Abstract: A data communications terminal is provided for interfacing with a central data processing system to handle a variety of data acquisition and control functions including the minitoring and control of security devices and pay television receivers. The terminal includes a microcomputer unit for receiving and processing data from the central processing system and from remote units which generate data signals in response to abnormal conditions. A data reception and transmission unit include a radio frequency modem for converting data to and from a frequency modulated format and a data converter for changing the serial bit data to parallel word data. An identification unit provides data to the microcomputer regarding the identification of the terminal which can be compared to the address portion of the incoming data from the central processing system. Data generating means are provided for generating and transmitting response data to the microcomputer for transmission to the central processing system.