functions. Table 4-5 shows the available tests
for TRueQ, along with their description.
Table 4-5. TRueQ tests
TRueQ Test name Configuration based upon
Test 1 Service voltage test System service voltage test thresholds
Test 2 Low voltage test A specified low voltage threshold
Test 3 High voltage test A specified high voltage threshold
Technical manual 4-14 Meter tools
The following TRueQ tests are available on all A1800 ALPHA meters programmed with
Metercat release 2.3 or later:
Test 4 Reverse power test & PF Service current test thresholds
Test 5 Low current test Service current test thresholds
Test 6 Power factor (PF) A specified threshold for leading and
lagging
Test 7 Second harmonic current test A specified current threshold
Test 8 % Total harmonic distortion
(THD) current
Specified THD percentage
Test 9 % Total harmonic distortion
voltage
Specified THD percentage
Test 10 Voltage imbalance Minimum high voltage threshold and
imbalance threshold
Test 11 Current imbalance Minimum high current threshold and
imbalance threshold
Test 12 % total demand distortion
(TDD)
Specified TDD percentage
Table 4-6. Enhanced TRueQ tests
TRueQ Test name Configuration based upon
Test 13 Low voltage (Line 1) Specified low voltage threshold
Test 14 Low voltage (Line 2) Specified low voltage threshold
Test 15 Low voltage (Line 3) Specified low voltage threshold
Test 16 High voltage (Line 1) Specified high voltage threshold
Test 17 High voltage (Line 2) Specified high voltage threshold
Test 18 High voltage (Line 3) Specified high voltage threshold
Test 19 Low voltage and current
present (Line 1)
Specified thresholds for low voltage and
high current
Test 20 Low voltage and current
present (Line 2)
Specified thresholds for low voltage and
high current
Test 21 Low voltage and current
present (Line 3)
Specified thresholds for low voltage and
high current
Test 22 Current missing (Line 1) Specified thresholds for voltage and
current
Test 23 Current missing (Line 2) Specified thresholds for voltage and
current
Test 24 Current missing (Line 3) Specified thresholds for voltage and
current
Table 4-5. TRueQ tests
TRueQ Test name Configuration based upon
Technical manual 4-15 Meter tools
During the low current and reverse power and power factor tests, there will be
no event detected if all measured line currents drop below the absolute
minimum current threshold. An event will be detected if any single phase or two
phases drop below the programmed threshold for the qualification time. This
eliminates false detection when the load is dramatically reduced or turned off.
TRueQ event counters and timers. Each TRueQ test has its own event counter
associated with it. Each counter can accumulate to a maximum of 65,535 before rolling
over to zero. For each TRueQ test, an event occurring on one phase or across multiple
phases is counted as a single event. The momentary voltage sag monitor, however,
records counters and timers for each phase. See Voltage sag counter and timer on
page 4-13 for details.
The cumulative timer for each monitor can record time over 20 years. To increase the
cumulative counter or timer, the TRueQ test must fail for a period greater than the
qualification time. The cumulative timer includes the qualification time for the test (see
Figure 4-10). The qualification time is defined as zero to 60 minutes where zero causes the
event to be recognized immediately as it is detected.
Figure 4-10. Total TRueQ test failure time
An event ends when the condition is no longer present. If an event occurs but does not last
for the qualification time, then neither the counter nor timer will reflect the event having
occurred.
The counter and timer for each monitor are maintained within the A1800 ALPHA meter
memory. These values can be reported and can be reset through Elster meter support
software.
Time recorded by
meter
TRueQ
failure
Qualification
time
Remaining
time
Technical manual 4-16 Meter tools
Test 1 Name Service voltage test
Formula
Variable Based on service test thresholds
Default value Based on service test thresholds
Configuration based on System service voltage test thresholds
Description This test continually monitors service voltage. Voltage fluctuations outside the programmed limits are detected
and can indicate one of the following:
improper voltage transformer operation
inappropriate transformer tap settings
equipment failure
All voltage magnitudes and phase angles must fall within the thresholds for the locked service. The thresholds
are defined by the service voltage configuration. Programming the service voltage as a TRueQ test allows it to
continually run and create a log of the results.
Stored value None
Test 2 Name Low voltage test
Formula
Variable 0 % to 99.9 %
Default value 94.0 %
Configuration based on A specified low voltage threshold
Description This test checks the per phase voltages for values that fall below a specified limit. Each phase threshold can be
set individually and can be set at a value higher or lower than the limits selected for the service voltage test.
This allows a more thorough study of the voltage changes.
The threshold is defined as a percentage of the expected per phase nominal voltage (recommended to be in
the range of 60 % to 99.9 %). The percentage for each phase can be individually defined. The test fails if any
phase voltage exceeds the threshold.
Stored value Line 1 voltage (even if line 2 or line 3 causes the test to fail)
Test 3 Name High voltage test
Formula
Variable 100.1 % to 200.0 %
Default value 106.0 %
Configuration based on A specified high voltage threshold
Description This test checks the per phase voltages for values that exceed a specific limit. The threshold values can be set
at a value higher or lower than the limits selected for the service voltage test. This allows a more thorough
study of the voltage changes.
The threshold is defined as a percentage of the expected per phase nominal value. The percentage for each
phase can be individually defined. the test fails if any phase voltage exceeds the threshold.
Stored value Line 1 voltage (even if line 2 or line 3 causes the test to fail)
threshold voltage low Specified ) V or V or (V
L3 L2 L1
threshold voltage low Specified ) V or V or (V
L3 L2 L1
threshold voltage high Specified ) V or V or (V
L3 L2 L1
Technical manual 4-17 Meter tools
Test 4 Name Reverse power test and power factor test
Formula
Variable Based on service test thresholds
Default value Based on service test thresholds
Configuration based on Service current test thresholds
Description This test recognizes any condition where the current transformer may be wired incorrectly or where may
tampering may have occurred. The power factor (PF) threshold in this test is typically set to a very low value to
detect only abnormal conditions.
The PF thresholds are defined with the system service current test definition. Using the service current test
definition permits independent PF settings to be set for each service type. Each service type can have
individual leading and lagging thresholds.
Testing for reverse power can only be enabled or disabled for all phases simultaneously.
Stored value None
Test 5 Name Low current test
Formula
Variable Based on service test thresholds
Default value Based on service test thresholds
Configuration based on Service current test thresholds
Description This test checks the service current for values that fall below a specified limit. This test will check for erroneous
operation or failure of a current transformer and can detect signs of meter tampering. If all phase currents fall
below the limit on an initial no-load or test condition, then no warning or indication will be provided. A warning
will be issued when one or more phase currents fall below the threshold value for the qualification time while
the remaining phase currents stay above the limits.
This threshold is defined as a percentage of the A1800 ALPHA meter Class ampere rating from the system
service test definition. This percentage is applied on a per phase basis. The thresholds are defined by the
service current configuration.
Stored value None
Test 6 Name Power factor test
Formula
Variable 0.00 to 1.00 for minimum leading power factor (per phase)
0.00 to 1.00 for minimum lagging power factor (per phase)
Default value 0.20 for minimum leading power factor (per phase)
0.20 for minimum lagging power factor (per phase)
Configuration based on Specified thresholds for leading and lagging power factors
Description This test checks the power factor for any deviation beyond the programmed threshold. This monitor may be
used alone to monitor rate-based conditions or in conjunction with the reverse power test and PF monitor to
provide a more thorough analysis of power factor fluctuations.
The leading and lagging thresholds are individually defined for each phase. These settings may be different
than those defined in the service current configuration.
Stored value None
threshold current low Specified ) I or I or (I
L3 L2 L1
Technical manual 4-18 Meter tools
Test 7 Name Second harmonic current test
Formula
Variable 0.00 % to 100.00 %
Default value Transformer-rated: 2.50 % of Class amps (per phase)
Self-contained: 1.25 % of Class amps (per phase)
Configuration based on A specified current threshold
Description This test checks for the presence of second harmonic current. The second harmonic current may be created by
equipment on the line or may indicate the presence of DC on the system. The threshold is defined as values in
AC amperes according to the meter class. The test fails if any phase exceeds the threshold.
