Carlo Gavazzi has extended its VMUC-EM energy platform with the introduction of VMU-D. A module to connect a USB dongle, which provides 3G and 4G internet connection to provide a comprehensive energy monitoring system which can be remotely managed by means of the 3G or 4G mobile network.

The VMU-D provides a way to collect and view data remotely in applications where there is no hard wired internet connection. The compact unit is only 2 DIN wide and provides a plug and play configuration via the VMUC- EM interface.

Compatible with all products within the VMUC EM and VMUC-Y family the VMU-D comes complete with a “Watchdog” feature which can prevent common mobile network disconnection issues and provides full SMS and alarm functionality.

The VMU-C EM energy platform has proved significant. A modular solution, the VMU-C EM allows you to gather data from a number of energy meters, power analysers and VMU Series I/O modules on a single installation and view this information on any PC.

VMU-C EM sits at the core of a distributed architecture providing data from a central source and its M2M functionality allows it to automatically transfer this data via FTP, HTTP or MODBUS/TCP to a remote server where a Scada or Building Management System (BMS) is running. For example, if a building is controlled via a BMS the VMU-C EM provides data to the BMS which uses the information to take relevant actions such as making alterations to the operation of the plant in order to optimise efficiency.

The main benefits of VMU-C EM is that it also acts as a gateway to other self-contained solutions which have gained in popularity as a result of the fact that many companies find it easier, and financially more viable to commit to a single capital expenditure rather than to ongoing hosting costs.