Abstract: A communication protocol proxy enables a CEBus network to be mapped across a non-CEBus network, thereby allowing a remotely located node (e.g., a controller) to communicate via a non-CEBus network with electronic devices connected to the CEBus network, while still conforming with the EIA/IS-60 protocol requirements. In a preferred embodiment, a proxy node is provided on a CEBus network, wherein the proxy node is also connected to a non-CEBus network, (e.g., a wide area network ("WAN")), such that a remotely located controller on the non-CEBus network may communicate with a device on the CEBus network by transmitting messages to the proxy node over the non-CEBus network. The proxy node then forwards the message to the respective CEBus device over the CEBus network. If the message requires a CEBus Ack message response, the CEBus device transmits a CEBus Ack message to the proxy node, so that it is received within the time interval specified by the CEBus standard.

Abstract: A system for providing remote access and control of electronic devices connected to a CEBus network includes a remotely located master node, e.g., a utility server controller, which is linked to the CEBus network via an ATM-based broadband access network ("BAN"). A proxy node is provided on the CEBus network, wherein the proxy node is also linked to the master node via the BAN. The proxy node includes a power monitoring module, which constantly monitors the power supply to the proxy node, e.g., of a residential home at which the proxy node is located. In the case of a power failure, the monitoring module detects the failure and notifies a power outage module. The power outage module generates a power failure alarm message, which is forwarded to the master node in the form of a CEBus link protocol data unit ("LPDU"). In particular, the proxy node packetizes the LPDU alarm message into ATM transmission format for transport to the master node over the BAN.