Neptune Technology Group NTGPRFV3 UTILITY METER DATA TRANSMITTER User Manual USERS MANUAL
Neptune Technology Group Inc. UTILITY METER DATA TRANSMITTER USERS MANUAL
USERS MANUAL
5015 B.U. Bowman Drive Buford, GA 30518 USA Voice: 770-831-8048 Fax: 770-831-8598
Certification Test Report
Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum Transmitter
FCC ID: P2SNTGPRFV3
IC: 4171B-NTGRFV3
FCC Rule Part: 15.247
IC Radio Standards Specification: RSS-210
ACS Report Number: 07-0360 - 15C
Manufacturer: Neptune Technology Group, Inc.
Model: R900v3
Manual
ARB UTILITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS WATER |ELECTRIC |GAS
E-Cod
R900 WALL AND PIT INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE GUIDE
R900 Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
R900 Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
ARB UTILITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS WATER | ELECTRIC | GAS
This manual is an unpublished work and contains the trade secrets and confidential information of Neptune Technology
Group Inc., which are not to be divulged to third parties and may not be reproduced or transmitted in whole or part, in
any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical for any purpose, without the express written permission of Nep-
tune Technology Group Inc. All rights to designs or inventions disclosed herein, including the right to manufacture, are
reserved to Neptune Technology Group Inc.
The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice. Neptune reserves the right to change
the product specifications at any time without incurring any obligations.
Trademarks used in this manual
R900 is a trademark of Neptune Technology Group Inc. Other brands or product names are the trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective holders.
FCC Notice
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device
may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
“NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there
is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful inter-
ference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.”
RF Exposure Information
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment
should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator and your body. This transmitter
must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
Professional Installation
In accordance with section 15.203 of the FCC rules and regulations, the MIU must be professionally installed by trained
utility meter installers.
Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved by Neptune Technology Group, Inc.
could void the user's authority to operate the equipment
Industry Canada
The term “IC:” before the radio certification number only signifies that Industry Canada technical specifications were
met.
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference Causing Equipment Regulations.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Cet appareillage numérique de la classe B répond à toutes les exigences de l'interférence canadienne causant des
règlements d'équipement. L'opération est sujette aux deux conditions suivantes: (1) ce dispositif peut ne pas causer
l'interférence nocive, et (2) ce dispositif doit accepter n'importe quelle interférence reçue, y compris l'interférence qui
peut causer l'opération peu désirée.
To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the equiv-
alent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that permitted for successful communication.
This device has been designed to operate with the antennas listed below, and having a maximum gain of 0dB. Anten-
nas not included in this list or having a gain greater than 0dB are strictly prohibited for use with this device. The
required antenna impedance is 75 ohms.
R900 v3 Wall MIU Antenna (Neptune Technology Group, Inc. model number 12277-001)
R900 Pit MIU Lid Mount Antenna (Neptune Technology Group, Inc. model number 12527-000)
Copyright © 2003 - 2007
Neptune Technology Group Inc.
All Rights Reserved.
R900 Wall and Pit MIU
Installation and Maintenance Guide
Literature No. IM R900 09.07
Part No. 12560-001
Neptune Technology Group Inc.
1600 Alabama Highway 229
Tallassee, AL 36078
Tel: (334) 283-6555
Fax: (334) 263-7299
Contents
E-Coder)R900i Inside and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide v
1Product Description
Product Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
R900 MIU Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
RF Protocol Error Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
RF Frequency Control Algorithm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
RF Transmission Period and Randomness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Low Battery RF Emissions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
2Specifications
Electrical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Transmitter Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Encoder Register Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Specifications - R900 Pit MIU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Environmental Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Functional Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Dimensions and Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Specifications - R900 Wall MIU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Environmental Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Functional Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Dimensions and Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
3General Installation Guidelines
Tools and Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Safety and Preliminary Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Verifying/Preparing the Encoder Register . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Installation of at Register (Non Pre-Wired or Potted Only ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
4Pit Installation
Prior to Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Contents
vi E-Coder)R900i Inside and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Single Pit MIU Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Beginning the Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Threading the F Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Positioning and Activating the MIU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Installing the Scotchloks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Connecting the Splice Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Dual Register Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Testing the Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
5Wall Installation
Prior to Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Installing the R900 Wall MIU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Removing the Main Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Applying the Scotchloks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Activating and Completing the Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Testing the Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
6Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Six-Wheel Encoder Normal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Four-Wheel Encoder Normal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Abnormal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Hourly Reads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Replacing the MIU Battery (Wall and Pit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Removing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Cutting and Splicing the Battery Wires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Replacing the Transmitter Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Replacement Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Glossary
Index
R900 Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide v
Figures
Figure Title Page
1Wall MIU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
2Pit MIU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
3 Pit MIU Dimensions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
4 Wall MIU Dimensions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
5 Wiring a Neptune Encoder Register . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
6 Cable Threaded Around Strain Relief Posts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
7 Application of the Sealant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
8 Covering the Terminal Screws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
9 R900 Pit MIU Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
10 Antenna Placement for Low Traffic Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
11 Antenna Placement for High Traffic Areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
12 Inserting Antenna into the Pit Lid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
13 Locking Nut on Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
14 Black Thread Guard from Male F-Connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
15 Seating Washer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
16 Connector Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
17 Tightening Connector and Latchplate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
18 Black Cone-Shaped Gasket and Connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
19 Attaching MIU to Antenna Shaft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
20 Activating the MIU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
21 Scotchlok Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
22 Seating Connector Wires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
23 UR Crimping Tool. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
24 Improper Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
25 Three Color Wires Connected. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
26 Splice Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
27 Gray Wires in Slots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
28 Cover in Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
29 Compound Registers Wired to One MIU. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
30 R900 Wall MIU Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
31 Wall MIU Main Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
32 Mounting Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
33 Gel Cap Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
34 Cable in Back of Mounting Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
35 Cable Exit Notch 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
36 Securing Mounting Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
37 Activating the MIU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
38 Install Seal Wire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Figures
vi R900 Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Figure Title Page
39 Removing the MIU Transmitter Cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
40 The Battery Compartment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
41 Cutting the Battery Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
42 Splicing the New Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
43 Location of Toroid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
44 Returning Spliced Battery to Main Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
R900 Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide vii
Tables
Table Title Page
1 Recommended Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2 Recommended Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
3 MIU Color Code for Wires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
4 Cable Length and Manufacturer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5 Color Code for Wires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
6 Cable Lengths and Manufacturers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
7 MIU Color Code for Wires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
8 Available Replacement Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
viii R900 Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Notes:
Tables
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 1
1 Product Description
This section provides a general description of the R900 Meter Interface Unit (sub-
sequently referred to as R900 MIU or MIU).
