The main difference between a single-phase and three-phase prepaid electricity meter lies in the type of electrical connections they support and the amount of power they can handle. Here are the key distinctions:

Electrical Connections:

Single-Phase Meter: A single-phase meter is designed to measure electricity consumption in residential and small commercial settings where the electrical supply is provided through a single-phase connection. It has two terminals, typically labeled as Line and Neutral, to measure the flow of electricity in a single direction.
Three-Phase Meter: A three-phase meter is used in larger commercial and industrial settings where the electrical supply is distributed through a three-phase connection. It has three terminals, usually labeled as Phase 1, Phase 2, and Phase 3, to measure the flow of electricity across all three phases.
Power Handling Capacity:

Single-Phase Meter: A single-phase meter is typically used for lower power loads and can handle power requirements up to a certain limit, usually ranging from 100 to 200 amperes (A) depending on the specific model. It is suitable for residential buildings, small businesses, and light commercial applications.
Three-Phase Meter: A three-phase meter is designed to handle higher power loads and is capable of measuring and managing electricity consumption across all three phases. It can accommodate power requirements ranging from several hundred amperes to thousands of amperes, depending on the specific application and electrical infrastructure.
Applications:

Single-Phase Meter: Single-phase meters are commonly used in residential buildings, small shops, offices, and other similar low-power environments. They are suitable for measuring electricity consumption in single-phase appliances, lighting, and smaller electrical equipment.
Three-Phase Meter: Three-phase meters are predominantly used in larger commercial and industrial settings, including factories, manufacturing plants, shopping centers, and office complexes. They can handle the power demands of heavy machinery, air conditioning systems, elevators, and other high-power equipment that require three-phase electrical connections.
It’s important to note that the functionality and features related to prepaid functionality, balance monitoring, recharging, and disconnection/reconnection processes are generally similar between single-phase and three-phase prepaid electricity meters. The key distinction lies in the electrical connection type and the power handling capacity of the meter, which cater to different types of electrical installations and power requirements.