Abstract: A reverse polarity protection device includes a protection unit, a detection unit, and a control unit electrically connected between a power supply device and a load device. The detection unit is electrically connected to the power supply device for detecting the polarity of an output signal of the power supply device, and the control unit is electrically connected to the detection unit and the protection unit. The detection unit outputs a detection signal to the control unit according to a detection result of the polarity of the output signal. If the detection signal shows that the polarity of the output signal is reverse, the control unit will control the protection unit to form an open circuit between the power supply device and load device to stop transmitting the output signal of the power supply device to the load device and achieve a reverse polarity protection effect of the load device.

Abstract: An assistance device is provided with: a communication setting information generator which, from among a plurality of wireless terminals, extracts a first predetermined number of transmission-use wireless terminals to be tested, and a second predetermined number of receiving-use wireless terminals that are different from the transmission-use wireless terminals, which are treated together as one set, and while varying combinations thereof, specifies a predetermined number of sets; and a communication setting information generator which, for each of the specified predetermined number of sets, generates an execution plan of tests for performing a test of causing a transmission-use wireless terminal to transmit information and causing a receiving-use wireless terminal to receive the information transmitted by the transmission-use wireless terminal, and sequentially executing tests for all of the predetermined number of sets.

Abstract: A method of identifying recording of a conversation during a communication session, including establishing a communication session between a first participant and one or more remote participants, transmitting audio packets from a communication device of the first participant to the one or more remote participants, receiving audio packets from the one or more remote participants, including echo packets responsive to the transmitted audio packets, analyzing the received audio packets by an analysis application to identify delays in the echo packets relative to the transmitted packets providing an indication of the presence of a recording application at a communication device of a remote participant, notifying the communication device of the first participant.

Abstract: A low power bypass circuit for use with a string of series-connected LEDs includes a semiconductor diode and resistor connected in series, which semiconductor diode and resistor combination become conductive upon the failure of an LED or upon the improper, reverse polarity connection of the string of series-connected LEDs to a power supply. When the semiconductor and resistor combination becomes conductive, a three-terminal gate-controlled semiconductor switching device becomes conductive, thereby bypassing the failed LED and protecting the integrity of the string of series-connected LEDs upon the improper reverse polarity connection of the string of series-connected LEDs to a power supply.

Abstract: An approach for subscriber migration to alternative access networks is described. A subscriber migration platform determines a fault in a wireline voice network associated with a subscriber premise, determines that the subscriber premise is associated with a chronic account based on the fault, and migrates the subscriber premise from the wireline voice network to a wireless voice network.

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: One embodiment relates to a radio frequency (RF) communication device. The RF communication device includes an antenna interface coupled to an antenna that exhibits a time-varying impedance. The RF communication device also includes a test interface coupled to RF test equipment that exhibits a test impedance. A tuning circuit in the RF communications device selectively provides a matched impedance to either the time-varying impedance or the test impedance based on feedback derived from the test interface. Other methods and systems are also disclosed.

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: An interface device and method for testing a telecommunication circuit by utilizing a test cord that has a first end that is integrated with the interface device and a second end that terminates with a test connector. Upon insertion of the test connector into a test port of a connectivity block, the interface device may be configured to allow for monitoring of the telecommunication circuit, without disrupting the circuit. Similarly, the interface device may be configured to disrupt the telecommunication circuit and allow a user to examine both sides of the circuit.

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 circuit (10) and method for providing test and/or monitoring access to at least two telecommunication lines (18). This circuit (10) comprises at least one bus (12) and at least two primary branches (14) extending there from, at least one of the primary branches (14) being provided with at least one switch (26), which in a first state connects the primary branch (14) with the bus (12) and in a second state connects the primary branch (14) with ground. The method comprises the step of connecting only that primary branch (14), through which access to a telecommunication line 18 is to be established, with the bus (12).

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 invention relates to a distribution frame (1) for telecommunications and data technology, the distribution frame (1) having a system side and a subscriber side, which are each formed by at least one distribution frame connection module (2, 3), the distribution frame connection modules (2, 3) each having a jumper side by means of which the electrical connections between the system side and the subscriber side can be changed, comprising an access matrix (15) by means of which the electrical connections are routed between the system side and the subscriber side, the electrical connection being passed on by means of the access matrix (15) or else being connected to a test unit (16) via a test bus (17), the access matrix (15) being arranged in the distribution frame connection module (3, 2) on the subscriber side or the system side, and to a distribution frame connection module (2, 3) suitable for this purpose.