The R900 MIU by Neptune is a compact electronic device that collects meter read-
ing data from an encoder register. It then transmits the data for collection by the
meter reader. A walk-by handheld or mobile unit receives the data and stores it to
be downloaded into the utility billing system for processing.
The R900 MIU is easily installed and operates within an RF bandwidth which does
not require an operating license. Because the R900 MIU can be mounted as far as
500 feet from the encoder register, optimum broadcast signal strength is obtain-
able, ensuring a high percentage of accurate, one pass readings.
The R900 MIU meets FCC regulations part 15.247, allowing higher output power
and greater range. The R900 MIU uses frequency-hopping spread spectrum tech-
nology to avoid RF interference and enhance security. The MIU reads the
ProRead (ARB® VI) registers on an hourly basis and E-Coder (ARB VII) registers at
15 minute intervals and transmits the meter reading data and the unique 10-digit
MIU ID every 14 seconds. This allows the meter to be read by a walk-by handheld
or mobile data collection unit.
The R900 MIU is designed to offer advantages to utility organizations of all sizes:
• Increases meter reading accuracy.
• Eliminates “hard to read” meters.
• Protects utility liability by increasing meter reader safety.
• Requires no programming.
Figure 1 Wall MIU Figure 2 Pit MIU
However, a ProRead (ARB VI) register must be programmed in a three-wire mode.
Product Description
2 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
Product Description
R900 MIU Programming
The MIU is NOT field programmable. At the factory, each of the following items are
programmed into the MIU:
• Serial numbers – Each MIU is given two unique serial numbers/identification
numbers (two IDs for compound units). Even numbers are given to the single
registers and odd numbers are given to a two-networked registers unit. Cus-
tom serial numbers are not available.
• Time between encoder register reads – The MIU reads the ProRead (ARB VI)
register once an hour and E-Coder (ARB VII) registers at 15-minute intervals.
• Time between MIU transmissions – The time between MIU transmissions is set
for approximately 14 seconds for single registers, and alternates register trans-
missions every eleven (11) seconds for two networked registers. Custom time
is not available.
RF Protocol Error Detection
The RF protocol is comprised of a header, data packet, and an error detection
mechanism that reduces the erroneous data.
RF Frequency Control Algorithm
The MIU’s frequency-hopping, spread-spectrum has a sequence of at least 50 differ-
ent channels for transmitting data. Associated with the 50 channels are 50 frequen-
cies that can be pre-selected in a pseudo random manner. These 50 frequencies are
coded into the software.
RF Transmission Period and Randomness
The random period generation uses the same random seed created for the channel
definition to generate the transmission randomness. The randomness algorithm is
defined so that no two consecutive transmissions from two MIUs will interfere
with one another.
Low Battery RF Emissions
The MIU stops RF transmissions when the battery discharges below the normal
operating voltage.
The R900 MIU avoids 914 MHz to prevent collision with the Advantage® probe.
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 3
2 Specifications
This section provides you with the specifications for the R900 MIU.
Electrical Specifications
Transmitter Specifications
Encoder Register Interface
Power Lithium battery
Transmit Period • Every 14 seconds - Single register configu-
ration
• Every 11 seconds - Alternate ID #s and
meter readings for two networked register
configurations
Encoder reading ProRead (ARB VI) registers once an hour
E-Coder (ARB VII) registers every 15-minutes1
Transmitter Channels 50
Channel Frequency 910-920 MHz
Output Power Meets FCC Part 15.247
FCC Verification Part 15.247
1This feature may result in a minor discrepancy between the actual reading on the register and the reading on the hand-
held or mobile unit. The discrepancy results from a time lapse up to an hour between the time the MIU reads the
encoder and the time the MIU is read. This discrepancy will be corrected within the next hour when the MIU takes a
new reading
Supported Encoder Maximum Cable Length
Neptune ARB® V2300 feet (91 meters)
Neptune ProRead (ARB® VI)
and E-Coder (ARB® VII)
500 feet (152 meters)
Invensys ECR II®and ECR III®3 200 feet (61 meters)
Networked Neptune ProRead (ARB VI) /
E-Coder (ARB VII)
250 feet (76 meters)
2The length, which meets manufacturers’ published specification for wire length between encoder and remote receptacle,
is based on solid 3 conductor wire, 22 AWG.
3Only specific formats of ECRIII programming are compatible. Contact Neptune for details.
Specifications
4 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
Specifications - R900 Pit MIU
Environmental Conditions
Functional Specifications
Dimensions and Weight
Figure 3 Pit MIU Dimensions
Operating Temperature -22° to 149°F (-30° to 65°C)
Storage Temperature -40° to 158°F (-40° to 70°C)
Operating Humidity 0 to 95% Condensing
Register Reading 6-8 digits
MIU ID 10 digits
Dimensions Refer to Figure 3
Weight 1.0 lbs. (454 grams)
Specifications
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 5
Specifications - R900 Wall MIU
Environmental Conditions
Functional Specifications
Dimensions and Weight
Figure 4 Wall MIU Dimensions
Operating Temperature -22° to 149°F (-30° to 65°C)
Storage Temperature -40° to 158°F (-40° to 70°C)
Operating Humidity 0 to 95% Condensing
Register Reading 6-8 digits
MIU ID 10 digits
Dimensions Refer to Figure 4
Weight 1.0 lbs. (454 grams)
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 6
3 General Installation Guidelines
This section describes tools, materials, and general installation information for the
R900 MIU.
