During a smart meter installation, customers may occasionally see an engineer connect a cable to the communications hub and move it around the room.
This cable is often called a fly lead.
It allows the communications hub to be temporarily positioned in a different location to test the signal strength.
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Why signal strength matters
Smart meters must connect to the national smart meter communications network before they can send readings to the energy supplier.
In the UK this network is operated by Data Communications Company.
If the signal is too weak, the communications hub cannot establish a reliable connection.
Without that connection, the smart meter cannot send automatic readings.
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Why engineers use a fly lead
A fly lead allows the communications hub to be moved away from the meter temporarily.
This helps engineers test whether the signal improves in different locations.
For example, the engineer may move the hub:
• closer to a window
• away from metal cabinets
• outside a meter cupboard
• higher up on a wall
If the signal improves, it confirms that the problem is caused by the meter’s location rather than the network itself.
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Why some meter locations cause signal problems
Signal issues are more likely when meters are located:
• inside plant rooms
• in basements
• inside metal cabinets
• in properties with thick stone walls
• in new homes with foil-backed insulation
These materials can weaken the wireless signal used by the communications hub.
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What happens after signal testing
If the signal improves when the hub is moved, the engineer may be able to complete the commissioning process.
However, if the signal remains weak even in different positions, further investigation may be needed.
In some cases the communications hub may need to be replaced or alternative solutions considered.
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Why customers sometimes see engineers moving equipment
When engineers move the communications hub during installation, they are trying to find the best possible signal location.
This helps ensure the smart meter can communicate reliably once the installation is complete.