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Robert44
Rank 2
Jun 8, 2025 6:45 PM UTC
Solved

Does OVO install smart meters with flying leads?

I have read about Smartmeter to Comms hub flying leads recently that resolve possible signal issues.


Is Kaifa the only Smartmeter that you fit these flying lead to and does OVO supply both for new Northern UK installations?

Lukepeniket_OVOBest Answer
OVO Engineer
Jun 19, 2025 11:44 AM UTC

hey all!!

We currently arent installing 4G hubs but will be starting soon, with 2G/3G likely to be sunsetted by 2032. In this situation I believe the engineer can try a South/Central comms hub. We do have mesh/Aerial setups aswell so im hoping this will help this situation. 

Like Blastoise said Flying leads assist with space issues but absolutely can be used to put the CH somewhere with more signal but this is a case by case basis.

If gas is involved and its outside of 20m away I would say Althan would need to be installed aswell, Althan is Data over Power communication (think TP Link devices).

OVO Operations Excellence Manager and Former Field Operations Team Leader
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Lukepeniket_OVOBest Answer
OVO Engineer
Jun 19, 2025 11:44 AM UTC

hey all!!

We currently arent installing 4G hubs but will be starting soon, with 2G/3G likely to be sunsetted by 2032. In this situation I believe the engineer can try a South/Central comms hub. We do have mesh/Aerial setups aswell so im hoping this will help this situation. 

Like Blastoise said Flying leads assist with space issues but absolutely can be used to put the CH somewhere with more signal but this is a case by case basis.

If gas is involved and its outside of 20m away I would say Althan would need to be installed aswell, Althan is Data over Power communication (think TP Link devices).

OVO Operations Excellence Manager and Former Field Operations Team Leader
    Rank 2
    Robert44Author
    Rank 2
    Jun 19, 2025 11:54 AM UTC

    Thanks ​@Lukepeniket_OVO, ​@Ben_OVO . Do you mean install the 2G/3G Comms Hub because I have been notified that this will be withdrawn soon. If that is the case then I might as well wait for the 4G Hub.

    OVO Staff
    Lukepeniket_OVO
    OVO Engineer
    Jun 19, 2025 12:22 PM UTC

    ​@Robert44 Yes i do, itll be withdrawn starting 2032, if a 2G/3G is installed now then in future we can do a Trust Centre Swap Out which means just swapping the comms hub out. Ofcourse as always th choice is up to you =]

    OVO Operations Excellence Manager and Former Field Operations Team Leader
    Rank 2
    Robert44Author
    Rank 2
    Jun 19, 2025 1:03 PM UTC

    Thanks ​@Lukepeniket_OVO, ​@Ben_OVO . So from my limited knowledge 3G will be switched off this year and 2G will be withdrawn starting 2032 and that is why existing Smartmeters can still operate.

    I am in the north of England and have requested OVO not to install LRR Comms Hub because I live in an old building block of flats with a communal meter room and it is pot luck if anyone can get a LRR signal. I have discussed this with OVO.

    Do Fieldforce carry the 2G hubs to try this solution for installation in the Noth of England regions?

    (not confident what Fieldforce will fit - no contact allowed)

    OVO Staff
    Lukepeniket_OVO
    OVO Engineer
    Jun 19, 2025 1:54 PM UTC

    we do, we follow a no WAN tree whereas we ‘should’ attempt a LRR first but if that doesnt work we will go to the Cellular equipment to use.

    OVO Operations Excellence Manager and Former Field Operations Team Leader
    Rank 2
    Robert44Author
    Rank 2
    Jun 19, 2025 5:10 PM UTC

    Thanks ​@Lukepeniket_OVO so OVO would fit Cellular in the North of England ?

    Blastoise186
    Super User
    Blastoise186Super User
    Super User
    Jun 22, 2025 8:02 PM UTC

    Yup! If needs be, that is possible. IIRC they’ll still try LRR first, but Cellular is now the backup option if that fails. The engineer will most likely carry both types in the van.

    Securing energy by zapping security bugs... For that is The Blastoise Way! Remember, I'm just like you - AI Powered Evil Geniuses aren't Staff!
      Rank 2
      Robert44Author
      Rank 2
      Jun 23, 2025 1:14 PM UTC

      Thanks to all for comments over the last two weeks.

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