Tools and Materials
Tables 1 and 2 show the recommended tools and materials you may need to suc-
cessfully install the R900 MIU or to replace the MIU’s internal battery.
Some items may not apply to your specific installation or the list may not contain all required tools
or materials.
Table 1 Recommended Tools
Item Description/ Recommendation Use
Tool Kit Contains standard tools including:
• Assorted screwdrivers
• Needle-nose pliers
• Wire stripper
• Diagonal cutters
• Electrician’s knife
•Hammer
• Crimping Tool
Part #: 5500-158
Various installation procedures
performed by the utility
Magnet 6 lb. force
Part #: 12287-001
Activating the MIU
Table 2 Recommended Materials
Item Description/Recommendation Use
Cable Solid 3 conductor,
#22 AWG (black/green/red)
Part#: 6431-352
Connecting MIU to encoder
register
Moisture
protection
compound
Novaguard sealant
Part #: 96018-072
Covering exposed wires and termi-
nal screws on register and MIU
General Installation Guidelines
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 7
Safety and Preliminary Checks
Observe the following safety and preliminary checks before and during each instal-
lation:
• Verify that you are at the location specified on the Site Work Order.
• Verify that the site is safe for you and your equipment.
• Notify the customer of your presence and tell the customer that you will need
access to the water meter.
• If the Site Work Order does not have an MIU ID number on it, write in the ID
number(s) of the MIU you are about to install. If the Site Work Order already
has an MIU ID number on it, verify that it matches the ID numbers on the MIU
you are about to install.
Verifying/Preparing the Encoder Register
This R900 MIU is designed for use with the following encoder registers:
• ARB III, IV, and V
• ProRead (ARB VI)
• ProRead AutoDetect
• E-Coder (ARB VII)
• Invensys ECRII, ECR III *
*when programmed in ECR II 6-wheel format
Before installing an MIU, the encoder register must be correctly wired and/or pro-
grammed to work with the MIU. ProRead (ARB VI) encoder registers do not
require programming.
Scotchloks Part #: 8138-125 Splicing replacement battery wire
and connecting Wall MIU or
replacement Pit MIU to encoder
register
Site Work Order Documentation provided by your
utility
Receiving and recording informa-
tion about the work site
Table 2 Recommended Materials
Item Description/Recommendation Use
When a ProRead (ARB VI) encoder register is used, the non-AutoDetect ProRead (ARB VI) register
must be programmed for three-wire mode.
General Installation Guidelines
8 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
If connecting the MIU to a new ProRead (ARB VI) encoder register, or if a three-
conductor cable is already connected to a ProRead (ARB VI) encoder register,
ensure that the ProRead (ARB VI) register is programed for three-wire mode using
the ProRead (ARB VI) programmer and its RF/MIU 6, 8, or 10ID TDI format. This
can be accomplished through the ProRead (ARB VI) receptacle before removing
the receptacle.
Installation of at Register (Non Pre-Wired or Potted Only )
1 Before wiring the pit encoder register, make sure the cable is long enough.
Then, when the installation is complete, the pit lid can be removed easily with-
out straining the cable.
2 Use only 22 AWG cable to make the connection from the encoder register to
the MIU.
3 Remove the terminal screw cover from the encoder register.
4 Strip off 3/4” of jacket from the cable, leaving only the three insulated wires.
5 Taking precautions not to nick or cut the insulation on the three wires, strip off
1/2” of insulation from each of the three wires.
Figure 5 Wiring a Neptune Encoder Register
6 If required, connect the 3 conductor wire to the encoder register’s terminals
per the manufacturer’s instructions. See Figure 5 and Table 3.
Table 3 MIU Color Code for Wires
Encoder Register MIU Wire Color/ Encoder Terminal Marking
Neptune ARB® III, IV, and V Black / B Green / G Red / R
Neptune ProRead (ARB VI)
E-Coder (ARB VII)
Black / B Green / G Red / R
ECRII® and ECRIII®Black / R Green / B Red / G
General Installation Guidelines
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 9
7 Thread the cable around the strain relief posts of the encoder (Figure 6).
Figure 6 Cable Threaded Around Strain Relief Posts
8 Apply sealant liberally and ensure that it encapsulates the terminal screws and
exposed wires. (See Figure 7).
Neptune requires Novaguard G661 sealant or Dow Corning compound 4.
Figure 7 Application of the Sealant
Any leak point can cause a reading failure in a submerged meter setting.
General Installation Guidelines
10 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
9 Snap the cover onto the encoder register (Figure 8).
Figure 8 Covering the Terminal Screws
10 Run the cable to the MIU, fastening it securely as necessary.
11 If encoder register is pre-wired and potted, use Scotchloks for connecting
register to MIU as illustrated in Figure 35 on page 26.
12 Proceed to the section specified for either Pit or Wall installation.
Do not exceed maximum cable lengths as defined in Table 4.
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 11
4 Pit Installation
This section describes storage and unpacking instructions, preliminary tests, tools,
materials, site selection, and pit installation of the R900 MIU.
Prior to Installation
Storage
Upon receipt, inspect shipping containers for damage and inspect the contents of
any damaged cartons prior to storage.
Once the inspection is complete, store the cartons in a clean, dry environment.
Keep in mind that the R900 MIU has an internal battery. Storage for more than one
year may affect product life. Be sure to use a first-in first-out inventory control sys-
tem. See “Environmental Conditions” on page 4.
Unpacking
As with all precision electronic instruments, the R900 MIU should be handled care-
fully; however, no additional special handling is required.
