NEPTUNE Grid Wide MIU Cellular Endpoint Wall Installation Guide
- July 23, 2024
- Neptune
Table of Contents
- NEPTUNE Grid Wide MIU Cellular Endpoint Wall
- Specifications
- Product Usage Instructions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- FCC Notice
- Product Description
- Specifications
- General Installation Guidelines
- Wall Installation
- Pit Installation
- Maintenance and Troubleshooting
- Appendix
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
NEPTUNE Grid Wide MIU Cellular Endpoint Wall
Specifications
- Electrical Specifications: Details on electrical requirements and components.
- Transmitter: Information about the transmitter used in the product.
- Encoder Register Interface: Description of the encoder register interface.
- Environmental: Information regarding the environmental specifications.
- Functional: Functions and operational capabilities of the product.
- Dimensions and Weight: Product dimensions and weight details.
Product Usage Instructions
Chapter 1: Product Description
Provide an overview of the product and its main features.
Chapter 2: Specifications
Detail the electrical specifications, transmitter, encoder register interface, environmental conditions, functional capabilities, dimensions, and weight of the product.
Chapter 3: General Installation Guidelines
- Tools and Materials:
- Recommended Tools: List of tools required for installation.
- Recommended Materials: List of materials needed for installation.
- Safety and Preliminary Checks: Safety measures to be taken before installation.
- Verifying and Preparing the Encoder Register: Steps to verify and prepare the encoder register.
- Storage: Guidelines on how to store the product properly.
- Unpacking: Instructions for unpacking the product.
- Installing a Register (Non Pre-Wired or Potted Only): Steps to install a register if not pre-wired or potted.
- Connecting the Endpoint Wires Together: Instructions for connecting endpoint wires.
- Connecting the Register and Endpoint Wires using ScotchlokTM Gel Cap Connectors: Detailed steps for connection.
- Connecting the Register and Endpoint Wires Using Quick
Connectors: Instructions for using quick connectors for connection.
Chapter 4: Wall Installation
- Site Selection: Guidelines for selecting an appropriate site for wall installation.
- Installing the Cellular Endpoint: Step-by-step instructions for installing the endpoint on a wall.
- Testing the Installation: Steps to test the installation to ensure proper functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I install the Cellular Endpoint in a pit?
- A: No, the Cellular Endpoint is designed for wall installation only. Pit installation is not recommended as it may affect performance and functionality.
- Q: What is the minimum distance required between the equipment and the user’s body?
- A: The device should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20 cm between the equipment and the user’s body to comply with safety standards for exposure to radio waves.
Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Copyright
This manual 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 Neptune Technology Group Inc. All rights to design or
inventions disclosed herein, including the right to manufacture, are reserved
to Neptune Technology Group Inc.
Neptune engages in ongoing research and development to improve and enhance its
products. Therefore, Neptune reserves the right to change product or system
specifications without notice.
Trademarks Used in This Manual
ProRead and E-CODER are trademarks of Neptune Technology Group Inc. R900 is a
registered trademark of Neptune Technology Group Inc. E-CODER®)R900i 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:
l This device may not cause harmful interference. l 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 interference 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:
l Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. l Increase the separation
between the equipment and receiver.
RF Exposure Information
This equipment complies with the FCC RF radiation requirements for
uncontrolled environments. To maintain compliance with these requirements, the
antenna and any radiating elements should be installed to ensure that a
minimum separation distance of 20 cm is maintained from the general
population.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the users’ authority to operate the equipment.
Professional Installation In accordance with section 15.203 of the FCC rules
and regulations, the R900® cellular endpoint must be professionally installed
by trained meter installers. Changes or modifications not expressly approved
by the party responsible for compliance void the user’s authority to operate
the equipment.
ISED Statement (Canada)
This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standards.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
l This device may not cause harmful interference. l This device must accept
any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation. l The device has been designed to comply
with safety standards for exposure
to radio waves (SAR) in accordance to RSS-102. l The device should be
installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20
cm between the equipment and the user’s body.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d’Industrie Canada applicables aux
appareils radio exempts de licence. L’exploitation est autorisée aux deux
conditions suivantes:
(1) l’appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et
(2) l’appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le
brouillage est susceptible d’en compromettre le fonctionnement.
Cet artifice a été conçu pour se plier à la sécurité les exigences pour
l’exposition aux ondes radioélectriques (SAR) dans conformité avec RSS-102.
Cet artifice devrait être installé et fait marcher avec la distance minimale
20 centimètres entre l’équipement et votre corps.
Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide Literature
No. IM Cellular Endpoint 07.23
Copyright ©2020 – 2023 Neptune Technology Group Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Neptune Technology Group Inc. 1600 Alabama Highway 229 Tallassee, AL 36078
Tel: 800-633-8754 Fax:
334-283-7293
Firmware © 2020 – 2023 Neptune Technology Group Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Figure 57 Aligning the Pin Figure 58 Locking the Antenna into Place Figure 59 Swiping the Cellular Endpoint Figure 60 Attaching the Cellular Endpoint to the Antenna Shaft
Figures
43 43 44 45
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Table 1 Transmitter Specifications Table 2 Supported Encoder Maximum Cable Length Table 3 Environmental Conditions Table 4 Functional Specifications Table 5 Recommended Tools Table 6 Recommended Materials Table 7 Maximum Cable Lengths Table 8 Signal Strength Table 9 Required Clearances for the Pit Cellular Endpoint with Internal Antenna Table 10 Cable Length and Manufacturer Table 11 Example Reading Values Table 12 Leak Status Flag Descriptions
Tables
3 4 4 4 7 8 20 30 33 35 48 51
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Tables
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Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Chapter 1:
Product Description
This chapter provides a general description of the Neptune® cellular endpoint
for wall and pit applications.
The cellular endpoint is a compact electronic device that collects meter
reading data from an encoder register at 15-minute intervals, and then
transmits the data for collection using LTE-M cellular technology. The
endpoint has an R900® mobile backup message that is transmitted every 30
seconds in the event the cellular network is unavailable.
The cellular endpoint is easily installed in wall or pit applications. It
operates on the LTE-M cellular networks. The cellular endpoint stops
transmissions when the battery discharges below the normal operating voltage.
Figure 1 Cellular Endpoint Wall
Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
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Chapter 1: Product Description Figure 2 Cellular Endpoint Pit with External Antenna
Figure 3 Cellular Endpoint Pit with Internal Antenna
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Chapter 2:
Specifications
This chapter covers the specifications for the cellular endpoint.
Electrical Specifications
A lithium battery supplies the power.
Transmitter
The following table defines the cellular endpoint transmitter specifications. Table 1 Transmitter Specifications
Specification Transmit Period
Encoder Reading Transmitter Channel Transmitter Frequency Output Power FCC
Verification
Description
Fifteen-minute data delivered four times per day. R900 mobile backup message
transmitted every 60 minutes. If there are 72 consecutive hours of data
delivery failure over the cellular network, the transmit frequency is
increased to every 30 seconds. Register interrogated every 15 minutes. 50
(R900 mobile backup). 902928 MHz (R900 mobile backup). Meets FCC Part 15.247
and FCC Part 27. Part 15.247.
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Chapter 2: Specifications
Encoder Register Interface
The following table provides information on the maximum cable lengths required
for different registers.
Table 2 Supported Encoder Maximum Cable Length
Cable Brand Neptune® ARB® V
Neptune® ProReadTM, ProCoderTM, MACH 10®, E-CODER® Sensus Protocol registers
Length 300 feet (91 meters). Meets manufacturer’s published specifications for
wire length between the encoder and the remote receptacle. The length is based
on solid three conductor wire, 22 AWG. 500 feet (152 meters).
200 feet (61 meters).
Environmental
The following table provides the environmental specifications of the cellular
endpoint. Table 3 Environmental Conditions
Condition Operating Temperature Storage Temperature Operating Humidity
Description 22° to 149°F (30° to 65°C). 40° to 158°F (40° to 70°C). 0 to 100% condensing.
Functional
The following table provides the functional specifications of the cellular
endpoint. Table 4 Functional Specifications
Specification Register Reading Endpoint ID
Eight digits. Nine digits.
Description
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Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Chapter 2: Specifications
Dimensions and Weight
This section provides the dimensions and weight of the cellular endpoint.
Specification
Definition
Weight
1.0 lbs (454 grams).
Dimensions, Pit model with Internal Antenna See “Pit Cellular Endpoint ” Pit with Internal Antenna Dimensions Front and Side in the following image.
Dimensions Wall model with External Antenna
See Wall Cellular Endpoint with External Antenna Dimensions Front and Side on the following page.
Dimensions front and side
See Cellular endpoint Dimensions Front and Side on the following page.
Figure 4 Pit Cellular Endpoint with Internal Antenna Dimensions Front and Side
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Chapter 2: Specifications
Figure 5 Wall Cellular Endpoint with External Antenna Dimensions Front and Side
Figure 6 Cellular Endpoint Dimensions Front and Side
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Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Chapter 3:
General Installation Guidelines
This chapter describes tools, materials, and general installation guidelines
for the cellular endpoint
Tools and Materials
Chapter 3 defines the recommended tools and materials needed to successfully
install the cellular endpoint.
Some items may not apply to your specific installation, or the list may not
contain all required tools or materials.
Recommended Tools
The following table defines the tools recommended to install the cellular endpoint. Table 5 Recommended Tools
Tool Tool Kit
Magnet
Description
Contains standard tools including:
l Assorted screwdrivers. l Needle-nose pliers. l Wire stripper. l Diagonal
cutters. l Electrician’s knife. l Hammer. l Crimping tool (part # 5500-158).
6 lb. force (part # 12287-001).
Use Perform various installation procedures.
Activating the cellular endpoint.
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Chapter 3: General Installation Guidelines
Recommended Materials
The following table defines the materials recommended to install the cellular endpoint. Table 6 Recommended Materials
Material Cable
Moisture Protection Compound Scotchloks
Site Work Order
Description
Use
Solid 3 Conductor #22 AWG (black / green / red) (part # 6431-352).