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: The present invention discloses a system for testing subscriber lines and method thereof. The system includes a broadband line testing control module and a remote terminal subscriber access control module located at a subscriber line that is located between the broadband line testing control module and a remote terminal unit. The broadband line testing control module sends a signal of disconnecting the subscriber line to the remote terminal subscriber access control module, and tests the subscriber line. The remote terminal subscriber access control module receives said signal from the broadband line testing control module, and controls the remote terminal unit to disconnect from or connect to the subscriber line based on said signal. With the system and method according to the present invention, not only the precision of subscriber line testing is guaranteed, but also the subscriber lines can be periodically tested without manual operation.

Abstract: This invention generally relates to the arrangements for testing subscriber loops. The invention is based on a solution wherein a test head is behind the high-pass filter of the splitter. In order that this solution is possible, the splitter, i.e. the splitter box has to contain a relay and a relay control element. When a subscriber line is to be tested the test head sends a DC pulse to the relay control element, which directs the relay to connect the subscriber loop to bypass wirings through which the test head can perform necessary testing measurements. When the testing is over the relay control element directs the relay to switch back for connecting the subscriber loop to the common port of the filters.

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 communications device can include first and second input terminals configured to provide coupling with respective first and second conductors of a communications line, and first and second signal conductors respectively coupled with the first and second input terminals. A communications circuit can be coupled to the first and second signal conductors wherein the communications circuit provides a communications interface. A test switch can be configured to electrically couple the first and second signal conductors responsive to activation thereof, and an indicator circuit can be configured to provide indication of a completed electrical circuit through the test switch. Related circuits and methods are also discussed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a solution that automatically detects and connects the properly terminated line pair and then allows modem training to proceed. The present invention can set a control parameter at the physical layer that establishes a training “state” for the modem (115). Training states can determine whether or not automatic line detection (375) is utilized. Automatic line detection (375) can be accomplished by measuring the power levels (345, 350) on each of the line pairs (145, 150) and then selecting the line pair (145, 150) that has the highest power level measurement (345, 350) as the line on which to continue training the modem (115). The selected line pair (355) can be stored for use as the properly terminated line pair.

Abstract: This invention generally relates to the arrangements for testing subscriber loops. The invention is based on a solution wherein a test head is behind the high-pass filter of the splitter. In order that this solution is possible, the splitter, i.e. the splitter box has to contain a relay and a relay control element. When a subscriber line is to be tested the test head sends a DC pulse to the relay control element, which directs the relay to connect the subscriber loop to bypass wirings through which the test head can perform necessary testing measurements. When the testing is over the relay control element directs the relay to switch back for connecting the subscriber loop to the common port of the filters.

Abstract: An interface device and method for testing a telecommunication circuit by utilizing a test cord that has a first end that is integrated with the interface device and a second end that terminates with a test connector. Upon insertion of the test connector into a test port of a connectivity block, the interface device may be configured to allow for monitoring of the telecommunication circuit, without disrupting the circuit. Similarly, the interface device may be configured to disrupt the telecommunication circuit and allow a user to examine both sides of the circuit.

Abstract: An apparatus for the management and the remote and/or automatic control of electric characteristics and signal transmissivity of the metallic line pairs connected to a telephone exchange, including measurement means and means able to connect said measurement means to the single line pairs connected to the telephone exchange and to all of the lines of a distribution whether they are active or redundant.

Abstract: A telecommunication multi-service transport platform system is disclosed. It has at least one service card providing a predetermined telecommunication service, and at least one protection card for replacing the service card when the service card fails. The protection card further comprising one or more test ports connectable to an external testing tool, one or more protection circuits, and at least one relay module associated with the test ports for allowing the testing tool to be connected to the protection circuits through at least one test port for testing the service card when the protection card is in a standby mode and for disconnecting the testing tool from the protection circuits when the service card fails.

Abstract: A system for monitoring a plurality of communication circuits includes an impedance element configured to be switchably connected to one of the plurality of communication circuits. The impedance element is configured as a short circuit relative to the one of the plurality of communication circuits. The system includes an AC current mirror in communication with the impedance element. The system includes a monitor access element in communication with the AC current mirror. The system includes a communication circuit monitor configured to be connected to the monitor access element. To monitor the one of the plurality of communication circuits, the impedance element is switchably connected to the one of the plurality of communication circuits, thereby connecting the communication circuit monitor to the one of the plurality of communication circuits with a minimum of disruption to data communication within the one of the plurality of communication circuits.

