Abstract: In a storage system including an FPGA having a logic which executes a prescribed processing and a plurality of devices coupled to the FPGA via a bus, the logic of the FPGA is configured to: attempt to access the plurality of devices and, based on a status of access to the devices, determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the access to the devices; and when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the access to a device, reset an IF unit for performing a communication processing via a bus of the device.

Abstract: Methods and systems for configuring communication at a premises are described. A network device at a premises may be in communication with a first network and a second network. The network device may receive data from a communication device located at the premises. The network device may transmit the data via the first network or the second network based on configuration data, which may be received from a computing device.

Abstract: A communication network operations center (NOC) management system. The system comprises a network equipment performance data store, an equipment fault data store, an equipment inventory data store, an equipment trouble history data store, and a knowledge data store. The system further comprises a computer system that executes a NOC management application. The NOC management application opens new network equipment trouble cases and analyzes the trouble cases based on data in the data stores. Based on the analysis, the application identifies an information pattern shared by the new trouble case and a resolved trouble case stored in the history data store. The application automatically executes a control command on a network equipment item identified in the new network equipment trouble case based on a resolution action identified in the resolved trouble case stored in the history data store with the shared information pattern.

Abstract: According to an embodiment, a cache device includes a cache memory, an access controller, and a power controller. The cache memory includes a plurality of memory areas associated with a plurality of ways, respectively. The access controller controls access to the memory areas. The power controller controls power supplied to each of the memory areas individually such that power supplied to a memory area that has not been accessed for a predetermined time is standby power that is lower than operating power that enables the memory area to operate. The power controller controls power supplied to a memory area such that standby power for a memory area that is highly likely to be accessed has a value closer to the operating power than a value of standby power for a memory area that is less likely to be accessed.

Abstract: A communication apparatus includes: a first determination unit configured to determine whether a first voltage identified under conditions where a telephone connection terminal is connected to a modem unit is greater than or equal to a first threshold value; a second determination unit configured to, if the first determination unit determines that the first voltage is greater than or equal to the first threshold value, determine whether a second voltage identified under conditions where the telephone connection terminal is disconnected from the modem unit tends to decrease; and a third determination unit configured to determine connection states of the telephone connection terminal and a line connection terminal based on determination results of the first determination unit and the second determination unit. If the second determination unit determines that the identified second voltage has decreased more than once, the third determination unit determines that a wrong connection has been made.

Abstract: Self-grounded circuitry (10) includes a signal channel conducting an output voltage (VOUT1). A charge pump (2) powered by a reference voltage (VDD) produces a control voltage (VCP). The control signal is at a low level if the reference voltage is low and is boosted to a high level if the reference voltage is high. A ground switch circuit (15) includes a depletion mode transistor (MP1) having a source coupled to the output voltage, a gate coupled to the control voltage, and a drain coupled to ground. The transistor includes a well region (4-1) and a parasitic substrate diode (D3-1).

Abstract: A system and method for initiating a telephone call to a telephone line that is connected to a modem and an answering machine, the modem being configured to connect to the telephone call prior to the answering machine, determining whether the modem has connected to the telephone call, determining, if the modem has not connected to the telephone call, whether the answering machine has connected to the telephone call and providing a first indication to a user if neither of the modem nor the answering machine has connected to the telephone call.

Abstract: A loop around system and method for use in a telephone line monitors line conditions to detect the initiation of loop testing and automatically bypasses an electronic device, such as a DSL line conditioner, used in the line to prevent the electronic device from being inadvertently detected by the testing system as a line fault. The system additionally shuts down power to itself from the line so that it does not interfere with testing, while continuing to monitor the line during testing to detect conditions that characterize the termination of testing, and then automatically switches the electronic device back into the line upon the conclusion of testing. The system and method may be employed unattended at intermediate locations in the line remote from the CO or the CPE.

Abstract: In general, in one aspect, the disclosure describes a digital network to telephone interface device having a controller capable of detecting foreign voltage faults without interrupting telephone service. Upon detection of a foreign voltage fault the controller can deactivate the telephone service and initiate a test sequence to confirm the foreign voltage fault. If the fault is confirmed the telephone service remains deactivated and an operator of the digital network is notified. The device will improve the quality of service and save the cost of sending some one to investigate the fault. The operator can take proactive action once the device provides fault analysis and information remotely.