To prevent the monitor from creating a false alarm from legitimate second harmonic current sources, the
recommended qualification time is 15 minutes.
Stored value Line 1 second harmonic magnitude (even if line 2 or line 3 causes the test to fail)
Test 8 Name % total harmonic distortion current test
Formula
Variable 0.0 % to 99.9 % of the fundamental current
Default value 30.0 % of the fundamental current (per phase)
Configuration based on A specified THD percentage
Description As the load on electrical systems becomes more saturated with electronic control devices (such as computers
and communications systems), there is a growing concern with the harmonics that these devices can
contribute to the electrical system. Total harmonic distortion, expressed as a percentage of the fundamental, is
measurement of the power quality of the circuit under these conditions.
The total harmonic distortion current test measures the per phase THD current and can alert the utility to
conditions that may be harmful or dangerous to the system or other equipment. The threshold is defined as a
percentage of the fundamental. The thresholds are defined by the service voltage configuration. The test
phases if any phase exceeds the threshold.
Stored value Line 1 THD (even if line 2 or line 3 causes the test to fail)
Test 9 Name % total harmonic distortion voltage test
Formula
Variable 00.0% to 99.9 % of the fundamental voltage
Default value 30.0 % of the fundamental voltage (per phase)
Configuration based on A specified THD percentage
Description As the load on electrical systems becomes more saturated with electronic control devices (such as computers
and communications systems), there is a growing concern with the harmonics that these devices can
contribute to the electrical system. Total harmonic distortion, expressed as a percentage of the fundamental, is
a measurement of the power quality of the circuit under these conditions.
The total harmonic distortion voltage test measures per phase THD voltage and can alert the utility to
conditions that may be harmful or dangerous to the system or other equipment. The threshold is defined as a
percentage of the fundamental. The thresholds are defined by the service voltage configuration. The test fails if
any phase exceeds the threshold.
Stored value Line 1 THD voltage (even if line 2 or line 3 causes the test to fail)
threshold magnitue current harmonic 2 current harmonic 2
nd nd
<
threshold voltage high Specified I
and threshold voltage Specified V
L2
L2
<
Technical manual 4-23 Meter tools
Test 21 Name Low voltage and current present (Line 3)
Formula
Variable 0.0 % to 99.9 % of nominal for Line 3 voltage
0.0003 to 1000.0000 amperes for Line 3 current
Default value 78.0 % for voltage threshold
0.0015 amps for current threshold
Configuration based on Specified thresholds for voltage and current
Description This test checks voltage and current on Line 3 to detect possible theft or VT problems on Line 3. This test fails if
the following conditions are present:
Current on Line 3 is greater than a specified current threshold, and
Voltage on Line 3 is less than a specified voltage threshold
Stored value Line 3 voltage
Test 22 Name Current missing (Line 1)
Formula
Variable 5.0 % to 100.0 % of nominal for Line 1 voltage threshold
5.0 % to 100.0 % of nominal for Line 2 voltage threshold
5.0 % to 100.0 % of nominal for Line 3 voltage threshold
0.0003 A to 1000.0000 A for Line 1 current threshold
0.0010 A to 1000.0000 A for Line 2 current threshold
0.0010 A to 1000.000 A for Line 3 current threshold
Default value 60.0 % of nominal for Line 1 voltage threshold
60.0 % of nominal for Line 2 voltage threshold
60.0 % of nominal for Line 3 voltage threshold
0.0015 A for Line 1 current threshold
0.0750 A for Line 2 current threshold
0.0750 A for Line 3 current threshold
Configuration based on Specified thresholds for voltage and current
Description This test checks voltage and current on all phases to help detect possible theft or CT problems on Line 1. This
test fails if the following conditions are present:
Voltage is present on any phase, and
Current is at or above a specified threshold on Line 2 or Line 3, and
Current is below a specified threshold on LIne 1
Stored value Line 1 current
threshold current high Specified I
and threshold voltage Specified V
L3
L3
<
threshold current specified ) I or (I
and threshold current specified I
and threshold voltage specified ) V or V or (V
L3 L2
L1
L3 L2 L1
<
<
<
Pulse
On
Off
Pulse period Pulse period Pulse period
Pulse
On
Off
10 msec. 10 msec.
10 msec.
Pulse period Pulse period Pulse period
constant Relay
constant Pulse
divisor pulse Energy =
Technical manual 5-4 Outputs
The pulse constant (also known as the meter constant) for the A1800 ALPHA meter is as
follows:
For transformer rated meters: 40,000 pulses per kWh
For example, the desired relay constant is 1000 pulses per 1 kWh and the pulse
constant is 40,000 pulses per 1 kWh:
Using Elster meter support software, program the energy pulse divisor of 40 into the
meter.
Note: If the energy pulse divisor is not an integer, then the exact desired output is not
possible.
For direct connect-rated meters: 4000 pulses per kWh
For example, the desired relay constant is 1000 pulses per 1 kWh and the pulse
constant is 4000 pulses per 1 kWh:
Note: If the energy pulse divisor is not an integer, then the exact desired output is not
possible.
Using pulse value. Program the energy pulse value with a value between 0.000001 kWh
and 100 kWh to represent the amount of energy per pulse (in kilo units). For example, to
have one energy pulse represent 2 Wh (0.002 kWh), you would use an energy pulse value
of 0.002.
Note: The pulse value method is available from the Tools > System Preferences >
Programming Options command in Metercat.
Note: Elster recommends that the pulse value should not be used when verifying meter
accuracy. Use the pulse divisor method when verifying meter accuracy.
Relay-related alarms
The A1800 ALPHA meter periodically performs a self test to determine if it is operating
properly. If any errors are detected, the meter can respond in any or all of the following
ways:
display an error or a warning (see Codes and warnings on page 6-2)
initiate a telephone call using a modem
trigger a relay
See Table 5-2 for errors, warnings, and events that can trigger a relay.
Table 5-2. Errors, warnings, and events that can trigger a relay
Condition Description
Carryover error See E1 000001: Carryover error on page 6-3.
Clock error See E3 030000: Clock error on page 6-5.
Crystal oscillator error See E1 000010: Crystal oscillator error on page 6-4.
Demand overload warning See W1 100000: Demand overload warning on
page 6-7
EEPROM access error See E1 010000: EEPROM access error on page 6-4.
End of calendar warning See W2 200000: End of calendar warning on
page 6-8.
40
1000
40000
divisor pulse Energy = =
4
1000
4000
divisor pulse Energy = =
Technical manual 5-5 Outputs
Event log wrap event The event log has exceeded the maximum number of
entries, and the oldest records will be overwritten.
General configuration error See E1 100000: General configuration error on
page 6-4.
History log wrap warning The history log has exceeded the maximum number
of entries. Depending on programming, the meter will
either lock the history log or start overwriting the
oldest records. If the history log is locked, no further
changes to the meter are allowed until the history log
has been read.
Improper meter engine
operation warning
See W1 000010: Improper meter engine operation
warning on page 6-6
Instrumentation profiling set 1
wrap imminent event
Set 1 of the instrumentation profiling log is within 2
days of overflowing. Data will be lost if the
instrumentation profiling log is not read within 2 days.
Instrumentation profiling set 2
wrap imminent event
Set 2 of the instrumentation profiling log is within 2
days of overflowing. Data will be lost if the
instrumentation profiling log is not read within 2 days.
Internal communication error See E1 001000: Internal communication error on
page 6-4.
Low battery warning See W1 000001: Low battery warning on page 6-6.
Possible tamper warning This condition indicates possible tampering of the
meter because a specified number of invalid
passwords used to access the meter has been used
(called tamper detect warning in this manual). This
condition does not generate an error or warning code
on the LCD.
Potential indicator warning See W1 010000: Potential indicator warning on
page 6-7.
Power fail data save error See E2 200000: Power fail data save error on
page 6-5.
Pulse profiling wrap imminent
event
The pulse profiling log is within 2 days of overflowing.
Data will be lost if the pulse profiling log is not read
within 2 days.