After unpacking the MIU, inspect it for damage. If the MIU appears to be damaged
or proves to be defective upon installation, notify your Neptune Sales Representa-
tive. If one or more items requires reshipment, use the original cardboard box and
packing material.
Figure 9 R900 Pit MIU Kit
waterproof connector
antenna
antenna cable
nut
Pit Installation
12 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
Tools and Materials
Tables 1 and 2 on page 6 shows the recommended tools and materials you need to
successfully install the R900 MIU or replace the MIU’s internal battery.
Site Selection
Installation and operation in moderate temperatures increase reliability and prod-
uct life. See “Environmental Conditions” on page 4.
Follow these guidelines when selecting a location to install the R900 MIU:
• For best results, Neptune recommends selecting a location where there is no
chance that another object can be set over the antenna.
• Avoid installing the MIU behind metal fences or walls.
• Make sure the pit location gives adequate room for installing both the MIU and
the pit antenna.
• For maximum performance, Neptune recommends that pit antennas be
installed above the lid as illustrated in Figure 10.
• When installing in a high-traffic area, Neptune recommends that the
dome of the antenna be recessed in the pit lid as shown in Figure 11.
• Recessing the installation reduces the range of the installation.
Figure 10 Antenna Placement for Low Traffic Areas
Some items may not apply to your specific installation or the list may not contain all required tools
or materials.
Always follow your company’s safety practices and installation guidelines when installing an MIU.
Never perform an installation during a lightning storm or under excessively wet conditions.
For maximum performance the flange of the pit antenna needs to be located above the pit lid.
Pit Installation
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 13
Figure 11 Antenna Placement for High Traffic Areas
• For best results, Neptune recommends that the MIU be installed in a location
that provides a direct line of site to the path of the meter reader.
• Although the MIU has a cable already attached—either 6 feet or 25 feet long—
some installations can require additional cable. In these cases, the maximum
cable length between the encoder register and MIU depends on the register’s
manufacturer and model. Refer to Table 4 for maximum cable lengths.
Single Pit MIU Installation
The following section describes how to install a single R900 MIU in a pit location.
If you are installing the R900 Pit MIU to read two registers, skip this section.
Table 4 Cable Length and Manufacturer
Encoder Register Maximum Cable Length
Neptune ARB III, IV and V* 300 feet (91 meters)
Neptune ProRead (ARB VI) /E-Coder (ARB VII) 500 feet (152 meters)
Invensys ECRII and ECR III 200 feet (61 meters)
Networked Neptune ProRead (ARB VI) /
E-Coder (ARB VII)
250 feet (76 meters)
* Meets manufacturers’ published specification for wire length between encoder and remote
receptacle.
The steps included in this section describe the installation for one single pit MIU. See “Dual Reg-
ister Applications” on page 20, to install compound units.
Pit Installation
14 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
Beginning the Installation
1 Select a location for the MIU that meets the recommendations
in “Site Selection” on page 12.
2 Insert the antenna cable and housing through the 1 3/4” hole
in the meter pit lid. (Figure 12.)
Figure 12 Inserting Antenna into the Pit Lid
3 Thread the locking nut onto the antenna (unthreaded end
towards lid) and hand-tighten.
Figure 13 Locking Nut on Antenna
4Remove black plastic thread protector cap from the male “F”
connector on the MIU.
Figure 14 Black Thread Guard from Male F-Connector
-
Pit Installation
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 15
5 Place the flat black rubber washer around the male “F” con-
nector on the MIU as shown in Figure 15.
Figure 15 Seating Washer
6 Apply a coating of Novaguard around the base of the
“F” connector and on the flat rubber washer.
7Thread the male “F” connector from the antenna cable onto
the female “F” connector on the MIU as shown in Figure 16.
The “F” connector should be hand-tightened. The torque
should not exceed 20 in./lb.
Figure 16 Connector Cables
Threading the F Connector
1 Making sure that the flat washer is properly seated, connect
the black plastic cable connector housing to the 3-lobed plas-
tic latch plate.
2 Tighten the connector by making a 1/4 turn to the right as
shown in Figure 18.
3 Slide the black cone-shaped gasket down the cable until it
seats against the connector housing.
Figure 17 Tightening Connector and Latchplate
Antenna connection should have Novagard applied inside
the connector.
Apply
Novagard
cone-shaped
gasket
Pit Installation
16 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
4 Slide black plastic female threaded connector down the coax
cable.
5 Seat on top of cone-shaped rubber gasket and thread onto 3-
lobed plastic latch plate as shown in Figure 18.
6 Finger tighten the connector to depress cone-shaped rubber
gasket. This seals the coax cable from moisture intrusion.
Figure 18 Black Cone-Shaped Gasket and Connector
Tying the Cable and Activiating the MIU
1 Place the MIU in place in the pit location, using the following
suggestions:
• In shallow pit application, you can place the MIU beside
the meter.
• In deep pit applications, use a cable tie to suspend the
MIU from the antenna shaft, as show in Figure 19.
Figure 19 Attaching MIU to Antenna Shaft
2 Position the magnet against the left side of the MIU directly in
line with the Neptune logo, as shown, and swipe it bringing it
from the side and around the corner to the top to activate the
MIU. (See Figure 20.)
3 Remove the “twisty tie” (wire tie) from the coiled ProRead
(ARB VI) encoder cable.
Figure 20 Activating the MIU
Be careful not to lodge the MIU
between the meter box and any
components inside the box.
-
cable tie
Make sure the MIU is placed in
such a way that it does not lodge
itself when the pit lit is removed.
End swipe
here
Pit Installation
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 17
Installing the Scotchloks
1Complete steps 1 through 9 outlined in “Single Pit MIU Instal-
lation” on page 13 to install the MIU through the lid.
2 Use 3M Scotchlok Type UR connector to connect the MIU
wires to the encoder wires.
3 Hold the Scotchlok connector between index finger and
thumb with the red cap facing down. (See Figure 21.)
