With the GM260, Bachmann provides a grid measurement module that can be integrated directly into all 'M1' controller systems. It provides current and voltage measurement values, frequency, power and power factor for up to two 3-phase three-phase outgoing circuits and offers 4-quadrant energy metering for each of the two three-phase systems. According to the manufacturer, direct integration into the M1 automation system simplifies and accelerates engineering and enables end-to-end remote diagnostics and maintenance. At the same time, the fast acquisition rate in each grid period also enables use in operational measurements and controls as well as in condition monitoring. The storage media and communication interfaces of the control unit provide particular support for comprehensive energy monitoring: additional meters for gas or process heat can be added via M-Bus or Modbus, while external electricity meters can be added via IEC61850 or IEC60870. Various fieldbus and telecontrol protocols, OPC DA/UA as well as e-mail and FTP are available for transferring the aggregated energy data. The recording intervals on several devices can be synchronized via SNTP or IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol in order to consistently evaluate measured consumption values.