A1800 Technical Manual - Rev.02 PDF

A1800 ALPHA Meter
Technical Manual
Rev.02
10-2011
www.izmerenie.ru
Technical manual
Contents
Technical manual
Contents
Contents
1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
A1800 ALPHA meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Standards Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
IEC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
IEEE/ANSI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
DIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Reliability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Maintainability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
ANSI standard communication open protocol . . . . . . 1-4
Adaptability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Meter types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Meter series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
2 Product description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Physical description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Optical port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
LCD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Nameplate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Utility information card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Cover tamper detection switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Terminal configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Communication protocols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
System architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
General theory of operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Main power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Auxiliary power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Current and voltage sensing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Meter engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Microcontroller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
EEPROM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Billing data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Metered energy and demand quantities . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Average power factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Demand calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Rolling interval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Block interval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Thermal time constant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Maximum demand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Cumulative maximum demand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Continuous cumulative maximum demand . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Coincident demand or power factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Technical manual
ii
Contents
Demand forgiveness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Primary and secondary metering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
TOU data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Power failure data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Logs and data sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Event log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
History log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Self reads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Load profiling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Load profiling pulse divisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Instrumentation profiling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
TRueQ Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Voltage sag log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
User-defined tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Physical dimensions and mass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
3 Operating instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Indicators and controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
LCD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Quantity identifier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Display quantity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Phase indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Energy direction indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Power/energy units identifier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Alternate display indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Error indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Low battery indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Active COM port indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Display indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Push buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
RESET button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
* button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Using the backlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Operating modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Normal mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Alternate mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Test mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Demand reset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Demand reset lockout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
Demand reset data area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
4 Meter tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

System instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
System service tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Service voltage test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
System service locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Initiating service voltage tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
Restarting the service voltage test in diagnostic mode 4-9
Service current test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Initiating the service current test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
System service error codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
TRueQ monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
TRueQ timing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
TRueQ display items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
TRueQ and relays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
TRueQ log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Voltage sags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Voltage sag counter and timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
TRueQ tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
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Contents
TRueQ event counters and timers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15

Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
Meter passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
Antitampering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
Program protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
5 Outputs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Relay outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Energy pulse outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Using pulse divisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Using pulse value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Relay-related alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
LED pulse outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Output specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
6 Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Meter self test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Codes and warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Error codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Warning codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Communication codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8
Meter shop testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9
Test equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9
Test setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9
Meter testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10
Using relay outputs for testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10
Using LCD pulse count for testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10
7 Installation and removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Preliminary inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Placing the meter into service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Installing a TOU battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
Initial setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
Marking the utility information card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
Removing the meter from service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
Removing the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
8 Loss compensation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
What is Loss Compensation? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Availability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Software support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Calculating the correction values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Gather necessary data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
Calculate the meter configuration parameters . . . . . . . . 8-2
Calculating line loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
Calculation example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
Enter Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12
Internal meter calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12
Meter outputs affected by compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15
Testing a meter with compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15
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iv
Contents
A Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
B Display table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-1

Display format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-1
Display list items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-2
Default display formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-3
LCD test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-3
General meter information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-4
Meter configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-4
Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-5
Metered quantities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-6
Average power factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-8
Coincident demand and power factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-8
Cumulative demand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-9
System instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-9
System service tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-11
Errors and warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-12
Communication codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-12
C Nameplate and style number information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C-1

Nameplate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C-1
Utility information card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C-2
Style number information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C-3
D Wiring diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1

Direct connected . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1
CT-connected meters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-2
E Technical specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E-1

Absolute maximums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E-1
Operating ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E-1
Operating characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E-1
General performance characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E-2
Dimensions and mass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E-2
A1800 ALPHA Meter Family

Technical Manual
A1800 ALPHA Meter
Technical Manual
Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liability

There are no understandings, agreements, representations, or warranties either expressed or
implied, including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, other than
those specifically set out by any existing contract between the parties. Any such contract
states the entire obligation of the seller. The contents of this technical manual shall not
become part of or modify any prior or existing agreement, commitment, or relationship.
The information, recommendations, descriptions, and safety notices in this technical manual
are based on Elster Metronica, OOO experience and judgment with respect to the operation
and maintenance of the described product. This information should not be considered as
allinclusive or covering all contingencies. If further information is required, Elster
Metronica, OOO should be consulted.
No warranties, either expressed or implied, including warranties of fitness for a particular
purpose or merchantability, or warranties arising from the course of dealing or usage of trade,
are made regarding the information, recommendations, descriptions, warnings, and cautions
contained herein.
In no event will Elster Metronica, OOO be held responsible to the user in contract, in tort
(including negligence), strict liability, or otherwise for any special, indirect, incidental, or
consequential damage or loss whatsoever, including but not limited to: damage or loss of use
of equipment, cost of capital, loss of profits or revenues, or claims against the user by its
customers from the use of the information, recommendations, descriptions, and safety notices
contained herein.
Safety Information
Installation, operation, and maintenance of this product can present potentially hazardous
conditions (for example, high voltages) if safety procedures are not followed. To ensure that
this product is used safely, it is important that you:
Review, understand, and observe all safety notices and recommendations within this manual.
Do not remove or copy individual pages from this manual, as this manual is intended for use
in its entirety. If you were to remove or copy individual pages, cross references and safety
notices may be overlooked, possibly resulting in damage to the equipment, personal injury, or
even death.
Inform personnel involved in the installation, operation, and maintenance of the product
about the safety notices and recommendations contained in this manual.
Within this manual, safety notices appear preceding the text or step to which they apply.
Safety notices are divided into the following four classifications:
Notice is used to alert personnel to installation, operation, or maintenance

information that is important but not hazard related.
Caution is used to alert personnel to the presence of a hazard that will or can cause
minor personal injury, equipment damage, or property damage if the notice is
ignored.
A1800 ALPHA Meter Family

Technical Manual
vi
Warning is used to alert personnel to the presence of a hazard that can cause severe
personal injury, death, equipment damage, or property damage if notice is ignored.
Danger is used to alert personnel to the presence of a hazard that will cause severe
personal injury, death, equipment damage, or property damage if the notice is
ignored.
Technical manual
Technical manual
1-1
1 Introduction
A1800 ALPHA meter

The A1800 ALPHA meter family provides a platform that supports a variety of metering
requirements. The A1800 ALPHA meter family is a totally electronic polyphase electricity
meter and integral register for commercial and industrial applications. The meter is available
in 3- and 4-wire configurations for 3 phases.
See Figure 1-1 for an illustration of an A1800 ALPHA meter.
Figure 1-1. A1800 ALPHA meter
+ Q
-P
+P
- Q
L1 L2 L3
COM 0 1 2
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
T7 T8 EOI LC TC TST
T YP E A1800
M ODEL
3x 58/100...277/480V, 50Hz
1(10)A
ELSTERSAMPLE
5,000 imp/kWh
5,000 imp/kVarh
0 .2 S
CT
VT
imp/kWh(kVARh)
Introduction
Technical manual
1-2
Standards Compliance
IEC. The A1800 ALPHA meter meets or exceeds the following IEC standards for electricity
metering.
Table 1-1. IEC standards supported by the A1800 ALPHA meter

Number
Date
Edition
62052-11
2003
General requirements, tests and test conditions.
62053-21
2003
Particular requirements-static meters for active

energy (Classes 1.0 and 2.0)
62053-22
2003
Particular requirements-static meters for active

energy (classes 0,2 S and 0,5 S)
62053-23
2003
Particular requirements-static meters for reactive

energy (classes 2 and 3)
62053-31
1998
Particular requirements-pulse output devices for

electromechanical and electronic meters (two
wires only)
62053-61
1998
Particular requirements-power consumption and

voltage requirements
62056-211
2002
Electricity metering-data exchange for meter

reading, tariff and load control-direct local data
exchange
62052-21
2004
Title
Electricity metering-tariff and load controlparticular requirements for time switches
Complies with optical port requirements only.
IEEE/ANSI. The A1800 ALPHA meter meets or exceeds the following IEEE/ANSI
standards for electricity metering, and it is intended for use by commercial and industrial
utility customers.
Table 1-2. IEEE/ANSI standards supported by the A1800 ALPHA meter

Number
Date
Title
IEEE 1701/
ANSI C12.18
1996
Protocol Specification for ANSI Type 2 Optical

Port
IEEE 1377/
ANSI C12.19
1997
Utility Industry End Device Data Tables
IEEE 1702/
ANSI C12.21
1999
Protocol Specification for Telephone Modem

Communications
DIN. The A1800 ALPHA meter meets or exceeds the following DIN standards for
electricity metering.
Table 1-3. DIN standards supported by the A1800 ALPHA meter1
Number
Date
Title
DIN 43857 Part 2
1978
Watthour meters in moulded insulation case

without instrument transformers, up to 60 A
rated maximum current; principal dimensions for
polyphase meters.
For meter width and location of lower mounting holes
Introduction
Technical manual
1-3
Benefits
Reliability. The A1800 ALPHA meter, part of the ALPHA line of meters, uses the patented
ALPHA meter technology for measurement and accurate calculation of energy quantities.
With over 3 million ALPHA polyphase meters in operation throughout the world, the
A1800 ALPHA continues the tradition of reliable electronic meters.
The power supply in the meter operates from any available phase. A three-phase, four-wire
A1800 ALPHA meter maintains operation if the neutral line and any one or two of the line
voltages become disconnected. The meter can also operate using the auxiliary power supply,
which can power the meter from an independent power source in the situation where main
power is unavailable.
The A1800 ALPHA meter can use its internal crystal oscillator or the power line frequency
to maintain time and date functions. The crystal oscillator can be used when the power line
frequency is known to be too unstable for accurate timekeeping.
The A1800 ALPHA meter has been designed to function to provide long battery life.
Because of the low current drain, the service life of the lithium battery can exceed the life of
the meter.
The A1800 ALPHA meter uses nonvolatile memory to store billing and other critical data.
The data is preserved even if the power fails.
Maintainability. The A1800 ALPHA meter is easy to maintain. Meter register functions
and communication interfaces are fully integrated on a single, surface-mount technology
circuit board.
The meter firmware resides in flash memory, allowing the firmware to be upgraded in the
field.
Introduction
Technical manual
1-4
Introduction
ANSI standard communication open protocol. The A1800 ALPHA meter complies
with the ANSI C12.18, C12.19, and C12.21 standards. These standards include
communication protocols for a wide range of metering products. They are the basis for
common industry data structures and a common protocol for transporting the data structures.
Supporting the ANSI protocols makes it easier to add products to existing systems and
provide an open standard for meter data communications.
Adaptability. The A1800 ALPHA meter allows configuration for custom TOU rates
(tariffs), offering a broad range of demand and TOU operations.
Most common services and mounting configurations are supported, and functional upgrades
are easily performed as new situations arise. The wide operating range allows installation at
any of the common meter voltages. Additionally, the factory-configurable optical port
accommodates IEC standard. The 16-segment character liquid crystal display (LCD)
improves readability and provides flexibility for displaying meter information. As an added
feature, the main meter circuit board provides selectable, independent, serial remote
interfaces for RS-232 or RS-485 communication.
Economy. The A1800 ALPHA meter saves both time and money. It can increase personnel
productivity because of the following features:
no user calibration required (factory calibrated)
reduced testing times
fewer styles to learn and maintain
dual serial communications interfaces on the main meter circuit board
automated data retrieval
system service verification
on-site instrumentation displays
tamper restraint and quality monitoring (TRueQ) tests
event logging
Security. The A1800 ALPHA meter is tamper-resistant. Passwords may be specified that
prevent unauthorized access to meter data. The standard TRueQ feature or the optional
instrumentation profiling (or both) can be used to detect possible tampering of energy
measurements.
All A1800 ALPHA meters provide auditing capabilities that can be used to indicate potential
meter tampering like terminal cover open detection and per phase outage recording.
The A1800 ALPHA meter can be ordered with a partially-transparent terminal cover, making
it easier to see obvious tampering.
Accuracy. The A1800 ALPHA meter meets or exceeds requirements of IEC standards.
Configuration
IEC 62053-22
/GOST R 52323-2005/
Class 0.2 S
direct connect
transformer-rated
1 Actual
IEC 62053-21
/GOST R 52322-2005/
IEC 62053-231
/GOST R 52425-2005//
Class 0.5 S
Class 1.0
Class 1.0
Class 2.0
reactive energy accuracy is substantially better than required by the standard.
The meter precisely measures demand and energy across a wide range of voltage and current
despite variations in temperature and power factor.
The low current sensor burden may also improve the accuracy of external current
transformers when measuring light loads.
Technical manual
1-5
Introduction
Meter types
Different meters within the A1800 ALPHA meter family have specific capabilities (see
Table 1-4 and Figure 1-2).
Note: Throughout this manual, the term A1800 ALPHA is used to describe any meter in
the meter family. When necessary, a specific meter designation will be used to
indicate that the description applies to only one meter in the meter family.
Table 1-4. Meter designations of the A1800 ALPHA meter family

Meter
Market segment
Class
A1802
Interchange meter/
Large C&I
0.2S
1 communications port (RS-232 or

RS-485)
internal 128 KB (256KB) memory
auxiliary power supply
4 relays
TRueQ
multitariffs
LCD backlight
Class 0.2 accuracy
transformer and line loss

compensation (V)
4-quadrant metering (A)
extended 1 MB memory (X)
load and instrumentation profiling
(L)
add 1 communication port
Multi-protocol communications
(Modbus, DNP 3.0)
A1805
Large C&I/
Mid C&I
0.5S

RS-485)
4 relays
TRueQ
multitariffs
LCD backlight
Class 0.5 accuracy

compensation (V)
instrumentation profiling (L)
(L)
add 1 communication port
Multi-protocol communications
(Modbus, DNP 3.0)
A18101
Small C&I/
Mid C&I
1.0

RS-485)
4 relays
TRueQ
LCD backlight
multitariffs

compensation (V)
(L)
add 1communication port
A18202
Small C&I
0.5S

RS-485)
4 relays
TRueQ
LCD backlight
Class 0.5 accuracy

load profiling (L)
multitariffs (T)
A18213
Small C&I
1.0

RS-485)
4 relays
TRueQ
LCD backlight

load profiling (L)
multitariffs (T)
Standard features
Contact Elster Metronica for availability.

Contact Elster Metronica for DC connected meter availability.
3
Contact Elster Metronica for DC connected meter availability.
2
Optional features
Technical manual
1-6
Figure 1-2. A1800 ALPHA meter family application pyramid
A1
80
0A
LP
HA
me
ter
fam
ily
Interchange
metering
A1802
Large C & I
A1805
Mid C & I
A1810
Light C & I
A1810
A1820
Residential
Introduction
Technical manual
Technical manual
2-1
2 Product description
Physical description
The A1800 ALPHA meter is designed for indoor mounting. The cover assembly of the
A1800 ALPHA meter exceeds the environmental requirements of IEC 62053-11. The case of
the A1800 ALPHA meter provides an IP54 degree of protection for the meter.
The physical components of the A1800 ALPHA meter consist of the following:
terminal cover
long terminal cover (see Figure 2-1)
short terminal cover (see Figure 2-2)1
partially-transparent terminal cover
meter cover assembly
inner cover assembly
base electronic assembly
Figure 2-1. Front view of the A1800 ALPHA meter
1 Contact
Elster Metronica for availability.
Product description
Technical manual
2-2
Product description
The terminal cover and meter cover assembly are manufactured using a UV-protected
polycarbonate plastic. The terminal cover is available in either the long version or the short
version. The meter cover assembly has a clear plastic window that allows the meter LCD and
nameplates to be viewed.
Figure 2-2. Front view of A1800 ALPHA meter with short terminal cover (transformer rated)1
The A1800 ALPHA meter can be sealed using any or all of the following methods:
Seal location
Purpose
Meter cover screws

(certification)
Prevents access to the meter except for the main

connections, relay connections, communication
interface connections, and nameplate. Also can prevent
reprogramming and recalibration of the meter.
Terminal cover screws

(utility)
Prevents non-utility access to the main connections,

relay connections, and utility information card
RESET push button
Prevents unauthorized manual demand resets
The four cover screws can be individually sealed (Figure 2-1). The two terminal cover
screws limit access to the main terminals and auxiliary wiring connections only. Therefore,
only the terminal cover seals must be broken to access these connections. The two meter
cover screws are located on the lower front of the meter under the terminal cover. Sealing
these screws seals the main enclosure and limits access to the metering circuit board and
sensing elements.
For maximum protection of the metering components, seal all four screw seals.
Technical manual
2-3
Figure 2-3. A1800 ALPHA meter with cover removed (transformer rated)
Optical port. The A1800 ALPHA meter provides an optical port that can be ordered with
IEC-compliant interface (see Figure 2-4). To use Elster meter support software to read or
program the meter through the optical port, an optical probe is required. This probe connects
from the serial port of the computer to the optical port on the meter.
Figure 2-4. IEC-compliant optical port interface
IEC-compliant optical interface
Elster Metronica recommends use of the AE-1 optical probe to reliably read the
A1800 ALPHA meter. For information on ordering the AE-1 optical probe, visit
www.izmerenie.ru or contact your local Elster Metronica representative.
LCD. The A1800 ALPHA meter is equipped with a 16-segment character liquid crystal
display. See Indicators and controls on page 3-1 for details.
Nameplate. Elster Metronica installs the nameplate at the factory. See Appendix C,
Nameplate and style number information, for details on the nameplate.
Product description
Technical manual
2-4
Product description
Utility information card. The utility information card is removable (after the terminal
cover has been removed) and allows the utility to enter meter site-specific information. See
Utility information card on page C-2 for more information.
Figure 2-5. Removing the utility information card
Communications. The A1800 ALPHA meter (-G suffix) provides remote

communications interfaces on the main meter circuit board for RS-232 or RS-485 serial
communication. Physical outputs exist for both RS-232 and RS-485 interfaces; however,
only one can be used at any given time. No configuration is necessary to switch between an
RS-232 and RS-485 selection. Additionally, the A1800 ALPHA meter (-S, -B suffixs)
provides a second, independent serial communication port that supports either RS-232 (see
Figure 2-6) or RS-485 (see Figure 2-7). See Chapter 5, Outputs, for more information on
the RS-232 or RS-485 ports.
Figure 2-6. A1800 ALPHA meter (-S suffix) with RS-232 as second communication port
RS-232 connector
(optional)*
Pulse output relay

(optional)
RS-485 terminals
RS-232 connector
*Present when optional second communication port is installed
Technical manual
2-5
Product description
Figure 2-7. A1800 ALPHA meter (-B suffix) with RS-485 as second communication port
RS-485 connector
(optional)*
Pulse output relay

(optional)
RS-485 terminals
RS-232
connector
Battery. The terminal block has a battery well and connector for the optional TOU battery.
Cover tamper detection switches. When either the terminal cover or the meter cover is
opened, a detection switch is activated. (See Figure 2-8 for an illustration of the terminal
cover detection switch; the meter cover detection switch is similar.) When either detection
switch is activated, the TC indicator on the LCD turns on and remains on while the cover is
removed. The date and time of the cover removal is logged in the event log. See Event log
on page 2-14 for more information.
Figure 2-8. Terminal cover detection switch
Cover closed
Cover opened
Technical manual
2-6
Product description
Terminal configurations. The A1800 ALPHA meter supports the following terminal
configurations:
10 A transformer-rated (sequential)
100 A direct connect-rated (sequential)
System architecture
The A1800 ALPHA meter main circuit board contains all the electronics that make up the
meter registers and communication interfaces. See for the meter circuit board block diagram.
The circuit board as shown in contains the following:
meter engine
microcontroller
EEPROM
resistive dividers for the 3 phase voltages
load resistors for the 3 current sensors
power supply
high frequency crystal oscillator
32 kHz low power timekeeping crystal oscillator
optical port components
liquid crystal display (LCD) interface
RS-232 and RS-485 communication interfaces
option board interface
pulse outputs
Figure 2-9. Meter block diagram

Phase A voltage
Phase B voltage
Non
volatile
supply
5 V linear
power supply
Wide input
power
supply
Phase C voltage
Battery
Precision
reference
LCD
Resistive
divider
Low
power
crystal
Power Fail
Resistive
divider
2x Line Freq
A
Resistive
divider
Phase A
current
Current
sensor
Phase B
current
Current
sensor
Phase C
current
Current
sensor
Meter engine
B
C
Wh Del
Microcontroller
Wh Rec
varh Del
varh Rec
Clock
Crystal
EEPROM
Option
connector
Optical Remote Pulse

port port 1/2 outputs
Technical manual
2-7
General theory of operation

The A1800 ALPHA meters engine receives analog inputs of voltages and current to
calculate the desired metered quantities. The meter engine samples the input voltages and
current 66 to 88 times per cycle. The actual sampling frequency is based on whether 50 Hz or
60 Hz1 power systems are being measured.
Using these input signals, the meter engine calculates root mean square (rms) values of
voltage and current, and the meter engine uses the sampled signals to compute Wh, VAh, and
VArh quantities for each phase. These individual phase quantities are summed, and the totals
are transmitted to the microprocessor. The microprocessor processes and stores the data into
memory according to the user-specified program. Once stored, data values are available to be
displayed and communicated as required by the utility or other meter user.
The very high sampling rate inherent in the meter engine and the additional over sampling
techniques used in the A1800 ALPHA meter results in very high accuracy regardless of
harmonic content, phase angle, or point on the load curve. The meter engine accumulates and
recalculates all quantities after every line cycle. This provides the ability to include the effect
of harmonics up to and beyond the 33rd harmonic. Individual harmonics up to and including
the 15th harmonic are displayable items and are included in distortion measurements. Further
advanced electronic techniques are used to provide extreme stability of accuracy over time
and over an exceptionally wide range of operating and load conditions.
The A1800 ALPHA meter can accommodate various tariff structures. The meter also
supports a variety of communication options that allow the meter to be read remotely or
manually. In addition, relays may be used for pulse outputs of user-selected quantities or for
signaling the start of a tariff period.
Power supply
Main power supply. Power is supplied to the A1800 ALPHA meter using a wide voltage
range power supply that accepts voltages from 49 V to 528 V AC. At least two lines must be
present to power the meter circuitry. The output from the power supply is then fed to a low
voltage linear regulator to attain the low level voltage.
Auxiliary power supply. The A1800 ALPHA meter may be ordered with an auxiliary
power supply. The auxiliary power supply allows the A1800 ALPHA meter to be powered by
a separate AC or DC power source, such as substations independent power lines. Should the
main power supply be unavailable, the meter will be fully operational provided the
independent power is still available. The A1800 ALPHA meter can also be connected to both
the main power source and auxiliary power source, providing uninterrupted power in the
event that the main power becomes unavailable.
The auxiliary power supply accepts the following voltages:
For independent AC power, from 57 V rms to 240 V rms (115V nominal)
For independent DC power, from 80 V to 340 V
Note: When using independent DC power, the A1800 ALPHA meters auxiliary power
supply is polarity independent. The meter will operate properly without regard to
which wire is positive and which wire is negative.
The output from the independent power supply is then fed to a low voltage linear regulator to
attain the low level voltage.
Current and voltage sensing

