Abstract: A communications device (100) with an extended filter (74) provides more bandwidth for V.34, V.90 and other data communications protocols. The device (100) permits voice and data communications over the same twisted pair connection (22) to a central office facility (35) and allows an increased data rate between a subscriber (15) and the central office linecard (50). A variable frequency filter (74) capable of switching between “voice” mode and “data” mode is used. In “data” mode, the bandwidth of filter (74) is extend to provide more bandwidth which can be utilized to transfer data. A line monitoring mechanism (102) is provided which monitors the PCM data flowing over a digital backplane (60) as well as requests from a subscriber for an increased data rate connection. A micro-controller (104) can be provided to adjust the bandwidth of the filter (74) and cause it to enter “data” mode.

Abstract: A linecard codec (250) permitting an increased throughput connection between a subscriber modem (20) and a service provider coupled to a digital backplane (150). The linecard codec (250) includes an analog interface (152) to the Public Switched Telephone Network, a digital interface (119) to the digital backplane (150), conversion circuits (258, 280) interspersed between the analog interface (152) and the digital interface (119), and a controller (340) having a network interface (350) and configured to format requests for bandwidth and transmit them to a network administrator of the digital backplane (150). A code recognition mechanism (272) is used to monitor the Pulse Code Modulated (PCM) signals from service providers and in combination with control logic (300) and the controller (340) provides a way to allocate and deallocate timeslots on the digital backplane (150).