A watt-hour meter-the solid state polyphase kind

The old watt-hour revenue meter with its rotating disc is a familiar sight at every electric service entrance, be it residential, industrial, or commercial. However, modern technology has made a solid state version economical for most new polyphase metering installations. Polyphase metering is the norm for all industrial and many commercial consumers. This is because the large power levels and polyphase motors in use require polyphase electric service. New polyphase metering installations now favour solid state meters use because of their economically advantageous versatility and accuracy. In contrast, new single phase meters, the sort seen on all our homes, will probably continue to be electromechanical for some time. This is despite the fact solid state equivalents are available. Solid state single phase meters are being installed in England, however. This article describes how a typical solid state meter, in particular General Electric's Phase3 Electronic Meter, determines energy consumption. Also how it provides many more functions than electromechanical meters.