Connect the cellular endpoint to encoder register.
Novagard® sealant (part# 96018-072).
Cover exposed wires and terminal screws on register and cellular endpoint.
Part# 8138-125.
Connect wall cellular endpoint or replacement pit cellular endpoint to encoder register.
Documentation provided by your utility. Receive and record information about the work site.
Safety and Preliminary Checks
Observe the following safety and preliminary checks before and during each
installation:
l Verify that you are at the location specified on the site work order. l
Verify that the site is safe for you and your equipment. l Notify the customer
of your presence and tell the customer that you need access to the
water meter. l Write the ID numbers of the cellular endpoint you are
installing, if the site work order
does not include the numbers. l Verify that the ID numbers match the ID
numbers on the cellular endpoint you are
installing, if the site work order already includes them.
Verifying and Preparing the Encoder Register
The cellular endpoint is designed for use with the following encoder
registers:
l ARB® V. l ProReadTM. l ProReadTM AutoDetect. l E-CODER®. l ProCoderTM. l
MACH 10®.
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Chapter 3: General Installation Guidelines
The cellular endpoint also operates with competitor registers using Sensus
UI-1203 protocol which include:
l Sensus ECRIII. l ICE. l iPerl. l OMNI, and electronic registers. l
Hersey/Mueller Translator. l Badger ADE. l HR-E® LCD.
Before installing the cellular endpoint, the encoder register must be
correctly wired and programmed to work with the cellular endpoint. E-CODER and
ProCoder registers do not require programming.
When using a ProRead encoder register, the non-AutoDetect ProRead register must be programmed for three-wire mode.
Storage
If connecting the cellular endpoint to a new ProRead encoder register, or if a
threeconductor cable is already connected to a ProRead encoder register,
ensure that the ProRead register: l Is programmed for three-wire mode using
the field programmer l Format is set to (NTG) RF MIU Transport Driver
Interface format (TDI). You can
accomplish this through the ProRead receptacle before removing the receptacle.
After receipt, inspect the shipping containers for damage, and inspect the
contents for damage prior to storage. After completing the inspection, store
the cartons in a clean, dry environment. The cellular endpoint has an internal
battery and storing it for more than one year can affect product life. Be sure
to use a first-in, first-out inventory control system. For more information,
see “Environmental” on page 4.
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Chapter 3: General Installation Guidelines
Unpacking
Handle the cellular endpoint carefully; however, no additional special
handling is required. After unpacking the cellular endpoint, inspect it for
damage. If the cellular endpoint appears to be damaged or proves to be
defective upon installation, notify your Neptune sales representative. If one
or more items requires reshipment, use the original cardboard box and packing
material.
Installing a Register (Non Pre-Wired or Potted Only)
Prior to installing the cellular endpoint, ensure the meter register is wired.
If it is not already pre-wired or potted, complete the following steps: 1.
Make sure the cable is long enough before wiring the pit encoder register. 2.
Use only 22 American Wire Gauge (AWG) cable to make the connection from the
encoder register to the cellular endpoint. 3. Remove the terminal screw from
the encoder register. 4. Strip off ¾ inch of the jacket from the cable,
leaving only the three insulated wires.
Take precautions not to nick or cut the insulation on the three wires. 5.
Strip off 1/2 inch of insulation from each of the three wires.
Figure 7 Wiring a Neptune Encoder Register
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Chapter 3: General Installation Guidelines 6. If required, connect the three
conductor wires to the encoder register’s terminal per the
manufacturer’s instructions.
Figure 8 Color Code for Wires
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Chapter 3: General Installation Guidelines 7. Thread the cable around the
strain relief posts of the encoder.
Figure 9 Cable Threaded Around Strain Relief Posts 8. Apply sealant
liberally and ensure that it encapsulates the terminal screws and exposed
wires. Neptune requires Novagard® G661 sealant or Dow® compound 4.
Figure 10 Application of the Sealant
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Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Chapter 3: General Installation Guidelines 9. Snap the cover onto the encoder
register.
Figure 11 Covering the Terminal Screws
Connecting the Endpoint Wires Together
If the endpoint is not purchased as potted and wired directly to a register,
the endpoint’s cable must be connected to the register’s cable with either the
standard 22 AWG pigtail cable or the connector cable. When connecting with the
standard 22 AWG pigtail cable, Scotchlok gel cap connectors are recommended.
The following sections are the different instructions for how to connect the
register and endpoint cables together. These sections are referenced in the
later installation procedures.
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Chapter 3: General Installation Guidelines
Connecting the Register and Endpoint Wires using ScotchlokTM Gel Cap
Connectors
Follow these steps to connect the ScotchlokTM Gel Cap Connector. 1. Pair the
colored wires appropriately according to the color diagram.
Figure 12 Color Code for Wires
2. Hold the Scotchlok connector between the index finger and thumb with the
red cap facing down.
Figure 13 ScotchlokTM Connector
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Chapter 3: General Installation Guidelines
3. Slide a set of paired wires into the groove until they seat into the back
of the gel cap.
