If you work in energy metering, system integration, or utility operations, you've likely encountered OBIS codes-but do you know why they're the "universal language" of electric meters?
Short for Object Identification System, OBIS is a global standard that assigns a unique "ID number" to every measurement value (e.g., total energy, voltage, current, power) in an electric meter. No matter the brand or manufacturer, a code like 1-0:1.8.0 will always mean "forward active total energy" if the meter follows OBIS rules.
Why OBIS Codes Matter for Your Operations
For system integrators and maintenance teams, OBIS eliminates the headache of incompatible devices:
- Learn one standard, and you can connect/maintain meters from any supplier
- Cut costs and complexity by avoiding custom integration for each brand
- Ensure consistent data interpretation across your entire metering network
Breakdown: The 6-Part Structure of an OBIS Code
An OBIS code follows the format A-B:C.D.E.F, where each segment has a specific role:
| Segment | Name | Definition | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Medium/Energy Type | Identifies the physical medium (e.g., energy) | 1=Electricity; 0=Cooling; 3=Gas |
| B | Measurement Channel | Distinguishes different measurement points | 0=Total; 1=Tariff 1; 2=Tariff 2 |
| C | Measured Quantity | The physical value being measured | 1=Active Power; 31=Current; 32=Voltage |
| D | Data Type/Mode | Instantaneous, cumulative, or maximum value | 7=Instantaneous; 8=Cumulative; 6=Max Demand |
| E | Tariff/Time Period | Tariff or time segment | 0=Total; 1=Tariff 1 |
| F | Historical Period | Past data cycles | 0=Current; 1=Previous Period |
Using the structure above:
- A=1 (Electricity) + B=0 (Total) + C=1 (Active) + D=8 (Cumulative) + E=0 (Total) + F=0 (Current)
- Result: Forward active total energy (the most common energy reading for electric meters).
How OBIS Codes Appear on Meters
On meter LCD screens, OBIS codes are often simplified to a C.D.E format (e.g., "3.2.7.0") to help users quickly identify data:
For example: "3.2.7.0" = Instantaneous voltage of Phase A.
Common OBIS Codes for Daily Use
Keep these examples handy for your operations:
- 1-0:2.8.0 = Reverse active total energy
- 1-0:21.7.0 = Instantaneous active power (Phase L1, units: W/kW)
- 1-0:32.7.0 = Instantaneous voltage (Phase L1, units: V)
- 1-0:31.7.0 = Instantaneous current (Phase L1, units: A)
- 1-0:1.7.0 = Instantaneous total active power
Whether you're upgrading your metering network or troubleshooting devices, mastering OBIS codes is the key to seamless, cost-effective energy management.