Power line currents and voltages are sensed using specialized current sensors and resistive
dividers, respectively. Multiplication and other calculations are performed using a custom
integrated circuit (called the meter engine).
Product description
Technical manual
2-8
The meter receives each phase current through a precision-wound current sensor that reduces
the line current proportionally. The meter engine samples the individual phase currents to
provide accurate current measurement.
The meter receives each phase voltage through resistive dividers. This ensures that a linear
low level voltage is maintained. It also serves to minimize phase shift over a wide dynamic
range. The meter engine samples the scaled inputs provided by the resistive dividers to
provide accurate voltage measurements.
Meter engine
Multiplication and other calculations are performed using a custom integrated circuit, called
the meter engine. The meter engine contains the digital signal processor (DSP) with built-in
analog-to-digital (A/D) converters capable of sampling each current and voltage input. The
A/D converters measure the voltage and current inputs for a given phase. The DSP multiplies
the signals appropriately, using the factory-programmed calibration constants.
Microcontroller
The microcontroller performs many different functions, for example:
communicates with the DSP and EEPROM
provides for serial communication over the optical port
provides for serial communication over the remote ports
generates optical output pulses
controls the LCD
controls any option boards
The microcontroller and the meter engine communicate with each other constantly to process
voltage and current inputs. When the microcontroller detects a power failure, it initiates the
shutdown and stores billing and status information in EEPROM.
EEPROM
The A1800 ALPHA meter uses electrically erasable programmable read only memory
(EEPROM) for nonvolatile storage of manufacturing data, meter configuration data, and
energy measurement values. The A1800 ALPHA meter is provided with either 128 KB or
256 KB of main board memory. See Style number information on page C-3 for information
regarding how to identify the amount of main board memory on your meter.
The EEPROM provides storage of all information needed to ensure the integrity of the
demand or energy calculations, including the following:
configuration data
billing data
all TOU data
log and profiling data
meter status
constants
energy usage
maximum demand
cumulative demand
Product description
Technical manual
2-9
Billing data
Metered energy and demand quantities
All A1800 ALPHA meters are capable of measuring delivered and received kWh energy and
kW demand. The A1800 ALPHA meters can also measure reactive and apparent energy and
demand. The meter engine samples the voltage and current inputs and sends these
measurements to the microcontroller. In the meter engine, each pulse is equal to one Ke
defined as one of the following:
secondary rated Wh per pulse
secondary rated varh per pulse
secondary rated VAh per pulse
The following list shows the available metered quantities for the A1800 ALPHA meter.
Basic metered quantities (indicated by * in Table 2-1) can be selected as a source for relay
outputs. The remaining metered quantities are calculated from 2 or more basic metered
quantities.
Table 2-1. Metered energy and demand quantities
kVAh delivered (Q1 + Q4)

kVAh Q1
kVAh Q2
kVAh Q3
kVAh Q4
kVAh received (Q2 + Q3)
kVAh sum (delivered + received)
kvarh (Q1 - Q4)
kvarh (Q1 + Q4)*
kvarh (Q2 - Q3)
kvarh (Q2 + Q3)*
kvarh (Q3 - Q2)
kvarh delivered (Q1 + Q2)*

kvarh net
kvarh Q1*
kvarh Q2*
kvarh Q3*
kvarh Q4*
kvarh received (Q3 + Q4)*
kvarh sum (delivered + received)*
kWh delivered*
kWh net
kWh received*
kWh sum*
Average power factor

The A1800 ALPHA meter can calculate the average power factor (AvgPF) using kWh and
kvarh values since the last demand reset.
AvgPF
kWh
k var h 2 kWh 2
The meter can store up to two average power calculations, which can be configured in
Elsters meter support software. Average power factor is calculated every second. Upon a
demand reset, the values used in this calculation are set to zero and the AvgPF will be set to
1.000.
Demand calculations
Demand is the average value of power over a specified time interval. The A1800 ALPHA
meter supports three different methods for demand calculation:
rolling interval
block interval
thermal time constant
An interval is the time over which demand is calculated. The length of a demand interval is
programmable using Elster meter support software, but the value must be evenly divisible
into 60 minutes. Common demand interval lengths are 15 or 30 minutes.
Product description
Technical manual
2-10
Product description
Rolling interval. Rolling demand interval is defined by two parameters:

the demand interval length - specified in minutes and may be any value that is evenly
divisible into 60
subinterval length - also specified in minutes and may be any value that is evenly
divisible into the interval length
Both of these values are configurable by Elster meter support software. The demand is
calculated at the end of each subinterval, resulting in overlapping demand intervals (or a
rolling demand).
For example, the A1800 ALPHA meter can be configured for a 15-minute demand interval
length and a 5-minute subinterval length. In this case, the demand is calculated every 5
minutes based on the 3 previous subintervals (see Figure 2-10).
Figure 2-10. Rolling demand intervals

15-minute interval
15-minute interval
15-minute interval
subinterval
0
subinterval
5
subinterval
subinterval
10
15
Time (minutes)
subinterval
20
25
The rolling interval calculates demand by using the following equation:
total accumulated energy

t hours
For example, if the demand interval is 15 minutes and the total accumulated energy is
50 kWh, then the demand is 200 kW.
50 kWh
200 kW
0.25 h
Block interval. Block demand interval is a special case of rolling interval demand in which
the subinterval is the same size as the interval (see Figure 2-11).
Figure 2-11. Block demand intervals
interval
interval
interval
interval
subinterval
subinterval
subinterval
subinterval
15
30
45
Time (minutes)
60
Technical manual
2-11
Thermal time constant. The A1800 ALPHA meter can perform thermal demand
emulation. The meter calculates demand based on a logarithmic scale that accurately
emulates thermal demand meters. The thermal demand time constants vary depending upon
the operational mode of the meter.
Normal mode time constant is 15 minutes.
Test mode time constant is 1 minute.
See Operating modes on page 3-7 for more information.
Maximum demand
Maximum demand (also referred to as indicating or peak demand) is the highest demand
value that occurs in a billing period. The demand for each demand interval is calculated and
compared to an earlier maximum demand value. If the new interval demand exceeds the
previous maximum demand, then the new demand is stored as the maximum demand (see
Figure 2-12). When a demand reset occurs, the maximum demand is reset to zero. The
demand for the first full interval after a demand reset becomes the maximum demand.
Figure 2-12. Maximum demand

New maximum Earlier maximum
demand (9.9 kW) demand (9.9 kW)
Earlier maximum
demand (9.7 kW)
Interval 6
demand
(9.2 kW)
Interval 7
demand
(9.9 kW)
Interval 8
demand
(9.5 kW)
In addition to maximum demand, the A1800 ALPHA meter also stores either the cumulative
or continuous cumulative demand. A1800 ALPHA meters can be programmed to trigger the
recording of a coincident demand or power factor (see Coincident demand or power factor
on page 2-12).
Cumulative maximum demand

Using cumulative maximum demand, a demand reset adds the current maximum demand
value to the cumulative maximum demand. This feature is used to calculate the previous
maximum demand when the demand may have had an unauthorized reset. Since the
cumulative demand is not reset to zero, unauthorized demand resets do not cause a loss of the
maximum demand data.
To determine the maximum demand for a billing period after a demand reset, subtract the
previous cumulative demand from the current cumulative demand.
Continuous cumulative maximum demand

Continuous cumulative maximum demand works similarly to cumulative maximum demand.
Continuous cumulative demand, however, is always equal to the sum of the previous billing
period continuous cumulative demand and the current maximum demand. This feature is
used to calculate the previous maximum demand when the demand may have had an
unauthorized reset.
Product description
Technical manual
2-12
Coincident demand or power factor

The number of coincident values that may be captured by the A1800 ALPHA meter depends
on whether or not the 4-quadrant metering (-A suffix) option is present.
A1800 ALPHA meters without 4-quadrant metering record 2 coincident values.
A1800 ALPHA meters with 4-quadrant metering record up to 4 coincident values.
Coincident demand refers to a demand value that occurs at the same time as another demand
reaches its peak value. For example, an electric utility may want to record the kvar demand at
the time of a maximum kW demand. This requires that kvar demand be stored and reported
during the same interval as the maximum kW demand.
Similarly, coincident power factor refers to a power factor that occurs at the same time as a
demand value reaches its peak value. For example, an electric utility may want to record the
power factor at the time of a maximum kvar demand. This requires the power factor be stored
and reported during the same interval as the maximum kvar demand.
Coincident PF
kWh
kvarh 2 kWh 2
Demand forgiveness
Demand forgiveness is the time during which demand is not calculated or stored after a
qualified power outage. Demand forgiveness has two programmable settings:
outage time: the number of minutes a power outage must last to qualify for demand
forgiveness (0 to 15 minutes)
time: the number of minutes that demand is not calculated or stored (0 to 255 minutes)
following a qualified power outage; zero disables demand forgiveness
Primary and secondary metering

The A1800 ALPHA meter can be programmed for either primary or secondary metering.
When configured for primary metering, the A1800 ALPHA meter internally converts the
measured energy, demand and instrumentation quantities to primary units using the voltage
transformer ratio and the current transformer ratio. These ratios are programmed using Elster
meter support software. The metered quantities reflect energy, demand and instrumentation
on the primary side of the instrument transformers.
When configured for secondary metering, the A1800 ALPHA meter does not use the voltage
transformer ratio or the current transformer ratio to adjust the metered quantities. The
metered quantities reflect the energy, demand and instrumentation on the secondary side of
the instrument transformers even if the voltage and current ratios are programmed into the
meter.
TOU data
All A1800 ALPHA meters store the total (single-rate) data for energy and demand. TOU
meters can store the total data and the data for up to 4 rates. TOU rates can be based on any
combination of day (up to 4 day types), time (up to 132 switch times), or season (up to 12
seasons). The switch points for energy and demand may be configured independently of each
other.
All selected metered quantities are stored according to the TOU rate. The meter stores the
energy, demand, and average power factor for each rate.
Product description
Technical manual
2-13
Product description
Power failure data

The A1800 ALPHA meter monitors and records the total power failure data. The following
information is recorded:
cumulative number of minutes of all power failures
start date and time of the most recent power failure
end date and time of the most recent power failure
These values can be programmed to display on the LCD. See Appendix B, Display table,
for more information about displayable items.
See Event log on page 2-14 for information on loss of phase voltage.
Logs and data sets

All A1800 ALPHA meters are equipped with EEPROM. As shown in Figure 2-13, a small
portion of this main board memory is permanently reserved (called reserved memory) by
the meter to store the main billing and configuration information. The remainder of the
memory (called shared memory) is used to store the following logs and data sets:
event log
history log
self reads
load profiling
instrumentation profiling
TRueQ log
voltage sag log
All of the logs and data sets share the meters memory. Using Elster meter support software,
the sizes of each log or data set can be configured to allow more room for a different log or
data set. For example, self reads can be configured to store less data so that the load profiling
can store more data.
Figure 2-13. Allocation of meter memory

Main circuit board memory
(128 KB or 256 KB)
Billing data, Configuration

data, Manufacturing info,
etc.
Reserved memory**
Event,
History,
TRueQ,
Voltage sag
Extended memory option board

(1 MB)
Self read,
LP,*
IP*
IP,*
LP*
Shared memory
Notes
*Extended memory used only when requested number of days exceeds the capacity of main
board memory. If meter support software is set to maximize data storage, then the extended
memory option board would always be used for LP and IP data storage.
**Size of reserved memory is fixed and may vary with each firmware release.
Technical manual
2-14
In most cases, the 128 KB or 256 KB option is sufficient to meet data logging and profiling
requirements. In some cases (for example, if extensive instrumentation profiling is desired),
more memory may be required. When the data storage cannot be met with the 256 KB main
memory option, extended memory can be used to add shared memory to the A1800 ALPHA
meter.
Event log
All A1800 ALPHA meters have an event log. The A1800 ALPHA meter stores the date and
time that events occur. Elster meter support software is used to define and program the
number of event log entries that the meter will record. Events that can be included in the
event log are as follows:
power fail start and stop (2 event log entries)
date and time change information (2 event log entries)
date and time of demand resets (1 event log entry)
date and time of event log reset (1 event log entry)
date and time of test mode activity (2 event log entries)
start and stop time when the current TOU rate is overridden by the alternate TOU rate
schedule (2 event log entries)
start and stop time of per phase outage (2 event log entries)
date and time of terminal cover removal (1 event log entry)
date and time of main cover removal (1 event log entry)
Note: The meter will detect and log the removal of either the terminal cover or main cover
even when the meter is not powered (provided the TOU battery is functioning).
After the maximum number of entries has been stored, the meter will begin overwriting the
oldest entries. The event log can be disabled through Elster meter support software.
History log
All A1800 ALPHA meters have a history log that stores table information and procedure ID
for configuration-altering writes to the meter. The A1800 ALPHA meter records a sequential
listing of records, along with the date and time. The meter records this information as an
audit trail, maintaining a history of programming changes made to the meter.
After the maximum number of entries has been stored, the meter will begin overwriting the
oldest entries. The history log can be disabled through Elster meter support software.
Self reads
All A1800 ALPHA meters can support self reads. A self read captures the current period
billing data and stores it in memory. The A1800 ALPHA meter can store up to 35 self reads
can be stored depending on memory requirements for logs, data, etc. This data can be
retrieved later for analysis or billing. If the meter has recorded the maximum number of self
reads, the next self read will overwrite the oldest copy.
Self reads are events that can be triggered by any of the following:
scheduled calendar events
every demand reset
communication procedure
Self reads are different from previous billing data copies. The previous billing data copy
stores only one copy of billing data at a time and only when a demand reset occurs. See
Demand reset data area on page 3-10 for more information.
Product description
Technical manual
2-15
Product description
Load profiling
For meters with load profiling capabilities (designated with an -L suffix), the
A1800 ALPHA meter is capable of recording 8 channels of information.
Table 2-2. Load profiling sources
kVAh delivered (Q1 + Q4)

kVAh Q1
kVAh Q2
kVAh Q3
kVAh Q4
kVAh received (Q2 + Q3)
kVAh sum
kvarh (Q1 - Q4)
kvarh (Q1 + Q4)
kvarh (Q2 - Q3)
kvarh (Q2 + Q3)
kvarh (Q3 - Q2)
kvarh delivered (Q1 + Q2)

kvarh net
kvarh Q1
kvarh Q2
kvarh Q3
kvarh Q4
kvarh received (Q3 + Q4)
kvarh sum
kWh delivered
kWh net
kWh received
kWh sum
Load profiling has its own, separate interval length that is configured independently from the
demand interval length. The length of the load profiling interval must adhere to the following
rules:
the length must be between 1 and 60 minutes
the time must be evenly divisible into an 60 minutes
Table 2-3 show the number of days of load profiling available. These values are estimates
and may vary depending on the firmware used in the meter.
Data in Table 2-3 are based on the following settings:
load profiling at 15-minute intervals
no instrumentation profiling
the meter is programmed for 6 metered quantities, 2 average power factors, and 4
coincident values
The first number shows the number of days of load profiling, assuming all other logs and self
reads record the maximum number of entries. The second number shows the number of days
of load profiling, assuming all other logs and self reads record the minimum number of
entries.
Table 2-3. Estimated days of load profiling storage per number of channels
Days of
storage (max./
min.)
Number of channels
1
128 KB
199/320
106/171
81/130
60/96
51/81
41/66
37/59
32/51
256 KB
594/714
317/381
242/291
178/214
151/182
124/149
110/133
95/114
1 MB
3177
1696
1294
954
812
664
592
509
Note: The actual number of days stores varies based on meter firmware release and other
options programmed using Elster meter support software. See the documentation for
the meter support software for more information regarding memory allocation.
Load profiling pulse divisor. A pulse divisor is used to scale down the number of pulses
recorded in each load profiling interval. This allows recording of data that may exceed the
maximum number of pulses that can be stored in each load profiling interval (each interval
can store 32,767 pulses before overflowing). The range for the value of the load profiling
pulse divisor is 1 (default) to 255.
Technical manual
2-16
Product description
Instrumentation profiling
In meters with instrumentation profiling, the meter has two sets of instrumentation profiling.
Each set can record up to 16 channels from the sources listed in Table 2-4. Also,
instrumentation profiling can use the sources listed in Table 2-2 for more extensive load
profiling.
Table 2-4. Instrumentation profiling sources
frequency
per phase current
per phase voltage
per phase watts
per phase VA
per phase voltage angle with respect to line 1 voltage
per phase fundamental (1st harmonic) current magnitude
per phase fundamental (1st harmonic) voltage magnitude
per phase 2nd harmonic current magnitude
per phase 2nd harmonic voltage magnitude
per phase voltage % total harmonic distortion (THD)
per phase current % THD
per phase harmonic current (sum of 2nd through 15th)
per phase current angle with respect to line 1 voltage
per phase vars (vectorial)

per phase 2nd harmonic voltage %
per phase total demand distortion (TDD)
per phase PF
per phase PF angle
system watts
system VA (arithmetic)
system PF (arithmetic)
system PF angle (arithmetic)
system vars (vectorial)
system VA (vectorial)
system var (arithmetic)
system PF (vectorial)
system PF angle (vectorial)
Technical manual
2-17
Each channel can be configured to record the instrumentation profiling using any one of
following four algorithms (see Table 2-5):
Table 2-5. Instrumentation profiling recording algorithms

Item
Description
Minimum
The meter samples the selected quantity over the instrumentation

interval. The minimum value of all the samples is recorded.
Maximum

interval. The maximum value of all the samples is recorded.
Average

interval. The average value of all the samples is recorded.
End

interval. The last value of all the samples is recorded.
Each set of instrumentation profiling has its own, separate interval length that is configured
independently from the demand interval length. The length of the instrumentation profiling
interval must adhere to the following rules:
the length must be between 1 and 60 minutes
the time must be evenly divisible into an 60 minutes
TRueQ Log
The A1800 ALPHA meter has a TRueQ log that records TRueQ test failures. Elster meter
support software is used to define and program the number of TRueQ log entries that the
meter will record. Elster meter support software is also used to define which tests can record
failures in the TRueQ log.
The A1800 ALPHA meter can record the following data associated with the TRueQ test:
the date and time when the TRueQ monitor first detects a qualified failure and the
identifier of the TRueQ test (1 TRueQ log entry)
the date and time when the TRueQ monitor no longer detects a failure and the identifier
of the TRueQ test (1 TRueQ log entry)
Note: See TRueQ event counters and timers on page 4-15 for information on
qualification time
For each TRueQ log entry, the meter also records an instrumentation measurement related to
the TRueQ test.
When the maximum number of entries has been stored, the meter will begin overwriting the
oldest entries.
See TRueQ monitoring on page 4-12 for more information.
Voltage sag log

The meter has a voltage sag log. The A1800 ALPHA meter records the date, time, and phases
of any detected voltage sag. The log records a maximum of 1 entry per second. When the
maximum number of entries has been stored, the meter will begin overwriting the oldest
entries.
See Voltage sags on page 4-13 for more information.
User-defined tables
User defined tables offer specific data retrieval options for A1800 ALPHA meters. User
defined table configuration may be requested at the time of purchase, and the specific
configuration may be programmed at the factory. An AMR system can then be configured to
retrieve the user defined table information from the meter instead of individual table reads.
This reduces the total communications time.
Product description
Technical manual
2-18
Product description
Physical dimensions and mass

The approximate dimensions of the meter correspond to DIN 43-857 part 2 (excluding the
meter hanger).
See the following figures for illustrations of the meter and its dimensions.
Figure 2-14. A1800 ALPHA meter, standard terminal cover

89
22
204
224*
307
*This represents hanger

in center position.
150
Approximate dimensions in millimeters
170
Figure 2-15. A1800 ALPHA meter, short terminal cover1

89
22*
213*
224*
240
*This represents hanger in

center position
150
170
5
Technical manual
2-19
Product description
Figure 2-16. A1800 ALPHA meter, back of meter
202
150
Approximate dimensions in millimeters.
Figure 2-17. A1800 ALPHA meter, bottom view (direct connect1 and transformer rated)
170
170
6.2
5.4
10
Direct connect meter
Transformer rated meter

Approximate dimensions in millimeters.
Table 2-6. Approximate mass

Elements
Direct connect
Transformer rated
2-element
1.6 kilograms
1.3 kilograms
3-element
1.7 kilograms
1.3 kilograms
Technical manual
2-20
Product description
Technical manual
Technical manual
3-1
Operating instructions
3 Operating instructions
Indicators and controls

LCD
The liquid crystal display (LCD) is used to display meter data and status information.
Figure 3-1 shows the dimensions of the LCD.
Figure 3-1. LCD dimensions

85
77
1.4
3.5
+ Q
-P
+P
- Q
27
9.5
Viewing area
As shown in Figure 3-2, the LCD is divided into different display regions.
Figure 3-2. LCD regions

Low battery indicator
Phase
indicators (3)
Error/warning indicator
Quantity identifier
+ Q
Energy direction
indicator
-P
+P
- Q
L1L2 L3
COM 0 1 2
Alternate mode
indicator
Display quantity
Comm. port indicator
Power/energy
units identifier
Tariff indicators 1 to 8
(left to right)
EOI indicator
LC indicator
Test mode indicator

Cover removed
indicator
32
Technical manual
3-2
All A1800 ALPHA meters have a backlight option for the LCD. The LCD can be illuminated
by pressing one of the push buttons, making it easier to read the LCD in no-light or low-light
conditions. The backlight option must be specified at the time of ordering. See Using the
backlight on page 3-6 for more information.
Quantity identifier. This 7-digit region identifies the displayed quantity as defined and
programmed with Elster meter support software. An identifier can be assigned to most
display quantities in the display sequence. See Appendix B, Display table, for more
information.
Display quantity. This 8-digit display on the LCD shows either metered quantities or other
displayable information, depending upon how the A1800 ALPHA meter has been
programmed.
The displayable digits are definable using Elster meter support software for both energy and
demand readings. From 3 to 8 digits with up to 4 decimal places can be used. These digits are
also used to report error codes for the following error conditions:
operational errors (E1, E2, or E3)
system instrumentation and service test errors (SE)
warnings (W1 or W2)
communication codes (COM 0, COM 1, COM 2)
For instrumentation values and tests, numeric values may be replaced by or mixed with
alphabetic characters to better define the value. See Appendix B, Display table, for more
information.
Phase indicators. Each phase indicator (L1, L2, and L3) corresponds to a line voltage (Line
1, Line 2, and Line 3, respectively) present on the A1800 ALPHA meter connections. The
state of the indicators correspond to the following:
If the indicators are on, then all expected line voltages are present.
If an indicator is blinking, then that expected line voltage is either missing or below the
defined threshold for voltage sag detection.
If an indicator is off, the line is not expected for the configured meter type.
See Voltage sagsfor more details on momentary voltage sag detection and the phase
indicators.
Energy direction indicators. The energy direction indicators display the quadrant and
direction of the last Wh (active) and varh (reactive) energy flow. Positive energy flow is
energy delivered to the consumer load, while reverse energy flow is energy received from the
consumer load. Figure 3-3 shows the meaning of each energy direction indicator.
The energy direction indicators turn on to display energy flow direction when any of the
meter phases are measuring energy flow (that is, when one of the line currents is above the
meter starting threshold).
Figure 3-3. Energy direction indicators

Positive reactive energy
Reverse active energy
Positive active energy
Reverse reactive energy
Technical manual
3-3
On meters with the Always Positive option, the +P indicator is on continuously whenever
kWh flow of any direction is detected. The P indicator is inoperative for this meter
configuration (see Always Positive on page 2-13 for more information).
Power/energy units identifier. The power/energy units identifier is used to indicate the
unit of measurement for the quantity displayed on the meters LCD. In some cases, it may not
be possible to represent the displayed quantity using the power/energy units identifier. If this
is the case, then the power/energy units identifier will not be used. Instead, the quantity will
be identified either using the quantity identifier or appending the unit to the display quantity.
Alternate display indicator. This indicator (*) displays when the A1800 ALPHA meter is
operating in alternate mode. This indicator also displays during the all segment test of the
LCD.
See Operating modes on page 3-7 for more information on the different operating modes.
Error indicator. The error indicator flashes when any error condition is present or remains
on if a warning condition is present. When the error indicator is on, the LCD will also display
the appropriate error or warning code. See System service error codes on page 4-10 and
Codes and warnings on page 6-2 for details.
Note: This indicator also turns on during the LCD all-segments test.
Low battery indicator. The low battery indicator is turned on when the TOU battery
voltage is low or when the TOU battery is missing. Additionally, the low battery warning
display item (if included in the display list) also is displayed.
Note: This indicator also turns on during the LCD all-segments test.
Active COM port indicator. The active COM port indicator indicates that a
communication session is in progress and which COM port is being used.
Table 3-1. Port codes