Rate override warning The current TOU rate is being overridden by the
alternate TOU rate schedule.
Reverse energy flow warning See W1 000100: Reverse energy flow warning on
page 6-7.
Service current test failure
warning
See W2 000002: Service current test failure warning
on page 6-7.
Service voltage test failure
warning
The service voltage test was unable to find a valid
service or the measured service does not match the
locked service.
Table 5-2. Errors, warnings, and events that can trigger a relay
Condition Description
Technical manual 5-6 Outputs
LED pulse outputs
The A1800 ALPHA meter has two energy light emitting diodes (LEDs), which are
permanently configured as follows:
active LED - indicates active (Wh) energy import or export
alternate LED - indicates alternate (varh/VAh) energy import or export
The LEDs emit pulse outputs that can be used to test the A1800 ALPHA meter in the field
without removing the meter from service or breaking the seal.
Figure 5-5. LEDs
Output specifications
The LEDs support up to 120 pulses per second.The pulse width is fixed at 8 msec.
Depending on the operating mode of the meter, the LEDs are programmed at the factory to
emit a pulse as follows:
For alternate pulse rates, contact your Elster representative.
Table 5-3. Transformer rated meter LED output specifications
Operating mode Pulse rate Pulse divisor
Normal 5000 pulses/kWh or 5000 pulses/kvarh 8
Alternate 5000 pulses/kWh or 5000 pulses/kvar 8
Test 40,000 pulses/kWh or 40,000 pulses/kvarh 1
Table 5-4. Direct connect-rated meter LED output specification
Operating mode Pulse rate Pulse divisor
Normal 500 pulses/kWh or 1000 pulses/kvarh 8
Alternate 500 pulses/kWh or 1000 pulses/kvarh 8
Test 4000 pulses/kWh or 4000 pulses/kvarh 1
Active energy LED
Alternate energy LED
Technical manual 6-1 Testing
6 Testing
A1800 ALPHA meters are factory calibrated and tested to provide years of trouble-free
service. No field calibrations or adjustments are required to ensure accurate operation of
the meter. It is normal, however, to test installed A1800 ALPHA meters periodically to
ensure accurate billing.
The A1800 ALPHA meter performs its own self tests. Additionally, the system
instrumentation and TRueQ features provide valuable information about the meter service.
See Chapter 4, Meter tools, for more information about the instrumentation and power
quality features of the meter.
Testing procedures are the same regardless of the type of meter being tested.
Meter self test
The A1800 ALPHA meter periodically performs a self test to determine if it is operating
properly. The self test ensures that the A1800 ALPHA meter is functioning properly and its
displayed quantities are accurate. Any errors encountered will be displayed on the LCD.
Certain errors may also initiate a telephone call via a modem or trigger a relay.
For LCD errors and warnings, see Codes and warnings on page 6-2.
For relay alarms, see Relay-related alarms on page 5-4.
The meter self test will be performed automatically under the following conditions:
when the meter is initially installed and after any power restoration
at midnight
immediately after a data-altering communication session
The self test incorporates a series of electronic analyses verifying many aspects of the
A1800 ALPHA meter. Continuity checks and communications checks are made between
various key circuits of the electronics, and parity checks are made of memory and data
locations. After the meter passes its self test upon power restoration, all of the LCD
segments will be turned on briefly before beginning the normal display sequence. The
following is a list of the specific tests performed during a self test:
verification of the configuration data and checksums
confirmation of the crystal oscillator accuracy
detection of low battery voltage
detection of low Read without Power battery voltage
maximum lifetime usage of the Read without Power battery
verification of normal microcontroller function
detection of unexpected meter engine resets (for multiple tariff configurations)
detection and identification of user-defined warning conditions
Technical manual 6-2 Testing
Codes and warnings
There are 3 types of codes:
error codes
warning codes
communication codes
The A1800 ALPHA meter displays error codes and warnings as an indication of a problem
that may be adversely affecting its operation. The meter will continue to function as
normally as possible when displaying an error or warning. The and RESET buttons
operate differently if an error or warning is displayed. See Push buttons on page 3-4 for
information on how the push buttons operate when an error or warning is displayed.
Error codes indicate conditions that may be affecting billing data. It is not recommended to
operate the A1800 ALPHA meter for an extended time when it is displaying an error code.
Warning codes indicate conditions that may be of concern but do not affect the integrity of
billing data.
Communication codes generally indicate a condition affecting communications with the
meter through the optical port or remote port. Not all communication codes indicate
potential problems; some codes provide an indication of the present communication
process.
Error codes. Error codes override any other item that is being displayed on the LCD. Using
Elster support software, error codes can be configured to lock the display, preventing
other items from being displayed, and the error indicator turns on. There are exceptions to
errors locking the display:
The normal and alternate display sequence can be viewed even when an error code
locks the display. See button on page 3-5 for more information.
Warning codes can be programmed to display an error code. When the condition
causing the warning code is clear, the error code is no longer displayed. See E3
300000: Display locked by warning on page 6-5 for more information.
Communication codes are temporarily displayed on the LCD even when the LCD is locked
by an error code. After the communication code clears, LCD returns to showing the error
code.
Error codes are indicated on the LCD by a group code and a numerical code. The group
code makes it easier to identify the error on the LCD. The numerical code indicates the
specific condition that has occurred. See Figure 6-1 for a sample error code displayed on
the meter LCD. Table 6-1 through Table 6-3 describe the different error conditions and their
codes.
Figure 6-1. Sample error code displayed on the LCD
P +
L L L 1 2 3
Technical manual 6-3 Testing
Error codes of the same group are displayed in combination (E1 001010, for example),
indicating that more than one error condition has been detected. If errors exist in more
than one group, the meter will continually cycle through the different groups. Any
problems must be corrected before normal operation can continue. In some cases, the
meter may need to be reprogrammed or returned to the factory for repair or replacement.
E1 000001: Carryover error. This code indicates a failure of a RAM checksum test on data
stored in the meters volatile RAM during a power outage. When a loss of line voltage
occurs, the meters RAM is maintained by the super capacitor and the TOU battery. If both
of these fail, the data stored in RAM is lost. Billing data is stored in nonvolatile EEPROM and
will still be available.
1
The push buttons and communications ports will function normally.
Since shipping can take several days, this error will likely be seen on meters
shipped without a connected battery.
The meter battery may need to be replaced, and the error will need to be reset through
Elster meter support software. If the error code is still shown after using Elster meter
support software, the meter must be returned to the factory for repair or replacement.
Table 6-1. Group E1 error conditions and codes
Condition Code
Carryover error 0 0 0 0 0 1
Crystal oscillator error 0 0 0 0 1 0
Table CRC error 0 0 0 1 0 0
Internal communication error 0 0 1 0 0 0
EEPROM access error 0 1 0 0 0 0
General configuration error 1 0 0 0 0 0
Table 6-2. Group E2 error conditions and codes
Condition Code
Security configuration error 0 0 0 0 0 2
Password table CRC error 0 0 0 0 2 0
Encryption key table CRC error 0 0 0 2 0 0
ROM fail error 0 2 0 0 0 0
Power fail data save error 2 0 0 0 0 0
Table 6-3. Group E3 error conditions and codes
Condition Code
Clock error 0 3 0 0 0 0
Display locked by warning 3 0 0 0 0 0
1
Billing data is always stored in nonvolatile memory. Depending on meter configuration, other data may be stored in RAM,
which uses a battery to preserve memory. If the battery fails, this data would be lost.
Technical manual 6-4 Testing
E1 000010: Crystal oscillator error. This codes indicates a problem with the crystal oscillator.
The A1800 ALPHA meter must be returned to the factory for repair or replacement.
E1 000100: Table CRC error. This code indicates a possible error in the A1800 ALPHA
meters programming. This code might appear if a communications interruption occurs
during meter programming. Depending on which area of the meter is affected, billing data
may not be reliably accumulated while this error condition exists. The push buttons and
optical port will continue to function normally.
