Abstract: A method and system for providing location-based information services to a requesting user. A subscriber unit transmits an access request message comprising an identification number to one or more receiving sites on a response channel. A forward channel message is sent to the subscriber unit, the forward channel message comprising the identification number of the subscriber unit and data defining the time slot for transmission of a response message. A response message comprising an information service request and a location signal is transmitted from the subscriber unit and received at at least three receiving sites during the time interval identified by the forward channel message. The time difference of arrival of the location signal is used to determine the location of the subscriber unit. Thereafter, an information service message is generated which is responsive to the information service request and the location of the subscriber unit and transmitted to the subscriber unit on the forward channel.

Abstract: A network of interconnected, remotely distributed, location and messaging systems. Each of the remotely distributed location and messaging systems can be dynamically configured to use different frequencies that are assigned to the regions. Each of the remotely distributed location and messaging systems performs location requests for specified subscriber unit using one or more radio frequency transmitting sites and a plurality of radio frequency receiving sites. The location request is initiated by identifying a particular one of the location and messaging systems having a coverage area for the specified subscriber unit. The location request is routed to the identified location and messaging systems, and a unique paging message is transmitted to the subscriber unit. A response is received from the subscriber unit, and forwarded to a processor coupled to the identified location and messaging system.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for sharing cellular telephone subscriptions among a plurality of mobile units in a mobile unit location system. Requests for cellular service are transmitted from a mobile unit to a cellular phone identity service provider via the mobile unit location system. The service provider grants or denies the request. If the request is granted a cellular phone identity is provided to the mobile unit location service for downloading into the mobile unit. The cellular phone connected to the mobile unit is then programmed with the cellular phone identity so that cellular service can be initiated.

Abstract: A method for monitoring and controlling remote site parameters by using a location-based communications network. The system uses monitoring and control devices that are located at remote locations and controlled and monitored either at a control center or at a workstation which can request data responses and send commands to the remote sites based on the response data received from the remote sites.