Code
Port
COM 0
Optical port
COM 1
Remote port 1
COM 2
Remote port 2
See Communication codes on page 6-8 for additional details.
Display indicators. The 12 display indicators () are used to more precisely identify the
information displayed on the meters LCD.
Note: These identifiers may be shown individually or in combination to describe a
particular displayed quantity.
Note: The manufacturers nameplate details the meaning of the display indicators. See
Appendix C, Nameplate and style number information.
Tariff indicators. The tariff indicators (T1, T2, T3, and T4) indicate the current tariff. If the
displayed quantity is a TOU item (for example, tariff 1 total kWh), the corresponding
indicator (T1) turns on. If the quantitys tariff is active at the time, the tariff indicator flashes.
Note: The active tariff indicators also turns on during the LCD all-segments test.
EOI indicator. The end-of-interval (EOI) indicator is used to verify the timing of the demand
interval. Ten seconds before the end of the demand interval, the EOI indicator will be turned
on and remain on until the end of the interval.
Technical manual
3-4
For rolling demand, the EOI indicator turns on for 10 seconds before the end of
each subinterval.
Transformer and line loss compensation indicator. The loss compensation (LC) indicator
indicates the meter is currently compensating for transformer and line loss.
Cover tamper indicator. The cover tamper (TC) indicator indicates that either the terminal
cover or the meter cover is removed. This may indicate that tampering has occurred on the
meter. The TC indicator turns off when all the covers are in place. See Cover tamper
detection switches on page 2-5 for additional information.
Test mode indicator. The test (TST) mode indicator indicates that the meter is currently
operating in test mode. See Test mode on page 3-8 for details.
Push buttons
The following push buttons are located on the front of the A1800 ALPHA meter:
RESET (sealable)
* (ALT)
If sealed, the RESET button is only accessible after breaking the seal; the button is always
accessible.
Figure 3-4. A1800 ALPHA meter push buttons
* (ALT) button
RESET button
(sealable)
RESET button. To activate the RESET button, it may be necessary to break the seal that
locks the RESET button in the inactive position. After the seal is broken, rotate the push
button 90 in either direction and press the push button (see Figure 3-5). Pressing the RESET
button performs a demand reset (see Demand reset on page 3-9 for a description on what
happens during a demand reset). The RESET button performs differently depending on the
A1800 ALPHA operating mode, as shown in Table 3-2.
Technical manual
3-5
Table 3-2. RESET button behavior

Mode
Description
Normal
Performs a demand reset
Alternate
Returns to normal mode and performs a demand reset
Test
Resets test value and remains in test mode
To seal the RESET button, rotate the RESET button 90 back to the inactive position and
apply the seal.
Figure 3-5. RESET button positions
Inactive position
RESET button
cannot be pressed
Active position
RESET button can be pressed
Using to lock service. Pressing the RESET button will accept and lock the detected service
when the service test lock mode has been set to manual and the system service voltage test
has just been performed by the A1800 ALPHA meter. See Manual lock on page 4-6 for
more details.
Using the RESET button to lock the service will not perform a demand reset unless
it is pressed a second time.
* button. Pressing the button normally initiates the alternate mode (see Operating modes
on page 3-7 for more information about the A1800 ALPHA operating modes). The * button
performs differently depending on the operating mode, as shown in Table 3-3.
Note: All the A1800 ALPHA meter have the backlight display option, therefore the *
button can be used to illuminate the display. See Using the backlight on page 3-6
for more information.
Technical manual
3-6
Table 3-3. * button function in different operating modes

Mode
Press method
Description
Normal
Less than 1 second
Enters alternate mode, LCD displays one cycle of the alternate display list, and returns
to normal mode.
Alternate
Continuous
Scrolls quickly through the alternate display list while pressed; locks LCD on a display
quantity when released.
Press and release
If the LCD is locked on a display quantity, each press steps to the next quantity in the
alternate display list.
Continuous
Scrolls quickly through the test mode display list while pressed; locks LCD on a display
quantity when released.
Press and release
If the LCD is locked on a display quantity, each press steps to the next quantity in the
test display list.
Test
Using the backlight. All the A1800 ALPHA meter have the backlight for the LCD. Once
the backlight is turned on, the LCD will be illuminated for two minutes.
To illuminate the LCD, use the following process (see Figure 3-6):
1. Press either the * button or the RESET button. The backlight turns on for the specified
illumination time.
2. While the LCD is illuminated, the push buttons will operate as follows:
The RESET button operates as specified in Table 3-2.
The * button operates as specified in Table 3-3.
3. The backlight will turn off at the end of the illumination time. Pressing either the *
button or the RESET button restarts the process, beginning with step 1.
The A1800 ALPHA meter can be ordered with the backlight always turned on. With this
option, the LCD backlight will always be illuminated, and the RESET and * buttons will
operate as specified in Table 3-2 and Table 3-3, respectively.
Technical manual
3-7
Figure 3-6. Using the backlight on the A1800 ALPHA meter LCD (default operating mode)
Backlight off
Any button is
pressed
Backlight on
Enter alternate
mode
Yes, *
Perform
demand reset
Button pressed
while LCD lit?
Yes,
RESET
No
Has time
expired?
No
Yes
Operating modes
The A1800 ALPHA meter operates in one of the following modes:
normal mode
alternate mode
test mode
As part of its function, the meter performs self tests to make sure it is operating normally. The
self test ensures that the A1800 ALPHA meter is functioning properly and that its displayed
quantities are accurate. If the self test indicates an error, the LCD displays the error indicator.
In addition, the meter can be programmed to lock the error code on the display. The meter
attempts to function normally, however, the meter data may be suspect. See Meter self test
on page 6-1 for more information on self tests and errors.
Normal mode
Normal mode is the default operation mode for the A1800 ALPHA meter. It is generally used
to display billing data on the LCD. The meter is fully operational in this mode, and it will
process and store data while the LCD scrolls through the normal display list quantities.
The LCD test will always appear immediately after power is connected to the
A1800 ALPHA meter or after a power restoration from an outage.
Technical manual
3-8
Typically, the normal mode display cycle begins with an LCD test which turns on all of the
display segments. This is recommended because it provides a quick way to determine if the
LCD is functioning properly. The LCD test can be disabled using Elster meter support
software. The normal display cycle will scroll through all programmed display quantities
before beginning the cycle again.
While in normal mode, the LEDs transmit pulses proportional to metered energy. See LED
pulse outputs on page 5-6 for details on the LEDs.
Alternate mode
Alternate mode can be programmed with Elster meter support software to display a second
set of quantities on the LCD. Alternate mode is most often used for displaying non-billing
data, but it can be programmed to display any of the available quantities. This mode is
activated in one of the following ways:
pressing the * button on the A1800 ALPHA meter
after power up for one cycle of the alternate display list
Note: This feature can be disabled using Elsters meter support software.
The meter is fully operational while in alternate mode. While in alternate mode, the alternate
display indicator is turned on. Additionally, the LEDs transmit pulses (see LED pulse
outputs on page 5-6).
There are several different ways to exit alternate mode. Whenever exiting the alternate mode,
the meter returns to normal mode.
Table 3-4. Exiting alternate mode

Method
Description
Wait for the end of the

alternate display list
If the meter is scrolling through the alternate display list

automatically, the meter exits alternate mode after the last
item is displayed.
Press the RESET button
Exits alternate mode and performs a demand reset.
Wait for the timeout
If the LCD remains on a quantity, the meter exits alternate

mode after 2 minutes of inactivity. If the LCD remains on
a pulse line cumulative counter, the meter will exit the
alternate mode at midnight.
Power failure occurs
Exits alternate mode; when power is restored, the meter's

display is in normal mode.
At midnight
Exits alternate mode at the next midnight crossing.
Test mode
The A1800 ALPHA meter enters test mode by a command through the optical port. While in
test mode, the test mode indicator (TST) will flash on the meters LCD.
Test mode displays test readings without affecting the present energy usage and billing data
values in the A1800 ALPHA meter. Shorter demand intervals may be used in test mode to
reduce demand test time and will not interfere with billing data.
When normal mode is resumed, readings taken during test mode will be discarded and
present energy usage and billing data values will be restored. The status of the meter
(including billing data, profiling data, errors, and warnings) before the meter entered test
mode is restored.
While in test mode, the optical port transmits test pulses proportional to metered energy (see
LED pulse outputs on page 5-6).
Technical manual
3-9
Test mode is entered using Elster meter support software. The meter exits test mode under
any of the following conditions:
Table 3-5. Exiting test mode

Method
Description
Test mode expires
Automatically after a programmable timeout has expired

(between 1 and 255 test mode intervals)
Send an exit command
Using Elster meter support software, send an exit

command over the optical port.
Automatically after 24 hours Automatically after a programmable timeout (1-255 test

mode intervals).
Power failure occurs
Exits test mode; when power is restored, the meter's

display is in normal mode.
Demand reset
A demand reset can be performed one of three ways:
pressing the RESET button
issuing a command over the optical or remote ports
as a scheduled calendar event
Regardless of how the demand was reset, the meter performs many different functions,
including the following:
the present billing data is copied to the demand reset data area
the billing datas present maximum demand is added to the cumulative demand, and
then the billing datas present maximum demand is reset to zero
the billing datas dates and times of the maximum demands are reset to zero
the billing datas present coincident values are reset to zero
all demand calculations are reset to zero and a new demand interval is started
previous interval demands are reset to zero
present interval demands are reset to zero
all average power factor calculations are restarted
pulse line cumulative counters are cleared
current conditions for certain errors or warnings are cleared
As a security feature, the meter records these values:

the cumulative number of demand resets (rolls over to zero after 255)
the cumulative number of manual demand resets (pressing the RESET button or
issuing a command)
date and time of last demand reset
number of days since the last demand reset
the method of the most recent demand reset (for example, button press, procedure, or
calendar)
if configured, the event log records every demand reset
Technical manual
3-10
Demand reset lockout

Through Elster meter support software, a demand reset lockout time can be defined. The
demand reset lockout can remain in effect for up to 255 minutes after a demand reset
(regardless of the method of demand reset). During the demand reset lockout, subsequent
demand resets will be ignored by the meter. This prevents subsequent demand resets (for
example, accidental or tamper-related demand reset presses). If a power failure occurs during
the demand reset lockout period, the lockout is released upon power restoration.
Demand reset data area

In all demand reset occurrences, the meter copies the present billing data and stores it in the
demand reset data area. This data is referred to as the previous billing data because its general
purpose is to preserve the data as one billing period ends and the next billing period begins.
The meter stores only one copy of the previous billing data. The next demand reset
overwrites whatever is currently stored as the previous billing data.
Previous billing data is different from self reads, which can store multiple copies of the
billing data. See Self reads on page 2-15 for more information.
Technical manual
Technical manual
4-1
Meter tools
4 Meter tools
System instrumentation
System instrumentation is a collection of displayable items designed to assist in evaluating a
service by providing real time analysis of the conditions present at the A1800 ALPHA
installation. Instrumentation quantities should not be confused with billing quantities because
they are intended for an entirely different purpose.
System instrumentation quantities are measured instantaneously while billing quantities are
measured and averaged over a number of minutes. Instrumentation quantities are generally
provided on a per phase basis, while billing quantities represent a combination of all present
phases. This can result in discrepancies between similar billing and instrumentation data, and
this is to be expected.
The instrumentation measurements are near instantaneous. Using Elster meter support
software, instrumentation quantities may be placed in normal, alternate, or test mode display
sequences. The alternate mode display sequence is recommended because it is generally not
necessary for these quantities to be displayed at all times.
Most instrumentation quantities are true root mean square (rms) measurements over an even
number of line cycles, but others are compound quantities. Compound quantities require
multiple measurements at slightly different times with the results calculated from these
multiple measurements. Instrumentation quantities can also round or restrict the quantity to a
desirable value under certain system conditions. See Table 4-1 for more information about
how the instrumentation quantities are obtained.The quantities that are indicated by a
footnote are updated about every second; the remaining quantities are updated about every 5
seconds.
Table 4-1. Description of system instrumentation quantities

Instrumentation quantity
Description
Frequency1
Measured on line 1 voltage.
System kW
The signed sum of the kW measurement on each phase taken only moments
apart
System kVA (arithmetic)
The signed sum of the kVA measurement on each phase taken only moments
apart
System kvar (arithmetic)
Calculated using the following equation:
kvar (system kVAarith ) 2 - (system kW) 2

System power factor (arithmetic)
System kW divided by system kVA (arithmetic)
System power factor angle (arithmetic)
The arccosine of system power factor (arithmetic)
Measured directly by meter engine
Phase kW and kVA
Phase kvar (vectorial)
Calculated using the following equation (where kVA and kW are measured
simultaneously):
kvar kVA 2 - kW 2
The result is then signed based on the kvar direction.
System kvar (vectorial)
Sum of the per phase kvar (vectorial)
Technical manual
4-2
Meter tools
Table 4-1. Description of system instrumentation quantities

Instrumentation quantity
System kVA (vectorial)
Description
Calculated using the following equation:
kVAvect system kW 2 (system kvarvect ) 2

System power factor (vectorial)
System kW divided by system kVA (vectorial)
System power factor angle (vectorial)
The arccosine of system power factor (vectorial)
Phase voltages and
currents1
True rms values measured by meter engine
Phase voltage angle relative to line 1 voltage1
Each voltage angle is measured relative to line 1 voltage zero crossings and
rounded to 30
Phase current angle relative to line 1 voltage
Each current angle is measured relative to line 1 voltage zero crossings
Phase power factor
Phase kW divided by phase kVA, both measured simultaneously. Phase power

factor is set to 1.00 if phase current is less than the absolute minimum current
(twice starting amps).
Phase power factor angle1
The power factor angle is the arccosine of the phase power factor
Phase 1st harmonic (fundamental) voltage

magnitude
The per phase magnitude of the fundamental voltage
Phase 1st harmonic (fundamental) current

magnitude
The per phase magnitude of the fundamental current
Phase 2nd harmonic voltage magnitude
The per phase magnitude of the 2nd harmonic voltage
Phase 2nd harmonic current magnitude
The per phase magnitude of the 2nd harmonic current
Phase 2nd harmonic voltage percentage
Per phase, the 2nd harmonic voltage magnitude divided by the fundamental
voltage magnitude
Phase total harmonic current magnitude
Per phase, the square root of the sum of the 2nd - 15th harmonic currents
squared. In other words:
THC
i 15
HCi
i 2
where HCi = ith harmonic current

Phase total harmonic distortion percentage
(voltage or current)
Calculated by using:
THD
rms 2 - fundamental 2
fundamental
100
where:
rms represents an unfiltered rms phase voltage or current
fundamental represents the fundamental rms phase voltage or current
Per phase total demand distortion
Calculated by using:
i 15
HCi
TDD
i2
Maximum amps
where HCi represents the ith harmonic current.

1 Updated
about every 1 second.
Technical manual
4-3
Voltage, current, kW, kvar, and kVA instrumentation quantities have an error of less than
0.25 %. Accuracy will diminish as the value of the quantity becomes smaller.
The meters LCD can be programmed with Elsters meter support software to display
primary instrumentation values.
If the LCD remains on an instrumentation quantity while in alternate or test mode,

the displayed instrumentation quantity updates once per second. See * button on
page 3-5 for more information on locking the LCD on a desired quantity.
The quantity identifier gives information about the quantity being displayed on the
A1800 ALPHA meter LCD, as indicated in Table 4-2.
Table 4-2. System instrumentation quantity identifiers

Quantity identifier
Description
L123
System instrumentation measurements
L1
Line 1 measurements
L2
Line 2 measurements
L3
Line 3 measurements
L1 H2-15
Line 1 total harmonic distortion
L2 H2-15
L3 H2-15
L1 H1
Line 1 1st harmonic
L2 H2
Line 2 1st harmonic
L3 H2
Line 3 1st harmonic
L1 H2
Line 1 2nd harmonic
L2 H2
Line 2 2nd harmonic
L3 H2
Line 3 2nd harmonic
L1 TDD
Line 1 total demand distortion
L2 TDD
L3 TDD
The display quantity will show a measurement and a unit of measure on the A1800 ALPHA
meter LCD. See Figure 4-1 and Figure 4-2 for examples showing system instrumentation
quantities. See Appendix B, Display table, for information about displayable items.
Figure 4-1. Instrumentation line 1 voltage

+P
L1 L2 L3
Meter tools
Technical manual
4-4
Figure 4-2. Instrumentation system kVA

+P
L1 L2 L3
Immediately before displaying a system instrumentation quantity, the meter begins to

measure that quantity. If the result of the instrumentation measurement is not immediately
available, dashes (-) will be shown in the display quantity until the measurement is complete.
See Figure 4-3 and Figure 4-4 for examples of system instrumentation display quantities
while the measurement is in progress and when a result is available.
Figure 4-3. Instrumentation line 2 current in progress

+P
L1 L2 L3
Figure 4-4. Instrumentation line 2 current measurement (secondary)

+P
L1 L2 L3
Figure 4-5. Instrumentation line 2 current measurement (primary)

+P
L1 L2 L3
If an A1800 ALPHA meter is programmed to display a system measurement quantity for a

phase that does not exist (for example, Line 2 on a two-element meter), then that display
quantity will be skipped automatically. This allows different meter types to be programmed
with similar configurations using Elster meter support software.
Meter tools
Technical manual
4-5
System service tests

System service tests can be performed to determine the validity of the electrical service that
the A1800 ALPHA meter is metering. The system service tests consist of a service voltage
test and a service current test.
Service voltage test

The service voltage test is intended to assist in identifying the following:
incorrectly wired or misapplied voltage transformers
open or missing line fuses
The following are validated by this test:
phase voltages
phase voltage angles
phase rotation
The meter measures each phase voltage and phase voltage angle and attempts to match the
measurements to a stored list of valid services.
If the service voltage test is successful, the validated service is shown on the meters
LCD and the meter will continue to the next display quantity in the sequence.
If the test is not successful, a warning is set. Also, the LCD will indicate a service error
by displaying SE plus a code on the LCD. See System service error codes on page 410 for more information about system service error codes.
The following conditions can cause the service voltage test to fail:
phase voltage angles not within 15 of the expected service phase angles
phase voltage magnitudes not within the tolerance of the nominal service voltages
programmed into the meter with Elster meter support software
System service locking. Once a service voltage test has detected a valid service, it can be
locked into the A1800 ALPHA meter memory. A locked valid service is used as a basis for
future system service tests and TRueQ tests. The following information will be stored in the
meter when the service is locked:
service type identification
nominal service voltage
voltage phase rotation
service voltage and current limits
voltage sag detection threshold
The A1800 ALPHA meter can lock a valid service in either of these ways:
smart autolock
manual lock (on default)
To indicate that a service voltage test is complete, the LCD displays the following (an
example is shown in Figure 4-6):
phase rotation (for example, L1-2-3 or L3-2-1)
voltage magnitude (for example, 120 or 240)
service type showing the number of wires and the service type, for example:
1L is a single phase service
3 is a 3-wire delta service
4Y is a 4-wire wye service
Meter tools
Technical manual
4-6
Figure 4-6. Sample service voltage test result

+P
L1 L2 L3
The voltage magnitude and service type are surrounded by brackets to indicate that the
service is locked (see Figure 4-7).
Figure 4-7. Sample display of locked service voltage

+P
L1 L2 L3
Smart autolock. When smart autolock is enabled through Elster meter support software, the
A1800 ALPHA meter will attempt to lock the service automatically once it is determined to
be valid. Both the voltage magnitude and phase angle of the service are compared to a table
of valid relationships stored within the meter memory. The meter accepts the service that
most closely matches one of the stored values in the A1800 ALPHA meter.
The A1800 ALPHA meter periodically checks the service. Under certain conditions, the
smart autolocked service may lock on a different service. This is useful because the meter
may have been moved to a new service. The service voltage test will be performed and the
service may be changed in response to the following events:
power up
exit of test mode
after a data-altering communication session
If a new, valid service is detected, the meter locks on the new service. If a valid service
cannot be detected, the meter responds in the following manner:
the meter remains locked on the last known valid service
the LCD displays an error code
Manual lock. When configured through Elster meter support software for manual lock, the
A1800 ALPHA meter will detect and evaluate the service in the same manner as it does
when autolock is enabled. The identified service information will also be shown on the LCD;
however, the RESET button must be pressed in order to lock the detected service (see Using
to lock service on page 3-5).
When the service type has been detected, the phase rotation, voltage magnitude, and the
service type will be displayed on the LCD. If the RESET button is not pressed to accept the
service, the LCD will alternate between L1-2-3 ------ and the detected service
information until the service has been manually locked.
Once manually locked, the service never unlocks automatically. To move the
A1800 ALPHA meter to a new installation with a different type of service, the
service must be unlocked using Elster meter support software. The new service type
can then be detected and manually locked.
Meter tools
Technical manual
4-7
Meter tools
Initiating service voltage tests. When enabled, the service voltage test is initiated at any
of the following times:
after power up, a data-altering communications session, or exiting test mode
at midnight
Service voltage tests can also be initiated at any of these times, depending on meter
configuration:
as a display item
as a TRueQ test (for meters with TRueQ capabilities)
The behavior of the service voltage test depends on these factors:
the event that initiates the service voltage test
the state of the service lock
After power up, data-altering communications session, or exiting test mode. The following
table explains meter behavior when the service voltage test is performed after any of the
following:
power is applied to the meter
data-altering communications session
exiting test mode
Smart autolock
Manual lock
Current state is locked
Manual lock
Current state is unlocked
1 The meter initiates the service voltage

test.
2 The meter attempts to detect a valid
service.
If a valid service is detected, the
meter automatically locks on the
detected service. The LCD displays
the locked valid service.
If a valid service cannot be found,
the meter displays SE 555000.
The meter restarts the service
voltage test in diagnostic mode (see
Restarting the service voltage test
in diagnostic mode on page 4-9).
However, the meter remains locked
on the last valid service until a new
valid service is detected.

test.
2 The phase indicator voltage threshold
levels are based on the currently locked
service.
3 The meter attempts to match the
service.
If the service matches the presently
locked service, then the LCD
displays the locked valid service.
If the service does not match the
presently locked service, then the
LCD displays the service test error.
The meter restarts the service
voltage test in diagnostic mode (see
Restarting the service voltage test
in diagnostic mode on page 4-9).

test.
2 The phase indicator voltage thresholds
are set at the default values.
3 The meter attempts to detect a valid
service.
If a valid service is found, the LCD
displays the data for the service it
detected.
If a valid service is not found, the
LCD displays SE 555000. The
meter restarts the service voltage
test until a valid service is found.
4 While a valid service is displayed, the
user can manually lock the service.
The user presses the RESET button
to lock the service. The LCD
displays the locked service.
If the user does not lock the service,
the meter returns to the service test
until a valid service is found and
locked.
If the service voltage test is interrupted (for example, the button is pressed or there is a
communications session), the meter restarts the service voltage test after handling the
interruption.
Technical manual
4-8
Meter tools
At midnight. If the service is locked, the meter checks the service at midnight. The meter
always does the following when the service voltage test is run at midnight:
Smart autolock
Manual lock
1 The meter initiates the service test.

service.
3 The meter attempts to match the service.
locked service, then the LCD displays
presently locked service, then the LCD
displays SE 555000. The meter
restarts the service voltage test in
diagnostic mode (see Restarting the
service voltage test in diagnostic
mode on page 4-9). However, the lock
remains on the last valid service until a
new valid service is detected.

service.
3 The meter attempts to match the service.
locked service, then the LCD displays
presently locked service, then the LCD
displays a service test error. The meter
restarts the service voltage test in
diagnostic mode (see Restarting the
service voltage test in diagnostic
mode on page 4-9). However, the lock
remains on the last valid service until a
new valid service is detected.
If the service test is interrupted (for example, the button is pressed or there is a
communications session), the meter restarts the service test after handling the interruption.
If the service has not been locked, the test is not performed and the LCD displays
SE 555000.
As a display item in a display sequence. Using Elster meter support software, the service
voltage test can be programmed as a displayable quantity in any display sequence. The
service test is initiated when the service test quantity is displayed on the LCD.
Smart autolock
2 The meter attempts to match the
service.
If the service detected matches the
LCD displays the locked valid
service.
LCD displays a service test error.
3 After the LCD displays the locked
valid service or the service test error,
the LCD continues to the next item in
the display sequence.
Manual lock
The service test is performed as the
autolock.
Service locking disabled

