Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for placing and receiving telephone calls via a wireless communications network using a standard telephone and, therefore, is referred to as a wireless local loop system that uses a standard telephone. More specifically, in one embodiment, the “*” key is advantageously used to generate a send signal, while the “#” key is advantageously used to generate an end signal. Accordingly, automatic generation of false send signals may be eliminated, while the need of purchasing a specialized telephone handset having a send key and end key thereon may be avoided. Furthermore, in one embodiment, when placing a call, a recorded message (instead of a dial tone) is advantageously played to a user when a telephone is taken “off-hook” so that a user may be notified that the call will be transmitted via a wireless network and, therefore, may be subject to a different pricing structure.

Abstract: A system for remotely monitoring and transmitting data and other information received from utility and other devices is disclosed. The universal meter reader of the present invention includes a device for sensing and collecting data at a first location. The sensed data that is in analog form is converted to a digital signal and a processing unit processes the data. The data is subsequently stored in a memory device for subsequent transmission to an interested party. In one embodiment, the data can be digitally transmitted over a GSM or TDMA technology digital network via a control channel. In addition, the universal meter reader includes a connective interface for connecting to a telecommunications system at a first location to establish a wireless telecommunications connection. An improved infrared reader of the present invention includes an infrared transmitter and receiver.

Abstract: A system for remotely monitoring and transmitting data and other information received from utility and other devices is disclosed. The universal meter reader of the present invention includes a device for sensing and collecting data at a first location. The sensed data that is in analog form is converted to a digital signal and a processing unit processes the data. The data is subsequently stored in a memory device for subsequent transmission to an interested party. In one embodiment, the data can be digitally transmitted over a GSM or TDMA technology digital network via a control channel. In addition, the universal meter reader includes a connective interface for connecting to a telecommunications system at a first location to establish a wireless telecommunications connection. An improved infrared reader of the present invention includes an infrared transmitter and receiver.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for transmitting data to and from a data collection device using the short message service functionality of the control channel of a personal communications system transmission protocol is disclosed. The method includes first transmitting a request for data from a remote device to the data collection device using the short message service portion of the digital personal communications system control channel transmission protocol. The requests are received a the data collection device and interpreted. According to the interpretation, the data collection device compiles the data that was requested by the remote device. The compiled data is transmitted to the remote device using the short message service portion of the digital personal communications system control channel transmission protocol.