Abstract: Telecommunication system servicing a plurality of telecommunication interface lines that allows improving a service quality by keeping connection on these lines in the case of computer freezing and during to its restart (reboot).

Abstract: The present invention discloses circuits for isolating and attenuating signals generated by a telephone network. In disclosed embodiments, a metering pulse signal is isolated from the terminals of the connecting device, and then attenuated with an impedance that is synthesized with a programmable digital signal processor. Embodiments also utilize the digital signal processor to synthesize a termination impedance for the connecting device. The termination impedance matches closely the characteristic impedance of the network, so as to minimize wave reflections and the like.

Abstract: A system includes at least one adaptive filter coupled to a first communication channel and at least one other communications channel. The at least one adaptive filter includes at least one set of adaptive filter coefficients. A memory stores at least one predetermined set of filter coefficient thresholds. The filter coefficient thresholds may be indicative of channel faults, channel to channel faults or a length of the channel. A controller is configured to compare the set of filter coefficients to the predetermined set of filter coefficient thresholds. The controller is configured to determine the information about the channels based on compare results.

Abstract: A port detection and protection circuit utilizes a voltage detection circuits to output a detection signal according to a voltage difference between the tip signal and the ring signal and utilizes a ring detection circuit to output another detection signal according to a voltage difference between a Subscriber Line Interface Circuit (SLIC) tip signal and a SLIC ring signal signaling an incoming call. In addition, the port detection and protection circuit utilizes at least one logic component to output logic signals according to the detection signals. The port detection and protection circuit further switches a loop of a tip wire, a ring wire and the SLIC on or/and off based on logic signals, and issues an alarm according to the logic signals.

Abstract: This invention makes it possible to transparently test replacement functionality and optionally migrate subscribers on analog phone lines, served, for example, by PSTN Class 5 elements, to Next Generation Network (NGN) elements when copper co-termination is leveraged. The method and apparatus mechanizes replacement continuity verification to the NGN element from the analog dial tone port and the multi-element network changes required for real time per line per-migration, operational testing and optional migration to the NGN element. All of the network elements are accessible from a single device, the Control Computer used by this invention. Each line can be transparently tested and optionally migrated during a short time period when the subscriber is not using the analog line. In effect, this testing and optional migration is actually changing the state of the NGN element to operational for test purposes and if the tests pass, the analog port and associated DSLAM port can be optionally deactivated.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for mechanizing the currently manual ADSL loop testing process is disclosed. In one embodiment, an automated loop testing device is disclosed, where the loop testing device has a pair of terminals, e.g., RJ-11 jacks on both sides of the device. The jack on one side connects to inside wiring which, in turn, connects to an ADSL modem. The other jack connects to an outside line which, in turn, connects to a central office of a network provider. In operation, the present device detects a line voltage reversal and then disconnects the input line to the ADSL Modem. When the voltage returns to normal, then the device behaves normally by being closed, essentially acting as a pass through device and again connects the input lines to the output lines.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing asynchronous alarm correlation in packet networks are disclosed. For example, the method receives a trigger, and performs an asynchronous correlation of at least one root cause alarm with at least one symptom alarm.

Abstract: Telecommunication system servicing a plurality of telecommunication interface lines that allows improving a service quality by keeping connection on these lines in the case of computer freezing and during to its restart (reboot).

Abstract: A voicemail system enabling various components of the voicemail system to be distributed geographically yet operate as a seamlessly integrated system is disclosed. A signal gateway interfaces with a telephone network. In addition, one or more media servers interface with the signal gateway as well as the telephone network. The signal gateway is configured to block calls to malfunctioning media servers. The signal gateway monitors the media servers, and responsive to determining that a media server has malfunctioned, the signal gateway initiates auto-blocking such that the telephone network does not route calls to the malfunctioning media server. In addition, the signal gateway is configured to auto-detect a media server responsive to the media server being initialized. The voicemail system can include a variety of other elements, such as one or more system management units and one or more central data and message store systems.