If a valid service is detected, the
LCD displays the valid service.
If a valid service cannot be found,
the meter displays SE 555000.
2 After the LCD displays the valid
service or the service test error, the
LCD continues to the next item in the
display sequence.
As a TRueQ test. When the service voltage test is programmed as a TRueQ test, the service
test is performed only if the service is locked. TRueQ tests are available only on meters with
TRueQ capabilities. See Service voltage test on page 4-5 for more information.
Technical manual
4-9
Restarting the service voltage test in diagnostic mode. Depending on how the service
voltage test was started, the test restarts in diagnostic mode if the test fails. The
A1800 ALPHA meter uses the diagnostic mode if the service voltage test was started in these
ways:
after power up, data-altering communications session, or exiting test mode
at midnight
The diagnostic mode cycles through performing the service voltage test and displaying
information about the service that may be useful in determining why the test failed, as listed
below:
1. Perform the service voltage test.
2. Display line 1 voltage.
3. Perform the service voltage test.
5. Perform service voltage test.
8. Display line 2 voltage angle.
10. Display line 3 voltage angle.
If at any point a valid service is found and locked, the meter displays the locked service on
the LCD and continues to the next item in the display sequence. Otherwise, the cycle restarts
at step 1.
Service current test

The service current test validates system currents and is intended to assist in identifying the
following:
incorrectly wired or misapplied current transformers
open or missing load-side fuses
If the service current test is successful, L1-2-3 OK is shown on the A1800 ALPHA meter
LCD. The meter will continue to the next item in the display sequence. See Figure 4-8 for an
example of a successful service current test.
Figure 4-8. Service current test successful completion

+P
L1 L2 L3
If the test is not successful, a warning is set. Also, the LCD will indicate a service error by
displaying SE and a code, an example of which is shown in Figure 4-9. See System service
error codes on page 4-10 for more information. The following conditions can cause the
service current test to fail:
current remains on one phase while no current is on any other phase
current on any single phase is below the programmed low current limit
current on any phase is greater than the programmed absolute maximum
current is negative on any phase (reverse power)
power factor on any phase is less than the limit set for leading or lagging power factor
Meter tools
Technical manual
4-10
Meter tools
If all phases are below the absolute minimum current threshold, the low and missing current
failure will not be reported. It is assumed that this is a valid, no-load condition. In this case,
the low and zero current warnings will display if the condition exists.
Figure 4-9. Service current test error
L1 L2 L3
+P
Initiating the service current test. The service current test can be initiated in any of the
following ways:
the service current test may be placed in any display sequence. The service current test
will be performed when the quantity is displayed in the display sequence.
the service current test may be included in the TRueQ tests if the A1800 ALPHA meter
is equipped with this feature. The results of the TRueQ test will not be seen on the
LCD. See TRueQ monitoring on page 4-12 for more details on TRueQ.
the service current test may be programmed to be performed after successful service
voltage tests that perform automatically (but not as part of a display list)
If the A1800 ALPHA meter does not have a locked service, then the system service current
test will be skipped regardless of how the test is initiated.
Parameters regarding the system service current tests can be changed without requiring the
meter to be unlocked and then relocked or requiring the meter to be reset. These parameters
(configurable with Elster meter support software) include the following:
enable or disable per phase reverse power tests
absolute minimum current
per phase low currents
absolute maximum current
per phase leading and lagging power factor limits
System service error codes

When SE is shown on the LCD, the displayed quantity is a numeric code representing a
system service error. This indicates that there is a service problem detected by the
A1800 ALPHA meter. Table 4-3 and Table 4-4 show all possible system service error codes.
Table 4-3. System service voltage test error codes

Error code
Service error condition (SE)
Voltage phase
L1
L2
L3
Low nominal voltage on line 1
High nominal voltage on line 1
Unrecognized service
Technical manual
4-11
Meter tools
Table 4-3. System service voltage test error codes

Error code
Voltage phase
L1
L2
L3
Bad phase angle on line 1
Low voltage & bad phase angle on line 1
High voltage & bad phase angle on line 1
Table 4-4. System service current test error codes

Error code
Current phase
L1
L2
L3
Missing line 1 current
Low line 1 current
Low line 2 current
Low line 3 current
Missing and low current on line 1
Low PF on line 1
Low PF on line 2
Low PF on line 3
Reverse power on line 1
Low PF & low current on line 1
Reverse power & low current on line 1
Excess current on line 1 current
Technical manual
4-12
Meter tools
Table 4-4. System service current test error codes

Error code
Current phase
L1
L2
L3
Excess current & low PF on line 1
Excess current & reverse power on line 1
If service current errors are present on more than one phase, a single error code is displayed
to represent all detected errors. For example, SE 000308 indicates missing current on line
1 and excess current on line 3.
TRueQ monitoring
All A1800 ALPHA meters are equipped with the tamper restraint and quality (TRueQ)
monitoring features that can monitor circuit parameters on a cyclic basis, 24 hours a day
throughout the billing period. TRueQ tests may be turned on or off through Elster meter
support software.
TRueQ tests will recognize any deviation beyond the thresholds. When shipped, the meter is
stored with default values for the thresholds. Using Elster meter support software, these
thresholds can be edited.
Most TRueQ tests are performed individually so that circuit parameters are not being
monitored continuously. Each subsequent test will begin immediately after the previous one
has ended. The momentary voltage sag test, however, uses the per phase rms voltage
calculation which is part of the voltage sensing process within the meter engine. The rms
voltages are calculated once every 2 line cycles, so the momentary voltage sag test is capable
of recognizing any phase voltage deviation that remains below a specified threshold for as
few as 2 line cycles.
TRueQ timing
In addition to defining thresholds for each test, a minimum time may also be defined. Once
the monitored parameter falls outside the threshold and remains there longer than the
minimum time, the failure will be stored and the cumulative count will increment by one. A
cumulative timer will also be activated and will run for as long as the event is detected. The
cumulative count and timer for each test can be retrieved through Elster meter support
software.
TRueQ display items

The meter can be programmed to display a warning code on the LCD when a TRueQ test
fails. Warning codes can be enabled or disabled on a test-by-test basis using Elster meter
support software.
TRueQ and relays

If one or more relays are installed in the A1800 ALPHA meter, the relay can be programmed
to close when the failure occurs. When a failure condition is no long present, the warning
code will automatically clear; and any relays will open.
Technical manual
4-13
TRueQ log
All A1800 ALPHA meters record TRueQ events in the TRueQ log. Meters with TOU
capability will also record the date and time of any TRueQ failure in the TRueQ log. See
TRueQ log on page 2-17 for more information about the TRueQ log.
A qualified TRueQ failure causes the W2 020000 warning code to be shown on the
LCD. See W2 020000: TRueQ test failure warning on page 6-7 for more details.
Voltage sags
A momentary sag in voltage can reset process control equipment and computer systems. The
momentary voltage sag monitor watches for decreases in voltage that last for a measured
number of cycles. This monitor can detect any voltage decrease that falls below a
programmed threshold for as few as 2 line cycles. Threshold and duration are defined using
Elster meter support software.
The voltage sag threshold is defined as a percentage of the lowest nominal per phase voltage
and recommended to be in the range of 60 % to 99.9 %.
A sag is defined as a drop in phase voltage below the threshold for a duration greater than the
sag minimum time and less than the sag maximum time. If the condition exceeds the
maximum sag time, it will not be considered a sag event. The sag times can be configured to
a resolution of 8 milliseconds. The minimum time range can be from 32 milliseconds to 2.04
seconds. The maximum time range can be a time up to 546 seconds.
The potential indicators on the A1800 ALPHA meter LCD will indicate when voltage is
below the sag level threshold. When a phase voltage drops below the voltage sag threshold,
the corresponding potential indicator will blink.
Voltage sag counter and timer. Each phase voltage has a voltage sag counter and timer
associated with it. Each counter can accumulate up to 65,535 before rolling over to zero.
Each cumulative timer can record time for 414 days.
A voltage sag event is only counted if the voltage remains below the voltage sag threshold for
more than the minimum time and less than the maximum time. A voltage that remains below
the voltage sag threshold for longer than the maximum time is considered to be a low voltage
condition, and it is not counted by the momentary voltage sag monitor.
The counter and timer for each phase are maintained within the A1800 ALPHA meter
memory. These values can be reported and can be reset through Elster meter support
software.
See Voltage sag log on page 2-17 for more information about the log of momentary voltage
sag events.
TRueQ tests
TRueQ tests do not interfere with any meter functions related to energy measurement. These
tests run separately from the metering functions. Table 4-5 shows the available tests for
TRueQ, along with their description.
Table 4-5. TRueQ tests

TRueQ
Test name
Configuration based upon
Test 1
System service voltage test thresholds
Test 2
Low voltage test
A specified low voltage threshold
Test 3
High voltage test
A specified high voltage threshold
Test 4
Reverse power test & PF
Service current test thresholds
Meter tools
Technical manual
4-14
Table 4-5. TRueQ tests

TRueQ
Test name
Test 5
Low current test
Test 6
Power factor (PF)
A specified threshold for leading and

lagging
Test 7
Second harmonic current test
A specified current threshold
Test 8
% Total harmonic distortion

(THD) current
Specified THD percentage
Test 9
% Total harmonic distortion

voltage
Specified THD percentage
Test 10
Voltage imbalance
Minimum high voltage threshold and

imbalance threshold
Test 11
Current imbalance
Minimum high current threshold and

imbalance threshold
Test 12
% total demand distortion

(TDD)
Specified TDD percentage
The following TRueQ tests are available on all A1800 ALPHA meters programmed with
Metercat release 2.3 or later:
Table 4-6. Enhanced TRueQ tests

TRueQ
Test name
Test 13
Low voltage (Line 1)
Specified low voltage threshold
Test 14
Test 15
Test 16
High voltage (Line 1)
Specified high voltage threshold
Test 17
Test 18
Test 19
Low voltage and current

present (Line 1)
Specified thresholds for low voltage and

high current
Test 20

present (Line 2)

high current
Test 21

present (Line 3)

high current
Test 22
Current missing (Line 1)
Specified thresholds for voltage and

current
Test 23

current
Test 24

current
Meter tools
Technical manual
4-15
Meter tools
During the low current and reverse power and power factor tests, there will be no
event detected if all measured line currents drop below the absolute minimum
current threshold. An event will be detected if any single phase or two phases drop
below the programmed threshold for the qualification time. This eliminates false
detection when the load is dramatically reduced or turned off.
TRueQ event counters and timers. Each TRueQ test has its own event counter associated
with it. Each counter can accumulate to a maximum of 65,535 before rolling over to zero. For
each TRueQ test, an event occurring on one phase or across multiple phases is counted as a
single event. The momentary voltage sag monitor, however, records counters and timers for
each phase. See Voltage sag counter and timer on page 4-13 for details.
The cumulative timer for each monitor can record time over 20 years. To increase the
cumulative counter or timer, the TRueQ test must fail for a period greater than the
qualification time. The cumulative timer includes the qualification time for the test (see
Figure 4-10). The qualification time is defined as zero to 60 minutes where zero causes the
event to be recognized immediately as it is detected.
Figure 4-10. Total TRueQ test failure time

TRueQ
failure
Qualification
time
Remaining
time
Time recorded by
meter
An event ends when the condition is no longer present. If an event occurs but does not last for
the qualification time, then neither the counter nor timer will reflect the event having
occurred.
The counter and timer for each monitor are maintained within the A1800 ALPHA meter
memory. These values can be reported and can be reset through Elster meter support
software.
Technical manual
4-16
Test
Formula
Name
Meter tools
(VL1 or VL2 or VL3 ) Specified low voltage threshold
Variable
Based on service test thresholds
Default value
Configuration based on
System service voltage test thresholds
Description
This test continually monitors service voltage. Voltage fluctuations outside the programmed limits are detected
and can indicate one of the following:
improper voltage transformer operation
inappropriate transformer tap settings
equipment failure
All voltage magnitudes and phase angles must fall within the thresholds for the locked service. The thresholds are
defined by the service voltage configuration. Programming the service voltage as a TRueQ test allows it to
continually run and create a log of the results.
Stored value
None
Test
Formula
Name
Low voltage test
(VL1 or VL2 or VL3 ) Specified low voltage threshold
Variable
0 % to 99.9 %
Default value
94.0 %
A specified low voltage threshold
Description
This test checks the per phase voltages for values that fall below a specified limit. Each phase threshold can be set
individually and can be set at a value higher or lower than the limits selected for the service voltage test. This
allows a more thorough study of the voltage changes.
The threshold is defined as a percentage of the expected per phase nominal voltage (recommended to be in the
range of 60 % to 99.9 %). The percentage for each phase can be individually defined. The test fails if any phase
voltage exceeds the threshold.
Stored value
Line 1 voltage (even if line 2 or line 3 causes the test to fail)
Test
Formula
Name
High voltage test
(VL1 or VL2 or VL3 ) Specified high voltage threshold
Variable
100.1 % to 200.0 %
Default value
106.0 %
A specified high voltage threshold
Description
This test checks the per phase voltages for values that exceed a specific limit. The threshold values can be set at a
value higher or lower than the limits selected for the service voltage test. This allows a more thorough study of
the voltage changes.
The threshold is defined as a percentage of the expected per phase nominal value. The percentage for each phase
can be individually defined. the test fails if any phase voltage exceeds the threshold.
Stored value
Line 1 voltage (even if line 2 or line 3 causes the test to fail)
Technical manual
4-17
Test
Name
Meter tools
Reverse power test and power factor test
Formula
Variable
Default value
Description
This test recognizes any condition where the current transformer may be wired incorrectly or where may
tampering may have occurred. The power factor (PF) threshold in this test is typically set to a very low value to
detect only abnormal conditions.
The PF thresholds are defined with the system service current test definition. Using the service current test
definition permits independent PF settings to be set for each service type. Each service type can have individual
leading and lagging thresholds.
Testing for reverse power can only be enabled or disabled for all phases simultaneously.
Stored value
None
Test
Formula
Name
Low current test
(I L1 or I L2 or I L3 ) Specified low current threshold
Variable
Default value
Description
This test checks the service current for values that fall below a specified limit. This test will check for erroneous
operation or failure of a current transformer and can detect signs of meter tampering. If all phase currents fall
below the limit on an initial no-load or test condition, then no warning or indication will be provided. A warning
will be issued when one or more phase currents fall below the threshold value for the qualification time while the
remaining phase currents stay above the limits.
This threshold is defined as a percentage of the A1800 ALPHA meter Class ampere rating from the system
service test definition. This percentage is applied on a per phase basis. The thresholds are defined by the service
current configuration.
Stored value
None
Test
Name
Power factor test
Formula
Variable
0.00 to 1.00 for minimum leading power factor (per phase)

0.00 to 1.00 for minimum lagging power factor (per phase)
Default value
0.20 for minimum leading power factor (per phase)

0.20 for minimum lagging power factor (per phase)
Specified thresholds for leading and lagging power factors
Description
This test checks the power factor for any deviation beyond the programmed threshold. This monitor may be used
alone to monitor rate-based conditions or in conjunction with the reverse power test and PF monitor to provide a
more thorough analysis of power factor fluctuations.
The leading and lagging thresholds are individually defined for each phase. These settings may be different than
those defined in the service current configuration.
Stored value
None
Technical manual
Test
Formula
4-18
Name
Meter tools
Second harmonic current test
2 nd harmonic current 2 nd harmonic current magnitue threshold
Variable
0.00 % to 100.00 %
Default value
Transformer-rated: 2.50 % of Class amps (per phase)

Self-contained: 1.25 % of Class amps (per phase)
A specified current threshold
Description
This test checks for the presence of second harmonic current. The second harmonic current may be created by
equipment on the line or may indicate the presence of DC on the system. The threshold is defined as values in AC
amperes according to the meter class. The test fails if any phase exceeds the threshold.
To prevent the monitor from creating a false alarm from legitimate second harmonic current sources, the
recommended qualification time is 15 minutes.
Stored value
Line 1 second harmonic magnitude (even if line 2 or line 3 causes the test to fail)
Test
Name
% total harmonic distortion current test
Formula
Variable
0.0 % to 99.9 % of the fundamental current
Default value
30.0 % of the fundamental current (per phase)
A specified THD percentage
Description
As the load on electrical systems becomes more saturated with electronic control devices (such as computers and
communications systems), there is a growing concern with the harmonics that these devices can contribute to the
electrical system. Total harmonic distortion, expressed as a percentage of the fundamental, is measurement of the
power quality of the circuit under these conditions.
The total harmonic distortion current test measures the per phase THD current and can alert the utility to
conditions that may be harmful or dangerous to the system or other equipment. The threshold is defined as a
percentage of the fundamental. The thresholds are defined by the service voltage configuration. The test phases if
any phase exceeds the threshold.
Stored value
Line 1 THD (even if line 2 or line 3 causes the test to fail)
Test
Name
% total harmonic distortion voltage test
Formula
Variable
00.0% to 99.9 % of the fundamental voltage
Default value
30.0 % of the fundamental voltage (per phase)
A specified THD percentage
Description
As the load on electrical systems becomes more saturated with electronic control devices (such as computers and
communications systems), there is a growing concern with the harmonics that these devices can contribute to the
electrical system. Total harmonic distortion, expressed as a percentage of the fundamental, is a measurement of
the power quality of the circuit under these conditions.
The total harmonic distortion voltage test measures per phase THD voltage and can alert the utility to conditions
that may be harmful or dangerous to the system or other equipment. The threshold is defined as a percentage of
the fundamental. The thresholds are defined by the service voltage configuration. The test fails if any phase
exceeds the threshold.
Stored value
Line 1 THD voltage (even if line 2 or line 3 causes the test to fail)
Technical manual
Test
Formula
4-19
10
Name
Meter tools
Voltage imbalance test
(VL1 or VL2 or VL3 ) minimum voltage threshold and

lowest per phase voltage
imbalance threshold
highest per phase voltage
Variable
Minimum voltage threshold: 0.00 % to 100.00 % of the nominal

Imbalance threshold: 0.00 % to 100.00 %
Default value
Minimum voltage threshold: 80.00 % of the nominal

Imbalance threshold: 90.00 %
Minimum high voltage threshold and imbalance threshold
Description
This test checks for an imbalance between phase voltages. The test first measures and normalizes each per phase
voltage. The voltages are normalized to account for different per phase nominal voltages as specified by the
locked service. To qualify as a failure, both the following conditions must exist:
The highest normalized per phase voltage must be greater than the minimum voltage threshold
The ratio of the lowest normalized per phase voltage to the highest (low/high) must be less than the imbalance
threshold
Using Elster meter support software, the minimum voltage threshold is defined as a percentage of the nominal
voltage, and the imbalance threshold is a fraction (0 to 1).
Stored value
None
Test
Formula
11
Name
Current imbalance test
(I L1 or I L2 or I L3 ) minimum current threshold and

lowest per phase current
imbalance threshold
highest per phase current
Variable
Minimum current threshold: 0.00 % to 100.00 % of Class amperes

Imbalance threshold: 0.00 % to 100.00 %
Default value
Minimum current threshold: 1.25 % of the Class amperes

Imbalance threshold: 5.00 %
Minimum high current threshold and imbalance threshold
Description
This test checks for an imbalance between phase currents. To qualify as a failure, both the following must exist:
The highest per phase current must be greater than the minimum current threshold
The ratio between the lowest per phase current to the highest (low/high) must be less than the imbalance
threshold
Using Elster meter support software, the minimum current threshold is defined as a percentage of Class amperes,
and the imbalance threshold is a fraction (0 to 1).
Stored value
None
Technical manual
Test
Formula
4-20
12
Name
Meter tools
Total demand distortion
TDD threshold
Variable
0.00 % to 100.00 % of the class amperes (per phase)
Default value
10.00 % of the Class amperes
Specified TDD threshold
Description
This test checks the per phase total demand distortion (TDD) and makes sure that the TDD is less than the
threshold. TDD measures the harmonic current distortion on each phase in percentage of the maximum demand
load current (Class amperes).
Stored value
Line 1 % TDD (even if it is line 2 or line 3 that causes the test to fail)
Test
Formula
13
Name
VL 1 Specified voltage threshold
Variable
0.0 % to 99.9 % of nominal
Default value
60.0 %
A specified voltage threshold
Description
This test checks Line 1 voltage for values that fall below a specified limit. The threshold is defined as a
percentage of the expected Line 1 nominal voltage. The test fails if Line 1 voltage falls below the voltage
threshold.
Stored value
Line 1 voltage
Test
Formula
14
Name
Variable
Default value
60.0 %
Description
threshold.
Stored value
Line 2 voltage
Technical manual
Test
Formula
4-21
15
Name
Meter tools
Variable
Default value
60.0 %
Description
threshold.
Stored value
Line 3 voltage
Test
Formula
16
Name
Variable
100.1 % to 200.0 % of nominal
Default value
115.0 %
Description
This test checks Line 1 voltage for values that exceed a specified limit. The threshold is defined as a percentage
of the expected Line 1 nominal voltage. The test fails if Line 1 voltage exceeds the voltage threshold.
Stored value
Line 1 voltage
Test
Formula
17
Name
Variable
100.1 % to 200.0 % of nominal
Default value
115.0 %
Description
Stored value
Line 2 voltage
Technical manual
Test
Formula
4-22
18
Name
Meter tools
Variable
100.1 % to 200.0 % of nominal
Default value
115.0 %
Description
Stored value
Line 3 voltage
Test
Formula
19
Name
Low voltage and current present (Line 1)
VL1 Specified voltage threshold and

I L1 Specified high voltage threshold
Variable
0.0 % to 99.9 % of nominal for Line 1 voltage

0.0003 to 1000.0000 amperes for Line 1 current
Default value
78.0 % for voltage threshold

0.0015 amps for current threshold
Specified thresholds for voltage and current
Description
This test checks voltage and current on Line 1 to detect possible theft or VT problems on Line 1. This test fails if
the following conditions are present:
Current on Line 1 is greater than a specified current threshold, and
Voltage on Line 1 is less than a specified voltage threshold
Stored value
Line 1 voltage
Test
Formula
20
Name

I L2 Specified high voltage threshold
Variable

Default value

Description
Stored value
Line 2 voltage
Technical manual
Test
Formula
4-23
21
Name
Meter tools

I L3 Specified high current threshold
Variable

Default value

Description
Stored value
Line 3 voltage
Test
Formula
22
Name
(VL1 or VL2 or VL3 ) specified voltage threshold and

I L1 specified current threshold and
(I L2 or I L3 ) specified current threshold
Variable
5.0 % to 100.0 % of nominal for Line 1 voltage threshold

0.0003 A to 1000.0000 A for Line 1 current threshold
Default value
60.0 % of nominal for Line 1 voltage threshold

0.0015 A for Line 1 current threshold
Description
This test checks voltage and current on all phases to help detect possible theft or CT problems on Line 1. This test
fails if the following conditions are present:
Voltage is present on any phase, and
Current is at or above a specified threshold on Line 2 or Line 3, and
Current is below a specified threshold on LIne 1
Stored value
Line 1 current
Technical manual
Test
Formula
4-24
23
Name
Meter tools

Variable

Default value

Description
Stored value
Line 2 current
Technical manual
4-25
Test
24
Formula
Name
Meter tools

Variable

Default value

Description
Stored value
Line 3 current
Security
All A1800 ALPHA meters include features that help prevent unauthorized access to meter
data and record events that may indicate meter tampering.
Meter passwords
Access to the A1800 ALPHA meter is protected through the use of passwords. When
establishing communication with the meter, the meter will request a password. If the correct
password is not supplied, the meter will not communicate or perform the commands that it is
issued. Passwords help ensure that the meter data is protected and that the programming
cannot be altered without proper authorization.
The A1800 ALPHA meter uses three passwords to control access to the meter. As shown in
Table 4-7, each password allows different activities that can be performed on the meter. For
more information regarding passwords, see the documentation that comes with the Elster
meter support software.
Table 4-7. A1800 ALPHA meter passwords