Do not strip colored insulation from the wires, or strip and twist bare wires
prior to inserting into a connector. Insert the insulated colored wires
directly into the Scotchlok connector.
Figure 14 Sliding Paired Wires into the Groove 4. Place the connector (red
cap side down) between the jaws of the crimping tool.
Figure 15 Crimping the Connector
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Chapter 3: General Installation Guidelines
5. Check to ensure the wires are still fully seated before crimping the
connector. The following image illustrates improper connections due to wires
not being fully seated.
Figure 16 Checking the Wire Seating
6. Squeeze the gel cap firmly using the appropriate crimping tool to ensure a
good connection. You may hear a popping sound and gel may leak from the end of
the connector.
7. Repeat steps 2 through 6 until you complete all connections.
Figure 17 Completing All Connections
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Chapter 3: General Installation Guidelines
8. Take all three connected Scotchloks and push them into the connector king
splice tube until the silicone grease fully encapsulates it.
Figure 18 Seating the Wires into the King Splice Tube 9. Separate each gray wire and place them in the slots on each side.
Figure 19 Slotting the Wires 10. Snap the cover closed.
Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
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Chapter 3: General Installation Guidelines
Connecting the Register and Endpoint Wires Using Quick Connectors
Follow these steps to connect the register and endpoint wires. 1. Align the
connectors with arrows pointing toward each other.
Figure 20 Lining up Connectors 2. Press the connectors firmly together,
ensuring the arrows still line up. Take care not to
twist.
Figure 21 Connectors in Place Figure 22 Connector Ends Fully Connected
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Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Chapter 4:
Wall Installation
This chapter describes the site selection and the wall installation procedure
for the cellular endpoint. The cellular endpoint for wall application can be
ordered as one of the following configurations: l Potted with a standard 22
AWG pigtail cable. l Potted with a connector cable. Any existing network
registers must be reprogrammed.
The cellular endpoint does not have networking capability.
Site Selection
Always follow your company’s safety practices, and installation guidelines
when installing a cellular endpoint. Never perform an installation during a
lightning storm or under excessively wet conditions.
Installation and operation in moderate temperatures increase reliability and
product life. For more information, see “Environmental” on page 4. Follow
these guidelines when selecting a location to install the cellular endpoint. l
Mount the cellular endpoint on the outside of the building. l Install the
cellular endpoint approximately 5 feet above the ground. l Install the
cellular endpoint in a vertical and upright position. l Mount the cellular
endpoint on a flat surface like a wall, but it can also be mounted on a
pipe. l Clear the selected location of all obstructions. l Avoid installing
the cellular endpoint behind metal fences or walls. The maximum cable length
between the encoder register and cellular endpoint depends on the register’s
manufacturer and model. See the following table for the maximum cable lengths.
Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
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Chapter 4: Wall Installation
Table 7 Maximum Cable Lengths
Encoder Register Neptune ARB® V. Meets manufacturer’s published specification
for wire length to the encoder. Neptune ProReadTM, E-CODER®, ProCoderTM, MACH
10®.
Sensus Protocol registers.
Maximum Cable Lengths 300 feet (91 meters).
500 feet (152 meters). 200 feet (61 meters).
Installing the Cellular Endpoint
This section defines the procedure to install the wall cellular endpoint.
Complete the following steps to install the wall cellular endpoint. 1. Remove
the main housing from the back plate.
Figure 23 Cellular Endpoint Main Housing
The Hi-Lo fastener for securing the main cellular endpoint housing to the back
plate is shipped separately.
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Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Chapter 4: Wall Installation
2. Study “Site Selection” on page 19 and then decide how to install the
cellular endpoint. l You can insert the cable through any of the entry holes
in the back plate. The variety of holes allows for quick and easy
installation.
Figure 24 Cellular Endpoint Back Plate
l When the cellular endpoint replaces a receptacle, use the appropriate hole
to allow reuse of the receptacle’s original mounting holes.
l When mounting the cellular endpoint to a pipe, use the pipe clamp holes to
secure the mounting adapter to a pipe.
3. Mount the back plate. 4. Connect the cellular endpoint’s cable to the
meter register or register cable. If
connecting to a register that does not have a wired cable, following the
instructions in “Installing a Register (Non Pre-Wired or Potted Only)” on page
10. If the register is already wired, follow the instructions in steps 1
through 7 for “Connecting the Register and Endpoint Wires using ScotchlokTM
Gel Cap Connectors ” on page 14 if using a standard cable, or “General
Installation Guidelines” on page 7 if using a connector cable.
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Chapter 4: Wall Installation 5. Store excess wire and Scotchloks (if
applicable) in the hollow cavity in the back of the cellular endpoint using
the strain relief guides.
Figure 25 Cable in Back of Cellular Endpoint 6. Continue to guide the
remaining wire through the cable exit notch at the bottom right
side of the cellular endpoint.
Figure 26 Cable Exit Notch
7. Slide the tongue on the top of the cellular endpoint into the groove on
the top of the back plate.