Abstract: In general, in one aspect, the disclosure describes a digital network to telephone interface device having a controller capable of detecting foreign voltage faults without interrupting telephone service. Upon detection of a foreign voltage fault the controller can deactivate the telephone service and initiate a test sequence to confirm the foreign voltage fault. If the fault is confirmed the telephone service remains deactivated and an operator of the digital network is notified. The device will improve the quality of service and save the cost of sending some one to investigate the fault. The operator can take proactive action once the device provides fault analysis and information remotely.

Abstract: The present invention is a new solution of line and relay in an analog subscriber board, which has a less number of relays and can decrease the cost and save the space while realizing the basic functions in a voice network. The technical solution of the invention provides each subscriber with two relays to connect the subscriber line interface circuit, the subscriber line, the ring bus and the test bus, realizing the basic functions relevant to the talking, such as talking, ringing, etc. In order to add the auxiliary functions such as the testing function and the monitoring function, the subscriber lines are grouped, and at least one relay is supplemented in a subscriber group, the subscriber group relays together with above two subscriber relays will be used to connect the subscriber line interface circuit, the subscriber line, the ring bus and the test bus to perform the basic functions relevant to talking and the auxiliary functions such as testing, monitoring, etc.

Abstract: The present invention discloses circuits for isolating and attenuating signals generated by a telephone network. In disclosed embodiments, a metering pulse signal is isolated from the terminals of the connecting device, and then attenuated with an impedance that is synthesized with a programmable digital signal processor. Embodiments also utilize the digital signal processor to synthesize a termination impedance for the connecting device. The termination impedance matches closely the characteristic impedance of the network, so as to minimize wave reflections and the like.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a broken lead testing device for determining whether a lead in a balanced lead pair of a datacom circuit is broken or faulty. Terminated leads are subjected to a phase difference and/or a voltage difference test, while unterminated leads are subjected to a current injection test.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for mechanizing the currently manual ADSL loop testing process is disclosed. In one embodiment, an automated loop testing device is disclosed, where the loop testing device has a pair of terminals, e.g., RJ-11 jacks on both sides of the device. The jack on one side connects to inside wiring which, in turn, connects to an ADSL modem. The other jack connects to an outside line which, in turn, connects to a central office of a network provider. In operation, the present device detects a line voltage reversal and then disconnects the input line to the ADSL Modem. When the voltage returns to normal, then the device behaves normally by being closed, essentially acting as a pass through device and again connects the input lines to the output lines.

Abstract: A voicemail system enabling various components of the voicemail system to be distributed geographically yet operate as a seamlessly integrated system is disclosed. A signal gateway interfaces with a telephone network. In addition, one or more media servers interface with the signal gateway as well as the telephone network. The signal gateway is configured to block calls to malfunctioning media servers. The signal gateway monitors the media servers, and responsive to determining that a media server has malfunctioned, the signal gateway initiates auto-blocking such that the telephone network does not route calls to the malfunctioning media server. In addition, the signal gateway is configured to auto-detect a media server responsive to the media server being initialized. The voicemail system can include a variety of other elements, such as one or more system management units and one or more central data and message store systems.

Abstract: A private wireless network access point is associated with a predetermined telephone number corresponding to a physical location. The associated predetermined telephone number is included with call setup information when a wireless terminal in a private wireless network communicates via the access point so that a location of the wireless terminal can be determined based on the predetermined telephone number.

Abstract: Calculating, detecting, observing, and validating operating characteristics, conditions, and metrics, especially quality of service metrics, of a system. The quality of service metrics are reported and utilized to manage the service. The various elements of the system for generating the quality of service metrics are integrated, with the same or substantially the same schema and metadata in the databases management systems of the externalized metric configuration data database, and the raw transaction data database. There is extensive code reuse, with the various engines, as the standard requirements methodology engine and thee standardized extensible calculation engine utilizing the same classes or objects, and as appropriate, the same function calls, interfaces, api's, and the like.

Abstract: A system and method for permitting a customer of a telecommunication company, for whom fiber to the premises (FTTP) has been installed, to continue to use the telephone during utility company power failure, by powering both the optical network terminal (ONT) and the customer's telephone(s). The battery backup unit (BBU) maintains telephone usage for a pre-determined period of time after power failure, e.g., two hours, consistent with duration of most utility company power outages. This permits non-interrupted telephone service for most outages and, after that period of time, if utility company power has not been restored, the BBU provides power in order to provide telephone service only on demand by the customer, for up to approximately two more cumulative hours of usage. At the end of each usage on demand, the BBU powers the telephone for approximately five more minutes to permit return phone calls, if any, after which telephone service is shut off until any next usage on demand.