Reprogramming the meter with Elster meter support software may correct the problem. If
the error code is displayed after reprogramming, the A1800 ALPHA meter should be
returned to the factory for repair or replacement.
E1 001000: Internal communication error. This code indicates the meter had an internal
communication error. The A1800 ALPHA meter must be returned to the factory for repair or
replacement.
E1 010000: EEPROM access error. This code indicates the meter had a problem accessing
its nonvolatile EEPROM. The A1800 ALPHA meter should be returned to the factory for
repair or replacement.
E1 100000: General configuration error. This code indicates a problem with the meters
configuration or program. The meter can usually be reprogrammed using Elster meter
support software to correct the errors.
E2 000002: Security configuration error. This code indicates an error is present in the
meters security configuration. Contact Elster if this error is displayed on the LCD.
If this error occurs, the meter is vulnerable to tampering. Prompt correction of the
error will maximize the A1800 ALPHA meters security protection.
E2 000020: Password table CRC error. This code indicates a CRC error is present in the
meters ANSI C12.21 password configuration table. Contact Elster if this error is displayed
on the LCD.
If this error occurs, the meter is vulnerable to tampering. Prompt correction of the
error will maximize the A1800 ALPHA meters security protection.
E2 000200: Encryption key table CRC error. This code indicates a CRC error is present in the
meters ANSI C12.19 encryption key configuration table. Encryption keys are used for secure
access to the meters data and configuration through the remote communication port.
Contact Elster if this error is displayed on the LCD.
If this error occurs, the meter is vulnerable to tampering. Prompt correction of the
error will maximize the A1800 ALPHA meters security protection.
E2 020000: ROM fail error. This code indicates an incomplete attempt to flash the meter
firmware. This code will exist on the meter if Elster firmware flash software did not
complete the upgrade process. All meter functionality is halted until this error is resolved.
Use Elster firmware flash software to attempt repair. If this fails, the meter must be returned
to the factory for repair or replacement.
Technical manual 6-5 Testing
E2 200000: Power fail data save error. This code indicates that the data saved in the
nonvolatile EEPROM during a power fail may be invalid. This error will be displayed when
power is restored to the meter, and a self check has discovered an error with the EEPROM
data. The A1800 ALPHA meter must be returned to the factory for repair or replacement.
E3 030000: Clock error. This code indicates an error with the meters timekeeping ability.
When a carryover error occurs (see E1 000001: Carryover error on page 6-3), reference to
real time is lost. The meter battery may need to be replaced, and the error will need to be
reset through Elster meter support software. If the error code is still present, the meter must
be returned to the factory for repair or replacement.
TOU features cannot be performed when time is lost. Previously accumulated data is
stored in nonvolatile EEPROM and will still be available.
E3 300000: Display locked by warning. This code indicates that one or more warning
codes (see Warning codes on page 6-5) has locked the display. The A1800 ALPHA meter
can be programmed to lock the display if a warning condition is present. Elster meter
support software is used to select the individual warnings that will cause this error code to
display. If the condition causing the warning clears, the error code will also clear.
Warning codes. Warning codes indicate conditions of concern that do not yet affect the
integrity of billing data. When the condition is present, a warning code is automatically
inserted as the last item in the normal and alternate display sequences. When the
condition clears, the warning code, is removed from the display sequence. Elster meter
support software can be used to select individual warnings that will lock the display as an
error. See Error codes on page 6-2 for more information.
Warning codes are indicated on the LCD by a group code and a numerical code. The
group code makes it easier to identify the error on the LCD. The numeric code indicates the
specific condition that has occurred. See Figure 6-2 for a sample warning code displayed
on the LCD. Table 6-4 and Table 6-5 describe the different warning conditions and their
codes.
Figure 6-2. Sample warning code
Table 6-4. Group W1 warning codes
Condition Code
Low battery warning 0 0 0 0 0 1
Improper meter engine operation
warning
0 0 0 0 1 0
Reverse energy flow warning 0 0 0 1 0 0
Potential indicator warning 0 1 0 0 0 0
Demand overload warning 1 0 0 0 0 0
P +
L L L 1 2 3
Technical manual 6-6 Testing
Warning codes of the same group are displayed in combination (for example,
W2 202000), indicating that one or more warning conditions are present. If warnings
exist in more than one group, the meter displays each group at the end of the display
sequence before returning to the first item in the display sequence.
W1 000001: Low battery warning. This warning code indicates a low battery voltage or
missing battery. A1800 ALPHA meters having realtime TOU functionality require a battery to
maintain date and time over an extended power outage.
For timekeeping configurations, the meter should be de-energized and the battery should
be replaced. Once the new battery has been installed and the meter is energized, the
code is automatically cleared. See Removing the battery on page 7-6 and Installing a
TOU battery on page 7-3 for instructions on replacing batteries.
Note: In addition, the low battery indicator will display on the LCD (see Low battery
indicator on page 3-3).
W1 000010: Improper meter engine operation warning. This code indicates that the meter
engine program may be corrupt or is not executing correctly. This warning condition is
typically triggered when the microcontroller reinitializes the meter engine. An unstable or
noisy electrical environment at the A1800 ALPHA meter installation can interfere with this
operation.
If the meter engine is successfully reinitialized, then the warning code will be automatically
cleared from the LCD. If the code continues to be displayed on the LCD, the A1800 ALPHA
meter should be returned to the factory for repair or replacement.
Table 6-5. Group W2 warning codes
Condition Code
Service current test failure
warning
0 0 0 0 0 2
Demand threshold exceeded
warning
0 0 0 2 0 0
Line frequency warning 0 0 2 0 0 0
TRueQ test failure warning 0 2 0 0 0 0
End of calendar warning 2 0 0 0 0 0
Table 6-6. Group W3 warning codes
Condition Code
Read without Power battery
discharged
0 0 0 0 0 3
Read without Power mode active 0 0 0 0 3 0
Technical manual 6-7 Testing
W1 000100: Reverse energy flow warning. This warning code indicates that reverse energy
flow has been detected equivalent to twice the K
h
since the last reset. It may be an
indication of tampering with the A1800 ALPHA meter installation. If reverse energy flow is
expected, then this warning code can be disabled through Elster meter support software. If
the service being metered is not expected to return energy to the utility, further
investigation is required. In some cases, it may be necessary to return the A1800 ALPHA
meter to the factory for repair or replacement.
The code is cleared by these methods:
performing a demand reset
issuing the clear values and status command through Elster meter support software
W1 010000: Potential indicator warning. This code indicates that one or more of the phase
potentials are missing or below the defined threshold for voltage sag detection. This code
will display at the same time as one or more of the potential indicators blink. See Phase
indicators on page 3-2 and Voltage sags on page 4-13 for more details on potential
indicators and voltage sags.
The code is automatically cleared when the phase potential returns a value within the
programmed thresholds.
W1 100000: Demand overload warning. This code indicates that the demand value
exceeded the programmed overload value. It is generally intended to inform a utility when
the installation is requiring more power than the service equipment was originally
designed to handle.
If the demand overload value has been set lower than appropriate for the installation, the
A1800 ALPHA meter may be reprogrammed with a higher threshold value.
The code is cleared by these methods:
performing a demand reset
issuing the clear values and status command through Elster meter support software
W2 000002: Service current test failure warning. This code indicates that the most recently
performed service current test has failed. See Service current test on page 4-9 for more
information.
The code is cleared by these methods:
the service current test is performed again and the test does not fail
issuing the clear values and status command through Elster meter support software
W2 000200: Demand threshold exceeded warning. This code indicates that the demand
has exceeded one of the programmed demand thresholds. This warning follows the state
of any relay programmed for demand threshold operation. It is set once the demand
threshold has been exceeded and only cleared after one complete demand interval
during which the threshold is not exceeded.
W2 002000: Line frequency warning. If a meter is configured to use the line frequency
instead of the crystal oscillator as the time base, this code indicates that the line frequency
is off by 5 % of its programmed setting. When this condition occurs, the meter switches
timekeeping to the crystal oscillator.
The code will be automatically cleared once the line frequency returns to within 5 % of the
nominal frequency. This warning will never appear on meters configured for constant
timekeeping operation from the internal crystal.
