Feature: Power management
Data is transmitted to the energy supplier via a
communications method: either over the existing electricity grid – Power Line Communication (PLC), wireless networks like Wi-Fi, or 5G. Smart meters provide two-way communication, enabling the
energy supplier to also send information back to the consumer, such as price adjustments or service notifications. See a block diagram of a typical smart meter in Figure 1.
Crucial components of smart meters To ensure reliable and continuous two-way data transmission, the smart meters must be robust, reliable and accurate. This is underpinned by frequency components and stable power sources. With their stable frequency, crystals and oscillators ensure
reliable synchronisation and efficient data processing between intelligent meters, their internal functional units and the communication networks involved. Frequency control products, like those from Jauch, typically occupy minimal spaces in the smart meter, are extremely reliable and offer a wide range of options for better system performance. These can be temperature-controlled oscillators, WA quartz crystals, and RTC clock crystals. A 32.768kHz quartz “sleep clock” is usually used to track
time and dates in the RTC circuit. This clock is in operation when the rest of the system is switched off; its operation at 32.768kHz saves power. The communications interfaces also require crystals and
oscillators. Different requirements in terms of frequency and stability depend on the selected data transmission radio technology.
A 32.768kHz quartz “sleep clock” is in operation when the rest of the system is switched off; its operation at 32.768kHz saves power
The smart meter’s central control unit typically has one or
more microcontrollers, which require a clock generator, too. This can be either a quartz resonator or an oscillator, with its frequency typically being specified by the microcontroller manufacturer. In addition to reliable components, smart meters require
stable power sources, too, to ensure continuous data transmission and guarantee its permanent backup. Long-life Lithium batteries are ideal here, since they supply high pulse currents and remain constant for many years, with a service life of over ten years. They also function reliably in extreme temperatures and help reduce maintenance costs. For smart energy meters, Jauch recommends parallel- connected ER batteries with SPC1520 “battery capacitor”.
The right combination of reliable components Smart metering is not only a technological innovation but a decisive step toward a sustainable and efficient energy future. With the right combination of reliable components and long- lasting power sources, we can ensure that this technology will have its full impact and accompany us on the way to a smarter energy supply.
Figure 1: Block diagram of a smart meter
www.electronicsworld.co.uk April 2026 23
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