Abstract: A utility meter reading system for sending utility usage information over a plurality of telephone lines is disclosed including a plurality of interface devices, at least one interface coupled to each of the telephone lines and each interface coupled to at least one utility usage monitor for receiving usage information therefrom and for sending alternating current representations of the usage information over its discrete telephone line responsive to receiving at least one distinct alternating current interrogation signal from its discrete telephone line, a multiplexer for sending at least one distinct alternating current interrogation signal over each of the plurality of telephone lines, the interface receiving the plurality of alternating current representations of the usage information, a receiver for converting the alternating current representations into a plurality of digital representations, each representing usage information from a single utility usage monitor, and a processor for communicating the p