Abstract: Methods and apparatus for communicating data between continuous bit rate trunk channels and a cell-based network are disclosed. The apparatus includes trunk interface circuitry, data interface circuitry, and cell segmentation circuitry. The trunk interface circuitry receives continuous bit rate call data that is being communicated from an originator to a recipient. The data interface circuitry is operatively coupled to the trunk interface circuitry, and is operable to receive the call data from the trunk channel and to extract an original data stream. The cell segmentation circuitry is operative to receive the original data stream from the data interface circuitry and to produce data cells. The invention also features methods of producing data cells.

Abstract: A line card shelf is disclosed. The line card shelf includes groups of line card receptacle connectors. Each receptacle connector has electrical contacts receiving corresponding line card contacts. Each group of receptacle connectors is coupled to at least two external connectors that terminate an inside or outside wiring cable bundle. Each receptacle in each group is connected to each external connector of the receptacle's group by a two-conductor signal path between a pair of electrical contacts in the receptacle and a unique pair of external electrical contacts in the external connector.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for monitoring power loss in a telecommunications system. Power is received from a permanent power source. A loss of power from the permanent power source is detected. Responsive to the detection of loss of power, a message indicative of a power failure is transmitted at least once on an optical fiber, the message transmission being powered by a temporary power source.

Abstract: The disclosure shows a telephone range extender which is automatically adaptable to the length of the connected subscriber loop. A loop resistance detector within the range extender discriminates between loops within a plurality of ranges of lengths. For extremely short loops not requiring range extension, the range extender circuits are disconnected from the loop. For intermediate length loops, the gain of a bidirectional voice frequency amplifier is set at a low value to provide just sufficient gain for these loops. For longer loops, the gain of the amplifier is increased to provide sufficient amplification for the longer range. For extremely long loops, the range extender is disconnected since such loops must be served by remote amplification facilities. An automatic range extender of this type is shown connected behind the first stage of the central office switch in order to concentrate range extenders on a larger plurality of subscriber loops.