IEEE 1377:1997

New IEEE Standard - Inactive-Withdrawn.
Functionally related utility application data elements, grouped into a single data structurefor transport are described. Data may be utilized peer-to-peer or upstream to readers or billing sys-tems by being carried by one lower layered protocol to another stack of lower layered protocol. Thedata structure does not change from end device to the user of the data.

To develop a standard for utility end device application layer communications protocol and the functional data structures which it transports. It is to allow operation of end devices for utility distribution and customer applications.
Current technologies are based upon vendor architectures which inhibit development of an open system. In fulfillling the need of an opern system, the working group will design a standard efficient for simple as well as complex devices and capable of evolving with new functionality.