Abstract: In an XDSL system, a network interface device can connect between a central office and a customer premises. The network interface device can monitor for an indication to enter a test mode. In the test mode, the network interface device can provide a test signal to the central office, which can be used to test central office equipment and transmission lines connecting the network interface device with the central office. The network interface device can also provide the test signal to the customer premises, and the test signal can be used to test customer premises wiring and equipment.

Abstract: Transmission channels indicated as occupied in a communications system having peripheral modules are inspected for preparing subscriber-side transmission channels. A test sequence transmitter on the system side transmits a test sequence to a control unit for a selected peripheral module. The test sequence is transmitted to a test sequence receiver over a transmission channel, which is indicated as occupied and which is assigned to the peripheral module. The test sequence, which is transmitted by the test sequence transmitter, and the test sequence, which is received by the test sequence receiver, are inspected for an evaluation of conformity. In the instance of non-conformity, the selected transmission channel is disconnected in a targeted manner.

Abstract: A method uses circuitry in a data interface that provides telephony service over a high-speed network to detect the presence of a secondary source of VBH battery voltage on a tip-ring system. If a detected source other than the data interface is impressing battery voltage on the tip-ring system, the circuitry disconnects the data interface's battery source and produces a message that another source is VBH. The determination that another source is present may be based on a threshold value to account for noise. The message is used to produce an alarm at a user interface device. The alarm may be a light indication mounted on the data interface. The alarm may also be a web page that is retrieved from a memory device and displayed on a PC, a PDA or the data interface. The alarm may be provided locally and remotely to a provider's server.

Abstract: A system and method for distributing objects to one or more subscribers. The system/method allows an administrator to create a distribution by allowing the administrator to select one or more objects for distribution to the subscriber(s). Once the distribution is defined, the distribution can be used any number of times and be sent to any number of subscribers without having to re-define or modify the distribution. Advantageously, the system/method automatically determines the objects that are associated with the objects selected for distribution by the administrator and automatically distributes the selected objects together with the objects that are associated with the selected objects.

Abstract: A frequency domain reflectometry-based bridged tap detection system for a telecommunication wireline employs a prescribed filtering operator, such as a ‘best-fit’ curve filter or a piecewise high pass filter bank, upstream of a Fourier processing operator, to improve the signal-to-noise ratio of the digitized amplitude array of the swept frequency band. To fit the response tones within the dynamic range of the analog-to-digital converter that digitizes the response tones detected from the wireline, a signal conditioning circuit, comprised of a comb filter bank, envelope detector and compander, is installed between the test head and the input to the analog-to-digital converter.

Abstract: A telephone loop monitoring and isolation device which can be connected to a wireless telephone subscriber unit providing an interface between an analog or digital central station network and the internal telephone wiring of a subscribers premises. The device is also operable with a cable telephone subscriber unit. The device provides passive real time loop status information as well as loop isolation if the voltage across the loop falls below a predetermined level. When normal loop impedance conditions are restored, the subscriber loop is automatically reconnected to the subscriber telephone unit. The device is effective for examining open circuit and abnormal impedance conditions and provides loop status information to the telephone subscriber.

Abstract: Methods are provided for metrics-related testing of one or more operational support systems (OSSs) of an incumbent provider for compliance with a regulatory scheme, the method performed by an independent testing entity attempting to emulate a competitive provider that would access the OSSs in attempting to compete with the incumbent provider in an open competitive market. Each method includes an active testing phase in which one or more OSSs are tested. Performance of the incumbent provider during active testing is evaluated according to predetermined evaluation criteria. Test results are generated according to the evaluation and a final report is issued. The final report includes the test results and provides a sufficient basis for a regulatory entity administering the regulatory scheme to determine compliance of the incumbent provider with the regulatory scheme.

Abstract: A delay-line time-domain reflectometer includes a return detector configured to process a discharge pulse produced by discharge of a line capacitor, formed by the physical relationship of a pair of conductive wires forming a telephone line, from a predetermined DC voltage. The return detector includes a number of neural networks configured to process the discharge pulse under the control of a controller. The neural networks enable the controller to characterize the loop configuration of the telephone line, where the loop configuration includes the length of the telephone line, the position of any bridged tap connected to the telephone line and/or the length of any bridged tap connected to the telephone line.

