June 19, 2025
Kamila Hrdličková
Everything you need to know, documented. ACRIOS wiki.
While data sheets and manuals can get the job done, a well-structured wiki makes technical support smoother and more scalable, both for our team and yours. That’s why we created the ACRIOS wiki as a central, public source of technical documentation related to our products. You can explore it freely at any time. Whether you're deploying converters in the field, writing Lua scripts, or integrating ACRIOS data into a cloud dashboard, the wiki provides the resources you need, all in one place.
ACRIOS wiki: Your open-source for technical documentation
Each product page includes links to all related documents, from quick start guides to full integration manuals. Content is organised into five main categories:
- Products: An overview of all our converters, with the ability to filter content by specific device
- Quick start guides: Installation instructions and wiring diagrams for field deployment
- Integration manuals: Guidance for connecting converters to platforms, protocols, or cloud environments
- Configuration API: Lua API documentation for writing or customising scripts
- Tools: Web-based tools and GUI instructions for parsing, configuration, and consumption diagnostics
Let’s take a closer look at each section.
Products
Here you can browse all our converter models, grouped by supported metering protocol (M-Bus, wM-Bus, Modbus, pulse). You can also filter based on connectivity method such as NB-IoT or LoRaWAN. Each product page acts as a central hub, linking to its relevant quick start guide, data sheet, configuration API, and other materials.
Quick start guides
Designed for field technicians, these illustrated manuals explain how to install and activate our converters directly at the meter. Each guide includes wiring diagrams and a step-by-step setup walkthrough – including how to apply or change a configuration script on site.
Integration manuals
This section goes deeper into real-world use cases – such as connecting a converter to a cloud platform, configuring remote access, or converting between M-Bus and wM-Bus. Content is grouped by protocol to make navigation easier.
Configuration API
If you're writing your own Lua scripts or adapting existing ones, this section covers the full set of available functions and command examples. All ACRIOS converters can be fully configured using Lua.
Tools
Finally, the tools section covers our browser-based apps and GUI components, including consumption calculators, telegram parsers, and visual configuration tools. It’s a helpful resource for testing behaviour before rollout, or for debugging on your own without support.
And yes, we have a YouTube channel
Did you know ACRIOS has a YouTube channel? It features configuration tutorials, walkthroughs, and other product demos. All videos are subtitled in English, so you can use YouTube’s auto-translate to view them in any language.
The ACRIOS wiki is constantly evolving. New content and updates are added as we develop new firmware or launch new models. For now, it’s available in English only. But we hope the clarity and structure make it useful to all technical users.
FAQs
No items found.
Questions about the documentation? Let’s go through them together.
Blog
RS-485, RS-232 and RS-422: key differences
RS-232, RS-422 and RS-485 look similar on a connector but behave very differently on a cable. Single-ended or differential signalling, termination, bias and grounding decide how far data travels, how many devices share a line and why so many field installations fail.
Read more
Modbus RTU vs TCP: All you need to know
Modbus has connected meters, sensors and controllers since 1979, but RTU, ASCII and TCP frame the same data very differently. Registers, function codes, RS-485 wiring and addressing decide whether a Modbus device can be read reliably, locally or remotely.
Read more
ILI: what the EU leakage threshold measures
The Drinking Water Directive puts water leakage on an EU timeline: national assessments by January 2026 and a Commission threshold due by January 2028. The Infrastructure Leakage Index shows what that threshold measures and why network data decides the result.
Read more
Pulsed water meter: All you need to know
Pulse outputs offer a practical way to read existing water meters remotely, but sensor type, electrical compatibility and pulse weight all matter. Understanding how pulse counting works and where its limits lie helps determine when other meter interfaces may be a better choice.
Read more
LoRaWAN airtime: why radio conditions matter
Two LoRaWAN meters on the same network can communicate very differently. Spreading factor, airtime, payload limits and duty cycle decide how often each meter may transmit, how much data fits into one message and what it costs in battery and network capacity.
Read more
Converter, bus, bridge, gateway: what's the difference?
Converter, bridge, gateway, repeater, concentrator, data logger: metering and IoT datasheets rarely agree on these terms in practice. Following the data path instead of the product label shows exactly where the real functional boundaries between devices sit.
Read more
What actually drains an IoT device battery
Long battery life is achievable, but only with the right configuration. Reading and transmission frequency, sleep design, NB-IoT and LoRaWAN settings, and error handling all shape real-world results. This guide walks through the full power profile, with a deployment checklist.
