Abstract: A line powered voltage regulator for producing a regulated voltage from the tip and ring terminals of a telephone line for low-powered circuit applications provides a high a-c impedance, low-current drain, and a very low temperature coefficient over a broad temperature range. The regulator utilizes a voltage sensor having matched transistors formed on a bipolar chip and IGFET elements formed on an IGFET chip for starting the regulator. The voltage sensor has high gain for providing a large control voltage for small changes in the load and for eliminating the effects that aging and temperature of the elements of the regulator might have on the regulation.

Abstract: An automated main distributing frame system comprises a multistage network with each stage including passive switches on which cross connections are made by shared, automated actuators under computer control to thereby provide paths through the network. Test access can be provided through the actuators to both switched and nonswitched lines. The switches are arranged in modules so that the system can be expanded from a small initial size to an ultimate capacity as the need arises by the addition of switch modules without any retermination of existing connections. In some network configurations the system provides for rearrangements to eliminate first trial blocking of desired connections.

Abstract: A connector for a main distributing frame comprises two spaced apart panels with the first panel having pluggable electrical protector sockets and test points mounted therein flush with the outside face. The test points and the outside plant ones of the protector sockets have pin terminals extending therefrom into the space between the two panels. The central office ones of the protector sockets have pin terminals extending therefrom through the second panel to present wire wrappable ends at the outside of the second panel. Connections of outside plant conductors to the test point terminals and connections from these terminals to the protector sockets are protected in the space between the panels. If desired, the test point terminals can be prewired to cable-connectors mounted on the first panel which are adapted to receive mating connectorized outside plant stub cables. A slideable cover mounts over the wire wrappable ends at the outside of the second panel to provide protection thereto.

Abstract: A business transaction terminal for a credit authorization system or the like includes a microprocessor for receiving data from a magnetic card reader and a keyboard, automatically processing such data and transmitting it to a central data base for authorization of a proposed business transaction. The terminal receives back a response from the central data base which directs subsequent actions by the terminal user. Options are provided for receiving the response in a number of ways such as audible response, visual indicators and numeric displays. Options also permit the terminal to be operated in a hands free mode.