8. Secure the cellular endpoint to the back plate using the set screw.
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Chapter 4: Wall Installation
9. Activate the endpoint by positioning the magnet against the left side of
the cellular endpoint directly in line with the Neptune® logo.
Figure 27 Securing the Mounting Adapter 10. Move the magnet up and over the top left corner of the cellular endpoint.
Figure 28 Swiping the Cellular Endpoint
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Chapter 4: Wall Installation 11. Install a seal wire or seal clip through the
seal hole at the bottom of the cellular endpoint’s main housing.
Figure 29 Installing the Seal Wire 12. Verify that the requirements of the
site work order have been met and that all
information is recorded. 13. Clean up the installation site before leaving.
Testing the Installation
You can use the Neptune® 360TM Field Manager app to verify cellular
connectivity and meter reading, to ensure the cellular endpoint is installed
correctly. To test the installation, complete the following steps. 1. Be sure
the endpoint has been activated.
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Chapter 4: Wall Installation
2. Open the Endpoint Manager section in the Neptune® 360TM Field Manager app
on an AndroidTM* or IOS® device.
Figure 30 Field Manager Options 3. Select Search Cellular Endpoint.
*Android is a trademark of Google LLC.
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Chapter 4: Wall Installation 4. In the Endpoint field, enter the ID of the endpoint.
Figure 31 Entering the Cellular Endpoint ID
It can take up to two minutes for information to be retrieved after performing
the search. Please note that if the endpoint was not previously activated by
swiping a magnet across its housing cover, you must complete this prior to
searching for the endpoint in the Field Manager app.
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Chapter 4: Wall Installation 5. When the system finds the endpoint ID, the Signal Quality and other data are displayed.
Figure 32 Connection Status
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Chapter 4: Wall Installation 6. Tap to reveal additional information for the endpoint .
Figure 33 Connection Status and Detail
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Chapter 4: Wall Installation
7. If the system cannot find the endpoint ID or the LTE-M connection has not
occurred after installation, it displays an alert.
Figure 34 Endpoint Alert
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Chapter 4: Wall Installation
8. If the LTE-M connection has not occurred or if the signal strength is
poor, the system displays the following disclaimer message: “To improve the
signal, Neptune recommends moving the endpoint to another location or
utilizing a pit antenna (pit units only)”. The following table describes the
signal quality.
Table 8 Signal Strength
LTE-M Signal Quality
Excellent Good Fair Poor
RSRP (dBm) > 84 85 to 102 103 to 111 < 111
RSRQ (dB) > 5 9 to 5 12 to 9 < 12
If the signal strength displayed is Excellent or Good, the cellular coverage is adequate. If the signal strength is Fair or Poor, cellular connectivity may be impacted.
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Chapter 5:
Pit Installation
This chapter describes the site selection and the pit installation of the
cellular endpoint. The endpoint for installation in a pit can be purchased in
two form factors (with or without an external antenna) and with one of the
following configurations: l Potted and wired directly to the register. l
Potted with a standard 22 AWG cable. l Potted with a connector cable. Be sure
to select the appropriate version based on the recommendations in “Site
Selection” on the next page.
Figure 35 Pit Cellular Endpoint with Internal Antenna
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Chapter 5: Pit Installation
Figure 36 Pit Cellular Endpoint with External Antenna
Site Selection
Installation and operation in moderate temperatures increase reliability and
product life. For more information, see “Environmental” on page 4.
Always follow your company’s safety practices and installation guidelines when
installing a cellular endpoint. Never perform an installation during a
lightning storm or under excessively wet conditions.
Follow these guidelines when selecting a location and the endpoint type (with
or without an external antenna) to install the cellular endpoint. l Select a
location where there is no chance that another object can be set over an
antenna. l Avoid installing the cellular endpoint behind metal fences or
walls. l Consider the following clearances for the pit cellular endpoint
with an internal antenna
only.
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Chapter 5: Pit Installation
Table 9 Required Clearances for the Pit Cellular Endpoint with Internal Antenna
Requirement
Minimum Recommend
Notes
Vertical clearance from 2½”
3″
N/A
pit lid to meter / register
Antenna hole distance from pit lid edge
2 3/16″
3 3/16″
Recommended distance (3-3/16″ ) is needed to support the external cellular antenna if desired in the future.
Pit Lid Length
11″
13″
For smaller pits, utilize the cellular endpoint with external antenna.
Pit Lid Width
9″
11″
For smaller pits, utilize the cellular endpoint with external antenna.
Pit Lid Material
Plastic / Composite Only
Lid material must be non-metal and non-metallic. Pits with metal pit lids require the cellular endpoint with an external antenna.
Figure 37 Pit Cellular Endpoint with Vertical Antenna Clearance
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Chapter 5: Pit Installation
Figure 38 Pit Cellular Endpoint with Internal Antenna Clearances
l For pit endpoints with the internal antenna, the meter pit must use a
plastic polymer lid. Pits with metal lids require the pit endpoint with an
external antenna.
l Make sure the pit location gives adequate room for installing both the
cellular endpoint and the flange or TTL pit external antenna (if used).
l Install the pit external antenna above the lid in low traffic areas, as
illustrated below, for maximum performance.