Password
Allowed activity
Read only
The meter can be read. No alteration of data or programming is

allowed.
Billing read
The meter can be read. Some basic data-altering activity relating to

billing functions is allowed.
Unrestricted
The meter can be read. Full programming of the meter is allowed.
Technical manual
4-26
Meter tools
When communicating with the A1800 ALPHA meter remotely, the A1800 ALPHA meter
supports the password encryption standards in accordance with ANSI C12.21. In accordance
with ANSI C12.18, the password is not encrypted when communicating using the optical
port.
The meter records the number of failed password attempts that were used in trying to access
the meter. An internal warning will be generated if 10 failed password attempts occur since
the last demand reset. This warning can be used to control a relay output or to trigger an
alarm call.
Antitampering
All A1800 ALPHA meters provide auditing capabilities that can be used to indicate potential
meter tampering. These capabilities can record such items as the following:
programming changes
power outages
number of days since last pulse
number of manually-initiated demand resets
number of days since last demand reset
reverse energy flow
history log
cover removal detection
Program protection
As a security feature, the A1800 ALPHA meter can be ordered with program protection.
Program protection prevents metrological parameters from being altered. Some data and
configuration parameters can be altered while in program protection.1 These alterable items
must be specified at ordering and can include the following:
communication parameters
TRueQ parameters
time of day (TOU or load profiling configurations)
switch times (TOU configurations)
special dates list (TOU or load profiling configurations)
All other parameter changes require the meter to exit program protect mode.
To temporarily disable program protection:
1. Break the terminal cover seals and remove terminal cover. The TC indicator will turn
on.
2. Break the meter cover seals and lift the meter cover.
3. At this point, you can perform any of the data or program altering operations available
using the Elster meter support software.
4. Close the meter cover and install the seals.
5. Install the terminal cover and seals. The TC indicator will turn off.
If programmed to do so, changes in the state of the terminal cover and the meter cover are
logged in the event log. See Event logon page 2-14 for details.
1 On
meters with a history log, it may be possible to change certain metrological parameters while in program protection. For more
information, see History logon page 2-14.
Technical manual
Technical manual
5-1
Outputs
5 Outputs
Relay outputs
All A1800 meters are equipped with 4 relay outputs. The A1800 ALPHA meter can be
ordered with 6 relays.1
A1800 ALPHA meter with RS-232 as second communication port
RS-232 connector
(optional)*
Pulse output relay

(optional)
RS-485 terminals
RS-232
connector
Pulse output relay default values
RS-485 connections
4-wire
Tx+
RxTx-
Rx+
2-wire
A = Wh del
B = varh del
C = Wh rec
D = varh rec
-bias
+
-
+bias
RS-232 connector
1
1
2
3
4
5
2
6
=
=
=
=
=
NC
Rx
Tx
DTR
GND
4
8
9
6
7
8
9
=
=
=
=
DSR
RTS
NC
NC
Support for up to 6 relays on A1800 ALPHA meter is a future option. Contact Elster Metronica for availability.
Technical manual
5-2
Outputs
Figure 5-1. A1800 ALPHA meter with RS-485 as second communication port
RS-485 connector
(optional)*
Pulse output relay

(optional)
RS-485 terminals
RS-232
connector
Pulse output relay default values
RS-485 connections
4-wire
Tx+
Rx-
Rx+
2-wire
-bias
+
-
+bias
1
2
3
4
5
2
6
D
Tx-
A = Wh del
B = varh del
C = Wh rec
D = varh rec
RS-232 connector
7
= NC
= Rx
= Tx
= DTR
= GND
4
8
9
6 = DSR
7 = RTS
8 = NC
9 = NC
For more information about relay outputs and communications, see the instructional leaflet
(IL) that comes with the option board.
The output relays on the main circuit board can switch up to 125 VAC or 180 VDC at up to
70 mA. See Appendix D, Wiring diagrams.
With the A1800 ALPHA meter, all relay outputs are fully programmable using Elster meter
support software. Sources for relay outputs are listed in Table 5-1.
Table 5-1. Source for relay operation and output specifications

Relay source
Relay output specification
Energy pulse
For each pulse of the selected basic metered quantity

(see Metered energy and demand quantities on
page 2-10), the relay will do either of the following:
toggle (that is, turn on and off)
pulse for a specified length of time
Load control
The relay closes when the demand exceeds the

specified demand threshold, and it remains closed for
the duration of the interval. The relay will open after
the demand remains below the threshold for one full
interval.
EOI indication
The relay closes for 5 seconds after the end of each

interval or subinterval.
Technical manual
5-3
Outputs
Table 5-1. Source for relay operation and output specifications

Relay source
Relay output specification
Demand forgiveness
(cold load pickup)
The relay closes while demand forgiveness is in

effect. The relay will open after the demand
forgiveness time has expired.
TRueQ tests failure
Relay closes as long as the specified TRueQ tests

continue to fail (see TRueQ monitoring on page 412).
Specified errors, warnings, and

meter events
The relay closes for as long as the specified errors,

warnings, or events persist (see Relay-related
alarms on page 5-4).
TOU switches to a specific tariff The relay closes for the duration of the specified
tariffs.
Figure 5-2. Toggle relay output
On
Pulse
Off
Pulse period
Pulse period
Pulse period
In toggle mode, a relay changes state for each energy pulse received from the meter engine.
Figure 5-3. Pulse relay output (default pulse width)

10 msec.
10 msec.
Pulse period
Pulse period
On
10 msec.
Pulse
Off
Pulse period
In pulse mode, a default pulse width of 10 milliseconds is generated for each energy pulse
received from the meter engine. Using Elster meter support, the width can be programmed
with a value from 1 millisecond to 255 milliseconds.
Energy pulse outputs

When a relay is used to echo energy pulses for a basic metered quantity, each pulse is equal to
a specified amount of energy.
Using Elster meter support software, there are two methods for specifying the weight of each
pulse.
Using pulse divisor. Program the energy pulse divisor with an integer value between 1 and
999.
Energy pulse divisor
Pulse constant
Relay constant
Technical manual
5-4
The pulse constant (also known as the meter constant) for the A1800 ALPHA meter is as
follows:
For transformer rated meters: 40,000 pulses per kWh
For example, the desired relay constant is 1000 pulses per 1 kWh and the pulse
constant is 40,000 pulses per 1 kWh:
40000
40
1000
Using Elster meter support software, program the energy pulse divisor of 40 into the
meter.
Note: If the energy pulse divisor is not an integer, then the exact desired output is not
possible.
For direct connect-rated meters: 4000 pulses per kWh
For example, the desired relay constant is 1000 pulses per 1 kWh and the pulse
constant is 4000 pulses per 1 kWh:
4000
4
1000
Note: If the energy pulse divisor is not an integer, then the exact desired output is not
possible.
Using pulse value. Program the energy pulse value with a value between 0.000001 kWh
and 100 kWh to represent the amount of energy per pulse (in kilo units). For example, to
have one energy pulse represent 2 Wh (0.002 kWh), you would use an energy pulse value of
0.002.
Note: The pulse value method is available from the Tools > System Preferences >
Programming Options command in Metercat.
Note: Elster recommends that the pulse value should not be used when verifying meter
accuracy. Use the pulse divisor method when verifying meter accuracy.
Relay-related alarms
The A1800 ALPHA meter periodically performs a self test to determine if it is operating
properly. If any errors are detected, the meter can respond in any or all of the following ways:
display an error or a warning (see Codes and warnings on page 6-2)
initiate a telephone call using a modem
trigger a relay
See Table 5-2 for errors, warnings, and events that can trigger a relay.
Table 5-2. Errors, warnings, and events that can trigger a relay
Condition
Description
Carryover error
See E1 000001: Carryover error on page 6-3.
Clock error
See E3 030000: Clock error on page 6-5.
Crystal oscillator error
See E1 000010: Crystal oscillator error on page 6-4.
Demand overload warning
See W1 100000: Demand overload warning on

page 6-7
EEPROM access error
See E1 010000: EEPROM access error on page 6-4.
End of calendar warning
See W2 200000: End of calendar warning on page 68.
Event log wrap event
The event log has exceeded the maximum number of

entries, and the oldest records will be overwritten.
Outputs
Technical manual
5-5
Table 5-2. Errors, warnings, and events that can trigger a relay
Condition
Description
General configuration error
See E1 100000: General configuration error on

page 6-4.
History log wrap warning
The history log has exceeded the maximum number of

entries. Depending on programming, the meter will
either lock the history log or start overwriting the
oldest records. If the history log is locked, no further
changes to the meter are allowed until the history log
has been read.
Improper meter engine

operation warning
See W1 000010: Improper meter engine operation

warning on page 6-6
Instrumentation profiling set 1

wrap imminent event
Set 1 of the instrumentation profiling log is within 2

days of overflowing. Data will be lost if the
instrumentation profiling log is not read within 2 days.
Instrumentation profiling set 2

wrap imminent event
Set 2 of the instrumentation profiling log is within 2

days of overflowing. Data will be lost if the
instrumentation profiling log is not read within 2 days.
Internal communication error
See E1 001000: Internal communication error on

page 6-4.
Low battery warning
See W1 000001: Low battery warning on page 6-6.
Possible tamper warning
This condition indicates possible tampering of the

meter because a specified number of invalid passwords
used to access the meter has been used (called tamper
detect warning in this manual). This condition does
not generate an error or warning code on the LCD.
Potential indicator warning
See W1 010000: Potential indicator warning on

page 6-7.
Power fail data save error
See E2 200000: Power fail data save error on page 65.
Pulse profiling wrap imminent

event
The pulse profiling log is within 2 days of overflowing.

Data will be lost if the pulse profiling log is not read
within 2 days.
Rate override warning
The current TOU rate is being overridden by the

alternate TOU rate schedule.
Reverse energy flow warning
See W1 000100: Reverse energy flow warning on

page 6-7.
Service current test failure

warning
See W2 000002: Service current test failure warning

on page 6-7.
Service voltage test failure

warning
The service voltage test was unable to find a valid

service or the measured service does not match the
locked service.
Outputs
Technical manual
5-6
Outputs
LED pulse outputs

The A1800 ALPHA meter has two energy light emitting diodes (LEDs), which are
permanently configured as follows:
active LED - indicates active (Wh) energy import or export
alternate LED - indicates alternate (varh/VAh) energy import or export
The LEDs emit pulse outputs that can be used to test the A1800 ALPHA meter in the field
without removing the meter from service or breaking the seal.
Figure 5-4. LEDs

Active energy LED
Alternate energy LED
Output specifications
The LEDs support up to 120 pulses per second.The pulse width is fixed at 8 msec.
Depending on the operating mode of the meter, the LEDs are programmed at the factory to
emit a pulse as follows:
Table 5-3. Transformer rated meter LED output specifications

Operating mode
Pulse rate
Pulse divisor
Normal
5000 pulses/kWh or 5000 pulses/kvarh
Alternate
5000 pulses/kWh or 5000 pulses/kvar
Test
40,000 pulses/kWh or 40,000 pulses/kvarh
Table 5-4. Direct connect-rated meter LED output specification

Operating mode
Pulse rate
Normal
Alternate
Test
For alternate pulse rates, contact your Elster Metronica representative.
Pulse divisor
Technical manual
Technical manual
6-1
6 Testing
A1800 ALPHA meters are factory calibrated and tested to provide years of trouble-free
service. No field calibrations or adjustments are required to ensure accurate operation of the
meter. It is normal, however, to test installed A1800 ALPHA meters periodically to ensure
accurate billing.
The A1800 ALPHA meter performs its own self tests. Additionally, the system
instrumentation and TRueQ features provide valuable information about the meter service.
See Chapter 4, Meter tools, for more information about the instrumentation and power
quality features of the meter.
Testing procedures are the same regardless of the type of meter being tested.
Meter self test

The A1800 ALPHA meter periodically performs a self test to determine if it is operating
properly. The self test ensures that the A1800 ALPHA meter is functioning properly and its
displayed quantities are accurate. Any errors encountered will be displayed on the LCD.
Certain errors may also initiate a telephone call via a modem or trigger a relay.
For LCD errors and warnings, see Codes and warnings on page 6-2.
For relay alarms, see Relay-related alarms on page 5-4.
The meter self test will be performed automatically under the following conditions:
when the meter is initially installed and after any power restoration
at midnight
immediately after a data-altering communication session
The self test incorporates a series of electronic analyses verifying many aspects of the
A1800 ALPHA meter. Continuity checks and communications checks are made between
various key circuits of the electronics, and parity checks are made of memory and data
locations. After the meter passes its self test upon power restoration, all of the LCD segments
will be turned on briefly before beginning the normal display sequence. The following is a
list of the specific tests performed during a self test:
verification of the configuration data and checksums
confirmation of the crystal oscillator accuracy
detection of low battery voltage
detection of low Read without Power battery voltage
maximum lifetime usage of the Read without Power battery
verification of normal microcontroller function
detection of unexpected meter engine resets (for multiple tariff configurations)
detection and identification of user-defined warning conditions
Testing
Technical manual
6-2
Codes and warnings

There are 3 types of codes:
error codes
warning codes
communication codes
The A1800 ALPHA meter displays error codes and warnings as an indication of a problem
that may be adversely affecting its operation. The meter will continue to function as normally
as possible when displaying an error or warning. The * and RESET buttons operate
differently if an error or warning is displayed. See Push buttons on page 3-4 for
information on how the push buttons operate when an error or warning is displayed.
Error codes indicate conditions that may be affecting billing data. It is not recommended to
operate the A1800 ALPHA meter for an extended time when it is displaying an error code.
Warning codes indicate conditions that may be of concern but do not affect the integrity of
billing data.
Communication codes generally indicate a condition affecting communications with the
meter through the optical port or remote port. Not all communication codes indicate potential
problems; some codes provide an indication of the present communication process.
Error codes. Error codes override any other item that is being displayed on the LCD. Using
Elster support software, error codes can be configured to lock the display, preventing other
items from being displayed, and the error indicator turns on. There are exceptions to errors
locking the display:
The normal and alternate display sequence can be viewed even when an error code
locks the display. See * button on page 3-5 for more information.
Warning codes can be programmed to display an error code. When the condition
causing the warning code is clear, the error code is no longer displayed. See E3
300000: Display locked by warning on page 6-5 for more information.
Communication codes are temporarily displayed on the LCD even when the LCD is locked
by an error code. After the communication code clears, LCD returns to showing the error
code.
Error codes are indicated on the LCD by a group code and a numerical code. The group code
makes it easier to identify the error on the LCD. The numerical code indicates the specific
condition that has occurred. See Figure 6-1 for a sample error code displayed on the meter
LCD. Table 6-1 through Table 6-3 describe the different error conditions and their codes.
Figure 6-1. Sample error code displayed on the LCD

+P
L1 L2 L3
Testing
Technical manual
6-3
Testing
Table 6-1. Group E1 error conditions and codes

Condition
Code
Carryover error
Crystal oscillator error
Table CRC error
Internal communication error
EEPROM access error
General configuration error

Condition
Code
Security configuration error
Password table CRC error
Encryption key table CRC error
ROM fail error
Power fail data save error

Condition
Code
Clock error
Display locked by warning
Error codes of the same group are displayed in combination (E1 001010, for example),
indicating that more than one error condition has been detected. If errors exist in more than
one group, the meter will continually cycle through the different groups. Any problems must
be corrected before normal operation can continue. In some cases, the meter may need to be
reprogrammed or returned to the factory for repair or replacement.
E1 000001: Carryover error. This code indicates a failure of a RAM checksum test on data
stored in the meters volatile RAM during a power outage. When a loss of line voltage
occurs, the meters RAM is maintained by the super capacitor and the TOU battery. If both of
these fail, the data stored in RAM is lost. Billing data is stored in nonvolatile EEPROM and
will still be available.1 The push buttons and communications ports will function normally.
Since shipping can take several days, this error will likely be seen on meters
shipped without a connected battery.
The meter battery may need to be replaced, and the error will need to be reset through Elster
meter support software. If the error code is still shown after using Elster meter support
software, the meter must be returned to the factory for repair or replacement.
1 Billing
data is always stored in nonvolatile memory. Depending on meter configuration, other data may be stored in RAM, which
uses a battery to preserve memory. If the battery fails, this data would be lost.
Technical manual
6-4
E1 000010: Crystal oscillator error. This codes indicates a problem with the crystal
oscillator. The A1800 ALPHA meter must be returned to the factory for repair or
replacement.
E1 000100: Table CRC error. This code indicates a possible error in the A1800 ALPHA
meters programming. This code might appear if a communications interruption occurs
during meter programming. Depending on which area of the meter is affected, billing data
may not be reliably accumulated while this error condition exists. The push buttons and
optical port will continue to function normally.
Reprogramming the meter with Elster meter support software may correct the problem. If the
error code is displayed after reprogramming, the A1800 ALPHA meter should be returned to
the factory for repair or replacement.
E1 001000: Internal communication error. This code indicates the meter had an internal
communication error. The A1800 ALPHA meter must be returned to the factory for repair or
replacement.
E1 010000: EEPROM access error. This code indicates the meter had a problem accessing
its nonvolatile EEPROM. The A1800 ALPHA meter should be returned to the factory for
repair or replacement.
E1 100000: General configuration error. This code indicates a problem with the meters
configuration or program. The meter can usually be reprogrammed using Elster meter
support software to correct the errors.
E2 000002: Security configuration error. This code indicates an error is present in the
meters security configuration. Contact Elster if this error is displayed on the LCD.
If this error occurs, the meter is vulnerable to tampering. Prompt correction of the
error will maximize the A1800 ALPHA meters security protection.
E2 000020: Password table CRC error. This code indicates a CRC error is present in the
meters ANSI C12.21 password configuration table. Contact Elster if this error is displayed
on the LCD.
E2 000200: Encryption key table CRC error. This code indicates a CRC error is present in
the meters ANSI C12.19 encryption key configuration table. Encryption keys are used for
secure access to the meters data and configuration through the remote communication port.
Contact Elster if this error is displayed on the LCD.
Testing
Technical manual
6-5
Testing
E2 020000: ROM fail error. This code indicates an incomplete attempt to flash the meter
firmware. This code will exist on the meter if Elster firmware flash software did not complete
the upgrade process. All meter functionality is halted until this error is resolved. Use Elster
firmware flash software to attempt repair. If this fails, the meter must be returned to the
factory for repair or replacement.
E2 200000: Power fail data save error. This code indicates that the data saved in the
nonvolatile EEPROM during a power fail may be invalid. This error will be displayed when
power is restored to the meter, and a self check has discovered an error with the EEPROM
data. The A1800 ALPHA meter must be returned to the factory for repair or replacement.
E3 030000: Clock error. This code indicates an error with the meters timekeeping ability.
When a carryover error occurs (see E1 000001: Carryover error on page 6-3), reference to
real time is lost. The meter battery may need to be replaced, and the error will need to be reset
through Elster meter support software. If the error code is still present, the meter must be
returned to the factory for repair or replacement.
TOU features cannot be performed when time is lost. Previously accumulated data is stored
in nonvolatile EEPROM and will still be available.
E3 300000: Display locked by warning. This code indicates that one or more warning codes
(see Warning codes on page 6-5) has locked the display. The A1800 ALPHA meter can be
programmed to lock the display if a warning condition is present. Elster meter support
software is used to select the individual warnings that will cause this error code to display. If
the condition causing the warning clears, the error code will also clear.
Warning codes. Warning codes indicate conditions of concern that do not yet affect the
integrity of billing data. When the condition is present, a warning code is automatically
inserted as the last item in the normal and alternate display sequences. When the condition
clears, the warning code, is removed from the display sequence. Elster meter support
software can be used to select individual warnings that will lock the display as an error. See
Error codes on page 6-2 for more information.
Warning codes are indicated on the LCD by a group code and a numerical code. The group
code makes it easier to identify the error on the LCD. The numeric code indicates the specific
condition that has occurred. See Figure 6-2 for a sample warning code displayed on the LCD.
Table 6-4 and Table 6-5 describe the different warning conditions and their codes.
Figure 6-2. Sample warning code

+P
L1 L2 L3
Table 6-4. Group W1 warning codes

Condition
Code
Low battery warning
Improper meter engine operation

warning
Reverse energy flow warning
Potential indicator warning
Demand overload warning
Technical manual
6-6
Testing
Table 6-5. Group W2 warning codes

Condition
Code
Service current test failure

warning
Demand threshold exceeded

warning
Line frequency warning
TRueQ test failure warning
End of calendar warning
Warning codes of the same group are displayed in combination (for example, W2 202000),
indicating that one or more warning conditions are present. If warnings exist in more than
one group, the meter displays each group at the end of the display sequence before returning
to the first item in the display sequence.
W1 000001: Low battery warning. This warning code indicates a low battery voltage or
missing battery. A1800 ALPHA meters having realtime TOU functionality require a battery
to maintain date and time over an extended power outage.
For timekeeping configurations, the meter should be de-energized and the battery should be
replaced. Once the new battery has been installed and the meter is energized, the code is
automatically cleared. See Removing the battery on page 7-6 and Installing a TOU
battery on page 7-3 for instructions on replacing batteries.
Note: In addition, the low battery indicator will display on the LCD (see Low battery
indicator on page 3-3).
W1 000010: Improper meter engine operation warning. This code indicates that the meter
engine program may be corrupt or is not executing correctly. This warning condition is
typically triggered when the microcontroller reinitializes the meter engine. An unstable or
noisy electrical environment at the A1800 ALPHA meter installation can interfere with this
operation.
If the meter engine is successfully reinitialized, then the warning code will be automatically
cleared from the LCD. If the code continues to be displayed on the LCD, the A1800 ALPHA
meter should be returned to the factory for repair or replacement.
Technical manual
6-7
W1 000100: Reverse energy flow warning. This warning code indicates that reverse energy
flow has been detected equivalent to twice the Kh since the last reset. It may be an indication
of tampering with the A1800 ALPHA meter installation. If reverse energy flow is expected,
then this warning code can be disabled through Elster meter support software. If the service
being metered is not expected to return energy to the utility, further investigation is required.
In some cases, it may be necessary to return the A1800 ALPHA meter to the factory for
The code is cleared by these methods:
performing a demand reset
issuing the clear values and status command through Elster meter support software
W1 010000: Potential indicator warning. This code indicates that one or more of the phase
potentials are missing or below the defined threshold for voltage sag detection. This code
will display at the same time as one or more of the potential indicators blink. See Phase
indicators on page 3-2 and Voltage sags on page 4-13 for more details on potential
indicators and voltage sags.
The code is automatically cleared when the phase potential returns a value within the
programmed thresholds.
W1 100000: Demand overload warning. This code indicates that the demand value exceeded
the programmed overload value. It is generally intended to inform a utility when the
installation is requiring more power than the service equipment was originally designed to
handle.
If the demand overload value has been set lower than appropriate for the installation, the
A1800 ALPHA meter may be reprogrammed with a higher threshold value.
W2 000002: Service current test failure warning. This code indicates that the most recently
performed service current test has failed. See Service current test on page 4-9 for more
information.
the service current test is performed again and the test does not fail
W2 000200: Demand threshold exceeded warning. This code indicates that the demand has
exceeded one of the programmed demand thresholds. This warning follows the state of any
relay programmed for demand threshold operation. It is set once the demand threshold has
been exceeded and only cleared after one complete demand interval during which the
threshold is not exceeded.
W2 002000: Line frequency warning. If a meter is configured to use the line frequency
instead of the crystal oscillator as the time base, this code indicates that the line frequency is
off by 5 % of its programmed setting. When this condition occurs, the meter switches
timekeeping to the crystal oscillator.
The code will be automatically cleared once the line frequency returns to within 5 % of the
nominal frequency. This warning will never appear on meters configured for constant
timekeeping operation from the internal crystal.
W2 020000: TRueQ test failure warning. This code indicates that one or more TRueQ tests
have detected a value outside the programmed thresholds. Use the meter system
instrumentation displays or Elster meter support software to gain additional information on
the specific TRueQ test causing the problem.
The code will be automatically cleared once TRueQ conditions return to a value within the
programmed thresholds.
Testing
Technical manual
6-8
Testing
W2 200000: End of calendar warning. This code indicates that the meter calendar has
expired or is about to expire. The date at which this code appears is configurable using Elster
meter support software. Program a new calendar using Elster meter support software.
Communication codes. Communication codes temporarily override any other item that is
being displayed on the LCD (including error codes). Communication codes are indicated on
the LCD by a port code and a numerical code. The port code identifies the affected port. The
numerical code indicates the status of the communication session. See Figure 6-3 for a
sample communication code displayed on the meters LCD. See Table 6-6 for the
communication codes that can be displayed.
Figure 6-3. Sample communication code
+P
L1 L2 L3
Table 6-6. Communication codes

Condition
Code
CRC error
Syntax error
Framing error
Timeout error
For most communication errors, Elster recommends you attempt the communication again.
You may need to cycle power to the A1800 ALPHA meter or to reattempt the Elster meter
support software function. If communication errors persist, return the meter to the factory for
Technical manual
6-9
Meter shop testing

Test equipment
Typically, meter shops develop testing procedures specific to their own needs and have the
test equipment needed. Below is a list of standard test equipment required for testing the
A1800 ALPHA meter:
a stable mounting fixture for the meter and a means to temporarily make the proper
power connections to the meter
a reliable power supply that should be able to do the following:
provide a voltage source for energizing the meter at its rated voltage (if desired, the
meter can be tested using a lower source voltage if that voltage is within the wide
operating voltage range of the A1800 ALPHA meter)
provide a variable load current at unity power factor (PF)
provide a variable load current at a lagging power factor for varh testing; the power
supply should be capable of delivering load current at PF = 0.0 (90 lagging) or PF
= 0.5 (60 lagging)
a precision Wh reference standard with 0.002 % accuracy
a precision varh reference standard with 0.002 % accuracy
a phantom load device or other loading circuit capable of handling the test current
one of the following:
a photoelectric pickup to sense test pulses from the LED and a device capable of
counting pulses
a low voltage (12 VDC to 24 VDC), low-power pulse sensor to capture and count
pulses from the meter output relay (the pulse sensor should provide a low voltage
source to the pulsing relay as well as detect and count contact closures of the output
relay)
test equipment for measuring, counting, and timing pulse outputs
control equipment that can provide switching between the meter source voltage and
precision reference standard
precision voltage and current transformers
voltmeters, ammeters, phase angle meters, power factor meters, and any other
measuring equipment that might be required
Test setup
Before testing the A1800 ALPHA meter, check the nameplate for the following:
Meter class for expected accuracy
Test amperes (In or Ib)
The specific test ampere value is not critical as long as the applied current does not
exceed the Imax current rating of the meter. Normally, a value of approximately 20 % to
25 % of Imax is used for basic tests, with additional test points at 5 %, 10 %, and 100 %
of Imax also required by most legal authorities.
Note: The A1800 ALPHA meter has a flat, linear load curve accuracy response. Therefore,
when allowed by local legislation, meter accuracy testing can be accomplished by
checking the meter accuracy at two typical points. For example, test the meter with
In equal to 10 % of Imax, at both 100 % and 20 % PF. Historical data from testing the
A1800 ALPHA meter confirms that if these test points are within the required
accuracy, the entire range of loads is within the required accuracy.
Operating voltage range
Any other important specifications for the meter being tested
Testing
Technical manual
6-10
Risk of personal injury or death!

