Abstract: A method and an apparatus for measuring electrical properties of communication lines is presented, wherein the communication line comprises a first line and a second line, wherein the first line is connected to a first line driver and the second line is connected to a second line driver. At least one measurement for determining said properties of said communication line is performed with the first line driver or the second line driver set to a high impedance state. With this method and apparatus, detailed line testing can be performed without the need for additional elements in a communication circuit.

Abstract: A pilot signal is transmitted from a transmitting device through a communication network under test to a receiving device. The pilot signal is transmitted at a known transmit time and in a voice channel. Incoming signals within the voice channel at the receiving device are monitored to detect receipt of the pilot signal. A receipt time of the pilot signal at the receiving device is identified. The one-way delay (OWD) is determined as a difference between the receipt time of the pilot signal at the receiving device and the transmit time of the pilot signal from the transmitting device.

Abstract: Existing and future standardized VDSL2 and other systems can be integrated into and used with a vectored DSLAM or other vectored or non-vectored DSL system, without a new user disrupting service to other users in the same or a nearby binder, in some cases by using transmit power, CARMASK and/or PSDMASK DSL capabilities to reduce both downstream and upstream training-signal levels so that training of a new DSL line is non-disruptive, despite a lack of knowledge of the pre-existing binder. For vectored systems, the crosstalk from that tone can be observed, learned and then added to the vectoring system so that any subsequent excitation on that tone would be eliminated by vector processing. A second tone then can be added in the same way, etc. In non-vectored DSLs that might be operating in a binder or line set, once these non-vectored lines are observed to be present, a vectored line set controller, such as a DSL optimizer, then can anticipate the potential interference from such non-vectored lines.

Abstract: The present invention concerns methods for estimating one or more transmission properties of a telecommunications transmission line. Estimates of the line input impedance, Zin at a frequency f, and the line capacitance ? are made. An estimate is then made in dependence of ?, the frequency f and a value ?, where ? satisfies the relationship ? coth (?)=Zin·j??, and ?=2?f. Accuracy may be improved by least squares fitting a curve to a set of intermediate values and then generating an estimate from the coefficients of the curve.

Abstract: The present application discloses an automated digital subscriber line performance control system comprising a computer system including a logic module to evaluate performance of a plurality of DSL lines and to automatically select a set of DSL lines from the plurality of DSL lines, a line profile database responsive to the computer system, the line profile database providing a plurality of line profiles in response to a request from the computer system, and a digital subscriber line access multiplexer coupled to the computer system.

Abstract: Method for user-aided communication evaluation and performance and for producing a quality report regarding a communication connection entails signaling of a services provider by a first endpoint user in real-time entails establishing a first communication link between the first endpoint user and a second endpoint user. A second communication link between the first end point user and the services provider is determined. The methods continue by analyzing of the first and second communication links for quality by the services provider and generating statistics based on the analysis for quality in the connection. The methods can conclude by producing a quality report using those statistics. The quality report can initiate an immediate response in real-time or can be stored for a later response.

Abstract: Through the use of a least squares minimization concept, the loop length, the number of bridged taps and length of the bridged taps on a transmission line can be determined from readily available modem data. In particular, the loop length, the number of bridge taps and the length of bridged taps can be estimated by comparing a measured frequency domain channel impulse response of the transmission line to a model of a loop that is comprised of multiple sections and multiple bridge taps.

Abstract: Through the use of a least squares minimization concept, the loop length, the number of bridged taps and length of the bridged taps on a transmission line can be determined from readily available modem data. In particular, the loop length, the number of bridge taps and the length of bridged taps can be estimated by comparing a measured frequency domain channel impulse response of the transmission line to a model of a loop that is comprised of multiple sections and multiple bridge taps.

Abstract: Described are methods, systems, and devices that include obtaining a first measured perceptual quality by measuring, at a first location associated with a communications network, a perceptual quality of a first communication transmitted from the first location to a second location associated with the communications network, obtaining a second measured perceptual quality by measuring perceptual quality of the first communication at the second location; and, based on the first measured perceptual quality and the second measured perceptual quality, generating a first value representative of degradation in the quality of the first communication.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for testing integrity of a wired communication link includes receiving a plurality of signals, sent by at least one transmitter over the wired communications link, at corresponding multiple receivers. The signals have corresponding frequencies within a frequency range of the wired communication link, such that the frequencies are representative of the frequency range. A signal loss corresponding to each of the frequencies is measured, and an indication of whether each measured signal loss is within an acceptable range is provided. The wired communication link may be a coaxial cable.