W2 020000: TRueQ test failure warning. This code indicates that one or more TRueQ tests
have detected a value outside the programmed thresholds. Use the meter system
instrumentation displays or Elster meter support software to gain additional information on
the specific TRueQ test causing the problem.
The code will be automatically cleared once TRueQ conditions return to a value within the
programmed thresholds.
Technical manual 6-8 Testing
W2 200000: End of calendar warning. This code indicates that the meter calendar has
expired or is about to expire. The date at which this code appears is configurable using
Elster meter support software. Program a new calendar using Elster meter support
software.
The code is cleared by these methods:
performing a demand reset
issuing the clear values and status command through Elster meter support software
W3 000003: Read without Power battery discharged. This code indicates that the Read
without Power battery, which is used only to enable the Read without Power mode during
an outage, failed the meters most recent self test. The Read without Power battery fails if
the meter self test detects that the batterys voltage is below the minimum threshold or the
battery has exceeded its maximum lifetime usage time. The meter will not enter Read
without Power mode if this warning is displayed. Contact Elster if this warning appears on
the display.
W3 000030: Read without Power mode active. This code indicates that the meter is
operating in the Read without Power mode. The meter has limited functionality while in this
mode (see Read without Power mode on page 3-9 for more information). This code is
cleared automatically when the meter exits the Read without Power mode.
Communication codes. Communication codes temporarily override any other item that
is being displayed on the LCD (including error codes). Communication codes are indicated
on the LCD by a port code and a numerical code. The port code identifies the affected port.
The numerical code indicates the status of the communication session. See Figure 6-3 for
a sample communication code displayed on the meters LCD. See Table 6-7 for the
communication codes that can be displayed.
Figure 6-3. Sample communication code
For most communication errors, Elster recommends you attempt the communication
again. You may need to cycle power to the A1800 ALPHA meter or to reattempt the Elster
meter support software function. If communication errors persist, return the meter to the
factory for repair or replacement.
Table 6-7. Communication codes
Condition Code
CRC error C 0 0 1 0 1
Syntax error C 0 0 1 0 3
Framing error C 0 0 1 0 4
Timeout error C 0 0 1 0 5
P +
L L L 1 2 3
Technical manual 6-9 Testing
Meter shop testing
Test equipment
Typically, meter shops develop testing procedures specific to their own needs and have the
test equipment needed. Below is a list of standard test equipment required for testing the
A1800 ALPHA meter:
a stable mounting fixture for the meter and a means to temporarily make the proper
power connections to the meter
a reliable power supply that should be able to do the following:
provide a voltage source for energizing the meter at its rated voltage (if desired,
the meter can be tested using a lower source voltage if that voltage is within the
wide operating voltage range of the A1800 ALPHA meter)
provide a variable load current at unity power factor (PF)
provide a variable load current at a lagging power factor for varh testing; the
power supply should be capable of delivering load current at PF = 0.0 (90
lagging) or PF = 0.5 (60 lagging)
a precision Wh reference standard with 0.002 % accuracy
a precision varh reference standard with 0.002 % accuracy
a phantom load device or other loading circuit capable of handling the test
current
one of the following:
a photoelectric pickup to sense test pulses from the LED and a device capable of
counting pulses
a low voltage (12 VDC to 24 VDC), low-power pulse sensor to capture and count
pulses from the meter output relay (the pulse sensor should provide a low voltage
source to the pulsing relay as well as detect and count contact closures of the
output relay)
test equipment for measuring, counting, and timing pulse outputs
control equipment that can provide switching between the meter source voltage and
precision reference standard
precision voltage and current transformers
voltmeters, ammeters, phase angle meters, power factor meters, and any other
measuring equipment that might be required
Test setup
Before testing the A1800 ALPHA meter, check the nameplate for the following:
Meter class for expected accuracy
Test amperes (I
n
or I
b
)
The specific test ampere value is not critical as long as the applied current does not
exceed the I
max
current rating of the meter. Normally, a value of approximately 20 %
to 25 % of I
max
is used for basic tests, with additional test points at 5 %, 10 %, and
100 % of I
max
also required by most legal authorities.
Note: The A1800 ALPHA meter has a flat, linear load curve accuracy response. Therefore,
when allowed by local legislation, meter accuracy testing can be accomplished by
checking the meter accuracy at two typical points. For example, test the meter with
In equal to 10 % of I
max
, at both 100 % and 20 % PF. Historical data from testing the
A1800 ALPHA meter confirms that if these test points are within the required
accuracy, the entire range of loads is within the required accuracy.
Operating voltage range
Any other important specifications for the meter being tested
Technical manual 6-10 Testing
Risk of personal injury or death!
Use only authorized personnel and proper test procedures to test metering
equipment. Dangerous voltages are present. Personal injury, death, or
equipment damage can result if safety precautions are not followed.
To set up the A1800 ALPHA meter for testing:
1. Install the meter in the stable mounting fixture.
2. Place the precision Wh or varh reference standard and precision voltage and current
transformers (as required) in series with the meter being tested.
If voltage transformers are not required, then the meter source voltage should be
placed in parallel with the Wh or VARh reference standards. See Appendix D, Wiring
diagrams, for appropriate wiring diagrams for the A1800 ALPHA meter.
3. Connect the control equipment for switching the source voltage to the precision
reference standard.
4. Connect the measuring equipment for counting the standards output pulses.
5. Apply the rated test current and voltage to the terminals of the meter.
Meter testing
Since no adjustments are required for the A1800 ALPHA meter in the field, meter testing is
done primarily to verify that the meter is operating within its specifications. Typically, meter
specifications are verified by checking the meter calibration. The accuracy of the
A1800 ALPHA meter remains consistent over a wide range of ambient temperatures.
Nevertheless, for precise test results, meters should be tested in an environment where the
meter and test equipment are at the same ambient temperature, ideally 22 C (72 F).
The test voltage should be applied to the meter for at least ten seconds prior to making test
measurements. This allows the power supply circuitry to stabilize. When testing meters for
Class 0.2 accuracy, a test cycle time of at least one minute is recommended at I
n
and with
PF = 1.0. When using current values lower than I
n
for testing, test errors may occur because
not enough time is allowed for the test. When using a lower test I
n
, increase the test time
proportionally.
The preferred test method is to apply full 3-phase voltage and current to both the meter
and the precision reference standard. Nevertheless, if required, polyphase meters can be
tested with single phase loading. Single phase loading is done by connecting the voltage
inputs in parallel and the current sensors in series to combine element operation. The
accuracy test results for single phase and polyphase loading will be virtually identical and
well within A1800 ALPHA meter specifications.
Using relay outputs for testing. The relay outputs can be used instead of the LED to test
meter calibration. To do so, the relay outputs need to be configured for pulse output. When
using the relay outputs for testing, testing time should exceed 20 seconds for accurate
results at normal test current values of I
b
or I
n
. If more accurate testing is required, use
longer testing times. If precision testing is required, testing times should be as long as it
takes to attain a stable accuracy level when comparing the meter under test to the
precision standard. The testing time may vary because of the characteristics of the
precision reference standard and the amount of power flowing through the test circuits.
Some experimentation may be required to determine the testing time needed to reach a
stable accuracy level.
Using LCD pulse count for testing. For test shops that do not have photoelectric pulse
sensors and related counters and do not want to use relay outputs for testing, the LCD can
provide a pulse count that reflects the energy measured during a test. Use the LCD pulse
count to determine the energy measured during the test cycle and compare it with the
energy delivered by precision reference standard.
Technical manual 6-11 Testing
Wiring a portable device into an energized metering circuit must be done with
extreme care, using only authorized procedures. If high voltage connected
current transformers are accidentally open circuited, the voltages at the
secondary open terminals can rise to the primary voltage level, creating an
extremely hazardous condition, leading to possible property damage, personnel
injury or death.
To test the meter using the LCD pulse count, the meter display must be configured to
display a test pulse count. Use the Elster meter support software to communicate to the
meter through the optical port and place it in test mode. In test mode, the LCD display can
be cycled to display the pulse count accumulated during a test cycle. After meter testing is
complete, use the meter software to restore the meter to normal mode.
