When planning out an AMI deployment with Neptune’s R900® System, there are several different communication methods at your disposal to help fine tune your system specifically for your utility.
But how do you know what to pick? Fixed Network? Cellular? Luckily, Neptune’s experts work with you to figure out the best fit for your utility’s geography and growth needs to build and will help build a solution that works for you now, and into the future.
However, if you want to learn more about what each of our different technologies are best suited for, read on.
Our Solutions
Most AMI solution providers offer only one data collection communication technology. At Neptune, our R900 System has options when it comes to building out your AMI system. Neptune can provide you with either a fixed network AMI system, or cellular, or a combination of the two. This gives you flexibility and will deliver the best results for your particular needs and goals. So what’s the difference?
Fixed Network AMI
Neptune’s fixed network solution delivers reliable performance and long-term flexibility for utilities of all sizes. Operating on a secure 900 MHz radio frequency, this powerful communication system has seamless compatibility across handheld, mobile, and fixed network data collectors, Neptune’s R900 System lets you upgrade at your own pace. There’s no need to replace or reprogram existing endpoints, the technology automatically detects the register type and adjusts communication modes effortlessly.
The R900 System can provide 15-minute interval reads, store up to 96 days of event data, and allow for quick data retrieval through RF-activated logs—all supported by a dependable 20-year battery life.
Gateways can be strategically placed wherever they make the most sense in your service area, ensuring strong coverage and flexible deployment. Neptune’s fixed network makes the transition to smart metering simple, efficient, and built to last.
On top of that there are the benefits of LoRaWAN®.
LoRaWAN stands for Long Range Wide Area Network, an open communication standard developed by the LoRa Alliance®. Designed for long-range coverage, exceptional reliability, and low power consumption, LoRaWAN delivers the performance utilities need for the future of Smart Water management.
Because LoRaWAN is an open standard, it’s supported by a broad ecosystem of developers and technology partners. This openness means more innovation, faster feature development, and the ability to integrate seamlessly with other Smart Water and Smart City applications—all within the same network.
Neptune’s LoRaWAN endpoints are capable of:
- Extended range to reduce infrastructure costs
- Two-way communication for real-time remote management and control
- Scalability to transform your system from a simple monitoring network into a dynamic, intelligent IoT platform
With Neptune’s Fixed Network solution, utilities gain more than data—they gain insight, control, and a future-ready path to smarter operations.
Cellular
If you’re familiar with the cellphones we use every day, cellular AMI works much the same way.
With Neptune’s R900 cellular endpoints, you work with existing infrastructure, saving both time and initial investment costs. Each endpoint connects directly to existing, reliable cellular network towers—delivering fast, secure, and flexible data transmission. Plus, thanks to the cellular endpoint with built-in eSIM technology, these endpoints aren’t locked into a single carrier. Instead, they automatically connect to the strongest carrier, ensuring consistent performance and dependable communication across your entire service area. With Neptune’s cellular solution, you get powerful connectivity without complexity, the simplest path to smart metering, anywhere your customers are.
Which One is Best for You?
We know this may feel like a lot of information—but here’s the good news: you don’t have to choose just one path. At Neptune, we believe flexibility is key. Our team works closely with you to understand your goals and design a customized network layout that showcases the strengths of each technology.
In fact, many of our utility partners successfully combine our different solutions—pairing a fixed network with cellular connectivity—to take advantage of the best features each has to offer. It’s all about finding the right balance for your utility’s unique needs.
And you don’t need to worry about the details. Our experts handle the planning, design, and optimization, so you can focus on what matters most—delivering reliable service to your customers.
Learn more
Ready to explore your options? Learn more about Neptune AMI or contact our team today to discover how Neptune can build the smart water network that’s right for you.
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