TALLASSEE, ALABAMA and OVERLAND PARK, KANSAS – [September 26, 2011] – Neptune Technology Group Inc. (“Neptune”) and Sprint (NYSE: S) and are working together to modernize the nation's utility infrastructure. By combining the Sprint wireless network and machine-to-machine (M2M) expertise with Neptune’s automated metering solutions with one of the best life cycle values in the industry, these companies are helping utilities collect water consumption and diagnostic data.
The companies today announced that Neptune’s ARB® FixedBase™ Automated Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and ARB® FixedBase™ Automated Meter Reading (AMR) Systems are now available with Sprint 3G network communications backhaul.
“Utilities want to know that their AMI/AMR system will provide them with the best life cycle value in the industry,” said Kent Murray, vice president-marketing and engineering, Neptune. “We are excited to be adding the capabilities of Sprint’s network to our ARB FixedBase AMR and AMI Systems. Sprint’s network has withstood the test of time and their network investments have strongly positioned them to meet the data and security requirements that our customers require today and in the future.”
“As we continue to expand our ecosystem of utility partners, we’re pleased to collaborate with industry leaders like Neptune,” said Wayne Ward, vice president-Emerging Solutions Group, Sprint. “Sprint has an open and collaborative culture, unique network assets and more than a dozen years of experience developing communications products in the M2M market. As a result, we offer effective and flexible wireless network solutions for utilities, municipalities and application developers.”
By leveraging the unique strengths of Neptune’s 115+ years of experience in utility metering and Sprint’s reputation among enterprise customers for voice and data services, water utilities will now have access to one of the best AMR/AMI system solutions in the industry.
About Neptune
Neptune Technology Group Inc. is a pioneer in the development of Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) technologies for more than 46 years. Since 1892 Neptune has continually focused on the evolving needs of utilities – revenue optimization, operational efficiencies, and improved customer service. The company offers a fully integrated migration path for its utility customers to meet their needs now and in the future. For additional information, please visit the company website at www.neptunetg.com.
About the Sprint Emerging Solutions Group
With more than a dozen years of experience with M2M, Sprint has been at the forefront of this wireless industry revolution, teaming with and supporting a large and diverse portfolio of innovative partners to create smarter wireless solutions that change the way people work and live. Last year, Sprint opened the Sprint M2M Collaboration Center in Burlingame, Calif., a hands-on, interactive lab where ideas knowledge and technology unite to produce wirelessly enabled M2M concepts and products. Earlier this year, Sprint also introduced the Sprint Command Center, a web-based portal that allows businesses with Sprint wireless-connected products the ability to manage, activate and de-activate each device. To learn more, view this special “What if ...” M2M video and visit www.sprint.com/m2m.
About Sprint Nextel
Sprint Nextel offers a comprehensive range of wireless and wireline communications services bringing the freedom of mobility to consumers, businesses and government users. Sprint Nextel served more than 52 million customers at the end of 2Q 2011 and is widely recognized for developing, engineering and deploying innovative technologies, including the first wireless 4G service from a national carrier in the United States; offering industry-leading mobile data services, leading prepaid brands including Virgin Mobile USA, Boost Mobile, and Assurance Wireless; instant national and international push-to-talk capabilities; and a global Tier 1 Internet backbone. Newsweek ranked Sprint No. 6 in its 2010 Green Rankings, listing it as one of the nation’s greenest companies, the highest of any telecommunications company. You can learn more and visit Sprint at www.sprint.com or www.facebook.com/sprint and www.twitter.com/sprint.