Abstract: In a communication apparatus has a line control unit that controls connection with a communication line network, a communication unit transmits/receives data through the communication line network. A detection circuit detects one of a line voltage value and a line current value when the communication apparatus is connected to the line network. A memory unit stores multiple voltage-current characteristic curves defining relationships of line voltage values with respect to line current values satisfying a predetermined standard. An adjusting unit adjusts the line voltage value and the line current value so as to satisfy the predetermined standard based on one of the voltage-current characteristic curves stored in the memory unit. A selecting unit selects another voltage-current characteristic curve different from the one of the voltage-current characteristic curves from among the multiple voltage-current characteristic curves stored in the memory unit.

Abstract: A method, system, and medium are provided for testing a network communications component. A model of a substantially ideal communications network is provided and a test signal is generated at an input of the network model. An output signal from the model is transmitted to the network component. The signal is suitable for analyzing acoustic parameters of the network component. The acoustic parameters are analyzed based upon a response of the network component to the output signal.

Abstract: A system and/or method for metering and marking packets of data incoming into a communication system having in some embodiments primary and secondary meter selectors, primary and secondary metering processors and a pipeline and wrapper interface controller. Further methods involve measuring an incoming microflow against one or two specified temporal profiles using a two-level metering hierarchy.

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: Double-ended line probing (DELP) techniques are described herein that enable a loop configuration to be identified based on mathematically simple error functions, which are both time-efficient and less sensitive to measurement errors. A DELP algorithm uses readily available data about the channel that is generated prior to the modem operation (e.g., theoretical loop models) and other available data (e.g., that provided by loop diagnostic modules) to estimate the loop configuration including the line length and gauge, as well as the number of bridge taps and their gauges, lengths, and locations.

Abstract: An equivalent working length (EWL) determinative system (11) for use in a digital subscriber line (DSL) telecommunication network (10) is provided. The EWL system (11) includes a DSL circuit (32) having a customer site (14) with customer premises equipment (30). The customer premises equipment (30) receives and transmits communication signals and generates a first attenuation signal in response to the communication signals. A remote terminal (20) forms a loop (31) with the customer site (14) and has a loop length. The remote terminal (20) includes a remote terminal transceiver (40) that is in communication with the customer premises equipment (30). A main controller (37) is electrically coupled to the customer premises equipment (30) and determines an EWL of the loop (31) in response to the first attenuation signal. A method of performing the same is also provided.

Abstract: A telephone line test system that may be used to compute line length of subscriber lines connected to a central office or other distribution point. When initially installed, the test system may automatically compute CO limits. The CO limits are computed from single-ended measurements on subscriber lines and represent electrical effects of the path between a test head and the distribution point. These CO limits are used to more accurately compute the length of lines connected to the distribution point using measurements made by the test system. Because the process uses single-ended measurements, it may be run in background mode during the initial installation of the test system or at any subsequent time it is desired to update the CO limits.

Abstract: Techniques for measuring a one way delay between two handsets over an Internet protocol (IP) network utilize a delay measurement subsystem connected to both handsets and a procedure to couple a test signal to both handsets and measure the response to the test signal. The delay measurement subsystem is connected to a call originating handset to play an acoustic test signal to the transmitter of the originating handset. The delay measurement subsystem is connected to a call terminating handset to play the acoustic test signal to the transmitter of the call terminating handset and to record acoustic signals received on the call terminating handset. Signals recorded at the call terminating handset include a sidetone signal and a signal received from the call originating handset. The difference between the sidetone signal and the signal received from the call originating handset represents the delay through the handsets and the IP network.

Abstract: A simplified field testing tool integrates signal-strength and error-rate testing for a variety of networking technologies prevalent for home networking, including but not limited to Multimedia over Coax (or applicable coax standard), HomePNA 2, VDSL, 100BaseT Ethernet, 802.11 Wi-Fi, and analog/coaxial RF signals.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for ascertaining a resistance value (Z) between a first contact (2) and a second contact (3) in a subscriber line interface circuit (4), where a protective circuit (9) for protecting the subscriber line interface circuit (4) against overvoltages is provided between the two contacts (2, 3) and comprises a parallel circuit containing a protective capacitor (5) with two resistors (7, 8) connected in series via a node (K), the node (K) being connected to a third contact (10) in the subscriber line interface circuit (4), where the method has the following steps: a predetermined charging voltage (UCharge) is applied to the protective capacitor (5); a threshold voltage (UTH) is calculated on the basis of the resistance values (R1, R2) of the two resistors (7, 8) and the applied charging voltage (UCharge); a measured voltage (UM) tapped off across one of the two resistors (7, 8) is measured while the protective capacitor (5) is discharging; the measured voltage (UM) is compared with

