Radio Teleswitch

Radio teleswitch is a method for broadcasting messages using the 198 kHz (BBC Radio Four) transmission system. Messages are used for tariff signalling and load control in electricity meters as well as weather-related environmental alarms such as regional flood warnings. The radio signals cover all of UK and much of continental Europe. Each Distribution Network Operator (DNO) has dedicated codes, enabling them to address only their own population of meters and switches.

Messages are submitted by each DNO to the Central Teleswitch Control Unit (CTCU) from where they are relayed to the BBC Message Assembler and then broadcast. Messages are broadcast rapidly and efficiently, typically taking less than two minutes from submission by the DNO to reception at the required meters or switches.

We supply two types of equipment for use with the radio teleswitch system.

Teleswitch
Stand-alone device that receives and decodes teleswitch messages and provides one or more outputs to interface with meters for tariff switching or load control. These are useful for adding teleswitch functionality to existing metering or heating control systems.

Telemeter
Electricity meter with integrated teleswitch receiver. These are ideal for new or replacement metering installations where teleswitch functionality is required.