Figure 39 Flange or Antenna Placement for Low Traffic Areas
l When installing in a high traffic area, Neptune® recommends that the dome of
the flange or pit antenna be recessed in the pit lid as shown in “Flange or
Antenna Placement for High Traffic Areas” on the facing page.
l Recessing the installation reduces the range of the antenna.
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Chapter 5: Pit Installation
Figure 40 Flange or Antenna Placement for High Traffic Areas
Although the cellular endpoint has a cable already attached (2 feet or 6
feet), some installations can require additional cable. In these cases, the
maximum cable length between the encoder register and the cellular endpoint
depends on the register’s manufacturer and model. For more information, see
“Specifications” on page 3.
Table 10 Cable Length and Manufacturer
Encoder Register Neptune® ARB® V Meets manufacturer’s published specification
for wire length between encoder and remote receptacle. Neptune ProReadTM,
E-CODER®, ProCoderTM, MACH 10®.
Sensus Protocol Register.
Maximum Cable Length 300 feet (91 meters).
500 feet (152 meters). 200 feet (61 meters).
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Chapter 5: Pit Installation
Pit Cellular Endpoint Installation
The following section describes how to install a single cellular endpoint in a
pit location. Be sure to select the appropriate version based on the
recommendations in “Site Selection” on page 32.
Installing the Pit Cellular Endpoint with Internal Antenna
Follow this procedure to install the pit endpoint with an internal antenna. 1.
Remove the pit lid. 2. Connect the endpoint to the meter / register (if
endpoint is not potted to register) using
the appropriate three-wire connection type. See “Connecting the Register and
Endpoint Wires using ScotchlokTM Gel Cap Connectors ” on page 14 or “General
Installation Guidelines” on page 7. 3. Using a magnet, swipe clockwise around
the top left corner of the endpoint, starting at the middle of the endpoint’s
longer side and ending at the middle of the short side.
Figure 41 Swipe with the Magnet
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Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Chapter 5: Pit Installation
Figure 42 Magnet Swipe Direction 4. Insert the flange tube through the 1¾ inch hole in the meter pit lid.
Figure 43 Insert the Flange Tube
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37
Chapter 5: Pit Installation 5. Slide the endpoint housing onto the flange tube
with the face of the endpoint housing toward the pit lid, until the face of
the endpoint is touching the underside of the lid. Some pit lids may have a
recessed underside which may cause the endpoint to not sit flush against the
pit lid, forcing the flange to protrude, as illustrated in the following
images.
Figure 44 Recessed Underside – Cellular Endpoint not Flush
Figure 45 Protruding Flange In these cases, you can use an additional
locking nut.
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Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Chapter 5: Pit Installation
Figure 46 Locking Nut Example One
Figure 47 Locking Nut Example Two
Figure 48 Locking Nut Example Three
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39
Chapter 5: Pit Installation
6. After step 4 and before sliding the endpoint housing onto the flange tube,
thread a locking nut onto the flange tube, with the unthreaded end toward the
lid, until the nut is at an appropriate distance that allows the endpoint to
sit flush, as illustrated.
Figure 49 Slide the Endpoint Housing
7. Thread a locking nut onto the flange tube, with the unthreaded end toward
the lid, until it loosely touches the endpoint housing.
8. Rotate the endpoint horizontally as needed to fit into the meter pit and
finish tightening the locking nut to secure the endpoint in place.
Figure 50 Rotate the Endpoint
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Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Chapter 5: Pit Installation 9. Put the meter pit lid back in place ensuring a snug fit with the meter pit.
Figure 51 Replace the Meter Lid
Installing the Pit Cellular Endpoint with External Antenna
Complete these steps to install the endpoint with an external antenna in a
pit. 1. Insert the antenna cable and housing through the 1¾ inch hole in the
meter pit lid.
Figure 52 Inserting the Antenna into the Pit Lid 2. Thread the locking nut onto the antenna, with the unthreaded end toward the lid.
Figure 53 Locking the Nut on the Antenna
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41
Chapter 5: Pit Installation
Figure 54 Antenna Installation Complete 3. Remove the protective cap from
the antenna connector by pushing down and twisting
the protective cap counterclockwise.
Figure 55 Removing the Protective Cap Make sure there is a red, O-ring
gasket in the connector and there is Novagard® gel in the connector cavity. 4.
Remove the protective cap from the antenna connection on the endpoint. 5.
Connect the antenna to the endpoint ensuring that the center conductor pin
inside the
connector lines up with the hole in the center of the connector on the
endpoint.
Figure 56 Cellular Endpoint Conductor Pin
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Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Chapter 5: Pit Installation 6. When the pin is properly aligned, push the
antenna connection down fully onto the
connection of the endpoint, so that the latch plate is engaged on all three
posts.
Figure 57 Aligning the Pin 7. Turn the antenna clockwise until it locks into
place.