Abstract: A central office modem (50) that includes the capability of single-ended loop testing (SELT) is disclosed. The modem (50) includes a digital signal processor (54), a codec (56), line driver and receiver circuitry (58), and a hybrid circuit (60), by way of which a subscriber loop (LOOP) can be driven and sensed. The line driver and receiver circuitry (58) may include a transformer (74a, 74b) for driving the loop (LOOP), or the output may be capacitively coupled. The line driver and receiver circuitry (58) includes active termination, by way of operational amplifiers (80a, 80b). Switches (82a, 82b; 84a, 84b) are provided to selectively enable and disable the active termination function, and to selectively bypass or include the hybrid circuit (60). This control of the line driver and receiver circuitry (58) provides the ability to calibrate out its own characteristics, providing high precision SELT measurements of the load impedance type, and of frequency domain reflectometry, and time domain reflectometry.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for remotely measuring characteristics of a communications line (4) wherein a receiver unit (8) is connected a remote end of line (4) between conductors (10,12) of the line (4) and a sender unit (6) is connected to the other end of line (4) between conductors (10,12). On depressing a function key or button (22) on receiver unit (8) representative of a characteristic of line (4) to be measured, the receiver unit has a signal generator (26) which transmits a unique signal or code identifying the characteristic to the sender unit (6) along line (4). The sender unit (6) detects the unique signal and passes the signal to a microprocessor (32) which controls switching means (34) to connect the corresponding circuitry between conductors (10,12), based on the unique signal or code, to allow the characteristic to be measured.

Abstract: A system for monitoring a communications circuit includes at least one impedance element connected to the communications circuit when the communications circuit is established. Communication devices communicating via the communications circuit adapt to the presence of the at least one impedance element. Each impedance element is switchably connected to a respective reference ground point. The system includes at least one monitor access element configured as a virtual reference ground point. Each impedance element is switchably disconnected from a respective monitor access element. The system includes at least one communications circuit monitor connected to the respective monitor access element. To monitor the communications circuit, the at least one impedance element is switchably connected to the respective monitor access element and switchably disconnected from the respective reference ground point.

Abstract: A test unit for determining whether a local telephone company demarcation point device is providing telecommunication signals to one of a plurality of telephone lines of a telephone system includes: a demarcation point connector that is configured to interface with a connector of the demarcation point; a telephone system connector that is configured to interface with a connector of the telephone system; a plurality of switches, each of the switches being configured to selectively connect a connection site of the demarcation point device with a corresponding connection site of the telephone system, the selective connection providing a telephone line therebetween; and an indicator that signals whether a designated connection site of the demarcation point device is providing telecommunication signals to its respective telephone line.

Abstract: Customer services terminal input connected between telephone exchange and outputs. Interface circuits provide service between input and outputs Test means applies test conditions to interface circuits and/or to outputs associated with the interface circuits, and/or to ring/tip pairs associated with interface circuits, and/or to telephone lines associated with interface circuits Other interface circuits service input to other outputs Test means analog-to-digital converter includes reference input, analog measuring input, ground potential input, and test output Normally de-energized calibration relay has normally-closed switches and normally-open switches. Normally-closed switch connects reference voltage to reference input. Another normally-closed switch connects analog measuring input to test means generated voltage.

Abstract: A telecommunications system includes a telephone exchange and a customer services terminal whose input is connected to the telephone exchange, and whose plural outputs are individually connected to one of a plurality of telephone lines. A plurality of interface circuits within the customer services terminal are individually connected intermediate the input and one of the plural outputs. Self-test means provides for the testing of selected interface circuits. Loop-test means provides for the testing of selected telephone lines. A self-test relay is responsive to the self-test means and operates to disconnect the selected outputs from corresponding telephone lines as self-test conditions are applied to selected interface circuits as these interface circuits are disconnected from the selected telephone lines. The loop test means applies loop-test conditions to selected interface circuits, while the selected interface circuits and the corresponding outputs remain connected to the corresponding telephone lines.

Abstract: A controllably switched arrangement selectively couples multiple circuit functions, such as reverse polarity detection, ring-trip and line voltage measurement, of a telecommunication card to the same external programming component (e.g., capacitor) on an as needed basis, by means of associated coupling circuits and a controlled switching circuit. The coupling circuits are controllably enabled/disabled in association with the particular circuit function required, while the controlled switching circuit selectively connects each coupling circuit with the external component. Through combined control of the coupling circuits and the switching circuit, respectively different circuit functions can be implemented with the same external component.

Abstract: The present invention provides for an apparatus and a method for testing and evaluating a transmission line. A set of command and data signals is received through an input/output interface. The command and data signals from the input/output interface are processed for controlling at least one relay. At least one switch is activated for testing a transmission signal line using the relay. The transmission signal line is tested based upon the activated switch.