If a meter is programmed to display energy pulse counts when it is in the alternate display
mode, a similar procedure also can be used to test a meter while it is in service at a
customer site. When testing a meter in service, follow the safety procedures specified by
the utility. Wire a portable precision reference standard into the circuit in series with the
billing meter. After the portable precision reference standard is in the circuit, the energy
value determined from the pulse count displayed on the LCD over the test interval can be
compared with the energy value displayed on the portable reference standard. If this test
method is used while the meter is in alternate mode, any energy consumed by the
customer during the test is registered in the normal manner.
Technical manual 6-12 Testing
Technical manual 7-1 Installation and removal
7 Installation and removal
Preliminary inspection
Circuit-closing devices must be used on current transformer secondaries.
Dangerous currents and voltages are present if secondaries are open-circuited.
Equipment damage, personal injury, or death can result if circuit-closing devices
are not used.
The A1800 ALPHA meter is calibrated and tested at the factory, and it is ready for
installation. Follow proper installation and removal procedures for personal safety and
protection of the meter.
Before installing and applying power to the A1800 ALPHA meter, a quick inspection of the
meter itself is recommended. Check for some of the following items:
no broken or missing parts
no missing or broken wiring
no bent or cracked components
no evidence of overheating
check the nameplate to make sure it is appropriate for the service
Physical damage to the outside of the A1800 ALPHA meter could indicate potential
electronic damage in the inside of the meter. Do not connect power to a meter that is
suspected to have unknown internal damage. Contact your local Elster representative if
you suspect your meter may be damaged.
Placing the meter into service
See Appendix D, Wiring diagrams, for illustrations of both internal and connection wiring
diagrams.
Circuit-closing devices must be used on current transformer secondaries.
Dangerous currents and voltages are present if secondaries are open-circuited.
Personal injury, death, or equipment damage can result if circuit-closing devices
are not used.
Technical manual 7-2 Installation and removal
Make sure to install the correct meter for the service type, maximum current, and
capacity required. Always verify that the maximum meter voltage and current
ratings are equal to or greater than the maximum service voltage and current.
Installing inappropriate meters can damage equipment.
To use the A1800 ALPHA meter effectively and safely, follow this procedure:
1. Make sure that the meter hanger, located on the base of the A1800 ALPHA meter, is
in the desired position. Sliding the hanger down to the hidden position will hide the
top supporting screw.
2. Use at least an M6 screw for the top supporting position and hang the meter on it,
making sure it is level. The meter will operate correctly in any position, but failing to
mount the meter in a proper vertical position will place the other mounting holes at
the wrong place on the mounting panel.
3. Use at least an M6 screw in each of the bottom supporting screws to secure the
A1800 ALPHA meter enclosure; the mounting holes are 7.1 mm (0.28 inches) in
diameter.
Before wiring the meter into the power circuit, use authorized utility procedures
to install proper ground connections on all appropriate VT and CT circuits and on
the meter ground terminals. Also, be certain that CTs on energized lines are
securely short-circuited either with circuit-closing test switches or with properly
installed conductors. Dangerous voltages can be present. Personal injury, death,
or equipment damage can result from wiring an ungrounded meter or
mishandling improperly grounded metering transformer circuits.
4. Install the ground connections.
A1800 ALPHA meter terminals are designed for optimum use with copper wiring.
For direct connect-rated meters, aluminum wiring can be used but if so, it is
extremely important to use proper aluminum wiring practices. Aluminum wiring
compound or wiring paste (grease) should be used when attaching the bottom-
connected terminals. Tighten the connections, allow them to relax for a few
minutes, then tighten them again. This will minimize the cold-flow effects of
aluminum cable. Failure to observe correct practices for installing aluminum
wiring could lead to overheating of the terminals, equipment failures, or
damaging fires. Where possible, Elster recommends copper-compatible meter
terminals and aluminum wire. Such adapters also can provide for use or larger
aluminum conductors that can be otherwise used in the terminals of the
A1800 ALPHA meter.
5. Ensure that primary or system voltages are either disconnected from a power source
or that utility safety practices for handling live circuits are strictly followed.
6. If applicable, ensure that any current transformers are de-energized with no high-
voltage primary voltage connected to their primaries and no primary current
circulating through them. If primary current and voltage are present in the current
transformers, it is extremely important to verify that safety shorting connections are in
Technical manual 7-3 Installation and removal
place on all secondary winding connections prior to handling CT connections to the
meter.
7. Wire the meter using color-coded wire according to locally applicable specifications.
The terminal block dimensions on the A1800 ALPHA meter support cable sizes of
approximately 5 mm in diameter for transformer rated connections (10 mm in
diameter for direct connect).
Standard wiring diagrams are shown in Appendix D, Wiring diagrams.
8. After wiring the meter and making any communication and relay connections,
assemble the terminal cover and apply power.
For information on communication and relay connections, see Chapter 5, Outputs.
Figure 7-1. A1800 ALPHA meter mounting screw locations
Installing a TOU battery
The TOU battery is replaceable without breaking the meter seal. Use only Elster-
recommended TOU batteries. See your Elster representative for details.
The meter should be de-energized before installing the battery. Dangerous
voltages are present; and equipment damage, personal injury, or death can
result if safety precautions are not followed. Use authorized procedures to install
the battery while power is removed from the meter.
Before installing the battery, the A1800 ALPHA meter must have been energized for at least
1 minute within the preceding 60 minutes. This ensures that the supercapacitor is properly
charged and that the battery is not immediately drained upon installation. If this is not
done, then the battery may be damaged and the meter may not function correctly. While
the meter is powered, verify that the LCD is active and functioning.
Hanger screw mount
Screw mounts
Technical manual 7-4 Installation and removal
To install the battery:
1. If the meter has not been energized for at least 1 minute during the previous 60
minutes, energize the meter for 1 minute.
If the meter has been energized for at least 1 minute during the previous 60 minutes,
proceed to step 2.
2. De-energize the meter.
3. Remove the terminal cover screws and seals.
4. Remove the terminal cover to expose the battery well.
Figure 7-2. Battery well and connector
5. Slide the battery leads into the connector to the right of the battery well.
6. Place the battery firmly in the battery well.
7. Replace the terminal cover.
8. Energize the meter and verify that the LCD becomes active and functioning properly.
Verify that the low battery symbol on the meter LCD is not displayed. See Indicators
and controls on page 3-1 for details.
9. Replace the terminal cover screws and seals.
10. Reprogram the meter or clear the errors (as necessary).
Troubleshooting.
Not following this procedure can cause the meter to function improperly. In case
a battery has been installed correctly and the meter is not functioning properly (for
example, display is blank but the meter is powered), use the following procedure.
1. De-energize the meter and let it sit without power for 48 to 72 hours. This provides
sufficient time for the supercapacitor to discharge and for the microcontroller to shut
down.
1
2. Energize the meter for at least 1 minute. The microcontroller should power up
correctly and the supercapacitor will charge. Verify that the LCD becomes active and
functioning correctly.
3. De-energize the meter and insert the battery, following the instructions earlier in this
section.
If the meter still does not function properly, then it should be returned to the factory.
1
If the battery was installed with the polarity reversed, the battery should not be damaged. If the battery was installed without
having the meter properly energized, then the battery will lose approximately 8.5 % of its service life each day.
TOU battery
Technical manual 7-5 Installation and removal
Initial setup
After installing and powering the A1800 ALPHA meter, verify the following:
The system service voltage test (if enabled) shows the valid service for this
installation. The phase rotation, service voltage, and service type should be indicated
on the LCD. Other validation information can be obtained using the system
instrumentation display quantities.
All potential indicators (from L1 to L3 depending on the wiring) are present and are
not blinking. A blinking indicator means that the phase is missing the required
voltage or is below the programmed minimum voltage threshold value.
The LEDs are blinking and the energy direction indicators on the LCD show the correct
energy flow direction.
Required meter seals are in place.
