ACR-EX + Datacake: NB-IoT gas meter reading

At ACRIOS, we have long focused on developing devices for remote energy metering – whether for municipalities, industrial sites or building managers. Let us introduce a reliable and easy-to-deploy solution for gas meter readings – ACR-EX, a rugged datalogger designed for pulse-output gas meters. In collaboration with the German platform Datacake, we’ve created a public template that significantly simplifies field deployment. Gas meter readings can be operational in just a few minutes. No coding or backend development needed.

Why Datacake? Datacake is a low-code IoT platform for device management. It enables data visualisation, monitoring, and analysis from various sensors. All without writing a single line of code. It offers clean dashboards, supports dozens of device types, and allows fast integration via MQTT, HTTP, or (as in our case) a ready-made template.

Our choice of Datacake was not only technical but also personal. We have long followed the work of Simon Kemper, the platform’s founder, and share his vision that technology should be clear and accessible. Datacake lives up to this vision and helps lower the barriers to IoT adoption – both for companies and public sector users.

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How does the ACR-EX + Datacake integration work?

The setup is built for rapid field deployment. Our ACR-EX datalogger comes factory-configured for NB-IoT: simply insert a SIM card (e.g., from Miotiq), the device synchronises its time, and begins collecting data. In its default setup, ACR-EX logs pulses hourly and sends them once per day.

Thanks to the Datacake device template, the platform automatically recognises the device, interprets its data correctly, and displays it in a user-friendly dashboard. Within minutes, you can see live data from your gas meter – including current readings, usage history, daily summaries, and alerts. No servers, no custom apps, no development required. Just create a Datacake account, add your device, and point the data stream to the platform.

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Who is this gas meter reading solution for?

Thanks to easy web-based management, this solution scales well for larger deployments. It’s a great fit for:

• Municipalities monitoring consumption across public buildings
• Companies with dozens or hundreds of meters
• Field technicians or energy managers who want to export or integrate data via CSV, REST API or webhook

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What makes ACR-EX NB-IoT datalogger different?

ACR-EX was designed with long-term reliability, durability and minimal maintenance in mind. Inspired by gas industry needs, it includes features that matter in real-world conditions:

• Integrated LCD shows current readings like a mechanical gas meter
• Up to 10 years of battery life
• IP67 enclosure for demanding environments
• Local configuration via optical head or remote configuration over NB-IoT
• Currently undergoing ATEX certification (Zone 2) for use in potentially explosive atmospheres

The result is a device that minimises maintenance costs while maximising reliability even in harsh conditions.

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Try it yourself

Want to see how ACR-EX and Datacake work together? Check out our live unit on Datacake platform.

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FAQs about gas meter NB-IoT datalogger ACR-EX

Which gas meters are compatible with ACR-EX?

ACR-EX is designed for mechanical gas meters with a pulse output. It supports standard pulse heads and is suitable for both residential and industrial meters.

What protocols and configurations does ACR-EX support?

The device features an S0 pulse input for gas meters and supports configuration either via IEC62056-21 optical head or over UDP (with LwM2M). It complies with NB-IoT Release 14 and can also be used for signal testing.

How many channels and how frequent are the readings?

ACR-EX typically uses a single S0 channel. It logs pulses and sends them in aggregate blocks. By default, it stores data hourly and transmits it once per day.

How long will the battery last?

The device is optimised for ultra-low power consumption and can run up to 10 years without battery replacement.

How does first-time setup work?

The device is factory preconfigured. Once a Miotiq SIM is inserted, it automatically synchronises the time and begins measuring. The data then appears in the pre-built Datacake dashboard, no extra setup required.

Can I configure ACR-EX remotely?

Yes. The device supports remote configuration and firmware updates via NB-IoT. Local configuration is also available via the optical interface on the LCD.

What is ATEX certification and why does it matter for gas projects?

ATEX certification confirms a device is safe for use in explosive atmospheres. For gas metering, this is often a requirement. ACR-EX is currently undergoing Zone 2 certification.

Is ACR-EX certified for explosive environments?

Yes, ACR-EX datalogger is ATEX Zone 2 certified. This is essential for many gas-related applications and ensures safety in hazardous environments.

Can I export or integrate the data from Datacake?

Yes. Datacake supports CSV export, REST API access and integration via web hook. This enables connections to accounting, energy monitoring or other systems.

Can I use ACR-EX outside of gas applications?

Yes. While optimised for gas meters, ACR-EX can be used for other pulse-based instrumentation or as a diagnostic tool for NB-IoT signal testing.

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Are you interested in a test unit? Get in touch and we’ll be happy to send you a sample and help with your first deployment.