Figure 21 Scotchlok Connector
4Take a non-stripped black wire from the pigtail and a non-
stripped black wire from receptacle/MIU and insert wires into
the Scotchlok connector until fully seated in connector. (See
Figure 22.)
Figure 22 Seating Connector Wires
5Place the connector red cap side down between the jaws of
the UR crimping tool as shown in Figure 23. Refer to Table 5
on page 18 for a list of the manufacturers and part numbers.
Figure 23 UR Crimping Tool
Do not strip colored insulation from wires, or strip and twist bare
wires prior to inserting in connector. Insert insulated colored
wires directly into the Scotchlok connector.
Pit Installation
18 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
6 Check to ensure that the wires are still fully seated in the con-
nector before crimping the connector. Figure 24 illustrates
improper connections due to wires not fully seated.
Figure 24 Improper Connections
7 Squeeze the connector firmly with the proper crimping tool
until you hear a pop and gel oozes out the end of the
connector.
8 Repeat steps 2 through 6 for each color wire. (See Table 5.)
9 Once all three color wires have been connected, read the
encoder register to ensure proper connections and the recep-
tacle/MIU is functioning properly. (See Figure 25.)
Figure 25 Three Color Wires
Connected
Table 5 Color Code for Wires
Red and
Green Wires
-- not fully seated
Approved
Encoder Register
MIU Wire Color/
Encoder Terminal
Neptune ARB® V Black / B Green / G Red / R
Neptune ProRead (ARB® VI) Black / B Green / G Red / R
Neptune E-Coder (ARB® VII) Black / B Green / G Red / R
Sensus (Invensys) ECR II Black / R Green / B Red / G
Sensus (Invensys) ECR III Black / R Green / B Red / G
Pit Installation
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 19
Connecting the Splice Tube
To complete the installation of the Scotchloks, complete the fol-
lowing steps to install the Connector King Splice Tube.
1 Take all 3 connected Scotchlok’s and push into the splice tube
until fully encapsulated by the silicone grease. (See Figure
Figure 26.)
Figure 26 Splice Tube
2 Separate each gray wire and place in the slots on each side as
shown in Figure 27.
Figure 27 Gray Wires in Slots
.
3 Snap cover closed to finish the installation as shown in
Figure 28.
Figure 28 Cover in Place
Splice Tube
Pit Installation
20 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
Dual Register Applications
The R900 can be connected to two networked ProRead (ARB VI) or E-Coder (ARB
VII) encoder registers. The following section describes the configuration for a pit
location. If you are installing one single R900 Pit MIU within a pit, complete the
instructions contained in “Single Pit MIU Installation” on page 13.
To connect two registers, complete the following steps.
1 Ensure the registers are programmed in network mode.
2 Connect the registers by daisy-chaining the registers and MIU
together using the 3-wire connector cable. See Figure 29.
Figure 29 Compound Registers Wired to One MIU
-
• The field programmer must have software SESW 56.05 or higher.
• ProRead (ARB VI) or E-Coder (ARB VII) registers cannot be pro-
grammed while connected together in a network. Each register
must be programmed separately prior to making the network con-
nections.
• For a compound register, the turbine side is considered the (Hi) side, and
the disc side is considered the (Low) side. When connecting an R900 to
two separate meters, select one meter to be the (Hi) side and the other to
be the (Low) side.
• Every R900 MIU has two ID numbers: one is listed as (Hi) side, and the
other is listed as (Low) side on the bar-coded pull tabs. Be sure the
appropriate tag is assigned to the correct register. See Table 5.
Type
Programmed
Network ID
Network Register
Assigned
MIU
Assigned ID
Master 99 (Hi) side Even 10-digit ID#
Slave 01 (Low) side Odd 10-digit ID#
Pit Installation
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 21
Testing the Installation
To test the installation, complete the following steps.
1 Power up the handheld unit (HH with HHIU) and put in RF
test mode.
2 When the MIU is installed correctly, its ID number(s) and
meter reading(s) appear on the display of the HH. Verify the
correct meter reading(s) by comparing it to the meter’s dial. If
the readings are the same, proceed to the next section.
3 If a meter reading does not appear on the HH’s display, or the
meter reading in the HH’s display is not the same as the read-
ing on the meter’s dial, do one of the following:
• Reactivate the MIU using the magnet.
• Verify all electrical connections.
• Verify registers are programmed correctly.
• Test the installation again.
4 If a ProRead (ARB VI) Encoder Register is used:
• Ensure the unit is programmed in 3-wire mode.
• Verify all electrical connections.
• Reactivate the MIU. (See Step 1.)
5 If an ECRIII register is used, make sure the register is pro-
grammed in a
compatible format.
If a problem still exists, contact your Neptune Sales
Representative.
To avoid RF signal saturation of the HH, do one of the following:
• Position yourself at least two to three feet from the MIU.
• Remove the antenna from the HH.
Activating the MIU with a magnet is recommended, but not a mandatory step.
The R900 automatically checks every eight (8) hours for the presence of a reg-
ister. If one is detected, the MIU wakes up and starts transmitting.
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 22
5 Wall Installation
This section describes storage and unpacking instructions, preliminary tests, tools,
materials, site selection, and wall installation of the R900 MIU.
Prior to Installation
Storage
Upon receipt, inspect shipping containers for damage, and inspect the contents of
any damaged cartons prior to storage.
Once the inspection is complete, store the cartons in a clean, dry environment.
Keep in mind that the R900 MIU has an internal battery. Storage for more than one
year may affect product life. Be sure to use a first-in first-out inventory control sys-
tem. See “Environmental Conditions” on page 4.
Unpacking
As with all precision electronic instruments, the R900 MIU should be handled care-
fully; however, no additional special handling is required.
After unpacking the MIU, inspect it for damage. If the MIU appears to be damaged
or proves to be defective upon installation, notify your Neptune Sales Representa-
tive. If one or more items requires reshipment, use the original cardboard box and
packing material.