Any information (such as registration and location of the meter) has been recorded.
If the meter is not working correctly after it has been installed, then check for
improper installation or wiring. If the installation and wiring are correct, then verify
these other areas:
the meter installation matches the meter nameplate
the correct type of A1800 ALPHA meter is installed in the existing service
no evidence of mechanical or electrical damage to either the meter or the installation
location
the service voltage falls within the operating range as indicated on the nameplate
the optical port is free of dirt or other obstructions
Marking the utility information card
The utility information card can be removed without breaking seals and removing the
meter cover screws. Note that the direct connect meter uses a blank card.
To remove the utility information:
1. Remove the terminal cover as described above.
2. Grasp the protruding utility information card tab firmly and pull the card out slowly
from under the meter cover.
3. Mark the card as needed.
Figure 7-3. Removing the utility information card
Technical manual 7-6 Installation and removal
Removing the meter from service
Use the appropriate procedure when removing an A1800 ALPHA meter from service.
Use authorized utility procedures to remove metering equipment. Dangerous
voltages are present, and equipment damage, personal injury, or death can
result if safety procedures are not followed.
Circuit-closing devices must be used on current transformer secondaries. This
applies to CT-connected meters. Dangerous currents and voltages are present if
secondaries are open-circuited. Equipment damage, personal injury, or death
can result if circuit-closing devices are not used.
If it becomes necessary to remove an A1800 ALPHA meter from service, use the following
procedure:
1. Before disconnecting the meter, make sure that the existing meter data has been
copied, either manually or electronically using Elster meter support software.
2. Remove the voltage and disconnect the current circuits.
3. Break the seal holding the A1800 ALPHA meter terminal cover in place.
4. Remove the terminal cover screws and take off the terminal cover.
5. Disconnect the wiring.
6. Remove the lower supporting screws.
7. Lift the meter off the top supporting screw.
Removing the battery
The meter should be de-energized before removing the battery. Dangerous
voltages are present; and equipment damage, personal injury, or death can
result if safety precautions are not followed. Use authorized procedures to
remove the battery while power is removed from the meter.
Use the following procedure to remove a battery from an A1800 ALPHA meter:
1. De-energize the meter.
2. Remove the terminal cover to expose the battery well.
3. Firmly grasp the battery and lift it from the well.
4. Disconnect the battery leads from the connector.
5. Replace the terminal cover and ensure the seals are in place.
If the removed battery is still in working condition, it can be stored safely for future use.
Non-functioning batteries should be disposed of according to local laws, regulations, or
electric utility policies.
Technical manual 8-1 Loss compensation
8 Loss compensation
Introduction
What is Loss Compensation?
The Handbook for Electricity Metering defines loss compensation as follows:
A means for correcting the reading of a meter when the metering point and the point
of service are physically separated resulting in measurable losses including I
2
R
losses in conductors and transformers, and iron-core losses. These losses may be
added to, or subtracted from the meter registration.
1
For example, it may be desirable to measure the energy usage on the low voltage side of
a distribution transformer that serves an industrial customer even though the end-point
customer actually owns the transformer and is responsible for any transformer losses. In
this case, the utility billing point is actually the high voltage side of the transformer. Using
loss compensation, the meter on the low voltage side of the transformer can actively adjust
the energy registration to account for the losses in the transformer.
Availability
The loss compensation functionality is available only on the following CT-connected
A1800 ALPHA meter configurations:
2-element
3-element
Software support
A meter with loss compensation must first be programmed with the proper utility rate
configuration using Elster meter support software just as you would with any other
A1800 ALPHA meter. Next, a special programming step is performed to load the proper
loss constants into the meter. This is done with special Windows-based software titled
A1800 ALPHA Meter Loss Compensation Tool.
Calculating the correction values
To configure the loss compensation feature of an A1800 ALPHA meter you must input the
following values into the loss compensation software. These values are site specific and
must be uniquely determined for each loss compensation application.
1
Edison Electric Institute, Handbook for Electricity Metering, 10th edition, Washington, DC: Edison Electric Institute, 2002, p. 16.
Parameter Description
%LWFe Iron watts correction percentage
%LWCu Copper watts correction percentage
%LVFe Iron vars correction percentage
%LVCu Copper vars correction percentage
Technical manual 8-2 Loss compensation
These values must be calculated on the basis of the power transformer test report and, if
line losses are to be included, the characteristics of the primary/secondary conductors at
the specific site in question. The following sections describe these calculations.
Calculation of loss compensation parameters is dependent on the location of the meter
with respect to the power transformer. The rated voltage and rated current used in the
calculations must represent the values on the same side of the power transformer as the
meter is located.
If the meter is located on the secondary side of the power transformer, then the rated
voltage and rated current used in the calculations must be secondary values.
If the meter is located on the primary side of the power transformer, then the rated
voltage and rated current used in the calculations must be primary values.
Gather necessary data
The following information is necessary to calculate the loss compensation configuration
parameters.
Note: There may be one 3-phase transformer or a bank of three single phase
transformers. If there are three single phase transformers then test data is needed
for all three.
Calculate the meter configuration parameters
Step 1. Calculate the following quantities.
Meter current Meter current when power transformer is operating at
maximum rating
Meter voltage Meter voltage when power transformer is operating at rated
voltage
Parameter Description
KVA
rated
Rated kVA of power transformer
V
pri L-L
Primary line-to-line voltage of power transformer
V
sec L-L
Secondary line-to-line voltage of power transformer
LWCu Full load watts loss of power transformer (copper or winding
losses)
LWFe No load watts loss of power transformer (iron or core losses)
%EXC Percent excitation current of the power transformer
%Z Percent impedance of the power transformer
CTR Current transformer ratio for instrument transformers supplying
current to the meter
VTR Voltage transformer ratio for instrument transformers supplying
voltage to the meter
Elements Number of meter elements (use 3- for all 2 -element meters)
Parameter Description
VA
phase
Per phase VA rating of power transformer
V
sec rated
Rated secondary voltage of power transformer
I
sec rated
Rated secondary current of power transformer
V
pri rated
Rated primary voltage of power transformer
Parameter Description
Technical manual 8-3 Loss compensation
I
pri rated
Rated primary current of power transformer
LWFe No load watt loss of power transformer (loss watt iron)
LWCu Full load watt loss of power transformer (loss watt copper)
LVAFe No load VA loss of power transformer (loss VA iron)
LVACu Full load VA loss of power transformer (loss VA copper)
LVFe No load var loss of power transformer (loss var iron)
LVCu Full load var loss of power transformer (loss var copper)
Parameter Equation
VA
phase
If bank of 3 transformers
If one 3-phase transformer
V
sec rated
For 2 element, 3-wire delta
applications
For 3 element, 4-wire wye
applications
V
pri rated
For 2 element, 3-wire delta
applications
For 3 element, 4-wire wye
applications
I
sec rated
All applications
I
pri rated
All applications
Note: For a bank of three single phase transformers the below calculations should be
performed independently for each transformer and then summed to obtain the
total losses.
LWFe Take directly from power transformer test report.
LWCu Take directly from power transformer test report.
Parameter Description
1000 KVA VA
rated phase
=
3
) 1000 kVA (
VA
rated
phase
=
L - L sec rated sec
V V =
3
V
V
L - L sec
rated sec
=
L - L pri rated pri
V V =
3
V
V
L - L pri
rated pri
=
L - L sec
phase
rated sec
V
VA 3
I
=
L - L pri
phase
rated pri
V
VA 3
I
=
Technical manual 8-4 Loss compensation
Step 2. If it is desired to compensate for line losses then calculate the full load watt line
loss and the full load var line loss values (see next section for details on line loss
calculation).
Step 3. Calculate the per element % correction factors, the meter voltage, and the meter
current. These are the values that must be entered into the loss compensation software to
configure the meter properly.
If the meter is on the primary side of the power transformer, then V
rated
= V
pri rated
and I
rated
= I
pri rated
.
If the meter is on the secondary side of the power transformer, then V
rated
= V
sec rated
and I
rated
= I
sec rated
.
