Arc Innovations takes a flexible approach to its platform architecture for meters.

Two broad approaches are typically available to utilities regarding architecture of customer premise equipment (CPE). These are either collar architecture or under-the-glass architecture. The approach a utility takes is often dependent on its particular circumstances.

Collar solutions are particularly favoured where a relatively recent investment has been made in new, but basic metering assets. In this circumstance, the utility is often seeking to utilise this asset in the transition to AMI rather than write it off. Collars are also often favoured by utilities where a level of possible future redundancy is envisaged for certain CPE elements (e.g. cellular communications), and a modular collar approach can allow flexibility in retaining more durable components.

Under-the-glass solutions are often favoured when a utility has not had significant recent investment in metering, and consequently has limited asset write-off issues. Utilities with strong views on future requirements may also feel more comfortable about investing in under-the-glass CPE.

Arc Innovations' under-the-glass solution is based on a single physical equipment solution with Arc Innovations' AMI functionality, AMI and home area network, and disconnect switch totally enclosed within the meter. The Arc Innovations AMI functionality and vendor's meters are interfaced, providing a high level of integration to allow access to all the capability offered by the meter.