Figure 30 R900 Wall MIU Kit
back plate
cable
wall MIU
Wall Installation
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 23
Tools and Materials
Tables 1 and 2 on page 6 show the recommended tools and materials you may need
to successfully install the R900 MIU or to replace the MIU’s internal battery.
Site Selection
Installation and operation in moderate temperatures increase reliability and
product life. See “Environmental Conditions” on page 4.
Follow these guidelines when selecting a location to install the R900 MIU:
• For best results, Neptune recommends mounting the MIU on the outside of the
building and in a location that provides a direct line-of-sight to the path of the
meter reading device.
• For best results, Neptune recommends the MIU be installed approximately five
feet above the ground.
• The MIU must be installed in a vertical and upright position.
• The preferred mounting surface for the MIU is a flat wall, but it can also be
mounted to a pipe.
• The selected location should be clear of all obstructions.
• Avoid installing the MIU behind metal fences or walls.
• The maximum cable length between the encoder register and MIU depends on
the register’s manufacturer and model. Refer to Table 6 on page -24 for maxi-
mum cable lengths.
Some items may not apply to your specific installation or the list may not contain all required tools
or materials.
Always follow your company’s safety practices and installation guidelines when installing an
MIU. Never perform an installation during a lightning storm or under excessively wet conditions.
Wall Installation
24 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
Installing the R900 Wall MIU
Removing the Main Housing
Complete the following steps to install the wall MIU.
1 Remove the main housing from the mounting adapter.
(The Hi-Lo fastener for securing the main MIU housing to the
adapter plate is shipped separately in box).
Figure 31 Wall MIU Main Housing
Table 6 Cable Lengths and Manufacturers
Encoder Register Maximum Cable Length
Neptune ARB III, IV, and V 300 feet (91 meters)
Neptune ProRead (ARB VI) /
E-Coder (ARB VII)
500 feet (152 meters)
Invensys ECRII and ECRIII 200 feet (61 meters)
Networked Neptune ProRead (ARB VI) /
E-Coder (ARB VII)
250 feet (76 metres)
* Meets manufacturer’s published specification for wire length between encoder and remote receptacle.
• ARB, ProRead (ARB VI), and E-Coder (ARB VII) are trademarks of Neptune Technology
Group Inc.
• ECRII is trademark of Invensys.
• ECRIII must be programmed with the proper format.
set screw
Wall Installation
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 25
2Study Figure 32 and the location requirements, then decide
how to install the MIU and mount adapter with set screw posi-
tioned at bottom.
Figure 32 Mounting Adapter
• The cable enters through the bottom or rear cable
entry of the mounting adaptor.
• When the MIU replaces a receptacle, use the appro-
priate holes to allow reuse of the receptacle’s original
mounting holes. (See mounting hole configuration in
Figure 32.)
• When mounting the MIU to a pipe, use the bolt hole
for pipe mounting to bolt the mounting adapter to a
pipe clamp.
Applying the Scotchloks
1 Using Scotchlok Gel Caps, connect the register wires to the
pigtail from the MIU. (See Figure 35.)
2 Pair the wires according to the color chart in Table 7.
Figure 33 Gel Cap Connections
cable exit notch
cable entry hole
pipe clamp
holes
A variety of holes in the mounting adapter allows for a quick and easy instal-
lation:
gel caps
Wall Installation
26 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
3 Slide the paired wires into the grooves provided until they
seat into the back of the gel cap. Refer to Figure 35.
4 Using an appropriate crimping tool, firmly squeeze the gel cap
to ensure a good connection.
5Repeat this process until all connections are complete.
6 For rear cable entry, store excess wire and Scotchloks in the
hollow cavity in the back of the MIU using the strain relief
guides as shown in Figure 34.
Figure 34 Cable in Back of Mounting Adapter
7 Next, continue to guide the remaining wire through the cable
exit notch at the bottom right side of the MIU as shown in Fig-
ure 34.
Figure 35 Cable Exit Notch
Table 7 MIU Color Code for Wires
Encoder Register MIU Wire Color/ Encoder Terminal Marking
Neptune ARB III, IV and V Black / B Green / G Red / R
Neptune ProRead (ARB V) and E-Coder (ARB
VII)
Black / B Green / G Red / R
Sensus (Invensys) ECRII® and ECRIII®Black / R Green / B Red / G
strain relief guide
cable exit
notch
cable exit
notch
Wall Installation
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 27
Activating and Completing the Installation
1 Slide the tongue on the top of the MIU into the groove on the
top of the mounting adapter.
2 Secure the MIU to the mounting adapter using the set screw.
See Figure 36.
Figure 36 Securing Mounting Adapter
3 Position the magnet against the left side of the MIU directly in
line with the Neptune logo, as shown, and swipe it bringing it
from the side and around the corner to the top to activate the
MIU.
Figure 37 Activating the MIU
Testing the Installation
To test the installation, complete the following steps.
1 Power up the handheld unit (HH) test device and start the
testing programs provided.
2 When the MIU is installed correctly, its ID number(s) and a
meter reading(s) appear on the display of the HH. Verify the
correct meter reading(s) by comparing it to the meter’s dial. If
the readings are the same, proceed to the next section.
set screw
End swipe
here
To avoid RF signal saturation of the HH, do one of the following:
• Position yourself at least two to three feet from the MIU.
• Remove the antenna from the HH.
Wall Installation
28 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
3 If a meter reading does not appear on the HH’s display, or the
meter reading in the HH’s display is not the same as the read-
ing on the meter’s dial:
• Reactivate the MIU using the magnet.
• Verify all electrical connections.
• Test the installation again.
4 If a ProRead (ARB VI) Encoder Register is used:
• Ensure the unit is programmed in 3-wire mode.
• Verify all electrical connections.
• Reactivate the MIU. (See Step 1.)