Use only authorized personnel and proper test procedures to test metering
equipment. Dangerous voltages are present. Personal injury, death, or equipment
damage can result if safety precautions are not followed.
To set up the A1800 ALPHA meter for testing:
1. Install the meter in the stable mounting fixture.
2. Place the precision Wh or varh reference standard and precision voltage and current
transformers (as required) in series with the meter being tested.
If voltage transformers are not required, then the meter source voltage should be placed
in parallel with the Wh or VARh reference standards. See Appendix D, Wiring
diagrams, for appropriate wiring diagrams for the A1800 ALPHA meter.
3. Connect the control equipment for switching the source voltage to the precision
reference standard.
4. Connect the measuring equipment for counting the standards output pulses.
5. Apply the rated test current and voltage to the terminals of the meter.
Meter testing
Since no adjustments are required for the A1800 ALPHA meter in the field, meter testing is
done primarily to verify that the meter is operating within its specifications. Typically, meter
specifications are verified by checking the meter calibration. The accuracy of the
A1800 ALPHA meter remains consistent over a wide range of ambient temperatures.
Nevertheless, for precise test results, meters should be tested in an environment where the
meter and test equipment are at the same ambient temperature, ideally 22 C (72 F).
The test voltage should be applied to the meter for at least ten seconds prior to making test
measurements. This allows the power supply circuitry to stabilize. When testing meters for
Class 0.2 accuracy, a test cycle time of at least one minute is recommended at In and with PF
= 1.0. When using current values lower than In for testing, test errors may occur because not
enough time is allowed for the test. When using a lower test In, increase the test time
proportionally.
The preferred test method is to apply full 3-phase voltage and current to both the meter and
the precision reference standard. Nevertheless, if required, polyphase meters can be tested
with single phase loading. Single phase loading is done by connecting the voltage inputs in
parallel and the current sensors in series to combine element operation. The accuracy test
results for single phase and polyphase loading will be virtually identical and well within
A1800 ALPHA meter specifications.
Using relay outputs for testing. The relay outputs can be used instead of the LED to test
meter calibration. To do so, the relay outputs need to be configured for pulse output. When
using the relay outputs for testing, testing time should exceed 20 seconds for accurate results
at normal test current values of Ib or In. If more accurate testing is required, use longer testing
times. If precision testing is required, testing times should be as long as it takes to attain a
stable accuracy level when comparing the meter under test to the precision standard. The
testing time may vary because of the characteristics of the precision reference standard and
the amount of power flowing through the test circuits. Some experimentation may be
required to determine the testing time needed to reach a stable accuracy level.
Using LCD pulse count for testing. For test shops that do not have photoelectric pulse
sensors and related counters and do not want to use relay outputs for testing, the LCD can
provide a pulse count that reflects the energy measured during a test. Use the LCD pulse
count to determine the energy measured during the test cycle and compare it with the energy
delivered by precision reference standard.
Testing
Technical manual
6-11
Wiring a portable device into an energized metering circuit must be done with
extreme care, using only authorized procedures. If high voltage connected current
transformers are accidentally open circuited, the voltages at the secondary open
terminals can rise to the primary voltage level, creating an extremely hazardous
condition, leading to possible property damage, personnel injury or death.
To test the meter using the LCD pulse count, the meter display must be configured to display
a test pulse count. Use the Elster meter support software to communicate to the meter
through the optical port and place it in test mode. In test mode, the LCD display can be
cycled to display the pulse count accumulated during a test cycle. After meter testing is
complete, use the meter software to restore the meter to normal mode.
If a meter is programmed to display energy pulse counts when it is in the alternate display
mode, a similar procedure also can be used to test a meter while it is in service at a customer
site. When testing a meter in service, follow the safety procedures specified by the utility.
Wire a portable precision reference standard into the circuit in series with the billing meter.
After the portable precision reference standard is in the circuit, the energy value determined
from the pulse count displayed on the LCD over the test interval can be compared with the
energy value displayed on the portable reference standard. If this test method is used while
the meter is in alternate mode, any energy consumed by the customer during the test is
registered in the normal manner.
Testing
Technical manual
6-12
Testing
Technical manual
Technical manual
7-1
7 Installation and removal
Preliminary inspection
Circuit-closing devices must be used on current transformer secondaries.

Dangerous currents and voltages are present if secondaries are open-circuited.
Equipment damage, personal injury, or death can result if circuit-closing devices are
not used.
The A1800 ALPHA meter is calibrated and tested at the factory, and it is ready for
installation. Follow proper installation and removal procedures for personal safety and
protection of the meter.
Before installing and applying power to the A1800 ALPHA meter, a quick inspection of the
meter itself is recommended. Check for some of the following items:
no broken or missing parts
no missing or broken wiring
no bent or cracked components
no evidence of overheating
check the nameplate to make sure it is appropriate for the service
Physical damage to the outside of the A1800 ALPHA meter could indicate potential
electronic damage in the inside of the meter. Do not connect power to a meter that is
suspected to have unknown internal damage. Contact your local Elster Metronica
representative if you suspect your meter may be damaged.
Placing the meter into service

See Appendix D, Wiring diagrams, for illustrations of both internal and connection wiring
diagrams.
Circuit-closing devices must be used on current transformer secondaries.

Dangerous currents and voltages are present if secondaries are open-circuited.
Personal injury, death, or equipment damage can result if circuit-closing devices are
not used.
Installation and removal
Technical manual
7-2
Make sure to install the correct meter for the service type, maximum current, and
capacity required. Always verify that the maximum meter voltage and current
ratings are equal to or greater than the maximum service voltage and current.
Installing inappropriate meters can damage equipment.
To use the A1800 ALPHA meter effectively and safely, follow this procedure:
1. Make sure that the meter hanger, located on the base of the A1800 ALPHA meter, is in
the desired position. Sliding the hanger down to the hidden position will hide the top
supporting screw.
2. Use at least an M6 screw for the top supporting position and hang the meter on it,
making sure it is level. The meter will operate correctly in any position, but failing to
mount the meter in a proper vertical position will place the other mounting holes at the
wrong place on the mounting panel.
3. Use at least an M6 screw in each of the bottom supporting screws to secure the
A1800 ALPHA meter enclosure; the mounting holes are 7.1 mm (0.28 inches) in
diameter.
Before wiring the meter into the power circuit, use authorized utility procedures to
install proper ground connections on all appropriate VT and CT circuits and on the
meter ground terminals. Also, be certain that CTs on energized lines are securely
short-circuited either with circuit-closing test switches or with properly installed
conductors. Dangerous voltages can be present. Personal injury, death, or
equipment damage can result from wiring an ungrounded meter or mishandling
improperly grounded metering transformer circuits.
4. Install the ground connections.
A1800 ALPHA meter terminals are designed for optimum use with copper wiring.
For direct connect-rated meters, aluminum wiring can be used but if so, it is
extremely important to use proper aluminum wiring practices. Aluminum wiring
compound or wiring paste (grease) should be used when attaching the bottomconnected terminals. Tighten the connections, allow them to relax for a few
minutes, then tighten them again. This will minimize the cold-flow effects of
aluminum cable. Failure to observe correct practices for installing aluminum wiring
could lead to overheating of the terminals, equipment failures, or damaging fires.
Where possible, Elster recommends copper-compatible meter terminals and
aluminum wire. Such adapters also can provide for use or larger aluminum
conductors that can be otherwise used in the terminals of the A1800 ALPHA meter.
5. Ensure that primary or system voltages are either disconnected from a power source or
that utility safety practices for handling live circuits are strictly followed.
6. If applicable, ensure that any current transformers are de-energized with no highvoltage primary voltage connected to their primaries and no primary current circulating
through them. If primary current and voltage are present in the current transformers, it
is extremely important to verify that safety shorting connections are in place on all
secondary winding connections prior to handling CT connections to the meter.
Technical manual
7-3
7. Wire the meter using color-coded wire according to locally applicable specifications.
The terminal block dimensions on the A1800 ALPHA meter support cable sizes of
approximately 5 mm in diameter for transformer rated connections (10 mm in diameter
for direct connect).
Standard wiring diagrams are shown in Appendix D, Wiring diagrams.
8. After wiring the meter and making any communication and relay connections,
assemble the terminal cover and apply power.
For information on communication and relay connections, see Chapter 5, Outputs.
Figure 7-1. A1800 ALPHA meter mounting screw locations

Hanger screw mount
Screw mounts
Installing a TOU battery

The TOU battery is replaceable without breaking the meter seal. Use only Elsterrecommended TOU batteries. See your Elster Metronica representative for details.
The meter should be de-energized before installing the battery. Dangerous voltages
are present; and equipment damage, personal injury, or death can result if safety
precautions are not followed. Use authorized procedures to install the battery while
power is removed from the meter.
Before installing the battery, the A1800 ALPHA meter must have been energized for at least
1 minute within the preceding 60 minutes. This ensures that the supercapacitor is properly
charged and that the battery is not immediately drained upon installation. If this is not done,
then the battery may be damaged and the meter may not function correctly. While the meter
is powered, verify that the LCD is active and functioning.
To install the battery:
1. If the meter has not been energized for at least 1 minute during the previous 60
minutes, energize the meter for 1 minute.
If the meter has been energized for at least 1 minute during the previous 60 minutes,
proceed to step 2.
Technical manual
7-4
2. De-energize the meter.

3. Remove the terminal cover screws and seals.
4. Remove the terminal cover to expose the battery well.
Figure 7-2. Battery well and connector
TOU battery
5. Slide the battery leads into the connector to the right of the battery well.
6. Place the battery firmly in the battery well.
7. Replace the terminal cover.
8. Energize the meter and verify that the LCD becomes active and functioning properly.
Verify that the low battery symbol on the meter LCD is not displayed. See Indicators
and controls on page 3-1 for details.
9. Replace the terminal cover screws and seals.
10. Reprogram the meter or clear the errors (as necessary).
Troubleshooting.
Not following this procedure can cause the meter to function improperly. In case a
battery has been installed correctly and the meter is not functioning properly (for
example, display is blank but the meter is powered), use the following procedure.
1. De-energize the meter and let it sit without power for 48 to 72 hours. This provides
sufficient time for the supercapacitor to discharge and for the microcontroller to shut
down.1
2. Energize the meter for at least 1 minute. The microcontroller should power up correctly
and the supercapacitor will charge. Verify that the LCD becomes active and
functioning correctly.
3. De-energize the meter and insert the battery, following the instructions earlier in this
section.
If the meter still does not function properly, then it should be returned to the factory.
Initial setup
After installing and powering the A1800 ALPHA meter, verify the following:
The system service voltage test (if enabled) shows the valid service for this installation.
The phase rotation, service voltage, and service type should be indicated on the LCD.
Other validation information can be obtained using the system instrumentation display
quantities.
1 If
the battery was installed with the polarity reversed, the battery should not be damaged. If the battery was installed without having the meter properly energized, then the battery will lose approximately 8.5 % of its service life each day.
Technical manual
7-5
All potential indicators (from L1 to L3 depending on the wiring) are present and are not
blinking. A blinking indicator means that the phase is missing the required voltage or is
below the programmed minimum voltage threshold value.
The LEDs are blinking and the energy direction indicators on the LCD show the
correct energy flow direction.
Required meter seals are in place.
Any information (such as registration and location of the meter) has been recorded.
If the meter is not working correctly after it has been installed, then check for
improper installation or wiring. If the installation and wiring are correct, then verify
these other areas:
the meter installation matches the meter nameplate
the correct type of A1800 ALPHA meter is installed in the existing service
no evidence of mechanical or electrical damage to either the meter or the installation
location
the service voltage falls within the operating range as indicated on the nameplate
the optical port is free of dirt or other obstructions
Marking the utility information card

The utility information card can be removed without breaking seals and removing the meter
cover screws. Note that the direct connect meter uses a blank card.
To remove the utility information:
1. Remove the terminal cover as described above.
2. Grasp the protruding utility information card tab firmly and pull the card out slowly
from under the meter cover.
3. Mark the card as needed.
Figure 7-3. Removing the utility information card
Technical manual
7-6
Removing the meter from service

Use the appropriate procedure when removing an A1800 ALPHA meter from service.
Use authorized utility procedures to remove metering equipment. Dangerous

voltages are present, and equipment damage, personal injury, or death can result if
safety procedures are not followed.
Circuit-closing devices must be used on current transformer secondaries. This

applies to CT-connected meters. Dangerous currents and voltages are present if
secondaries are open-circuited. Equipment damage, personal injury, or death can
result if circuit-closing devices are not used.
If it becomes necessary to remove an A1800 ALPHA meter from service, use the following
procedure:
1. Before disconnecting the meter, make sure that the existing meter data has been copied,
either manually or electronically using Elster meter support software.
2. Remove the voltage and disconnect the current circuits.
3. Break the seal holding the A1800 ALPHA meter terminal cover in place.
4. Remove the terminal cover screws and take off the terminal cover.
5. Disconnect the wiring.
6. Remove the lower supporting screws.
7. Lift the meter off the top supporting screw.
Removing the battery
The meter should be de-energized before removing the battery. Dangerous voltages
are present; and equipment damage, personal injury, or death can result if safety
precautions are not followed. Use authorized procedures to remove the battery
while power is removed from the meter.
Use the following procedure to remove a battery from an A1800 ALPHA meter:
1. De-energize the meter.
2. Remove the terminal cover to expose the battery well.
3. Firmly grasp the battery and lift it from the well.
4. Disconnect the battery leads from the connector.
5. Replace the terminal cover and ensure the seals are in place.
If the removed battery is still in working condition, it can be stored safely for future use.
Non-functioning batteries should be disposed of according to local laws, regulations, or
electric utility policies.
Technical manual
Technical manual
8-1
Loss compensation
8 Loss compensation
Introduction
What is Loss Compensation?
The Handbook for Electricity Metering defines loss compensation as follows:
A means for correcting the reading of a meter when the metering point and the point of
service are physically separated resulting in measurable losses including I2R losses in
conductors and transformers, and iron-core losses. These losses may be added to, or
subtracted from the meter registration.1
For example, it may be desirable to measure the energy usage on the low voltage side of a
distribution transformer that serves an industrial customer even though the end-point
customer actually owns the transformer and is responsible for any transformer losses. In this
case, the utility billing point is actually the high voltage side of the transformer. Using loss
compensation, the meter on the low voltage side of the transformer can actively adjust the
energy registration to account for the losses in the transformer.
Availability
The loss compensation functionality is available only on the following CT-connected
A1800 ALPHA (-V suffix) meter configurations:
2-element
3-element
Software support
A meter with loss compensation must first be programmed with the proper utility rate
configuration using Elster meter support software just as you would with any other
A1800 ALPHA meter. Next, a special programming step is performed to load the proper loss
constants into the meter. This is done with special Windows-based software titled
A1800 ALPHA Meter Loss Compensation Tool.
Calculating the correction values

To configure the loss compensation feature of an A1800 ALPHA meter you must input the
following values into the loss compensation software. These values are site specific and must
be uniquely determined for each loss compensation application.
Parameter
Description
%LWFe
Iron watts correction percentage
%LWCu
Copper watts correction percentage
%LVFe
Iron vars correction percentage
%LVCu
Copper vars correction percentage
Edison Electric Institute, Handbook for Electricity Metering, 10th edition, Washington, DC: Edison Electric Institute, 2002, p. 16.
Technical manual
8-2
Parameter
Description
Meter current
Meter current when power transformer is operating at maximum

rating
Meter voltage
Meter voltage when power transformer is operating at rated

voltage
These values must be calculated on the basis of the power transformer test report and, if line
losses are to be included, the characteristics of the primary/secondary conductors at the
specific site in question. The following sections describe these calculations.
Calculation of loss compensation parameters is dependent on the location of the meter with
respect to the power transformer. The rated voltage and rated current used in the calculations
must represent the values on the same side of the power transformer as the meter is located.
If the meter is located on the secondary side of the power transformer, then the rated
voltage and rated current used in the calculations must be secondary values.
If the meter is located on the primary side of the power transformer, then the rated
voltage and rated current used in the calculations must be primary values.
Gather necessary data

The following information is necessary to calculate the loss compensation configuration
parameters.
Parameter
Description
KVArated
Rated kVA of power transformer
Vpri L-L
Primary line-to-line voltage of power transformer
Vsec L-L
Secondary line-to-line voltage of power transformer
LWCu
Full load watts loss of power transformer (copper or winding losses)
LWFe
No load watts loss of power transformer (iron or core losses)
%EXC
Percent excitation current of the power transformer
%Z
Percent impedance of the power transformer
CTR
Current transformer ratio for instrument transformers supplying

current to the meter
VTR
Voltage transformer ratio for instrument transformers supplying

voltage to the meter
Elements
Number of meter elements (use 3- for all 2 -element meters)
Note: There may be one 3-phase transformer or a bank of three single phase transformers.
If there are three single phase transformers then test data is needed for all three.
Calculate the meter configuration parameters

Step 1. Calculate the following quantities.
Parameter
Description
VAphase
Per phase VA rating of power transformer
Vsec rated
Rated secondary voltage of power transformer
Isec rated
Rated secondary current of power transformer
Vpri rated
Rated primary voltage of power transformer
Ipri rated
Rated primary current of power transformer
LWFe
No load watt loss of power transformer (loss watt iron)
Loss compensation
Technical manual
8-3
Loss compensation
Parameter
Description
LWCu
Full load watt loss of power transformer (loss watt copper)
LVAFe
No load VA loss of power transformer (loss VA iron)
LVACu
Full load VA loss of power transformer (loss VA copper)
LVFe
No load var loss of power transformer (loss var iron)
LVCu
Full load var loss of power transformer (loss var copper)
Parameter
Equation
VAphase
If bank of 3 transformers
VA phase KVArated 1000
If one 3-phase transformer
VA phase
Vsec rated
For 2 element, 3-wire delta

applications
For 3 element, 4-wire wye
applications
Vpri rated
For 2 element, 3-wire delta

applications
For 3 element, 4-wire wye
applications
Isec rated
( kVArated 1000 )
3
V secrated V secL- L
V secrated
V secL- L
3
V pri rated V pri L- L
V pri rated
V pri L- L
All applications
I secrated
Ipri rated
All applications
I pri rated
3 VA phase
V secL- L
3 VA phase
V pri L- L
Note: For a bank of three single phase transformers the below calculations should be
performed independently for each transformer and then summed to obtain the
total losses.
LWFe
Take directly from power transformer test report.
LWCu
Take directly from power transformer test report.
LVAFe
%EXC
kVArated 1000
100
Technical manual
Parameter
LVACu
8-4
Equation
%Z
kVArated 1000
100
LVFe
LVAFe2 - LWFe2
LVCu
LVCu 2 - LWCu 2
Step 2. If it is desired to compensate for line losses then calculate the full load watt line loss
and the full load var line loss values (see next section for details on line loss calculation).
Parameter
Description
LiWTOT
Total full load watt line loss (line loss watt)
LiVTOT
Total full load var line loss (line loss var)
Step 3. Calculate the per element % correction factors, the meter voltage, and the meter
current. These are the values that must be entered into the loss compensation software to
configure the meter properly.
If the meter is on the primary side of the power transformer, then Vrated = Vpri rated and
Irated = Ipri rated.
If the meter is on the secondary side of the power transformer, then Vrated = Vsec rated
and Irated = Isec rated.
Parameter
%LWFe
%LWCu
Equation
LWFe 100
Vrated I rated Elements
LWCu LiWTOT 100

V rated I rated Elements
%LVFe
%LVCu
LVFe 100
LVCu LiVTOT 100

Meter current
I rated
CTR
Loss compensation
Technical manual
Parameter
Meter voltage
8-5
Equation
V rated
VTR
Calculating line loss

Compensation for line losses may include primary losses, secondary losses, or both
depending on the application.

The following information is necessary to calculate the line losses.
Parameter
Description
Frequency
Number of conductors
Line length (units compatible with conductor resistance)

Conductor resistance (/meter or /kilometer)
Ra
1
GMR
Geometric mean radius of the phase conductors (in meters)
Xa1
Inductive reactance of the conductor at 1ft. spacing (/meter or

/kilometer)
1
Either GMR or Xa is required, but not both. The available information determines which
is used in the calculations.
Step 1. Calculate line resistance and line reactance

The equations below should be applied individually to the primary and the secondary
conductors.
Parameter
Description
RL
Line resistance ()
XL
Line reactance ()
Deq
Geometric mean distance between phase conductors (in meters)
DL1,L2
Distance between Line 1 and Line 2 (in meters)
DL2,L3
DL3,L1
Parameter
Equation
RL
L Ra
Calculating the reactive component of the impedance is not as straight forward as the
resistance calculation, and the calculation depends on the wiring configuration. The most
common configuration is one where the wires are unbundled and the spacing between wires
Loss compensation
Technical manual
8-6
is uniform. Other types of wiring, such as bundled conductors, will not be discussed in this
document. Two equations can be used to calculate line reactance. The choice of which
equation to use is based on the whether GMR or Xa is available.
Item
Equation
XL
If using GMR
If using Xa
Deq
f
L 0.2794 Log
60
GMR
f
L X a 0.2794 LogDeq
60
where:
Deq 3 DL 1,L 2 DL 2 ,L 3 DL 3 ,L 1
Step 2. Calculate the line losses.
Item
Description
LiWTOT
Total full load watt line loss (line loss watt)
LiVTOT
Total full load var line loss (line loss var)
Vpri L-L
Primary line-to-line voltage of power transformer
Vsec L-L
Secondary line-to-line voltage of power transformer
Ipri rated
Rated primary current of power transformer
Isec rated
Rated secondary current of power transformer
Note: Vpri L-L, Vsec L-L, Ipri rated, and Isec rated are the same values as used in calculation of
transformer losses (see previous section).
When compensating for both transformer and line losses:
Item
LiWsec
LiVsec
LiWpri
LiVpri
LiWTOT
LiVTOT
Equation
2
I sec
rated RL sec n
2
I sec
rated X L sec n
2
I pri
rated RL pri n
2
I pri
rated X L pri n
LiW sec LiW pri

LiV sec LiV pri
Loss compensation
Technical manual
8-7
Loss compensation
Note: In the special case that you are compensating only for line loss (no transformer
losses), then the values for Ipri rated and Isec rated must be directly specified by the
user. Typically, these two values will be inversely proportional to the rated secondary
and primary voltages of the power transformer. That is,
I pri rated
I secrated
V secrated
V pri rated
Step 3. If compensating for both transformer and line losses, return to Step 3 of the previous
section using the above calculated line losses to help calculate the %LWCu and %LVCu
values.
If compensating only for line losses use the following equations to calculate the per element
% correction factors, the meter voltage and the meter current for entry in the loss
compensation software.
If the meter is on the primary side of the power transformer,
Irated = Ipri rated.
If the meter is on the secondary side of the power transformer,
Irated = Isec rated.
Vrated is the nominal voltage seen on the high side of the instrument transformer supplying
voltage to the meter.
Parameter
Equation
%LWFe
%LWCu
%LVFe
%LVCu
Meter current
Meter voltage
LiWTOT 100
0
LiVTOT 100
I rated
CTR
Vrated
VTR
Calculation example
The following example can be used as a guideline. This is based on the sample transformer
data for loss compensation shown in chapter 10 of the Handbook for Electricity Metering
(10th edition).2
Application notes:
The application is a bank of three single-phase power transformers.
2 Edison Electric Institute, Handbook for Electricity Metering, tenth edition, Washington, DC: Edison Electric Institute, 2002, Chap-
ter 10, Special Metering, pp. 249-88.
Technical manual
8-8
Loss compensation
The metering occurs on the low (secondary) side of a power transformer, and losses
will be added to the measured energy.
There is a delta connection on the secondary of the power transformer and thus a 2element meter will be used to measure the service.
Losses are being compensated for the power transformer only (no line losses).

