A mobile device includes a transceiver coupled to an antenna configured to send wireless signals to and receive wireless signals from a fluid meter that is battery powered that has stored security information. The mobile device includes a processor coupled to the transceiver, a mobile display and a memory device. The memory device stores a fluid meter configuration and data collection (FMCDC) program that is implemented by the processor. The mobile device wirelessly transmits a connection request to the fluid meter. The fluid meter determines whether the connection request satisfies the stored security information. Provided the connection request satisfies the stored security information, the fluid meter transmits a wireless validation signal. Responsive to receiving the wireless validation signal at the mobile device, the mobile device wirelessly writes at least one parameter on the fluid meter or wirelessly reads stored meter data from the fluid meter.