Abstract: The line interface circuit of a modem to be connected to a standard RJ11 jack of a digital PBX (Private Branch Exchange) is used along with software routines resident in the modem to detect the presence of a PBX connected to the modem. Upon going off-hook, the modem, by the software routines, determines whether the connection will harm the interface by one of several software routines. If it appears that the interface circuit may be damaged because a PBX line is present, the modem is instructed to go on-hook (hang up), or if the connection is not harmful to the interface, alerts the user that the modem is connected to a wrong jack.

Abstract: In a state monitoring method in a subscriber line test in a communication system in which a subscriber telephone and a subscriber terminal are independently connected to a telephone exchange and an ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) apparatus through a subscriber line, the telephone exchange to which a first control terminal is connected is connected, through an interface, to the ADSL apparatus to which a second control terminal is connected. A line blocked state due to a line test instruction is notified from one of the first and second control terminals to the other of the first and second control terminals through the interface. Upon receiving the notification of the line block state due to the line test instruction, the other of the first and second control terminals determines that the line blocked state is not caused by a fault. A state monitoring apparatus is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method for reducing battery power consumed by an integrated services hub supporting a plurality of telephone lines. The status of power to the integrated services hub is monitored, and upon detecting a failure of primary power, each of the telephone lines is polled to detect an off-hook condition. The status of power to the integrated services hub is monitored while polling, and the polling is stopped upon detecting a return of primary power to the integrated services hub or upon detecting an off-hook condition in one of the telephone lines. Polling is performed by placing one of the telephone lines in a standby state and the remaining telephone lines in a disabled state and monitoring the telephone line in standby state for a predetermined amount of time to detect an off-hook condition.

Abstract: For testing a network, a connection between an originating station and an answering station is established over the network. Signals are sent over the connection and if the signals are not correctly received through the connection, the connection is maintained and a message is sent to a monitoring station indicating that a defective connection has been detected.

Abstract: A client/server interface enables a user to provide information to a server relating to a change in the status of a network resource. The user also identifies an intended recipient of a notification message regarding the status of the network resource. The server then automatically handles the transmission of a notification message to the designated recipient or group of recipients.

Abstract: A CATV system in which a technician in the field requests via a field client that a node of the CATV system be tested for ingress. The CATV system includes a headend facility that is coupled to a CATV distribution network. The CATV distribution network includes a plurality of nodes through which upstream signals are transmitted to the headend facility. A method of ingress testing for use in the CATV system includes one step of receiving at the headend facility a first reverse telemetry signal transmitted by a first field client that is coupled to the CATV distribution network at a first location downstream from the headend facility. Another step of the method includes selecting at the headend facility a first test node from the plurality of nodes of the CATV distribution network, wherein the selection is based upon the received first reverse telemetry signal.

Abstract: A wireless telephone backup device for landline telephone equipment that may be located on the customer side of the landline service connection, typically in a restricted access location, such as an attic, basement, or utility closet. An interconnection circuit in the backup device detects service interruptions in the subscriber's landline connection and, in response, powers on a wireless communication device to provide backup telephone service to the customer premises equipment. The interconnection circuit also provides the other features standard landline telephone service, including dial tone, ring voltage, and normal dialing for outgoing calls. The backup device also forwards incoming landline calls to the wireless unit in the backup device, and may send a message notifying a maintenance center of the service interruption. Further, the backup device may initiate an indicator in an alarm system at the site of the customer premises equipment to notify the subscriber of the service interruption.

Abstract: Customer premises equipment for a telecommunications DSL subscriber is adapted to provide a lifeline voice service under a fault condition, e.g. a power failure at the subscriber station. The arrangement incorporates a number of switchable local subscriber ports each providing access to a respective telephone instrument, and a router circuit whereby, under normal conditions, voice calls may be routed each to a respective loop port. Under a fault condition the router directs an incoming call to a selected port to provide the lifeline service. Further calls may be barred when such a lifeline call is in progress.