Figure 58 Locking the Antenna into Place 8. Connect the endpoint to the
meter/register (if endpoint is not potted to register) using
the appropriate connection method (see “Connecting the Register and Endpoint
Wires using ScotchlokTM Gel Cap Connectors ” on page 14, or “General
Installation Guidelines” on page 7. After the endpoint and register are
connected you can activate the cellular endpoint.
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Chapter 5: Pit Installation
9. Using a magnet, swipe clockwise around the top left corner of the
endpoint, starting halfway down the long side of the endpoint and finishing at
the middle of the shorter side.
Figure 59 Swiping the Cellular Endpoint
10. Place the cellular endpoint in the pit:
l In a shallow pit application, you can place the cellular endpoint beside the
meter.
l In deep pit applications, use a cable tie to suspend the cellular endpoint
from the antenna shaft “Attaching the Cellular Endpoint to the Antenna Shaft”
on the facing page.
l Do not lodge the cellular endpoint between the meter box and any components
inside the box.
l Place the cellular endpoint in such a way that it does not lodge itself when
the pit lid is removed.
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Chapter 5: Pit Installation
Figure 60 Attaching the Cellular Endpoint to the Antenna Shaft
Testing the Installation
To test the installation, follow the steps in “Wall Installation” on page 19.
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Cellular Endpoint Installation and Maintenance Guide
Chapter 6:
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
This chapter takes you through maintenance and troubleshooting procedures for
the cellular endpoint.
Six- Wheel Encoders
If the odometer reads 123456, the Endpoint Manager should show 1 2 3 4 5 5 0
0.
The sixth digit displayed is a five, if the last digit on the odometer is five
through nine. The sixth digit is a zero, if the last digit on the odometer is
zero through four. The cellular endpoint adds two zeros on the end to provide
an eight-digit reading to the host software.
Four-Wheel Encoders
If the odometer reads 1234, the Endpoint Manager shows 1 2 3 4 0 0 0 0.
The cellular endpoint adds four zeros on the end to provide an eight-digit
reading to the host software.
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Chapter 6: Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
This section provides examples of possible reading values and what they
indicate.
The following table includes various reading values and steps you can perform
to troubleshoot issues. Many of the issues display the same reading value, so
be sure to review the definitions of the reading value to determine the most
appropriate troubleshooting steps.
Table 11 Example Reading Values
Reading Value :::::::: ????????
MMMMMMMMM
UUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUU
Definition
Troubleshooting
Indicates a timeout / failure to retrieve a reading
This value usually indicates a bad connection, no connection, or a cut wire between the endpoint and the meter register. Check the connection between the register and cellular endpoint.
Indicates a non-numeric reading
Indicates the meter read history is not available Indicates a parity check
Indicates the Checksum failed Indicates a format error
Indicates the data received from the meter register is valid but contains a
non-numeric value. For example: When the register wheel is in transition from
one number to the next.
This might be a temporary condition if an old register is present. If the
condition persists, investigate the register.
This reading can happen on R900 and LoRaWAN (v4 and v5) endpoints for the
first 12 hours, and whenever the endpoint resets. The condition clears after
12 hours. If the condition persists, investigate the endpoint and register.
This reading can indicate an endpoint-to-register communication error, which
is usually temporary.
This reading can indicate an endpoint-to-register communication error which is
usually temporary. If the error is consistent, verify the register
configuration.
This reading can indicate an endpoint-to-register communication error. If
certain delimiters are missing from the packet, this error can occur. The
error can also indicate a possible programming / configuration register issue.
If the condition does not clear, investigate the register.
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Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Chapter 6: Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Table 11 Example Reading Values (continued)
Reading Value UUUUUUUUU
UUUUUUUUU
UUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUU
Definition Indicates an unknown register
Indicates a mismatched register type
Indicates a mismatched register ID Indicates a message timeout
Troubleshooting
This reading can indicate an auto-detection failure with no error found, or an
incompatible register. The condition can also occur If the system receives a
packet back from the register that the endpoint does not recognize.
This reading can indicate a register type has changed or the register was
replaced (mismatched register protocol), or the register is replaced (moved
from E-CODER to MACH 10 or ProCoder). If the condition occurs without
replacing or swapping the register type, the endpoint receives a response from
the register that does not match the expected response.
This reading indicates a register ID was changed or replaced. This c occur
with an E-CODER replacement. If the error persists, investigate the register.
This reading indicates the endpoint timed out and the register stopped
responding to the endpoint interrogations. This condition is temporary.
Contact Information
By Phone
Neptune Customer Support is available in the United States Monday through Friday, 7:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Central Time by telephone or email.
To contact Neptune Customer Support by phone, call
800-647-4832 and complete the following
steps.
Press one of the following:
l 1 for Customer Service. l 2 for System Support. l 3 for Return Material
Authorizations (RMAs) l 4 for Subscriptions or Renewals l 5 for Customer
Success and Onboarding
For System Support or Customer Success and Onboarding, press one of the
following:
l 1 if you know your site ID. l 2 to input your PIN or if you do not have a
PIN.