5 If ECRIII, make sure register is programmed in a compat-
ible format.
If a problem still exists, contact your Neptune Sales
6 To complete the installation, install a seal wire or seal clip
through the seal holes at the
bottom of the main housing. See Figure 38.
7 Verify that the requirements of the site work order have been
met and that you have recorded all information.
8 Clean up the installation site before leaving.
Figure 38 Install Seal Wire
Activating the MIU with a magnet is not a mandatory step. The R900 automat-
ically checks every eight (8) hours for the presence of a register. If one is de-
tected, the MIU wakes up and starts transmitting.
seal wire
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 29
6 Maintenance and Troubleshooting
This section takes you through maintenance and troubleshooting procedures for
the R900 MIU. The first topic will guide you through the steps necessary to replace
the battery that is in the main housing.
In addition, this section will guide you through some troubleshooting procedures
for both a six-wheel and a four-wheel encoder.
Six-Wheel Encoder Normal Operation
If the odometer reads 123456, the display should show 1 2 3 4 5 5.
Four-Wheel Encoder Normal Operation
If the odometer reads 123456, the display should show 1 2 3 4 0 0.
Abnormal Operation
Below are examples of abnormal operation for four-wheel encoders. Abnormal
operation for six-wheel encoders is similar except that digits occupy all six posi-
tions.
• If an (H) or a ( - ) occurs on any of the four positions, the display on the HH
will display it.
Examples: 1 2 - 4 0 0 or 1 2 H 4 0 0
• If the wire between the R900 wall MIU and the encoder is cut or reads as open,
the display on the HH shows dashes.
Example: - - - - -
• If using ECRIII, verify data format is correct.
• If using a non-AutoDetect ProRead (ARB VI) register, verify that it has been
programmed correctly. All non-AutoDetect ProRead (ARB VI) registers must
be programmed for 3W mode.
• Use the magnet on the R900 MIU to force the R900 to read the encoder.
• On the handheld, check the System Setup menu and verify the adapter type is
set to R900.
Hourly Reads
ProRead (ARB VI) registers are read every hour and E-Coder (ARB VII) is read
every 15 minutes.
Note that the last digit displayed is a five if the last digit on the odometer is five through nine. The
last digit displayed is a zero if the last digit on the odometer is zero through four.
continued on next page
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
30 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
Replacing the MIU Battery (Wall and Pit)
Follow these steps to change-out the pit R900 MIU’s internal bat-
tery:
Removing the Battery
1 Slowly remove the pit lid.
2 Remove the transmitter cover by removing the two Phillips
head crews located inside the back cavity of the main housing.
(See Figure 39.)
3 Lift the transmitter cover from the MIU.
Figure 39 Removing the MIU Transmitter Cover
4 Remove the battery casing from the main housing by inserting
a flat-head screwdriver and dislodging the battery from the
battery compartment. (See Figure 40.)
Figure 40 The Battery Compartment
Because the MIU is connected to both the antenna
in the pit lid and the meter in the pit base, take care
not to strain the cable when removing the lid.
transmitter cover
screw
flat-head
screwdriver
When removing the battery, it may be helpful to press on the connected
end while prying the other end.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 31
Cutting and Splicing the Battery Wires
1 As close to the battery casing as possible, cut the battery
connection wires one at a time. See Figure 41.
2 Insert battery wire left in MIU ensuring insulation has not
been compromised.
Figure 41 Cutting the Battery Connection
3 Use Scotchlok to splice the wires from the new battery
casing to the wires that were connected to the old battery
casing. See Figure 42.
Figure 42 Splicing the New Battery
4 Be sure to carefully position wires and Scotchloks into
compartment in space available next to battery as shown
in Figure 43, making sure the wires are not pinched when
the battery is snapped into the MIU housing.
Figure 43 Location of Toroid
Cutting the battery connection wires one at a time
prevents shorting.
Ensure the R900 MIU’s black wire is connected to the
black wire on the new battery (-) and the red wire is
connected to the red wire on the new battery (+).
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
32 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
5 Snap the battery casing into the receiving clips on the main
housing. See Figure 44.
Figure 44 Returning Spliced Battery to Main Housing
6 Reactivate the MIU as shown in Figure 20 on page 16. For help
with this procedure, refer to “Tying the Cable and Activiating
the MIU” on page 16.
Replacing the Transmitter Cover
1 Secure the transmitter cover using the two Phillips head
screws, until the cover is snug and fully seated.
2 Replace the pit lid.
3 Test the installation using the procedure in “Testing the Instal-
lation” on page 21.
Be careful not to pinch the battery wires between
the cover and the housing.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide 33
Replacement Parts
Table 8 lists the available replacement parts for the R900 MIU.
Table 8 Available Replacement Parts
Part Name Part Number
Solid 3 conductor wire, 22 awg (1000 ft.) 6431-352
Dow Corning #4 compound (5.3oz tube) 96018-064
GE Novaguard (4cc Packet) 96018-072
Scotchloks (UG) 8138-125
Battery Assembly 12213-100
Mounting Adapter 12539-001
Fastener Screw 8328-302
Magnet 12287-001
Antenna 12527-000
Flat Washer 8340-054
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Notes:
34 R900 Wall and Pit MIU Installation and Maintenance Guide
R900 Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide G-1
Glossary
antenna (pit) The MIU antenna used for pit installations.
conical-shaped gasket The cone-shaped rubber gasket on antenna cable used to seal cable
at top of connector housing.
connector housing The black plastic 1/4-turn connector used to waterproof antenna
cable connection to pit MIU.
connector nut The black plastic nut used to depress conical-shaped gasket and seal
antenna cable at the top of connector housing.
flat washer The washer used to seal cable connector housing to pit MIU.
main housing The main body of the MIU that attaches to the mounting adapter.
main housing fastener screw The set screw (Hi-Lo fastener) that holds the main housing to the
mounting adapter.
maximum cable length The length set by the manufacturer for the wire between the encoder
and the remote receptacle. The specifications for this length are
based on a solid 3 conductor wire.
