Mainstar is typically configured as follows.

Software

The Mains.NET™ utility monitoring and control network solution software is typically installed on a central server.

The Mains.VB6™ utility monitoring and control software is typically installed on a master personal computer that is usually located in the site services office.

Mains.NET™ and Mains.VB6™ utility monitoring and control software interfaces with the Mainstar Router via twisted pair cable.

Remote communication with the Mains.NET™ and Mains.VB6™ utility monitoring and control software is typically done through wide a area network.

Router

The Mainstar Router is normally installed next to the site distribution board and can be up to 1000 meters away from the master personal computer or server with the Mains.VB6™ or Mains.NET™ utility monitoring and control software installed on it. For distances more than 1000 meters additional Mainstar Routers can be used as signal relays.

The Mainstar Router interfaces with the Mainstar software via twisted pair cable and with the remotely located Mainstar Electronic Control Units via state of the art mains signaling technology.

Masters and Slaves

The Mainstar Electronic Control Units and 5(32)A kWh Meters are typically configured in what are called "Masters" and "Slaves". A "Master" is where the Mainstar Electronic Unit and where the Mainstar 5(32)A kWh Meters are located, and a "Slave" is where the utility points monitored and controlled by a Mainstar Electronic Unit are located.

The Mainstar Electronic Control Units interface with the Mainstar Router via state of the art mains signaling technology and with the Mainstar Energy Sensors via direct wire.