Power transformer data (from transformer manufacturer)
Parameter
Value
Line 1
Line 2
Line 3
KVArated
3333
3333
3333
Vpri L-L
115000
115000
115000
Vsec L-L
2520
2520
2520
LWCu
18935
18400
18692
LWFe
9650
9690
9340
%EXC
1.00
1.06
0.91
%Z
8.16
8.03
8.12
Instrument transformer data:

Parameter
Value
CTR
3000
600
5
VTR
2400
20
120
Meter data:
Parameter
Value
Elements
Step 1. Calculate the quantities

Because the metering is on the secondary side of the power transformer, all references to
rated voltage and rated current refer to the secondary rated values.
Parameter
Description
VAphase
bank of three transformers:
kVArated 1000 3333 1000 3,333,000

Vrated
secondary side, 2-element delta application:
V secL- L 2520
Technical manual
8-9
Parameter
Description
Irated
secondary side application:
VA phase
V secL- L
3 ,333 ,000
2290.84
2520
Phase 1. Calculations
Parameter
Value
LWFe
9650
LWCu
18935
LVAFe
LVACu
%EXC
kVArated 1000
100
1.00
3333 1000
33 ,330
100
%Z
kVArated 1000
100
8.16
3333 1000
271 ,973
100
LVFe
LVFe2 - LWFe2
35 ,330 2 9690 2 33 ,975
LVCu
LVACu 2 - LWCu 2
271,923 2 18 ,935 2 271,313
Parameter
Value
LWFe
9690
LWCu
18400
LVAFe
% EXC
kVArated 1000
100
1.06
3333 1000
35 ,330
100
Loss compensation
Technical manual
Parameter
LVACu
8-10
Value
%Z
kVArated 1000
100
8.03
3333 1000
267 ,640
100
LVFe
LVAFe2 - LWFe2
35 ,330 2 9690 2 33 ,975
LVCu
LVACu 2 - LWCu 2
267 ,640 2 18 ,400 2 267 ,007
Parameter
Value
LWFe
9340
LWCu
18,692
LVAFe
LVACu
% EXC
kVArated 1000
100
0.91
3333 1000
30 ,330
100
%Z
kVArated 1000
100
8.12
3333 1000
270 ,640
100
LVFe
LVAFe2 - LWFe2
33 ,330 2 9340 2 28 ,856
LVCu
LVACu 2 - LWCu 2
270 ,640 2 18 ,692 2 269 ,993
Loss compensation
Technical manual
8-11
From the above:

Parameter
Value
LWFe
9650 + 9690 + 9340 = 28,680
LWCu
18,935 + 18,400 + 18,692 = 56,027
LVAFe
33,330 + 35,330 + 30,330 = 98,990
LVACu
271,973 + 267,640 + 270,640 = 810,253
LVFe
31,902 + 33,975 + 28,856 = 94,734
LVCu
271,313 + 267,007 + 269,993 = 808,313
Step 2. Compensate for line loss (if needed).

Per the stated assumptions, there is no compensating for line losses:
Parameter
Value
LiWTOT
LiVTOT
Step 3. Now the per element % correction factors may be calculated:

Parameter
%LWFe
%LWCu
Value
LWFe 100
28 ,680 100
0.2484
2520 229084 2
LWCu LiWTOT 100

56 ,027 100
0.4853
2520 2290.84 2
%LVFe
%LVCu
LVFe 100
94 ,734 100
0.8205
2520 2290.84 2
LVCu LiVTOT
808 ,313 100
7.0009
2520 2290.84 2
Meter current
I rated 2290.84
3.82 A
CTR
600
Loss compensation
Technical manual
Parameter
Meter voltage
8-12
Loss compensation
Value
Vrated 2520
126 V
VTR
20
Enter Data
Summary of calculated values to enter in A1800 ALPHA Meter Loss Compensation Tool
Parameter
Value
Registration
Add losses
Iron watts correction % (%LWFe)
0.2484
Copper watts correction % (%LWCu)
0.4853
Iron vars correction % (%LVFe)
0.8205
Copper vars correction % (%LVCu)
7.0009
Meter current
3.82
Meter voltage
126
Internal meter calculations

To understand the loss compensation calculations, it is first necessary to understand a little bit
about how the A1800 ALPHA meter engine operates. Internal to the meter engine, Vrms and
Irms are measured independently on each phase every two line cycles. These values are used
to perform the normal energy calculations on each phase every two line cycles. The
individual phase measurements are then summed. This drives an internal accumulator in the
meter engine that generates a pulse to the microcontroller when a threshold level is reached.
The threshold level at which a pulse is generated is known as the meter Ke (energy per pulse).
There are separate calculations, separate accumulators and separate Ke pulses generated for
each measured energy quantity (for example, kWh-delivered, kvarh-delivered).
When loss compensation is turned on, additional calculations are performed. Every two line
cycles on each phase, the Vrms and Irms values used in the normal energy calculations are also
used to calculate a watt compensation value and a var compensation value. The following
equations indicate the compensation terms that are calculated and applied to the normal
energy measurements every two line cycles.
For a 3-element meter, watts and vars are compensated every two line cycles according to the
following equations:
Compensation
W
var
Equation
G V
R I L1 meas2 I L2 meas2 I L3 meas2
B V
2
L1 meas
2
L2 meas
2
c meas
X I L1 meas2 I L2 meas2 I L3 meas2

4
L1 meas
V L2 meas4 Vc meas4
Technical manual
8-13
Loss compensation
For a 2-element meter, watts and vars are compensated every two line cycles according to the
following equations:
Compensation
W
var
Equation
G V
R I L1 meas2 I L3 meas2
B V
2
L1 meas
Vc meas2
X I L1 meas2 I L3 meas2
4
L1 meas
4
c meas
Where:
Term
Description
Per element resistance
Per element conductance
Per element reactance
Per element susceptance
Ixmeas
Per phase rms current
Vxmeas
Per phase rms voltage
The A1800 ALPHA Meter Loss Compensation Tool calculates R, G, X, and B using the
following formulas and then programs these values into the meter.
Item
R
Equation
%LWCu Meter voltage

Meter current 100
%LWFe Meter current
Meter voltage 100
%LVCu Meter voltage

Meter current 100
%LVFe Meter current
Meter voltage3 100
The compensation terms will be either positive or negative depending on whether losses are
configured to be added or subtracted from the energy measurements. So, the key difference
on meters with loss compensation is that every two line cycles on each phase, the calculated
W compensation value is summed with the normal Wh energy calculations. Similarly, the var
Technical manual
8-14
compensation term is summed per phase every two line cycles with the normal varh energy
calculations. From that point everything is essentially the same (individual phases are then
summed to drive an accumulator).
Note regarding two-element meters: Two-element ALPHA meters are unique in that they
create an artificial internal reference that is used to measure the phase voltages. For example,
line 3 experiences a loss of voltage while the meter remains powered (either from line 1 or
from an auxiliary supply) the internal meter engine will still measure a line 3 voltage equal to
one-half of the line 1 voltage. In applications where loss compensation is not applied this has
no impact on the measurement of energy because no power will be drawn by the load on line
3. That is, line 3 current equals zero and so the net energy measured on line 3 is accurately
calculated as zero. However, in the special case of a meter that is compensating for
transformer losses, the no-load compensation terms are based solely on the measured voltage
on each phase (see above formulas). Therefore, on 2-element ALPHA meters with loss
compensation enabled, if line 3 voltage is lost while the meter remains powered, the no load
compensation terms for line 3 will be in error because they will be calculated based on onehalf the line 1 voltage.
The same situation would result if line 1 experiences a loss of voltage.
Loss compensation
Technical manual
8-15
Meter outputs affected by compensation

When loss compensation is enabled on an A1800 ALPHA meter, all of the following
collected data use the compensated values:
all register billing data
all pulse profile data
all KYZ pulse outputs
all test pulses (both in the LCD and on the LED)
Compensation does not affect instrumentation values or the meter features that use
instrumentation values. Regardless of the status of loss compensation, all instrumentation
values reflect the actual measured values as seen at the meter terminals. For example, per
phase voltage values are not affected (whether displayed on the LCD or reported in meter
support software). Likewise TRueQ functions and instrumentation profiling values are not
affected when compensation is active.
Testing a meter with compensation

The LEDs on A1800 ALPHA meters always reflect the current measurement algorithm in the
meter engine. That is, if compensation is turned on then the LEDs will indicate compensated
energy. If compensation is turned off then the LEDs will indicate uncompensated energy.
Because the LED always reflects the state of the compensation it reduces the chance that a
meter with active compensation is accidentally installed unknowingly.
Using the A1800 ALPHA Meter Loss Compensation Tool, it is possible to configure the
meter to automatically turn off compensation whenever the meter enters test mode. This may
or may not be desired depending on utility testing practices.
The loss compensation software also permits the A1800 ALPHA meter loss compensation
function to be manually turned off and turned on without altering the loss compensation
parameters configured in the meter.
Utilities may desire to calculate the expected test results of a compensated meter and then test
the meter with active compensation to verify that the expected results are obtained.
Loss compensation
Technical manual
8-16
Loss compensation
Technical manual
Technical manual
A-1
A Glossary
* button. The push button that activates the alternate mode. It also can be used to control the
scrolling of display quantities in the different operating modes.
Alpha Keys. A system combining hardware and software to upgrade existing
A1800 ALPHA meters. Keys allow addition of new functionality to an existing meter for an
additional fee.
alternate mode. The operating mode in A1800 ALPHA meters used to display a second set
of display quantities on the LCD. It is generally activated by pressing the Q button on the
meter. A typical use of the alternate mode is to display non-billing data as programmed by
Elster meter support software.
AvgPF. see average power factor.
average power factor. Calculated once every second, when the meter is not in test mode,
using the following formula:
AvgPF
kWh
kvarh 2 kWh 2
billing data. The measured quantities recorded and stored by the meter for use in billing the
consumer. May also be referred to as tariff data.
bit. Short for binary digit. It is the smallest information unit used in data communications and
storage.
coincident. Information regarding one parameter occurring at the same time as another. For
example, coincident kvar demand is the kvar demand occurring during the interval of peak
kW demand.
communication session count. The number of data-altering communications occurring
since the A1800 ALPHA meter was last programmed or a clear of the values and status.
complete LCD test. A display showing 8 in all the display areas and all identifiers on the
LCD turned on. This confirms that all segments are operating properly.
continuous cumulative. A display technique used with demand calculations and similar to
cumulative demand except continuous cumulative demand is updated constantly.
CTR. see current transformer ratio.
cumulative. A display technique used with demand calculations. Upon a demand reset, the
present maximum demand is added to the sum of the previous maximum billing period
demand values.
current transformer ratio. The ratio of the primary current to the secondary current of a
current transformer. For example, 400 A to 5 A would have a current transformer ratio of
400:5 or 80:1.
Glossary
Technical manual
A-2
data-altering communication. Any communication that performs any of the following

actions:
writes to a meter table
clears data
resets log pointers or data set pointers
resets the demand
performs a self read
performs a season change
del. see delivered.
delivered. Used to specify the energy delivered (provided) to an electric service.
demand. The average power computed over a specific time.
demand forgiveness. The number of minutes that demand will not be calculated following a
recognized power outage. This provides a time period immediately following the restoration
of power during which startup power requirements will not be included in the calculated
demand.
demand interval. The time period over which demand is calculated. Demand interval must
be evenly divisible into 60 minutes.
demand reset. The act of resetting the present maximum demand to zero.
demand reset count. The total number of demand resets since the meter was last
programmed.
demand reset date. The date of the last demand reset.
demand threshold. The present value of demand which when reached initiates a relay
closure or other programmed action.
display quantity. Any value available for display on the LCD.
EEPROM. Acronym for electrically erasable programmable read only memory. This
memory retains all information even when electric power is removed from the circuit.
EOI. see end of interval.
end of interval. The indication that the end of the time interval used to calculate demand has
occurred. An EOI indicator is on the LCD and an optional relay can be supplied to provide an
EOI indication.
energy. Power measured over time.
error display. The method by which the meter displays an error message which consists of E
and numeric codes. The code indicates a condition or conditions that can adversely affect the
proper operation of the meter.
event log. The event log provides a record of entries that date and time stamp specific events
such as:
power outages
demand resets
entering test mode
time changes
external display multiplier. Used when the transformer factor is larger than can be stored
within the A1800 ALPHA meter. When programmed with Elster meter support software for
an external display multiplier, display quantities read from the meter LCD must be manually
multiplied by this value to yield proper readings.
Glossary
Technical manual
A-3
Glossary
factory default. Operating parameters that are programmed into the meter at the factory and
assure that the meter is ready for correct energy measurement when installed.
four quadrant metering. See Figure A-1 for an illustration of energy relationships for
delivered and received real power (kW), apparent power (kVA), and reactive power (kVAR).
Figure A-1. Four quadrant metering quantity relationships
kvar Delivered
Lag
Q2
Q2
Q1
Q1
Q3
Q3
Q4
Q4
Lead
kVA Delivered
kW Delivered
kVA Received
kW Received
Lag
Lead
kvar Received
IC. see integrated circuit.

instrument transformer. A transformer used to reduce current and voltage to a level which
does not damage the meter. Meter readings will need to be increased by the transformer ratios
to reflect the energy and demand values on the primary side of the instrument transformer.
integrated circuit. Generally used to reference the custom meter circuit used in the
A1800 ALPHA meter for per phase voltage and current sampling plus energy measurements.
Ke. The smallest discrete amount of energy available within the meter. It is the value of a
single pulse used between the meter IC and the microcontroller.
kW overload value. The kW threshold which, when exceeded, will cause the display of the
kW overload warning message.
LC. see load control.
LCD. see liquid crystal display.
LP. see load profile.
line frequency. The frequency of the AC current on the transmission line, often used in
timekeeping applications in lieu of the internal oscillator. On default the line frequency is
50Hz.
liquid crystal display. The LCD allows metered quantities and other information about the
A1800 ALPHA meter and installed service to be viewed. Display quantities are
programmable through Elster meter support software.
load control. Used to describe a relay dedicated to operate based upon entering a specific
TOU rate period or when a demand threshold is reached.
Technical manual
A-4
load profiling. Load profiling records energy usage per a specific time interval while the
meter is energized. Load profiling data provides a 24 hour record of energy usage for each
day of the billing period.
maximum demand. The highest demand calculated during any demand interval over a
billing period.
microcontroller. A single chip that contains the following components:
main processor
RAM
ROM
clock
I/O control unit
nonrecurring dates. Holidays or other specific dates that are not based upon a predictable,
repeated pattern.
normal mode. The default operating mode for the A1800 ALPHA meter. Typically, normal
mode displays billing data on the LCD following a programmed sequence.
optical port. A photo-transistor and an LED on the face of the meter that is used to transfer
data between a computer and the meter via pulses of light.
outage log. Display quantity that shows the cumulative total outage time in minutes.
P/R. see pulse ratio.
previous billing data. Used to describe the billing data recorded at the demand reset. See
also self read.
previous season data. Used to describe the billing data for the season preceding the present
billing season.
primary rated. A condition where the energy and demand as measured by the meter are
increased by the current and voltage transformer ratios. Meter data will reflect the energy and
demand actually transferred on the primary side of the instrument transformers.
program change date. The date when the meter program was last changed.
program mode. The operating mode of the meter in which full reprogramming of
metrological parameters is permitted.
pulse ratio. Pulses per equivalent disk revolution. On ALPHA meters, 1 revolution is equal
to 1 Kh period.
pulse relay. A relay used with the meter to provide output pulses from the meter to an
external pulse collector. Each pulse represents a specific amount of energy consumption.
rec. see received.
received. Used to specify the energy received by the utility at an electric service.
recurring dates. Holidays or other special dates that occur on a predictable basis.
self read. The capturing of current billing data and storing it in memory. Self reads are
scheduled events that can be triggered by the specific day of month, every set number of
days, or command by Elster meter support software. See also previous billing data.
tariff data. See billing data.
TOU. see time-of-use.
TOU meter. A meter that records energy usage and demand data on a time-of-use basis.
Glossary
Technical manual
A-5
test mode. The test mode stores billing data in a secure memory location while the meter
measures and displays energy and demand data for testing purposes. The TEST identifier will
flash while the test mode is active. When test mode is exited, the accumulated test data is
discarded and the original billing data is restored.
timekeeping. The ability of the meter to keep a real time clock, including date and time.
time-of-use. A billing rate that records energy usage and demand data related to specific
times during the day. See also timekeeping.
transformer-rated. A meter designed to work with current or voltage transformers. The
maximum current of a transformer-rated A1800 ALPHA meter is typically 10 A.
voltage transformer ratio. The ratio of primary voltage to secondary voltage of a
transformer. For example, 12,000 V to 120 V would have a voltage transformer ratio of
100:1.
VTR. see voltage transformer ratio.
watthour constant. A meter constant representing the watthours per output pulse on the
LED. Historically, the constant represents the energy equivalent to one revolution of an
electromechanical meter.
Glossary
Technical manual
A-6
Glossary
Technical manual
Technical manual
B-1
Display table
B Display table
Display format
Displayable items are described in Display list items on page B-2. The A1800 ALPHA
meter supports up to 64 quantities for display on the LCD. The LCD can be divided into
different regions, as described in Table B-1. See Indicators and controls on page 3-1 for
more detailed information on the LCD regions.
Figure B-1. A1800 ALPHA meter LCD

Low battery indicator
Phase
indicators (3)
Error/warning indicator
Energy direction
indicators
Quantity identifier
Alternate mode
indicator
Comm. port
indicator
Display
quantity
Power/energy
units identifier
Tariff indicators 1 to 4
(left to right)
Reserved
EOI indicator
Test mode
indicator
Cover removed
indicator
LC indicator
Table B-1. LCD regions

Item
Description
quantity identifier
identifies the displayed quantity. Using Elster meter support

software, an identifier can be assigned to most quantities. For
instrumentation quantities, the identifiers are fixed.
alternate display
indicator
indicates that the meter is currently displaying items in the

alternate display list (see * button on page 3-5)
active COM port

indicators
indicates that a communication session is in progress and the

communication port that is being used: either COM 0, COM 1,
or COM 2
power/energy units
identifier
indicates the unit of measurement for the quantity currently

displayed on the LCD.
display indicators
indicates whether the meter is currently doing the following:

accumulating in tariff (T1 - T4)
has reached the end of an interval (EOI)
compensating for transformer line loss (LC)
indicating that either the terminal cover or the meter cover
has been removed
is operating in test mode (see Test mode on page 3-8)
Technical manual
B-2
Table B-1. LCD regions

Item
Description
display quantity
Shows metered quantities or other displayable information.

From 3 to 8 total digits with up to 9 decimal places can be
used. These digits are also used to report the following:
operational errors
system instrumentation and service test errors
warnings
communication codes
display identifiers
more precisely identifies the information presented on the

LCD.
energy direction
indicators
indicates the directions of active (P) and reactive (Q) energy

flow (positive energy flow is energy delivered to the consumer
load, while reverse energy flow is energy received from the
consumer load)
error indicator
indicates either of the following:

flashes when any error flag is set
remains on if a displayable warning flag is set and no error
exists
low battery indicator
if the indicator is turned on, the battery warning flag has been
set.
phase indicators
L1, L2, and L3 (Line 1, Line 2, and Line 3, respectively)

correspond to a phase voltage present on the A1800 ALPHA
meter connections.
If the indicators are on, then all phase voltages are present.
If an indicator is blinking, then that phase voltage is either
missing or below the defined threshold for voltage sag
detection.
Display list items

The display list items for the normal mode, alternate mode, and test mode are programmed
from the 64 available items.
The display format for all displayable items can be programmed using Elster meter support
software. The A1800 ALPHA meter LCD is capable of supporting the following characters
and symbols:
all numbers (0 to 9)
all Latin-based alphabetical characters
symbols such as (degree), * (asterisk), [ (left bracket), and ] (right bracket)
Additional display items may also be available depending upon the version of Elster meter
support software. See the software documentation for a list of the displayable items.
Displayable items can be grouped into the following categories:
LCD test
general meter information
meter configuration
status
metered quantities
average power factor
coincident demand and power factor
Display table
Technical manual
B-3
Display table
system instrumentation
system service test
errors and warnings
communication codes
Default display formats

The display areas on the LCD (such as the display quantity and display identifier) are
programmable through Elster meter support software. See Display format on page B-1 for
more information.
The following sections describe the default behavior of the A1800 ALPHA meter display.
See Table B-2 for a description of some of the special characters that have been used in the
display quantity examples.
Table B-2. Characters in display quantity examples

Character
Represents
Blank (space)
Decimal
hyphen; represents testing in progress
asterisk; represents all 16 character segments on
colon; separates time units (hh:mm), etc.
Any alphanumeric character displayable on the LCD.
dd
Numeric character; represents day (01 to 31)
Indicates the day type is holiday
hh
Numeric character; represents time in hours (01 to 24)
mm
Numeric character; represents time in minutes (00 to 59)
MM
Numeric character; represents month (01 to 12)
Any numeric character.
ss
Numeric character; represents time in seconds (00 to 59)
YY
Numeric character; represents two digit year (00 to 99)
LCD test
The A1800 ALPHA meter tests the LCD by displaying all the identifiers, as shown in
Figure B-2. The meter tests the LCD for 3 seconds after power up.
Figure B-2. LCD all segment test

+ Q
-P
+P
- Q
L1 L2 L3
COM 0 1 2
Technical manual
Display description
LCD test [all segment test]
B-4
Display table
Display quantity
Quantity ID
Units ID
*******
********
[all segments]
General meter information

General meter information quantities are items that are not associated with any particular
pulse or instrumentation source.
Display description
Display quantity
Quantity ID
Identifier String 1 [Account:1]
aaaaaaaa
ID 1-1 of 4
aaaaaaaa
ID 1-2 of 4
aaaa
ID 1-3 of 4
ID 1-4 of 4
Identifier String 2 [Meter ID:1]
aaaaaaaa
ID 2-1 of 4
aaaaaaaa
ID 2-2 of 4
aaaa
ID 2-3 of 4