MIU Meter Interface Unit.
mounting adapter The back plate of the MIU that is attached to the wall.
register read time The default time is once an hour for ProRead and 15 minute interval
for E-Coder (ARB VII). Custom time is not available.
seal wire Wire inserted into the seal holes, adjacent to the main housing fas-
tener screw. This seal must be broken to remove the main housing
from the mounting adapter.
serial number A unique identification number given to each MIU at the factory. The
default value is the last programmed plus one. Custom serial numbers
are not available.
strain relief posts Posts located on the encoder register and the back of the main MIU
housing.
Glossary
G-2 R900v2 Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
terminal screw cover The plastic cover on the encoder register that protects the terminal
screws and exposed wires.
terminal screws The screws on the encoder register face that are used to connect and
anchor the three (3) conductor wire to the register.
transmission time The time between MIU transmissions. The default is approximately
fourteen (14) seconds. Custom time is not available.
R900 Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide I-1
Index
Numerics
3-conductor 33
3-conductor wire 8
3-wire connector cable 20
3-wire mode 7, 8, 21, 28
A
algorithm, RF frequency control 2
antenna 12
cable 14, 15
care 30
dome 12
F connector 15
flange 12
locking nut 14
part # 33
recessing 12
remove from handheld 21, 27
shaft 16
B
Battery
replace 30
battery
assembly 33
casing 31, 32
compartment 30
connection 31
internal 6, 11, 12, 22, 30
lithium 3
low, RF emission 2
main housing 32
new 31
remove 30
remove casing 30
replace 29
replacing 30
wires 31
C
cable 6
3-conductor 8
3-wire connector 20
additional 13
antenna 14, 15
attached to MIU 13
connector 15
exit 26
lengths 3, 10, 13, 23, 24
rear entry 25
strain relief post 26
strain relief posts 9
threaded 9
ties 16
channel frequency 3
compound units 2
connect
3-conductor cable 8
3-conductor wire 8
cable 8
encoder register 8
MIU 6, 8
connector housing 15
control, algorithm for RF frequency 2
D
description, R901 2
dimensions 4, 5
E
electrical specifications 3
Encoder register
illustrated 8
interface 3
maximum cable length 3
Environmental conditions 4, 5
F
F connector 14, 15
flange, pit antenna 12
Functional specifications 4, 5
G
gel caps 25, 26, 31
H
handheld
check system setup 29
power up 21, 27
reading 3
walkby 1
HHU 21, 27
I
Installation
preliminary checks 7
safety 7
site selection 12, 23
guidelines 12, 23
tools 23
Index
I-2 R900 Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
installation
storage 22
testing 21, 27
unpacking 22
Installing
encoder register 8
preparing for 7
testing 29
insulation
wires 8
L
locking nut on antenna 14
low battery emissions 2
M
meters
multiple units 2
multiple units 2
O
operating humidity 4, 5
operating temperature 4, 5
P
part numbers 33
product description 2
programmable
non-field programmable 2
R
R900 MIU
dimensions 4, 5
low battery emissions 2
programming 2
random transmission 2
replacement parts 33
RF frequency 2
tools and materials 6
transmission period 2
unpacking 11
weight 4, 5
R900v2 MIU
storage 11
R901 MIU
description 1
programming 2
rear cable entry 26
recessing, antenna 12
Replacement parts 33
part numbers 33
replacing the battery 30
return of damaged unit 11, 22
RF
frequency 2
frequency control 2
low battery emissions 2
protocol 2
transmission 2
transmission period 2
S
ScotchLox 25, 31
seal clip 28
seal holes 28
serial numbers 2
shaft, antenna 16
site selection 12, 23
Specifications
dimensions 4, 5
electrical 3
encoder register interface 3
environmental conditions 4, 5
functional 4, 5
transmitter 3
weight 4, 5
splice
wires 31
storage 11, 22
pit 11
wall 22
storage temperature 4, 5
strain relief
posts 9
stripper, wire 6
system setup 29
T
temperature, storage 4, 5
testing the installation 29
testing, installation 21, 27
installation
testing 27
testing,installation 27
tools 23
transmission
MIU 2
RF 2
transmission period 2
Transmitter specifications 3
R900 Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide I-3
Index
U
units
multiple IDs 2
unpacking 11, 22
W
weight 4, 5
wire
seal 28
stripper 6
through cable exit 26
through rear cable entry 26
wires
3 conductor 33
3-conductor 3, 8
3-wire mode 1, 7, 8
battery connection 31
black toroid 31
color codes 26
connected to old battery 31
cut 29
exposed 6, 9
gel capped 26
length 3
lengths 13, 24
MIU color code 8
pairing 25
splicing 31
to pigtail 25
wires, from battery 31
wiring
compound registers 20
correct 7
multiple registers 20
Neptune encoder register 8
register 8
I-4 R900 Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Notes:
Index
IM R900 09.07 Part No. 12560-001 © Copyright 2003 - 2007, Neptune Technology Group Inc. Neptune is a registered trademark of Neptune Technology Group Inc.
neptunetg.com
Neptune Technology Group Inc.
1600 Alabama Highway 229
Tallassee, AL 36078
USA
Tel: (800) 645-1892
Fax: (334) 283-7299
Neptune Technology Group (Canada) Ltd.
7275 West Credit Avenue
Mississauga, Ontario
L5N 5M9
Canada
Tel: (905) 858-4211
Fax: (905) 858-0428
Neptune Technology Group Inc.
Ejército Nacional No. 418
Piso 12, Desp. 1201-1202
Col. Chapultepec Morales
Delegación Miguel Hidalgo
11570 México, Distrito Federal
Tel: (525) 55203 5294 / (525) 55203 5708
Fax: (525) 55203 6503