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Chapter 6: Maintenance and Troubleshooting
By Email
For RMAs, press one of the following: l 1 for reading device support. l 2 for
meter, endpoint, and register support.
Neptune Customer Support Specialists are dedicated to you until the issue is
resolved to your satisfaction. When you call, please be prepared to give the
following information:
l Your name and utility or company name. l A description of what occurred and
what you were doing at the time. l A description of any actions taken to
correct the issue.
To contact Neptune Support by email, send your message to
support@neptunetg.com.
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Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Appendix
Appendix A: Endpoint Modes
There is a single mode of operation for the cellular endpoint, which provides
15-minute register interrogations with readings and flags delivered to
Neptune® 360TM every six hours.
Table 12 Leak Status Flag Descriptions
Leak Status Flag (Resets After 35 Days)
Based on total number of 15-minute periods recorded in the previous 24-hour period.
Leak icon off Flashing leak icon
Eighth digit incremented less than 50 of the 96 days of 15-minute intervals. Eighth digit incremented in 50-95 of the 96 days of 15-minute intervals.
Solid leak icon
Eighth digit incremented in all of the 96 days 15-minute intervals.
Consecutive Days with Zero Consumption Flag (Resets After 35 Days).
Number of days the “leak status” was at a minimum value.
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Cellular Endpoint Installation and Maintenance Guide
Appendix B: Field Manager
Neptune® 360TM Field Manager is an Android and iOS application that can
communicate with a cellular endpoint during the installation, troubleshooting,
and maintenance of the endpoint. The Field Manager checks the LTE Connection
of the endpoint.
Field Manager is compatible with the following Android operating systems:
l 7.0.X Nougat. l 7.1.X Nougat. l 8.1.X Oreo. l 9.0.X Pie. l 10.0.X.
Field Manager is also compatible with the following iOS operating systems
antenna (pit)1 using either an iPhone or iPad:
l 10.3.1 and higher. l 11. l 12. l 13. l 14.
Cellular Endpoint Status
The Cellular Endpoint Status screen provides a snapshot of the current
configuration of the cellular endpoint that the system is searching. This
information is:
l Endpoint Status (four possible states based on signal quality: Excellent,
Good, Fair, Poor).
l Signal quality (RSRP and RSRQ). l Last meter reading. l Last call in time.
Additionally, you can open a collapsible section and review additional
information for the cellular endpoint including:
l Reporting Interval. l Recording Interval. l Last RSRP. l Last RSRQ. l
Firmware Rev. l Bootloader Rev. l Config Rev.
1Cellular endpoint antenna used for pit installations.
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Appendix B: Field Manager
Error Messaging
If a user attempts to search for a cellular endpoint, but cannot return
details, there are two possible error scenarios: 1. If your mobile device does
not have service at the time you search, you see the message:
“No network connection. Try again later.” 2. If you search for an endpoint and
nothing is returned, you see the message: “Cannot
find Endpoint. Please try swiping again or moving to a new location to try
connection again.”
Meter Reading
You can use the Endpoint Manager to verify a valid installation of a cellular
endpoint with a connected register. By accessing the Endpoint Manager section
of the Field Manager app and searching an endpoint, you have access to the
last meter reading and last call in time.
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Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Glossary
A
antenna (pit)
Cellular endpoint antenna used for pit installations.
AWG
American Wire Gauge.
F
FCC
Federal Communications Commission.
L
Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
Component where the meter-reading and value-added icons are displayed.
M
MIU
Meter Interface Unit, which is also called an endpoint.
R
register read time
The default time is 15 minutes for all registers. Custom time is not
available.
Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
55
Glossary
S
seal pin
Small, black plastic nail used to secure the E-CODER®)R900i to the meter.
serial number
Unique identification number given to each endpoint / MIU at the factory. The
default value is the last programmed, plus one. Custom serial numbers are not
available.
T
TDI
Transport Driver Interface format.
transmission time
The time between endpoint transmissions.
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Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
Index
A
American Wire Gauge 10 AWG 10
B
backflow 51 battery 3
C
cable 4, 8, 19 22 AWG 4, 10 maximum length 4 three-conductor 9
Cellular Endpoint 20 installing 20 testing 24
conductor wire 11
D
dimensions 5 Dow Corning 12
E
E-CODER®)R900i 8 encoders
four-wheel 47 six-wheel 47
M
magnet 7 maintenance 31
N
Novagard sealant 12
O
operating humidity 4
P
procedures maintenance 47 troubleshooting 47
ProRead 4
R
read E-CODER®)R900i 19 receptacle 21 register
install 10 potted only 10
S
ScotchlokTM 8
Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit Installation and Maintenance Guide
57
Index
sealant 12 strain relief posts 12
T
TDI 9 temperature
operating 4 storage 4, 19 testing the installation 31 tool kit 7 tools 19
Transport Driver Interface format 9
W
weight 5
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Cellular Endpoint Installation and Maintenance Guide
Cellular Endpoint Wall and Pit 07.23 © Copyright 2023, Neptune Technology
Group Inc. Neptune is a registered trademark of
Neptune Technology Group Inc.
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