Datasheet: Multiple Input Receiver Assembly (MIRA)

The Multiple Input Receiver Assembly (MIRA) board is next generation hardware for the TWACS substation. It is a multiple process receiver that increases the maximum number of inputs that can be supported when using Concurrent Phase Communications. This single unit replaces the usual 3 Correlation Receiver Processor Assemblies (CRPA) and the Correlation Receiver Multiplexer Assemblies (CRMA) that are normally installed in the TWACS- 10 Control and Receiving Unit (CRU) 93.

The MIRA increases the rate at which meters can be added to and addressed in the TWACS Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system,. MIRA reduces the bandwidth required for searching meters, reduces the complexity of configuring management software search modes, improves reliability of path assignments which improves AMR performance and reduces the time needed to respond to path switching events. This multiple process transceiver provides better filtering capabilities than existing board sets (CRPA and CRMA) and allows the use of all 6 channels through its advanced-notch filtering technology. This single unit replaces both CRM and CRP Assemblies.

Prior to the introduction of the MIRA board, the TWACS system would support concurrent phase communications in substations on up to 4 buses concurrently with maximum 32 inputs using a single CRU. In order to achieve a single MIRAenabled level of throughput (128 inputs) the system would require more than one CRU, each equipped with 3 receivers. Working in conjunction with complementary AMIgo System components, the XM transponders, the MIRA's addressing capability increases groupings from 64 meters to 256 meters, easily expanding system capabilities.

The development of the MIRA reduces the overall cost of deploying the AMIgo system by increasing the rate at which meters can be addressed in the TWACS Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system, reducing the bandwidth required for searching meters, reducing the complexity of configuring management software search modes, and improving the reliability of path assignments: thus improving AMR performance and reducing the time needed to respond to path switching events.