Abstract: An apparatus for deployment in an outdoor environment for extending the electrical communication distance of digital data signals includes electrical isolation means for various electromagnetic effects and a high speed pulse reshaper and repeater. The isolation means includes low capacitance electric pulse suppression means so that maximum signal distance can be achieved without loss of usable pulse shape and isolation transformers on differential signal pairs that retain magnetization at elevated temperatures so that signals are not blocked. As a further feature, extended logic is included whereby the type of signals can be distinguished, thus allowing the apparatus to be daisy-chained with like apparatus or used between a termination and a line.

Abstract: A method of operating a network is beneficially conducted on a municipality or neighborhood level. The method in disclosed embodiments comprises installing a digital communications network within a limited selected geographical region. The network is formed from a high speed backbone and a plurality of nodes branching outward from the high speed backbone. A plurality of communicating stations are connected to the network and users at each communicating station subscribe to communicate over the network. Due to the unique scope of the network, the users are related primarily by virtue of their residence in a common geographical region. The network may be installed within a public utility right of way and may be used to monitor utility usage and to bill utility users. The network is thus independent of public telephone infrastructure. The network is preferably partitioned and communications are direct from station to station without broadcasting.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for deployment in an outdoor environment for managing and distributing Ethernet-type data communication signals. The apparatus includes electrical isolation elements for various electromagnetic effects and a high speed pulse reshaper and repeater. The isolation elements include low capacitance electric pulse suppression devices so that maximum signal distance can be achieved without loss of usable pulse shape and isolation transformers on differential signal pair that retain magnetization at elevated temperatures so that signals are not blocked. As a further feature, a management protocol is included whereby the type of signals can be autonomously distinguished, managed, secured and redirected, thus allowing the apparatus to be operated with compatible devices in a daisy-chained and start switch fabric.