Containers, Agents, and AppServ Packages

Use the Containers/Agents command to view the containers that have been created on a meter, and the agents that run within those containers. Additionally, you can view the agent features, the status of the features, and the date to which the app is licensed.

A container is an operating system-level virtualization method. In the case of DI-enabled devices, the containers host the installation location for the agents. Running agents within a container separates the agent functionality from the DI-enabled device metering functionality. Most importantly, it prevents agent functions (and any possible malfunctions) from affecting the meter and its regular capabilities.

Each agent that runs on an endpoint is required to run in a container. There are up to two different containers that can potentially be created on each endpoint. A container named Itron hosts only agents that Itron develops. A container named 3rdParty hosts only those agents that are developed by third-party developers.

The AppServer Agent API (AppServ) is the primary interface of interaction with the DI agents. It provides the means of communication using subscriptions and permissions. It delivers added security by creating separation and segregation of data and enables access to that data for processing. The AppServ security features are managed using the AppServ package.

Note to Canadian Utility Companies

FDM cannot download AppServ to Legally Relevant endpoints. You must use the head end system to download AppServ over-the-air.

Viewing a Meter's Containers and Agents

  1. Select the Device Control Panel workflow.

  2. Log onto the device and then select Distributed Intelligence > Containers/Agents.

    The window displays a hierarchy of rows for each container created on the meter, each agent installed in the container, and each feature that is licensed for the agent.

  3. Click Back to return to the Distributed Intelligence menu.