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Object Identification System

#smartmetering #smartmeters #dlms

DLMS (Device Language Message Specification) is a widely used standard for the exchange of data between energy meters and data concentrators. It provides a common language for devices to communicate with each other, enabling interoperability among different manufacturers' devices.

 

DLMS/COSEM (Companion Specification for Energy Metering) is the most widely adopted version of the DLMS standard for energy metering applications.

OBI or OBIS (Object Identification System) codes are a key component of DLMS/COSEM. They are used to uniquely identify data objects within a meter or other devices. These codes play a crucial role in data exchange by specifying the type and location of the information to be read or manipulated.

 

Here's a breakdown of DLMS and OBIS codes:

 

DLMS (Device Language Message Specification):

 

Purpose: DLMS is a communication protocol standard that defines the rules and procedures for exchanging information between energy meters and data concentrators.

 

Features: It supports various communication media such as RS-232, RS-485, Infrared, and TCP/IP. DLMS also defines the structure of application data and provides mechanisms for security, authentication, and access control.

 

DLMS/COSEM (Companion Specification for Energy Metering):

 

Purpose: DLMS/COSEM is a specific implementation of DLMS tailored for the energy sector. It defines a set of standard data models and communication profiles for energy metering devices.

 

Features: DLMS/COSEM includes a range of standard data objects and services for reading and manipulating meter data. It allows for flexible and extensible data models to accommodate different types of energy-related information.

 

OBIS (Object Identification System) Codes:

 

Purpose: OBIS codes are used to uniquely identify data objects within the DLMS/COSEM framework. They provide a standardized way of referencing specific data points or attributes within a device.

 

Format: OBIS codes are structured hierarchically and are composed of digits and alphanumeric characters. They consist of several levels, with each level providing more detailed information about the object being referenced.

Example: An OBIS code might look like 1-0:1.8.0, where each segment represents a specific category of information (e.g., 1 for electricity, 1.8 for total active energy, and 0 for the total).

 

In summary, DLMS is the overarching standard for communication, while DLMS/COSEM is its application to energy metering. OBIS codes are a crucial part of DLMS/COSEM, providing a standardized way to reference specific data objects within the meter. This standardization facilitates interoperability and ensures that different devices can communicate effectively in a standardized manner.