Abstract: Apparatus for diagnosing and correcting faults in a host computer having a central processing unit (CPU) and ancillary units. The apparatus is in two parts; a first part in the form of a service card to be coupled to the host computer and operable to disable the CPU and operate and/or interrogate the ancillary units, and a second part in the form of a remote support station to be coupled to the first part and operable to diagnose faults in the computer through the first part and to effect at least some corrective measures through the first part. The first and second parts are located remote from each other and connected by a telecommunication link such as through modems.

Abstract: An environment monitoring telephone network system comprises: a plurality M of environment parameters detecting and transmitting units (16), which transmit data toward the remote acquisition exchange (7), said units being provided with N analog input sensors; at least a telephone network private line, in order to transmit detected data to the remote acquisition exchange, where a Data Logger (5) is located, and to supply remotely the detecting and transmitting unit; a plurality M of receiving units (18), each interconnected with a specific detecting and transmitting unit, said receiving units being located at the remote acquisition exchange and being linked with the input channels of a Data Logger, which in turn is linked, by means of a modem, to a storing and processing center, through a switched telephone network (6).

Abstract: A method of automatically assigning a signaling terminal in a mobile communication system comprising the steps of: receiving an alarm from an SSFA and determining whether the SSFA is connected or removed according to information data of the received alarm; when the SSFA is removed, obtaining an SLP value of a signaling link to which a signaling terminal in the removed SSFA is assigned and determining whether or not there exists an alternative signaling terminal which is not assigned to any signaling link and in a normal state in connected SSFAs; when the alternative signaling terminal is found, updating the value of the SLP of the signaling link to which the signaling terminal of the removed SSFA has been assigned with the alternative signaling terminal in a database and activating the signaling link to which the alternative signaling terminal is newly assigned; when the SSFA is connected, testing loop of a signaling terminal to determine whether or not the signaling terminal is in the normal state; and when

Abstract: A device for protecting a modem against harmful telephone line signals or reversed polarity telephone line signals includes a telephone line interface couplable to a telephone line, a modem interface couplable to a modem communication port, a measurement circuit that measures the value of an electrical parameter of a signal on the telephone line, an indicator circuit that provides an indication if the value of the parameter is not within predetermined limits, an isolation circuit that electrically isolates the modem communication port from the telephone line if the value of the parameter is not within predetermined limits, and a polarity detection circuit that determines the polarity of the telephone line with respect to the polarity of the modem communication port and reverses the polarities with respect to one another if they are opposite. Such operation of the apparatus may be initiated automatically in response to detection of an off-hook condition of the modem.

Abstract: A network interface device intended to be placed approximate to the customers equipment and remote from a central office of a telephone company (“TELCO”). The purpose of the network interface device is to allow the twisted pair transmission line between the central office and the customer's port to be selectively switched from a normal monitoring mode into a test mode. The test mode has two phases. In the first phase, the NIU transmits a signal back to the central office. This allows the central office to determine whether there are any problems with the transmission line, the potential bandwidth for the transmission line and related parameters concerning the efficacy and suitability of the transmission line for a variety of communication services. In the second phase, which is entered into upon completion of the first phase, the customer-end ADSL low pass filter is bypassed so that the central office can test the customer's POTS equipment.

Abstract: A power feeding system includes a line state detector for detecting an operation state of each of a pair of 2-wire subscriber lines connected to the exchange equipment and a transformer for supplying the DC power to the subscriber terminal through each of the pair of 2-wire subscriber lines connected to the subscriber terminal. When the detector detects a subscriber line test state, a switch circuit detaches the transformer from each of the pair of 2-wire subscriber lines and directly connecting the exchange equipment to the subscriber terminal through each of the pair of 2-wire subscriber lines.

Abstract: Redundant alarm messages generated by a plurality of Network Elements (NEs) in a Synchronous Optical Network (SONET) or Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH) subnetwork are suppressed by a filter incorporated within a Subnetwork Controller (SBNC). In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, the SBNC filter collects and logs all alarm messages reported by the subnetwork NEs during a correlation period. After the period is completed, the filter determines whether at least one alarm that was reported during the period directly indicates a failure within the subnetwork and, if so, suppresses all other alarms arriving during the period that indicate conditions symptomatic of this failure. The correlation period persists for no longer than a maximum specified time period, and only so long as alarm messages continue to be reported during the interval.