Abstract: A communication apparatus is provided with: plural transmission units that respectively transmit communication signals through a telephone line; a detection unit that detects a value of a line voltage supplied from the telephone line to each of the plural transmission units; and a controller that controls transmission from each of the plural transmission units, according to a relation between a predetermined reference voltage value and the value of the line voltage of each of the plural transmission units detected by the detection unit.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for estimating the insertion loss of a telephone line. A complex waveform is applied to each wire of the telephone line being tested. Real and imaginary components of the resultant waveform are measured at a plurality of frequencies. Insertion loss of the line is estimated from a series of single-ended voltage measurements made at a plurality of frequencies. These measurements are captured and used to estimate the insertion loss of the telephone line.

Abstract: A system and method for performing DSL assessments of a telephone line along a prescribed test path is disclosed. The disclosed system includes a loop diagnostic test unit adapted for testing said telephone line using narrow-band and mid-band frequency test signals; a test system controller and a test system server to provide the DSL assessments to a user via an appropriate interface. In addition, the disclosed methods include the basic steps of: accessing the telephone line along the test path that includes selected hardware such as a voice switch test bus, central office splitter, service provider instruments and terminations; ascertaining various line characteristics along the test path using mid-band and narrow-band frequency signals; analyzing the line characteristics to identify line conditions that affect DSL service; and determining the impact of the line conditions on DSL service.

Abstract: A method for qualifying a telephone line for very-high-bit-rate digital subscriber line (“VDSL”) service is disclosed. Generally, a telephone line for VDSL service is prequalified based on a length of the telephone line. A VDSL rate of the telephone line is measured and it is determined whether to qualify as VDSL data qualified based on the measured VDSL rate and a VDSL rate threshold. A VDSL video quality of the telephone line is measured and it is determined whether to qualify the telephone line as VDSL video qualified based on the measured VDSL video quality. Finally, a network database is updated with the determined VDSL data and video qualifications of the telephone line.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting a fault in a joint connecting sections of an electrical transmission line together are disclosed. Previously known methods for detecting joint faults require a visual inspection of the joint or testing the transmission line using sophisticated, expensive equipment. This manual testing is expensive and inefficient. In the proposed method, a fault in a joint (301) connecting sections of an electrical transmission line (107) together is detected by measuring the resistance to current flowing through the joint (301) in one and the other directions along said electrical transmission line (107) and detecting a fault in the joint (301) if the measured resistance differs substantially in said one and the other directions. The method has particular utility in relation to low power transmission lines such as telephone lines.

Abstract: Method for user-aided communication evaluation and performance and for producing a quality report regarding a communication connection entails signaling of a services provider by a first endpoint user in real-time entails establishing a first communication link between the first endpoint user and a second endpoint user. A second communication link between the first end point user and the services provider is determined. The methods continue by analyzing of the first and second communication links for quality by the services provider and generating statistics based on the analysis for quality in the connection. The methods can conclude by producing a quality report using those statistics. The quality report can initiate an immediate response in real-time or can be stored for a later response.

Abstract: A method and a device for improving voice quality on transparent telecommunications-transmission paths. The audio-transmission channel is adapted to the respective audio-spectrum of the speaker at predetermined intervals. As a result, means for analyzing the voice signals in relation to the useful band width and amplitude thereof are provided in addition to means for influencing the band width and amplitude of the audio-transmission channel according to the determined useful band and amplitude. Such means can be installed in the communication terminal as well as in the communication network.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting faults on a telephone line, the method comprising: comparing measured characteristics of the line with a model, said model modeling expected characteristics of the telephone line; and in response to the comparison, generating a fault alert signal if the comparison between the measured characteristics and the modeled expected characteristics differ by more than a pre-determined threshold, wherein said characteristics comprise characteristics relating to the transmission of data on the line within a plurality of predetermined frequency bands

Abstract: A system for qualifying subscriber lines in a telephony system for high speed data services. The system includes a measurement unit that makes one ended electrical measurements on the subscriber lines. Measurements on the subscriber lines are used to predict which of the lines can carry signals used in high speed data services. The predictions are used in marketing select data transmission services.

Abstract: A system and method for multiple inputs, multiple outputs (MIMO) PSD allocation in a DSL system is disclosed. In some embodiments, the method may comprise monitoring system performance by performing a multi-ended line test (MELT), processing the MELT and allocating PSD based on at least one of system coupling power and system traffic.

