Abstract: A piece of Ethernet terminal equipment having an Ethernet connector including first and second pairs of contacts used to carry Ethernet communication signals. At least one path for the purpose of drawing DC current. The at least one path coupled across at least one of the contacts of the first pair of contacts and at least one of the contacts of the second pair of contacts. The piece of Ethernet terminal equipment to draw different magnitudes of DC current flow via the at least one path. The different magnitudes of DC current flow to result from at least one condition applied to at least one of the contacts of the first and second pairs of contacts, wherein at least one of the magnitudes of the DC current flow to convey information about the piece of Ethernet terminal equipment.

Abstract: A communication system (17) for generating and monitoring data over pre-existing conductors (2A-2D) between associated pieces of networked computer equipment (3A-3D). The system includes a communication device (16) attached to the electronic equipment that transmits information to a central module (15) by impressing a low frequency signal on the pre-existing data lines of the remotely located equipment. A receiver (6) in the central module (15) monitors the low frequency data on the data lines to determine the transmitted information of the electronic equipment. The communication device may also be powered by a low current power signal from the central module (15). The power signal to the communication device may also be fluctuated to provide useful information. Relocation of the electronic equipment with attached communication device to another location on the network is detected immediately. This invention is particularly adapted to be used with an Ethernet communications link or equivalents thereof.

Abstract: In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a communication system (17) is provided for generating and monitoring data over pre-existing conductors (2A-2D) between associated pieces of networked computer equipment (3A-3D). The system includes a communication device (12) attached to the electronic equipment that transmits information to a central module (15) by impressing a low frequency signal on the pre-existing data lines of the remotely located equipment. A receiver (6) in the central module (15) monitors the low frequency data on the data lines to determine the transmitted information of the electronic equipment. The communication device may also be powered by a low current power signal from the central module (15). The power signal to the communication device may also be fluctuated to provide useful information, such as status information, to the communication device.