LVAFe
LVACu
LVFe
LVCu
Parameter Description
LiW
TOT
Total full load watt line loss (line loss watt)
LiV
TOT
Total full load var line loss (line loss var)
Parameter Equation
%LWFe
%LWCu
%LVFe
Parameter Equation
100
%EXC
1000 kVA
rated
100
%Z
1000 kVArated
2 2
LWFe - LVAFe
2 2
LWCu - LVCu
Elements I V
100 LWFe
rated rated
( )
Elements I V
100 LiW LWCu
rated rated
TOT
+
Elements I V
100 LVFe
rated rated
GMR
D
Log
60
f
0.2794 L
eq
+
eq a
LogD
60
f
2794 . 0 X L
3
1 L , 3 L 3 L , 2 L 2 L , 1 L
D D D Deq =
n R I
sec L
2
rated sec
n X I
sec L
2
rated sec
n R I
pri L
2
rated pri
Technical manual 8-7 Loss compensation
Note: In the special case that you are compensating only for line loss (no transformer
losses), then the values for I
pri rated
and I
sec rated
must be directly specified by the
user. Typically, these two values will be inversely proportional to the rated
secondary and primary voltages of the power transformer. That is,
Step 3. If compensating for both transformer and line losses, return to Step 3 of the
previous section using the above calculated line losses to help calculate the %LWCu and
%LVCu values.
If compensating only for line losses use the following equations to calculate the per
element % correction factors, the meter voltage and the meter current for entry in the loss
compensation software.
If the meter is on the primary side of the power transformer,
I
rated
= I
pri rated
.
If the meter is on the secondary side of the power transformer,
I
rated
= I
sec rated
.
V
rated
is the nominal voltage seen on the high side of the instrument transformer supplying
voltage to the meter.
LiV
pri
LiW
TOT
LiV
TOT
Parameter Equation
%LWFe 0
%LWCu
%LVFe 0
%LVCu
Meter current
Meter voltage
Item Equation
n X I
pri L
2
rated pri
pri sec
LiW LiW +
pri sec
LiV LiV +
rated pri
rated sec
rated sec
rated pri
V
V
I
I
=
Elements I V
100 LiW
rated rated
TOT
Elements I V
100 LiV
rated rated
TOT
CTR
I
rated
VTR
V
rated
Technical manual 8-8 Loss compensation
Calculation example
The following example can be used as a guideline. This is based on the sample
transformer data for loss compensation shown in chapter 10 of the Handbook for Electricity
Metering (10th edition).
2
Application notes:
The application is a bank of three single-phase power transformers.
The metering occurs on the low (secondary) side of a power transformer, and losses
will be added to the measured energy.
There is a delta connection on the secondary of the power transformer and thus a 2-
element meter will be used to measure the service.
Losses are being compensated for the power transformer only (no line losses).
Gather necessary data
Power transformer data (from transformer manufacturer)
Instrument transformer data:
Meter data:
Step 1. Calculate the quantities
2
Edison Electric Institute, Handbook for Electricity Metering, tenth edition, Washington, DC: Edison Electric Institute, 2002, Chapter
10, Special Metering, pp. 249-88.
Parameter Value
Line 1 Line 2 Line 3
KVA
rated
3333 3333 3333
V
pri L-L
115000 115000 115000
V
sec L-L
2520 2520 2520
LWCu 18935 18400 18692
LWFe 9650 9690 9340
%EXC 1.00 1.06 0.91
%Z 8.16 8.03 8.12
Parameter Value
CTR
VTR
Parameter Value
Elements 2
600
5
3000
=
20
120
2400
=
Technical manual 8-9 Loss compensation
Because the metering is on the secondary side of the power transformer, all references to
rated voltage and rated current refer to the secondary rated values.
Phase 1. Calculations
Phase 2. Calculations
Parameter Description
VA
phase
bank of three transformers:
V
rated
secondary side, 2-element delta application:
I
rated
secondary side application:
Parameter Value
LWFe 9650
LWCu 18935
LVAFe
LVACu
LVFe
LVCu
Parameter Value
LWFe 9690
LWCu 18400
3,333,000 1000 3333 1000 kVA
rated
= =
2520 V
L - L sec
=
84 . 2290
2520
000 , 333 , 3
3
V
VA
3
L - L sec
phase
= =
330 , 33
100
00 . 1
1000 3333
100
%EXC
1000 kVA
rated
=
973 , 271
100
16 . 8
1000 3333
100
%Z
1000 kVA
rated
=
975 , 33 9690 330 , 35
LWFe - LVFe
2 2
2 2
=
313 , 271 935 , 18 923 , 271
LWCu - LVACu
2 2
2 2
=
Technical manual 8-10 Loss compensation
Phase 3. Calculations
LVAFe
LVACu
LVFe
LVCu
Parameter Value
LWFe 9340
LWCu 18,692
LVAFe
LVACu
LVFe
Parameter Value
330 , 35
100
06 . 1
1000 3333
100
EXC %
1000 kVA
rated
=
640 , 267
100
03 . 8
1000 3333
100
Z %
1000 kVA
rated
=
975 , 33 9690 330 , 35
LWFe - LVAFe
2 2
2 2
=
007 , 267 400 , 18 640 , 267
LWCu - LVACu
2 2
2 2
=
330 , 30
100
91 . 0
1000 3333
100
EXC %
1000 kVA
rated
=
640 , 270
100
8.12
1000 3333
100
%Z
1000 kVA
rated
=
856 , 28 9340 330 , 33
LWFe - LVAFe
2 2
2 2
=
Technical manual 8-11 Loss compensation
From the above:
Step 2. Compensate for line loss (if needed).
Per the stated assumptions, there is no compensating for line losses:
Step 3. Now the per element % correction factors may be calculated:
LVCu
Parameter Value
LWFe 9650 + 9690 + 9340 = 28,680
LWCu 18,935 + 18,400 + 18,692 = 56,027
LVAFe 33,330 + 35,330 + 30,330 = 98,990
LVACu 271,973 + 267,640 + 270,640 = 810,253
LVFe 31,902 + 33,975 + 28,856 = 94,734
LVCu 271,313 + 267,007 + 269,993 = 808,313
Parameter Value
LiW
TOT
0
LiV
TOT
0
Parameter Value
%LWFe
%LWCu
%LVFe
Parameter Value
993 , 269 692 , 18 640 , 270
LWCu - LVACu
2 2
2 2
=
2484 . 0
2 229084 2520
100 680 , 28
Elements I V
100 LWFe
rated rated
=
( )
4853 . 0
2 84 . 2290 2520
100 027 , 56
Elements I V
100 LiW LWCu
rated rated
TOT
=
+
8205 . 0
2 84 . 2290 2520
100 734 , 94
Elements I V
100 LVFe
rated rated
=
+
A 3.82
600
84 . 2290
CTR
I
rated
= =
V 26 1
20
2520
VTR
V
rated
= =
Technical manual 8-13 Loss compensation
For a 3-element meter, watts and vars are compensated every two line cycles according to
the following equations:
For a 2-element meter, watts and vars are compensated every two line cycles according to
the following equations:
Where:
The A1800 ALPHA Meter Loss Compensation Tool calculates R, G, X, and B using the
following formulas and then programs these values into the meter.
Compensation Equation
W
var
Compensation Equation
W
var
Term Description
R Per element resistance
G Per element conductance
X Per element reactance
B Per element susceptance
I
xmeas
Per phase rms current
V
xmeas
Per phase rms voltage
Item Equation
R
( )
( )
2
meas c
2
meas L2
2
meas L1
2
meas L3
2
meas L2
2
meas L1
V V V G
I I I R
+ +
+ + +
( )
( )
4
meas c
4
meas L2
4
meas L1
2
meas L3
2
meas L2
2
meas L1
V V V B
I I I X
+ +
+ + +
( )
( )
2
meas c
2
meas L1
2
meas L3
2
meas L1
V V G
I I R
+
+ +
( )
( )
4
meas c
4
meas L1
2
meas L3
2
meas L1
V V B
I I X
+
+ +
100 current Meter
voltage Meter %LWCu