Read more
M-Bus parsing strategies for LoRaWAN and NB-IoT
M-Bus telegrams often exceed a single LoRaWAN or NB-IoT uplink. VIF/DIF filtering and three ACRIOS fragmentation strategies, Truncate, Split, and Multiframe, plus an MQTT-over-JSON option on NB-IoT, cover the practical choices for matching data transport to the network in use.
Read more
How to best replace walk-by meter reading
Walk-by meter reading no longer keeps up, the EED is pushing for frequent consumption data. This article compares three ways to automate readings, cabling, switching to LoRaWAN meters, and a wM-Bus concentrator, and explains when keeping existing meters makes the most sense.
Read more
Can your existing meters be retrofitted?
Many remote reading projects start with existing metering infrastructure rather than new meters. This practical checklist explains what to assess before choosing a converter, communication network or platform for a successful retrofit project.
Read more
Battery life in IoT: beyond the datasheet number
Battery life in an IoT device depends on more than capacity. Temperature, communication method, signal quality and the cell's own properties all play a part. A datasheet figure is only a reference value, and real-world performance can look very different depending on the application.
Read more
Agile, Waterfall, or NRE? Choosing a development methodology
Choosing the right collaboration model can determine whether a development project stays on budget, adapts to change, or delivers on time. When Agile, Waterfall, or NRE is the right fit? Why the best approach depends on project's goals, readiness, and technical complexity?
Read more
Developing adaptive IoT communication under the CRA
ACRIOS is developing a communication module that switches between LoRaWAN and NB-IoT on its own. Backed by the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic, the project aims for more reliable data transmission, lower costs, and security beyond the Cyber Resilience Act.
Read more
Focused supplier or large vendor? Depends on the project
In retrofit connectivity, the biggest vendors win the largest rollouts. But for working meters that only need connecting, not replacing, a focused converter to NB-IoT or LoRaWAN often fits better. A look at where specialists and giants each have the edge.
Read more
Edge computing in IoT metering
M-Bus payloads often exceed LoRaWAN and NB-IoT single-message limits. Edge computing solves this at the source through VIF/DIF filtering, adaptive sampling, local validation, and source encryption. When does it make sense, and when not? A practical decision guide for IoT metering deployments.
Read more
Manufacturer as a technology partner
The role of IoT device manufacturers is shifting from hardware supplier to technology partner. Parsers, open APIs, containerised backend, remote firmware management and CRA-ready security shorten implementation, reduce internal development load and lower TCO across AMR and AMI projects.
Read more
Why a device without an antenna fails
If your IoT device manages to connect even without its antenna, that is not a sign of clever engineering. It is a warning sign of poor radio design. Why a properly tuned antenna is essential for reliable wireless meter reading, what really happens inside the device, and how to test it sensibly before full deployment in the field.
Read more
CE certification for IoT: What RED DA changes
Development went well, the device works. Then CE certification arrives and the supplier's cybersecurity documentation is missing. Since August 2025, RED DA is in force and part of every CE. How to tell if your supplier is ready, and what to do if not.
Read more
Water losses in utility networks: The hidden cost of leaks
An estimated one in four litres of treated water is lost in European distribution networks. Average losses hover around 25%, exceeding 60% in some countries. A closer look at why pipes fail, what it really costs utilities, and why a slow leak is often worse than a visible burst.
Read more
Pressure monitoring in water networks: Early fault detection
Every utility faces the same question: how to know something is wrong in the network as fast as possible. Acoustic methods, district metered areas and continuous pressure monitoring each bring strengths and limits. A comparison of approaches to leak detection, with real examples.
Read more
M-Bus pressure sensor: Leak detection for water utilities
No parallel infrastructure, no new data platform, no separate operational processes. The joint ACRIOS and Lorenz solution brings continuous pressure monitoring into the same communication layer water utilities already use for smart metering – over LoRaWAN or NB-IoT.
Read more
The cost of measurement data errors and how to prevent them
Unreliable data is more costly than no data at all, especially in smart metering and energy management. A missing value or small deviation can escalate into incorrect bills, failed audits, or undetected faults. Here is what that looks like in practice and how to prevent it.
Read more
Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI): All you need to know
Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI) is the EU's metric for a building's digital intelligence. It rates how well a building manages energy, responds to occupants, and interacts with the grid. Learn what SRI means, what the legislation requires, and what role remote meter reading plays.
Read more
M-Bus installation tool Wizard from ACRIOS
Configuration errors and troubleshooting often take more time than wiring M-Bus devices. The ACRIOS Wizard simplifies this by guiding technicians through meter detection, data selection, and network setup; reducing installation time and the need for specialised knowledge.
