Network with secondary control channel

Abstract

Disclosed are apparatus and methodology for providing communications in an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). Information including utility consumption information is transmitted from network endpoints to a central facility using a first communications channel, generally within an ISM band using relatively lower power transmitters operating in accordance with 47 CFR, Part 15. Commonly applicable information (for example, time signals and instructions destined for multiple of the endpoints) is transmitted over a second communications channel in frequency bands other than ISM bands using relatively higher power levels than are permitted under Part 15. Network endpoints and the first and second communications channels may be utilized in either of a mesh network or a star network.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.