Meter Qualification Board (MQB) for Functional Meter Validation

Multi-position testing platform for AMI meter qualification, validation, and communication testing

The TESCO Meter Qualification Board (MQB) enables utilities to power, load, and test multiple electric meters simultaneously for functionality, communication, and firmware validation prior to deployment.

MQBs are designed to support AMI meter qualification and certification processes by providing a controlled environment for validating meter performance. By applying load and simulating real-world electrical conditions, the MQB allows utilities to verify meter functionality, communication, and configuration before meters are installed in the field.

Available in multiple configurations, MQBs can be banked together to support multi-position testing, allowing utilities to efficiently test multiple meters simultaneously within a single system.

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Description


Key Features and Capabilities

Targeted Functional Testing

  • Validates meter operation and behavior
  • Confirms correct firmware and configuration
  • Verifies alarms and error conditions clear properly

Phase A Current Application

  • Applies voltage with current on Phase A only
  • Designed for functional validation rather than full phase simulation
  • Ideal for verifying basic meter operation

Communications & AMI Validation

  • Tests meter communications performance
  • Verifies communication functionality and settings
  • Supports AMI meter qualification workflows

Disconnect & Control Testing

  • Standard disconnect/reconnect functionality
  • Confirms remote disconnect operation and status

Waveform & Load Simulation

  • Digital waveform generator with ANSI C12.20 waveforms
  • Supports load application and basic simulation conditions

Flexible System Configuration

  • Multi-position design with configurable socket counts
  • Independent or bank control of sockets
  • Expandable system configurations

Applications


The MQB is ideal for:

  • Meter Qualification & Certification
    Validate meter performance prior to deployment in AMI systems
  • Firmware & Configuration Verification
    Ensure correct firmware versions and predefined settings across meter populations
  • Communication Testing
    Verify connectivity and communication functionality of AMI meters
  • Disconnect Testing
    Test remote disconnect/reconnect functionality and confirm operational state
  • Batch Testing for Deployment Readiness
    Test multiple meters simultaneously to improve efficiency and reduce deployment risk

What Makes the MQB Different

The MQB is designed for utilities that need reliable functional validation without the complexity of full multi-phase testing or accuracy calibration systems.

By focusing on:

  • Functional performance
  • Communications validation
  • Operational behavior

The MQB provides a cost-effective and efficient solution for verifying meter readiness before deployment.

MQB vs. MQB1 vs. MQB3

Feature MQB MQB1 MQB3
Testing Type Functional (Phase A only) Series-parallel True three-phase
Current Application Phase A only Series across phases Independent per phase
Voltage Application Applied to meter Single phase across stabs True three-phase
Throughput Moderate High Moderate
Complexity Low Medium High
Best Use Basic validation High-volume validation Advanced validation

Technical Overview


  • Voltage Drive: 60–480V RMS
  • Current Drive: 0.001A to 50A (up to 320A optional)
  • Voltage Accuracy: ±1.0%
  • Current Accuracy: ±1.0%
  • Frequency Range: 45–65 Hz
  • Ethernet connectivity and integrated control interface

Contact TESCO to determine if the MQB is the right solution for your meter qualification and validation needs.

FAQs


A meter qualification board is used to verify that an electric meter is functioning correctly, including communications, firmware, and operational behavior.

No. The MQB does not include a reference standard and is not designed for revenue-grade accuracy testing.

The MQB is designed for functional validation, where full phase simulation is not required. This simplifies the system while still allowing verification of meter operation.

Yes. The MQB supports AMI meter validation, including communications, firmware, and disconnect functionality.

The MQB is best used when basic functional validation is required, and full multi-phase testing is not necessary.

Product Documents


Product Videos


MQB Product Demonstration

MQB Product Demonstration

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Disclaimer:

TESCO Metering reserves the right to modify product designs, specifications, features, and documentation at any time as part of our continuous improvement process. All information is provided “as is” and may change without prior notice. While TESCO® strives for accuracy, completeness, and technical reliability, customers should verify the latest product details before making purchasing or engineering decisions. For confirmation of current specifications or application suitability, please contact TESCO® directly.