Read more
Coulomb meter: Everything you need to know
A Coulomb meter measures actual battery charge consumption rather than relying on estimates. This enables realistic end-of-life prediction for IoT metering devices, optimised service intervals, and reduced TCO. How does this technology work in practice, and where does it make the most sense?
Read more
ACR-EX in water utilities: remote reading of pulse water meters
Pulse water meters are common in water utility networks, but their data often remains on the mechanical register. Learn how existing pulse water meters can be connected to remote reading systems using a pulse converter with display, without replacing the meters.
Read more
ACRIOS and Quectel announce partnership
ACRIOS Systems and Quectel Wireless Solutions have formed a strategic partnership to support SME manufacturers in adopting modern Linux/Android smart modules. The joint communication outlines the scope and technical goals of the cooperation.
Read more
External or internal? How custom development works
External development helps organisations accelerate project delivery and reduce fixed costs. This article explores when outsourcing truly makes sense, what to consider when selecting a partner, and how to structure collaboration that delivers lasting internal peace.
Read more
Proven deployment of 10,000 wM-Bus converters for EED
Digitalisation of metering is becoming a strategic priority for utilities. Experience from a project with 10,000 wM-Bus concentrators and 850,000 meters shows that success depends less on technology itself and more on change management, coordination, and structured planning.
Read more
Choosing a remote reading system for water utilities
Digitalisation brings many ways to read water meters remotely, from bus networks to direct LoRaWAN and NB-IoT communication. Learn how to choose the right approach for your utility based on existing meters, coverage conditions, and investment strategy.
Read more
Open data interfaces pay off for reporting and integration
An open data interface means freedom and independence when working with data. Beyond storing and visualising, it enables export, reporting, automation and smooth integration with other systems. The result is greater flexibility, lower vendor lock-in and sustainable data management.
Read more
15-minute vs daily meter readings frequency explained
How often should you measure energy and water consumption? Fifteen-minute meter reading frequency supports detailed analysis and real-time optimisation, while daily data extend battery life and simplify reporting. Learn about the benefits, trade-offs, and use cases from practice.
Read more
Scripting in IoT: Flexibility, sustainability, and protection
Many IoT deployments fail when each new customer request requires a firmware change. Scripting solves that by separating customer logic from core functions, it enables faster updates, long-term maintenance, and secure control over unique features.
Read more
Gas meter data to dashboard: ACR-EX meets Datacake
Get your gas meter data online in minutes with the ACR-EX datalogger and its direct Datacake integration. This reliable NB-IoT solution provides live readings, alerts, and a ready-to-use dashboard. All without the need to develop or maintain your own backend infrastructure.
Read more
EPBD is coming: what BACS means for your building
Let’s break down what the BACS mandate, part of EU’s broader initiative EPDB directive, means in practice. Who must comply, which systems and protocols to use, and how to modernise your building with minimal effort using your existing infrastructure.
Read more
When DTLS makes sense. Know before you deploy
Let’s explore when DTLS (Datagram Transport Layer Security) brings real security value to NB-IoT deployments and when it’s smarter to choose a simpler or more energy-efficient alternative. Get clarity before committing to your next smart metering rollout.
Read more
Not your keys, not your hardware
AES encryption protects your data. But without the keys, you don’t really own the device. This article explains why requesting encryption keys matters when purchasing IoT meters, and how it gives you full control over data, integration, and long-term independence.
Read more
868 MHz or 433 MHz? The right choice for your wM-Bus
Looking for a wireless M-Bus converter but unsure which frequency band to choose? This article compares 868 MHz and 433 MHz, explains key technical differences, and offers practical guidance based on meter compatibility, signal conditions, and installation environments.
Read more
End-to-end custom hardware and software development
Ready-made products can work. Until they don’t. When specific requirements emerge, a custom development approach offers the flexibility to design both hardware and software precisely for the task. Whether it’s a new solution or an upgrade to existing systems.
Read more
How to collect energy data to support ISO 50001
Energy efficiency is no longer just a buzzword. With rising energy costs and increasing regulatory pressure, frameworks like ISO 50001 are becoming essential. But to optimise energy use, organisations first need one thing: structured, reliable consumption data.
Read more
Lowering IoT TCO through smart manufacturing
The price tag is just the beginning. Real savings come from what happens after deployment – device setup, integration, maintenance and optimisation. Manufacturers can make all of this easier and cheaper, without compromising on performance.