Abstract: The length and attenuation of a signal line between a transmitter and a customer premises equipment is to be estimated. A frequency dependent line input impedance (Zin(f)) as seen from the transmitter, is measured and an absolute impedance value (œ Zin(f) œ) is generated. The latter is shown as a curve (A1) in the diagram with the frequency (f) on the abscissa and the impedance (œ Zin(f) œ) on the ordinate. Extreme values (Max.1, Max2, Max3; Min1, Min2, Min3) arc denoted and a frequency distance (FD1-FD4) between two consecutive of the extreme values is generated. The line length (L) is generated as L=½·vop/FD1, in which vop is the velocity of propagation of a signal on the line. The attenuation is estimated by multiplying the line length with an average attenuation value for the actual line type. The advantages are that the line length can be estimated with good accuracy in a simple manner for short lines and that the line attenuation is estimated in a simple manner.

Abstract: A method of testing a communication line includes measuring a first voltage/current couple on the communication line, measuring a second voltage/current couple different from the first couple on the communication line, and calculating a resistance based on the first couple and the second couple.

Abstract: Estimates of a communication system configuration, such as a DSL system, are based on operational data collected from a network element management system, protocol, users and/or the like. The operational data collected from the system can include performance-characterizing operational data that typically is available in an ADSL system via element-management-system protocols. Generated estimates and/or approximations can be used in evaluating system performance and directly or indirectly dictating/requiring changes or recommending improvements in operation by transmitters and/or other parts of the communication system. Data and/or other information may be collected using “internal” means or may be obtained from system elements and components via email and/or other “external” means.

Abstract: A digital kick meter measures capacitive kick between two conductors and ground of a cable. The digital kick meter includes a resistance measuring circuit connectable to two of the conductors to provide a signal indicative of a capacitance between the two conductors. A filter is coupled to the resistance measuring circuit to filter a signal provided by the resistance measuring circuit, thereby producing a kick signal. Processing circuitry is coupled to the filter, and a graphical user interface (GUI) is coupled to the processing circuitry to display data related to the kick signal. The GUI may include an active bar graph dynamically displaying the kick signal on a graduated scale and retaining a peak value of the kick signal on the graduated scale.

Abstract: The present application discloses an automated digital subscriber line performance control system comprising a computer system including a logic module to evaluate performance of a plurality of DSL lines and to automatically select a set of DSL lines from the plurality of DSL lines, a line profile database responsive to the computer system, the line profile database providing a plurality of line profiles in response to a request from the computer system, and a digital subscriber line access multiplexer coupled to the computer system. The digital subscriber line access multiplexer is configured to measure a performance parameter of a plurality of physical DSL lines and to change a profile for at least one of the plurality of DSL lines. The set of DSL lines has degraded performance characteristics based on historical performance data.

Abstract: A method characterizes a customer line for data transmission. The method includes measuring electrical properties of the customer line from a central location, identifying a line model from the measurements, and identifying a modem model for a modem selected for use with the customer line. The modem model gives performance data for the selected modem. The method also predicts performance data for the customer line when operated with the selected modem by combining the line and modem models.

Abstract: A fault associated with a communication medium is analyzed by correlating a first set of information indicative of echo associated with the communication medium with a second set of information indicative of echo. The fault is characterized based on the correlation between the first set of information and the second set of information. The first set of information and the second set of information can include echo canceller coefficients generated by an echo canceller coupled to the communication medium.

Abstract: A system and method for verifying the integrity of a DSL circuit on a shared telephone line. The invention uses the amplitude modulation principles to overcome the difficulty associated with a blocking capacitor that isolates a DSLAM on the DSL circuit from the rest of the shared telephone line. A transmitter of the invention mixes a high frequency carrier signal and a low frequency audio signal to produce an amplitude-modulated test signal. The amplitude modulated signal is supplied to the telephone line at a main distributing frame side of the blocking capacitor and is detected by a receiver at the DSLAM side of the blocking capacitor.

Abstract: A system for determining the transmit power of a communication device operating on a twisted pair subscriber line includes a communication server coupled to a first subscriber line and a second subscriber line. The communication server comprises a communication device that communicates a signal using the first subscriber line. A memory coupled to the communication server stores noise information and cross-channel-coupling information for the first subscriber line and the second subscriber line. A processor coupled to the memory determines the transmit power of the communication device based upon the noise information and the cross-channel-coupling information.

