Maxim’s Complete Smart-Meter SoC Combines Metrology, Security, and Communication

As smart meters become more connected, the need for security is paramount to protect against energy theft and cyber attacks on the grid. Zeus provides meter manufacturers with a platform for development in multiple end markets, supporting a wide range of security and communication requirements. A built-in cryptographic module secures communication; a secure bootloader prevents unauthorized firmware modification; and tamper detection assures providers that any attempts to physically attack the meter will be detected, recorded, and reported.

Key Advantages:
•Superior metering accuracy: multiple ADC channels each run at 10ksps, offering 0.1% accuracy over a 5,000:1 dynamic range
•Future proof to support tomorrow’s applications: uses a 120MHz ARM Cortex M3 application processor and a 40MHz, 32-bit MAXQ30 microcontroller with DSP support for the metering function
•Multicore architecture supports WELMEC separation of legally relevant and irrelevant functions to ease validation

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“Zeus is finally the answer for a complete smart meter SoC,” said Kris Ardis, business director for smart grid products at Maxim Integrated. “By combining metrology, security and communication, we provide a platform for any embedded smart grid equipment that needs to measure, to communicate, and to do it securely. The capabilities in ZEUS will give utilities and meter manufacturers a flexible platform that can support tomorrow’s requirements today.”

The Zeus platform includes the MAX71616, MAX71617, MAX71636, and MAX71637. Maxim will be previewing the Zeus platform at Metering, Billing/CRM Europe (Amsterdam, October 9- 11, Booth C46) and electronica (Munich, November 13-16, Hall A6, booth 163).