Overview
IEC 62056-6-1:2017 is an international standard issued by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It defines the Object Identification System (OBIS), a comprehensive and structured system for uniquely identifying data items within electricity metering equipment, as part of the DLMS/COSEM suite for metering data exchange. OBIS codes provide consistent and manufacturer-independent identification and classification of data ranging from measurement values to configuration data, supporting both local and remote data exchange across various metering devices.
This third edition of IEC 62056-6-1 supersedes the 2015 edition with technical updates and editorial improvements in line with the latest advancements in metering and data management. Its adoption ensures uniformity, compatibility, and interoperability in the quickly evolving area of smart electricity metering systems.
Key Topics
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OBIS Code Structure
OBIS codes are comprised of six value groups (A to F), creating a hierarchical encoding scheme that classifies data according to media type, channel, data item, processing type, additional classification, and historical data (such as billing periods).
- A: Media type or abstract data
- B: Channel identification
- C: Data item (e.g., current, voltage, power)
- D/E: Further classifications or processing types
- F: Billing periods, or further sub-classification
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Universal Identification
The standard assigns unique identifiers to all relevant data, including measured values, configuration parameters, and system states. This enables seamless data exchange and consistent integration between different manufacturers and system components.
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Support for Multiple Energy Types
OBIS is designed to support electricity and extend to other utility types (water, gas, heat) within the overarching DLMS/COSEM framework, with clear provisions for future expansion and adaptability.
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Manufacturer and Utility Specific Extensions
Defined ranges within the OBIS code system allow for manufacturer-, utility-, consortia-, or country-specific extensions without compromising interoperability or standardization.
Applications
IEC 62056-6-1:2017 is essential in environments where precise, reliable, and interoperable electricity metering data exchange is required. Key applications include:
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Smart Metering Infrastructure
Enables standard data models for smart electricity meters, data concentrators, and related devices, providing a common language for manufacturers, utilities, and system integrators.
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Automated Meter Reading (AMR) & Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
Supports remote collection and processing of billing, consumption, and event data, reducing operational costs and improving service efficiency.
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Billing and Energy Management
Facilitates accurate data extraction for billing cycles, tariff management, and historical data analysis, ensuring regulatory compliance and customer transparency.
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Multi-Utility Metering
OBIS expands to non-electrical media, supporting combined meters for energy types such as gas, water, and heat. This unified approach streamlines system integration and reduces complexity in multi-utility scenarios.
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Regulatory and Compliance Solutions
Governments, regulatory agencies, and utilities use OBIS-based identifiers for standardized reporting and data exchange, ensuring conformance across diverse systems.
Related Standards
IEC 62056-6-1 is part of the broader DLMS/COSEM suite that supports comprehensive data modeling and communication for metering. Related standards include:
- IEC 62056-6-2: COSEM interface classes - defines the logical objects and their interface classes used with OBIS codes.
- IEC 62056-21: Local data exchange for meter reading, tariff, and load control.
- EN 13757-1: Communication systems for meters, including identifiers for heat, water, and gas metering.
- IEC 62053-23: Requirements for static meters for reactive energy.
For the latest updates and further information, refer to the IEC webstore and the DLMS User Association resources.
Keywords: IEC 62056-6-1, OBIS, electricity metering, DLMS/COSEM, smart meters, meter data exchange, standardized identification, utility data management, AMI, AMR, multi-utility metering, electricity data protocol.
Open preview (PDF)Electricity metering data exchange - The DLMS/COSEM suite - Part 6-1: Object Identification System (OBIS)