Abstract: When delivering a broadband service, such as xDSL, without inband POTS, it is necessary to separate the analogue POTS signal and the xDSL signal from each other at both the CO (Central Office) and the CP (Customer's Premises). This can be achieved by using an active POTS splitter. The present invention incorporates test functionality for the line between the CP and the CO, or ONU (Optical Network Unit), in the POTS splitter. This enables two-sided measurements on the line, both during installation and during operation. The measurements are performed at the CO and upon request, or when the test device automatically sends a test message/signal. In this way there is no need for field technicians at the CP side. The POTS splitter can have a unique identity code that is transmitted to the CO each time a test is started, or on receipt of a request from the CO.

Abstract: A description is given of a communication set for connection to a communication line such as a telephone line, which communication set includes means for detecting set functions such as ringing signal detection, and a rectifier circuit which is connected to a common output which is coupled to a scanning device included in the set function detection means, which scanning device detects the line conditions. A large number of line conditions may be detected with a minimum of components required, among which an analog/digital converter for which only a single input pin on a chip is necessary.

Abstract: A multiplexing apparatus selectively performs cell discard processing in the case of congestion on the basis of a use state of the same connection formed by cells from the side of a switching unit and subscribers without installing UPC units, and the multiplexing apparatus, which is connected to the switching unit and each of the plural subscribers through communication lines.

Abstract: A multi-unit test system performs automated and dynamically alterable, double-ended testing of telephone lines, whose service is provided on copper cable pairs. A prescribed set of (e.g., twelve) individual tests are executed either from a hand-held measurement unit, or by a central office-resident direct access test unit, or by a collaboration of the two. The hand-held measurement unit and the direct access test unit exchange FSK-based test control messages with one another that are effective to cause a selected electrical condition to be applied to a first portion of the wireline and to cause a prescribed electrical measurement to be made at a second portion of the wireline.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a method includes performing at least part of a digital subscriber line (DSL) handshaking process by transmitting at least one handshaking signal via a telephone subscriber loop, and analyzing the at least one handshaking signal to detect a characteristic of the telephone subscriber loop.

Abstract: An optical submarine communication system has a land cable connected to a terminal apparatus which is installed on land near the seashore for transmitting an optical signal and electric power. The land cable is connected to an optical submarine cable through a beach manhole, and a repeater is connected to the optical submarine cable. The optical submarine communication system has a surge suppressor provided on the land cable, whereby a surge generated from the terminal apparatus side because of a lightning stroke or an insulation failure is suppressed and prevented from reaching and damaging the repeater.

Abstract: A method and system for qualifying telephone lines for high speed data services. The system takes measurements on a line under test and matches those measurements to a model of a line. The model of the line is used to predict whether the line will support data services at a particular level. If the model of the line includes a service affecting condition that is removable from the line, a new model is created reflecting the line as it would appear with the service affecting condition removed. The new model is then used to predict performance. If the required performance level is predicted based on the new model, the line is categorized as a line that can not support the required level of data services, but could if repaired. In this way, an accurate and useful prediction of line performance is provided.

Abstract: A system and method to reduce echoes in voice communications are described. Input data containing return loss values of a communication trunk within a communications network is received, the return loss values being measured at each frequency of a plurality of frequencies within a predetermined frequency band. An optimum transhybrid balance impedance is calculated from the input data. Finally, the optimum transhybrid balance impedance is transmitted to a user for further processing.

Abstract: The method assesses the suitability of customer telephone lines (12, 13, 14) for data transmission. The method includes selecting a telephone line having tip and ring wires by means of a computer (30) and switch (15), and electrically connecting the tip and ring wires together at a test access (29) adjacent one end of the selected line to produce a common mode configuration. Single-ended electrical measurements are performed on the wires in the common mode configuration by a measurement unit (27) connected to the test access (29) to determine an electrical property of the wires from the measurements.

Abstract: A method for testing a subscriber line of a PABX (Private Automatic Branch eXchange) using a DTMF (Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency) signal. The method includes the step of controlling a DTMF transmitter in response to a line test request from an exchange operator to transmit the DTMF signal to the subscriber line, the step of receiving a component of the transmitted DTMF signal reflected from the subscriber line due to impedance mismatching, and the step of determining from a strength of the received DTMF signal component whether the subscriber line is abnormal.

Abstract: A method of allocating subscriber lines in a telecommunications network into speed bins. With the method, more intelligent business actions can then be taken in the provision of high-speed data services over the subscriber lines. For example, only qualified lines might be used for high-speed data services, with the other lines being allocated to POTS service. The lines are divided into speed bins using a pair of neural networks, with one predicting upstream speed and one predicting downstream speed. The combined predictions are then mapped to a speed bin, which is the basis for further business actions. The disclosure describes that the neural networks are created using conditional fuzzy logic to precondition the neural networks by line speed.