Meter type
Units ID
ID 2-4 of 4
A1800
TYPE
Firmware product
xxx
FW
Firmware version
xxx
FWV
Firmware revision
xxx
FWR
Hardware version
xxx
HDWV
Hardware revision
xxx
HDWR
DSP code
xxx
DSP
DSP code revision
xxx
DSPR
Meter Programmer ID
xxxxxxxx
LCD test [all segment test]
*******
********
[all segments]
Display quantity
Quantity ID
Units ID
Program ID
xxxxxxxx
PRG ID
Pulse ratio (P/R)
x.xxxxxxx
P/R
Pulse output ratio [imp/kWh]
xxxxx.xxx
imp/kWh
Current transformer (CT) ratio
xxxxxxxx
CT
Voltage transformer (VT) ratio
xxxxxxxx
VT
Demand interval - normal mode
xxxxxxxx
INTERV
Demand interval - test mode
xxxxxxxx
INTERVT
Watthours per pulse (Ke)
xxxxxxxx
Wh/Imp
Meter Kh
xxxxxxxx
Kh
Transformer factor (CT VT)
xxxxxxxx
CTxVT
External multiplier
xxx.xxxxx
ExtMult
Meter configuration
Display description
Technical manual
Display description
B-5
Display table
Display quantity
Quantity ID
xxxxx.xxx
DmdOvld
Display quantity
Quantity ID
Communication session count (port 1)
xxxxxxxx
Com1No
Communication session count (port 2/optical)
xxxxxxxx
Com2No
Days since demand reset
xxxxxxxx
ResDays
Days since input pulse
xxxxxxxx
ImpDays
Number of manual demand resets
xxxxxxxx
RstPress
Number of all demand resets
xxxxxxxx
DmdRes
Power outage count
xxxxxxxx
Outages
Initial remote baud (port 1)
xxxxxxxx
COM1bps
Initial remote baud (port 2)
xxxxxxxx
COM2bps
Transformer Loss Comp Status
xxxxxxxx
Demand overload value
Units ID
Status
Display description
TRueQ Status (On/Off)
On
Off
Outage Log
Program Change Date (port 1)
MM:dd:YY
Program Change Date (port 2/optical)
MM:dd:YY
Last Elster configuration change date
MM:dd:YY
CnfDate
Demand reset date
MM:dd:YY
DmdRes
Last power outage start date
MM:dd:YY
Outage
Last power outage start time
hh:mm
Outage
Last power outage end date
MM:dd:YY
Restore
Last power outage end time
hh:mm
Restore
Present date
MM:dd:YY
Date
Present time
hh:mm
Time
Present day of week
aaaaaaaa
Day
Present season
aaaaaaaa
Season
MM:dd:YY
TblActv
hh:mm
Sub Int
Pulse count for quantity (Wh-delivered)
xxxxxxxx
ImpWhD
Pulse count for quantity (alternate-delivered)
xxxxxxxx
ImpE2D
Pulse count for quantity (Wh-received)
xxxxxxxx
ImpWhR
Pulse count for quantity (alternate-received)
xxxxxxxx
ImpE2R
Date of last pending table activation

Time Left in interval
Self Read Date
MM:dd:YY
Effective Date for Rates/Special Dates
MM:dd:YY
Number of Write Sessions (port 1)
xxxxxxxx
Number of Write Sessions (port 2/optical)
xxxxxxxx
Units ID
Technical manual
B-6
Display table
Metered quantities
A1800 ALPHA meters can measure two quantities. Meters with the optional 4-quadrant
metering can measure eight quantities. The A1800 ALPHA meter can display the available
metered quantities for each meter type.
To indicate a self read quantity, the LCD will use the last two characters of the quantity
identifier to indicate the last self read number (01 to 35).
Display description
Display
ID
Display quantity
Quantity ID
Units ID
Current billing, Previous billing, Previous season, Last self read

Total energy
xxxxxxxx
Deliver
Receive
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
kWh/kVAh/kvarh
Maximum demand
xxxxxxxx
Del MD
Rec MD
Q1 MD
Q2 MD
Q3 MD
Q4 MD
kW/kVA/kvar
Date of maximum demand
MM:dd:YY
MD Date
Time of maximum demand
hh:mm
MD Time
xxxxxxxx
Del CMD
Rec CMD
Q1 CMD
Q2 CMD
Q3 CMD
Q4 CMD
kW/kVA/kvar
Cumulative demand
Tariff 1 energy
T1
xxxxxxxx
Deliver
Receive
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
kWh/kVAh/kvarh
Tariff 1 maximum demand
T1
xxxxxxxx
Del MD
Rec MD
Q1 MD
Q2 MD
Q3 MD
Q4 MD
kW/kVA/kvar
Tariff 1 date of maximum demand
T1
MM:dd:YY
MD Date
Tariff 1 time of maximum demand
T1
hh:mm
MD Time
Tariff 1 cumulative demand
T1
xxxxxxxx
Del CMD
Rec CMD
Q1 CMD
Q2 CMD
Q3 CMD
Q4 CMD
kW/kVA/kvar
Technical manual
B-7
Display description
Display
ID
Display table
Display quantity
Quantity ID
Units ID

Tariff 2 energy
T2
xxxxxxxx
Deliver
Receive
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
kWh/kVAh/kvarh
T2
xxxxxxxx
Del MD
Rec MD
Q1 MD
Q2 MD
Q3 MD
Q4 MD
kW/kVA/kvar
T2
MM:dd:YY
MD Date
T2
hh:mm
MD Time
T2
xxxxxxxx
Del CMD
Rec CMD
Q1 CMD
Q2 CMD
Q3 CMD
Q4 CMD
kW/kVA/kvar
Tariff 3 energy
T3
xxxxxxxx
Deliver
Receive
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
kWh/kVAh/kvarh
T3
xxxxxxxx
Del MD
Rec MD
Q1 MD
Q2 MD
Q3 MD
Q4 MD
kW/kVA/kvar
T3
MM:dd:YY
MD Date
T3
hh:mm
MD Time
T3
xxxxxxxx
Del CMD
Rec CMD
Q1 CMD
Q2 CMD
Q3 CMD
Q4 CMD
kW/kVA/kvar
Tariff 4 energy
T4
xxxxxxxx
Deliver
Receive
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
kWh/kVAh/kvarh
T4
xxxxxxxx
Del MD
Rec MD
Q1 MD
Q2 MD
Q3 MD
Q4 MD
kW/kVA/kvar
Technical manual
B-8
Display description
Display
ID
Display table
Display quantity
Quantity ID
Units ID

T4
MM:dd:YY
MD Date
T4
hh:mm
MD Time
T4
xxxxxxxx
Del CMD
Rec CMD
Q1 CMD
Q2 CMD
Q3 CMD
Q4 CMD
kW/kVA/kvar
Display quantity
Quantity ID
Units ID
xxxxxxxx
AvgPF
Present Interval (current billing only)

Previous Interval (current billing only)

For each average power factor, the following items are available for display.
Display description
Display
ID

Tariff 1 average power factor
T1
xxxxxxxx
AvgPF
T2
xxxxxxxx
AvgPF
T3
xxxxxxxx
AvgPF
T4
xxxxxxxx
AvgPF
Coincident demand and power factor

The A1800 ALPHA meters can measure two coincident quantities. Additionally, meters with
the 4-quadrant metering option can measure four coincident quantities. Coincident quantities
are configurable with Elster meter support software to be any demand or average power
factor value captured at the time of a maximum demand value. For each coincident value, the
following items is available for display:
Display description
Display
ID
Coincident demand
Display quantity
Quantity ID
Units ID
xxxxxxxx
CoinDmd
kW/kVA/kvar
Tariff 1 coincident demand
T1
xxxxxxxx
CoinDmd
kW/kVA/kvar
T2
xxxxxxxx
CoinDmd
kW/kVA/kvar
T3
xxxxxxxx
CoinDmd
kW/kVA/kvar
T4
xxxxxxxx
CoinDmd
kW/kVA/kvar
x.xxx
CoinPF
kW/kVA/kvar
Coincident power factor

Tariff 1 coincident power factor
T1
x.xxx
CoinPF
kW/kVA/kvar
T2
x.xxx
CoinPF
kW/kVA/kvar
T3
x.xxx
CoinPF
kW/kVA/kvar
T4
x.xxx
CoinPF
kW/kVA/kvar
Technical manual
B-9
Display table
Cumulative demand
The A1800 ALPHA meter records either the cumulative or continuous cumulative demand.
Display description
Display
ID
Cumulative demand
Display quantity
Quantity ID
Units ID
xxxxxxxx
CumDmd
kW/kVA/kvar
T1
xxxxxxxx
CumDmd
kW/kVA/kvar
T2
xxxxxxxx
CumDmd
kW/kVA/kvar
T3
xxxxxxxx
CumDmd
kW/kVA/kvar
T4
xxxxxxxx
CumDmd
kW/kVA/kvar
System instrumentation
The A1800 ALPHA meter can display system instrumentation quantities. See System
instrumentation on page 4-1 for a listing of the instrumentation quantities that can be
displayed.
Display description
Display quantity
Quantity ID
xx.xxHz
L123
Line 1 voltage (secondary)

Line 1 voltage (primary)
xxx.xxx V
xxx.xxxkV
L1

xxx.xxx V
xxx.xxxkV
L2

xxx.xxx V
xxx.xxxkV
L3
Line 1 current (secondary)

Line 1 current (primary)
xxx.xxx A
xxx.xxxkA
L1

xxx.xxx A
xxx.xxxkA
L2

xxx.xxx A
xxx.xxxkA
L3
Line 1 power factor
xx.xx
L1 COS
Line 2 power factor
xx.xx
L2 COS
Line 3 power factor
xx.xx
L3 COS
Line 1 power factor angle
xxx.xx
L1
xxx.xx
L2
xxx.xx
L3
Line 1 voltage phase angle
xxx.xxV
L1
xxx.xxV
L2
xxxx.xV
L3
Line 1 current phase angle
xxx.xA
L1
xxx.xA
L2
xxx.xA
L3
Line 1 kW (primary)
Line 1 kW (secondary)
xxxx.xxxx
xxx.xxx
L1
kW
MW
Line 2 kW (primary)
xxxx.xxxx
xxx.xxx
L2
kW
MW
Line frequency
Units ID
Technical manual
B-10
Display description
Display table
Display quantity
Quantity ID
Units ID
Line 3 kW (primary)
xxxx.xxxx
xxx.xxx
L3
kW
MW
Line 1 kvar (primary)

Line 1 kvar (secondary)
xxxx.xxxx
xxx.xxx
L1
kvar
Mvar

xxxx.xxxx
xxx.xxx
L2
kvar
Mvar

xxxx.xxxx
xxx.xxx
L3
kvar
Mvar
Line 1 kVA (primary)

Line 1 kA (secondary)
xxxx.xxxx
xxx.xxx
L1
kVA
MVA

xxxx.xxxx
xxx.xxx
L2
kVA
MVA

xxxx.xxxx
xxx.xxx
L3
kVA
MVA
System kW (primary)
System kW (secondary)
xxxx.xxxx
xxx.xxx
L123
kW
MW
System kvar (primary) (arithmetic)

System kvar (secondary) (arithmetic)
xxxx.xxxx
xxx.xxx
L123
kvar
Mvar
System kVA (primary) (arithmetic)

System kVA (secondary) (arithmetic)
xxxx.xxxx
xxx.xxx
L123
kVA
MVA
xx.xx
L123.COS
xx.xx
L123
System kvar (primary) (vectorial)

System kvar (secondary) (vectorial)
xxxx.xxxx
xxx.xxx
L123
kvar
Mvar
System kVA (primary) (vectorial)

System kVA (secondary) (vectorial)
xxxx.xxxx
xxx.xxx
L123
kVA
MVA
xx.xx
L123.COS
xx.xx
L123
Line 1 voltage % total harmonic distortion (THD)
xx.xx%V
L1.H2-15
xx.xx%V
L2.H2-15
xx.xx%V
L3.H2-15
Line 1 current % total harmonic distortion (THD)
xx.xx%A
L1.H2-15
xx.xx%A
L2.H2-15
xx.xx%A
L3.H2-15
Line 1 total demand distortion (TDD)
xx.xx A
L1 TDD
xx.xx A
L2 TDD
xx.xx A
L3 TDD
Line 1 fundamental voltage magnitude (secondary)

Line 1 fundamental voltage magnitude (primary)
xxx.xxx V
xxx.xkV
L1 H1

xxx.xxxkV
xxx.x V
L2 H1

xxx.xxxkV
xxx.x V
L3 H1
Line 1 fundamental current magnitude (primary)

Line 1 fundamental current magnitude (secondary)
xxx.xxxkA
xxx.x A
L1 H1
System power factor (arithmetic)

System power factor angle (arithmetic)
System power factor (vectorial)

System power factor angle (vectorial)
Technical manual
B-11
Display description
Display table
Display quantity
Quantity ID

xxx.xxxkA
xxx.x A
L2 H1

xxx.xxxkA
xxx.x A
L3 H1
Line 1 2nd harmonic voltage magnitude (primary)

Line 1 2nd harmonic voltage magnitude (secondary)
xxx.xxxkV
xxx.x V
L1 H2

xxx.xxxkV
xxx.x V
L2 H2

xxx.xxxkV
xxx.x V
L3 H2
Line 1 2nd harmonic current magnitude (primary)

Line 1 2nd harmonic current magnitude (secondary)
xxx.xxxkA
xxx.x A
L1 H2

xxx.xxxkA
xxx.x A
L2 H2

xxx.xxxkA
xxx.x A
L3 H2
Line 1 2nd harmonic voltage % distortion
xx.xx%V
L1 H2
xx.xx%V
L2 H2
xx.xx%V
L3 H2
Line 1 harmonic current distortion

(2nd - 15th) (primary)
(2nd - 15th) (secondary)
xxx.xxxkA
L1 H2-15

xxx.xxxkA

xxx.xxxkA
Units ID
xxx.x A
L2 H2-15
xxx.x A
L3 H2-15
xxx.x A
System service tests

The A1800 ALPHA meter can display the validity of the electricity service where it is
installed. See System service tests on page 4-5 for more information.
Display description
Display quantity
Quantity ID
Service Voltage Test
--------
TEST V
xxxxxxxx
SE
Service Current Test
OK
--------
TEST I
System Service Type
xxx 4Y
xxx 3
xxx 1L
L1-2-3
L3-2-1
[xxx 4Y]
[xxx 3]
[xxx 1L]
L1-2-3
L3-2-1
System Test Error
Currently locked service
Units ID
Technical manual
B-12
Errors and warnings

The A1800 ALPHA meter displays error codes and warning codes as an indication of a
problem that may be affecting its operation. See Error codes on page 6-2 and Warning
codes on page 6-5 for more information.
Communication codes
The A1800 ALPHA meter indicates the status of a communication session by displaying it
on the LCD. See Communication codes on page 6-8.
Display table
Technical manual
Technical manual
C-1
Nameplate and style number information
C Nameplate and style number

information
Nameplate
The nameplate provides important information about the meter. The nameplate can be
configured to meet the needs of the utility company; however, Figure C-1 is an illustration of
a A1800 ALPHA nameplate for both transformer rated and direct connected meters.
Figure C-1. Sample nameplates
Elster Metronica
style number
LCD indcator labels
LED pulse
settings
Voltage rating and frequency

Nominal (max) current
and frequency
Accuracy Class 0.2S (active)

and GOST no.
Isolation Class 2 symbol
Accuracy Class 0.5 (reactive)

and TU no.
Number of elements
Pulse output settings
Current and voltage

transformer ratios
Customer name or Elster
Metronica on default
Meter serial number and
barcode
Elster Metronica
style number
Voltage rating and frequency
Certification
symbols
Elster logo
Year and place of manufacture
LCD indcator labels
LED pulse
settings
Nominal (max) current

and frequency
Isolation Class 2 symbol
Number of elements
Pulse output
settings
Customer name or Elster
Metronica on default
Meter serial number and
barcode
Accuracy Class 1 (active)

and GOST no.
Accuracy Class 2 (reactive)
and GOST no.
Certification
symbols
Elster logo
Year and place of manufacture
Technical manual
C-2
Utility information card

The removable utility information card provides a place for the utility to enter meter sitespecific information (for example, CT, VT, etc.). Figure C-2 is an example of a utility
information card.
Figure C-2. Utility information card (transformer rated)
CT
VT
imp/kWh(kVARh)
Figure C-3. Utility information card (direct connect rated)
Technical manual
C-3
Style number information

The following table lists the commonly used styles for the A1800 ALPHA meter and the
options that are available. Style numbers are subject to change without notice. Contact Elster
Metronica for availability.
Table C-2. Meter style numbers for the A1800 Alpha meter
For example: 1802RALXQVM 4GB DW 4

18
02 RALXQVM -
P4
3 Two-Element
(3-phase, 3-wire,
4 delta) Three-Element
(3-phase, 4-wire, wye)
W
Auxiliary Power Supply
D LCD Backlight
B Second communication port RS485
S Second communication port RS232
E Second communication port Ethernet
G First communication port (RS485 or RS232)
1- 6 Pulse output relays (16)
Both active and reactive energy metering, multi-tariff
(active energy metering only, multi-tariff)
Both delivered and received energy metering
Both load and instrumentation profiling

L
X
Extended memory, 1 B
Instrumentation measurements with standardized error
Q
Loss compensation
V
Theft-resistant measurement of active energy
02 Class 0.2S, transformer rated meters

05 Class 0.5S, transformer rated meters
10 Class 1, transformer rated meters
20 Class 0.5S, direct connect meters
21 Class 1, direct connect meters
A1800 ALPHA meter
R(T)
A18
Note:
1. If A1800 meter has not additional functions such as "", "L", "X", "Q", "V", "", "D",
"W", then these suffixs shuld not be at nameplate. If A1800 meter has not "Q" suffix it is
instrumentation measurements without standardized error.
2. If A1800 meter has not RS485, RS232 or Ethernet second communication ports, then "",
"S" or "E" suffixs should not to be at nameplate.
Technical manual
C-4
Technical manual
Technical manual
D-1
D Wiring diagrams
Refer to the wiring diagram on the nameplate of each meter for specific terminal
assignments. All connections are equipped with combination-head screws that accept either a
slotted or Phillips screwdriver.
Direct connected
Figure D-1. 3-element, 4-wire wye or 4-wire delta
Figure D-2. 2-element, 3-wire delta or 3-wire network
Wiring diagrams
Technical manual
D-2
CT-connected meters
Figure D-3. 2-element, 3-wire delta, transformer connected
Figure D-4. 3-element, 4-wire current transformer, sequential connection with 0,4kV
Wiring diagrams
Technical manual
D-3
Wiring diagrams
Figure D-5. 3-element, 4-wire instrument transformer, sequential connection with insulated neutral and grounded B phasel
Figure D-6. 3-element, 4-wire instrument transformer, sequential connection with grounded neutral
Technical manual
D-4
Wiring diagrams
Figure D-7. 3-element, 3-wire delta, transformer connected
Figure D-8. 3-element, 3-wire delta, instrument transformer connected with grounded B phase
Technical manual
D-5
Wiring diagrams
Figure D-9. 3-element, 3-wire delta, current transformer, 0,22kV with insulated neutral
Figure D-10. 2-element, 3-wire delta, current transformer, 0,22kV with insulated neutral
Technical manual
D-6
Wiring diagrams
Figure D-11. 2-element, 3-wire delta instrument transformer connected with grounded B phase
Figure D-12. 3-element, 2-wire, transformer connected
Technical manual
E-1
Technical specifications
E Technical specifications
Absolute maximums
Continuous 528 VAC
Surge voltage withstand
Test performed
Oscillatory (IEC 61000-4-12)
Fast transient (IEC 61000-4-4)
Impulse voltage test (IEC 60060-1)
Technical manual
Voltage
AC voltage (insulation) test

Current
Results
2.5 kV, 60 seconds
4 kV
12 kV @ 1.2/50 s 450 (8 kV with option
boards)
4 kV, 50 Hz for 1 minute
Continuous at Imax
Temporary (0.5 seconds) at 2000 % of Imax (transformer rated)
cycle at 30 Imax (direct connect-rated)
Operating ranges
Voltage
Nameplate nominal 58 V to 400 V
Operating range 49 V to 528 V
Auxiliary power supply range
For AC power: 57 V rms to 240 V rms, 115V (nominal)

For DC power: 80 V to 340 V
Current
0 A to 10 A (transformer rated)
0 A to 120 A (direct connect rated)
Frequency
Nominal 50 Hz, 60 Hz1 5 %
Temperature range
-40 C to +65 C
Humidity range
0 % to 98% noncondensing
Operating characteristics
Power supply burden
Less than 3 W
Per phase current burden
Less than 0.01 VA (transformer rated and direct connect-rated)

1
Per phase voltage burden
0.008 W at 120 V
0.03 W at 240 V
0.04 W at 480 V
0.5 % (IEC 62053-22)
1.0 % (IEC 62053-21)
Accuracy
Active energy 0.2 % (IEC 62053-22)
Reactive energy 2.0 % (IEC 62053-23)
1
Actual accuracy is better than 0.5 % for 0.2 % accuracy

meters
Conforms to IEC 62053-61 (Electricity Metering Equipment, Power Consumption and Voltage Requirements)
Technical manual
E-2
Technical specifications
General performance characteristics

Starting current
CT-connected 1 mA
Direct-connected < 40 mA (Ib = 10A)
Creep 0.000 A (no current)
No more than 1 pulse per quantity, conforming to IEC 62053 requirements
Internal clock accuracy
Better than 0.5 seconds/day (while powered), while conforming to IEC 62054-21
Outage carryover capacity
LiSOCl2 battery rated 800 mAhr, 3.6 V and shelf life of 15+ years.
5 years continuous duty at 25 C.
Supercapacitor is expected to provide carryover power for all normal power outages for a
period of at least 6 hours at +25 C. The battery is not under load except when supercapacitor
is discharged or when a programmed meter is stored for an extended period without line
power. Based on this low duty cycle, the projected life of the battery in normal service is
expected to be greater than 20 years.
Communications rate
Optical port 1200 to 28,800 bps
Physical components meet IEC 62056-21 or ANSI C12.18
Serial ports 1200 bps to 19,200 bps
Dimensions and mass

For the dimensions and mass of the A1800 ALPHA meter, see Physical dimensions and
mass on page 2-18.
Elster Metronica OOO 10-2011 Printing in Russia

# 22002/E
Elster Metronica
1 Proyezd Perova Polya St., 9, Building 3
Moscow, Russia, 111141
Tel.: +7 (495) 730-0285, 730-0286
Fax: +7 (495) 730-0283, 730-0281
E-mail: metronica@ru.elster.com
Internet: www.izmerenie.ru

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A1800 ALPHA Meter

2 Product description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Demand forgiveness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

3 Operating instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

4 Meter tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

TRueQ event counters and timers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15

7 Installation and removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

8 Loss compensation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

B Display table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-1

C Nameplate and style number information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C-1

D Wiring diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1

E Technical specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E-1

A1800 ALPHA Meter Family

A1800 ALPHA Meter

Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liability

Notice is used to alert personnel to installation, operation, or maintenance

A1800 ALPHA Meter Family

A1800 ALPHA meter

Figure 1-1. A1800 ALPHA meter

Table 1-1. IEC standards supported by the A1800 ALPHA meter

General requirements, tests and test conditions.

Particular requirements-static meters for active

Particular requirements-static meters for active

Particular requirements-static meters for reactive

Particular requirements-pulse output devices for

Particular requirements-power consumption and

Electricity metering-data exchange for meter

Electricity metering-tariff and load controlparticular requirements for time switches

Complies with optical port requirements only.

Table 1-2. IEEE/ANSI standards supported by the A1800 ALPHA meter

Protocol Specification for ANSI Type 2 Optical

Utility Industry End Device Data Tables

Protocol Specification for Telephone Modem

DIN 43857 Part 2

Watthour meters in moulded insulation case

For meter width and location of lower mounting holes

reactive energy accuracy is substantially better than required by the standard.

Table 1-4. Meter designations of the A1800 ALPHA meter family

1 communications port (RS-232 or

transformer and line loss

1 communications port (RS-232 or

transformer and line loss

1 communications port (RS-232 or

transformer and line loss

1 communications port (RS-232 or

extended 1 MB memory (X)

1 communications port (RS-232 or

extended 1 MB memory (X)

Contact Elster Metronica for availability.

Figure 1-2. A1800 ALPHA meter family application pyramid

Figure 2-1. Front view of the A1800 ALPHA meter

Elster Metronica for availability.

Meter cover screws

Prevents access to the meter except for the main

Terminal cover screws

Prevents non-utility access to the main connections,

RESET push button

Prevents unauthorized manual demand resets

Contact Elster Metronica for availability.

Figure 2-4. IEC-compliant optical port interface

IEC-compliant optical interface

Communications. The A1800 ALPHA meter (-G suffix) provides remote

Pulse output relay