utility ID (UID)

A utility-specific, one byte, numerical identifier from 0 to 255, that is programmed by Itron into all Encoder/Receiver/Transmitter (ERT) modules, meters, and cell relays that it manufactures for a specific utility. The utility ID functions as a security code that prevents another utility and other unauthorized persons from performing certain functions on the ERT module, meter, or cell relay, and prevents two or more utilities with adjoining service areas from accessing each other's ERT modules, meters, or cell relays.