Read more
Reading Sensus meters with zero hardware changes
Unifying meter readings across different protocols doesn’t have to mean replacing hardware or relying on a single vendor. Our solution connects even legacy Sensus meters (now part of the Xylem group) into a unified system – without the need to replace your existing devices.
Read more
Why 15-minute data matters in district heating
15-minute interval readings help clarify heat pricing, detect anomalies and reduce billing complaints. They also support transparent cost allocation, a must as dynamic tariffs and EU rules raise the bar. With our converters, you can enable them without replacing your meters.
Read more
Give me a tool that works. Not a manual.
In the field, there’s no time for unnecessary clicks or second guesses. When every minute costs money, configuration needs to be fast, reliable, and dead simple. Let's have a look at what really works – and why complexity doesn’t belong at the installation site.
Read more
5 most common myths about remote meter reading
From 2027, remote meter reading will be mandatory under the European Efficiency Directive. Yet despite growing availability of the technology, many myths and half-truths still surround its implementation. Let's break down five of the most common misconceptions.
Read more
Battery-powered vs wired: What really costs more?
An externally powered data bus may look cheaper on paper. But once you factor in cabling, electrician work, inspections, and long-term upkeep, the story changes. Let's compare and reveal why battery-powered solutions often save more than just money – time, effort, and peace of mind.
Read more
Cyber Resilience Act and IoT hardware
The European Union's Cyber Resilience Act significantly reshapes hardware requirements for IoT devices – promoting secure design, manufacturer transparency, and interoperability that is essential for resilience against cybersecurity threats. Learn more about CRA.
Read more
Next-gen meter readings, no replacements needed
Discover how to modernise your metering system without the high cost of replacing existing meters. With a smart converter, you can enable seamless remote readings using your current infrastructure. Quick to deploy, easy to manage, and fully compliant with EED requirements.
Read more
Modernising metering infrastructure
Connecting different types of meters into one efficient system can be a major challenge, when dealing with various manufacturers, generations and technologies. Discover how converters offer a smart, cost-effective way to unify even the most diverse metering infrastructures.
Read more
M-Bus to IoT integration explained
Connecting M-Bus meters to IoT networks like LoRaWAN or NB-IoT is now a critical step in modern utility infrastructure. Discover four practical methods that enable reliable, scalable, and future-ready integration – without complex custom development or delays.
Read more
Understanding TCO: More than just hardware
When investing in new technology, looking beyond the initial hardware cost is more important than crucial. Discover how understanding and managing the total cost of ownership (TCO) can lead to smarter, more sustainable, and financially efficient technology investments.
Read more
NB-IoT technology: All you need to know
NB-IoT is a low-power, cost-effective IoT technology that ensures reliable connectivity with excellent coverage and security. Ideal for smart cities, industry, energy, and agriculture, it enables efficient communication for a wide range of devices. Let's discover its key features and benefits.
Read more
LoRaWAN: All you need to know
LoRaWAN is transforming the IoT with its long-range, low-power wireless communication. Ideal for smart cities, agriculture, and industrial automation, it enables efficient, cost-effective, and secure data transmission. Discover how LoRaWAN works and its key benefits.
Read more
M-Bus, wM-Bus, and RS-485: A technology guide
As cities and industries embrace digital transformation, reliable data collection and communication are essential. M-Bus, Wireless M-Bus (wM-Bus), and RS-485 technologies play a crucial role in smart metering, industrial automation, and infrastructure monitoring.
Read more
LoRaWAN vs. NB-IoT: Which technology is right for you?
As industries embrace digital transformation, many are upgrading legacy equipment to keep pace with evolving technology. The integration of smart metering and remote monitoring is turning traditional devices into key players in the rapidly expanding IoT ecosystem.
Read more
Smart metering: What it is and why it matters
Smart metering transforms energy monitoring by real-time insights into electricity, gas, and water use. By upgrading traditional meters with converters, it enables accurate billing, early issue detection, and improved grid efficiency for both consumers and providers.
Read more
IoT: Technology that saves time and money
If you have been hearing about IoT lately, you are not alone. IoT, short for the Internet of Things, is transforming the way we live and work – saving time, effort, and sometimes hundreds of euros each year and that is why we are leveraging it here at ACRIOS Systems.
Read more
ACRIOS Systems unveils its brand-new website.
We are excited to introduce new website. With a fresh design and enhanced features, we have created a more intuitive and enjoyable experience. Seamless navigation, improved functionality, and a modern look that makes finding what you need easier. Welcome to our new digital home.
Read more