PQM 8000 Model: METSEPM8210

[sergiotusen]

We are working with OKKEN panels in a Data Center and are experiencing intermittent communication failures across multiple LV OKKEN skids. The panels operate normally, but communication is randomly lost on different devices without any visible cause. It becomes impossible to establish communication through the RJ45 port, through the communication switch, or even when connecting directly to the affected device. PQM measurements remain correct, but the communication channel stays down. But when we RESTART the PQM the communucation is reestablish again

[sergiotusen]

PQM 8000 after restart and stablish communicationPQM 8000 with the Communication issues and NOT reading on EPMSPQM Model

[Mehran_Mehrnia · Accepted solution]

Hi @sergiotusen 

Based on your description, the issue may be related to excessive network traffic or switch configuration impacting the PM8000 meters’ communication stability.

The PM8000 series includes a communication throttling mechanism that slows down response times if the meter detects too much network traffic. This is designed to protect metering functionality under heavy network load.

Here are some recommendations and considerations:

1. Switch Configuration

   • Are the switches connected to the PM8000 meters configured to filter unnecessary network traffic, such as broadcast messages not intended for the meters?
   • Is the switch using 802.1x authentication or MAC address bypass? These features may introduce limitations, as PM8000 meters have restricted support for advanced authentication protocols.

2. Traffic Management

   • Has the switch been configured to block traffic the meter does not need to see? This can significantly reduce the risk of communication throttling.

3. Local Communication Check

   • When the network communication fails, if you connect directly to the second Ethernet port on the meter, is the meter able to communicate locally? This test can help determine if the issue is network-related or meter-specific.

Best Regards,

-Mehran

L3 Expert Advanced metering