Abstract: A DSL splitter providing test access to an interconnected subscriber loop and method are disclosed. The DSL splitter in a first test mode, provides access to allow testing of an interconnected subscriber loop by way of a DSL input. A disconnect in series with an associated low pass filter (LPF) disconnects POTS input. Such a splitter may similarly provide access to allow testing of the subscriber loop by way of the POTS input in a second test mode. In this second test mode, a by-pass by-passes the LPF, and a disconnect may disconnect an associated high pass filter (HPF) and DSL input. Preferably, the splitter only assumes its test modes after receipt of authorization from the other provider. The splitter may be controllable by way of a control circuit having an access port used to receive commands to have the splitter assume its normal, or first or second test mode. The splitter may assume its normal operating mode from a test mode, after expiry of a timeout timer.

Abstract: The eavesdropping prevention system and method of the present invention provides a controllable line selection unit which couples a receiver and a transmitter to a selected one of a plurality of subscriber loops according to the current channel of a time-multiplexed communication signal. The controllable line selection unit prevents meaningful detection and amplification of the leakage signal by physically isolating communication connections from each other. In the preferred embodiment, the controllable line selection unit actuates a plurality of switches coupled to a plurality of communication connections. Alternative embodiments of a controllable line selection unit are described.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for selecting a supported signal path for a transceiver in a communication system is provided. An exemplary embodiment of the apparatus includes a relay for selecting a first test signal path from a first signal path and a second signal path. A signal detector coupled to the relay may be used to determine whether a specified signal type is present on the first test signal path. A relay controller causes the relay to select a second test signal path from the first signal path and the second signal path in response to the signal detector determining that the specified signal type is not present on the first test signal path.

Abstract: The invention described herein relates to a splitter bypass system and method for monitoring, testing and maintaining copper loops and lines. Switching devices are implemented in the present invention to bypass a low pass filter and/or a high pass filter in the splitter, thereby actuating bypass functions to bypass a splitter or portions thereof for enabling pure metallic access to the loop, digital equipment, voice equipment, and/or test equipment. The splitter bypass function can be used with a conventional splitter in the current voice and digital system. The splitter bypass operation includes selecting a copper loop or portions thereof for monitoring, testing and maintenance.

Abstract: A power fault testing apparatus for testing telecommunications equipment interfaces to Telcordia's 2nd Level AC power fault standards. The apparatus is powered by a three-phase 480 VAC, 600 A power service. A plurality of transformers, including a variable autotransformer and a fixed transformer, and load resistor banks are coupled to the power source in a network organized as a plurality of selectable and switchable power paths for interfacing with an Equipment Under Test (EUT) operable to be disposed in a test chamber. Power output of the fixed transformer is referenced to a single point ground positioned at a relay bank. The power to the EUT is referenced to building ground that is tied to the single point ground of the fixed transformer. The fixed transformer thereby operates as an isolation transformer, which allows for testing the EUT while operating under power.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a remotely actuated splitter bypass function (RASB) working in conjunction with a test head at the central office for testing and maintaining copper loops in the digital subscriber line environment. The RASB allows a competitive local exchange carrier to test and maintain the xDSL portion of the copper loop with minimal interference and disturbance to/from the plain old telephone system (POTS) service by bypassing the central office splitter. The splitter bypass operation includes the steps of selecting a copper loop pair for testing, actuating a first relay for monitor mode, actuating a second relay for bypass mode, testing the selected copper loop, and resetting the first and second relays back to normal mode. By applying positive and negative voltages from the tip and ring with respect to ground, various relays can be set (actuated) and reset to provide multiple modes of operations.

Abstract: A data protector for telephony test equipment, comprising a relay for selectively connecting the telephony test equipment to a telecommunication line, and electronic circuitry. The electronic circuitry includes a detector portion adapted for detecting signals within a continuous band of frequencies present on the telecommunication line, and a microcontroller. The microcontroller has a frequency counter function for determining whether data is present on the telecommunication line, a relay connect control function for selectively controlling the relay to connect the telephony test equipment to the telecommunication line, and an alert operator function for producing a signal if the detected frequency is above a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A telephone network interface device (NID) includes a test circuit that is readily connected and disconnected. The NID has a portion of an electrical circuit that connects a pair of provider wires as well as a pair of test wires to a pair of subscriber terminals. The test wires lead to a test circuit on the provider side of the housing of the NID. The subscriber terminals are located on the subscriber side of the housing to interconnect the provider wires with a pair of subscriber wires. A jack in the NID has a normal mode of operation in which the provider wires are electrically connected to the subscriber wires and a test mode of operation in which the provider wires are disconnected from the subscriber wires. A pair of lead wires are electrically connected to the jack and have free ends that connect to the subscriber terminals. This connects the test circuit in parallel physically and electrically between the provider wires and the subscriber wires.

Abstract: A power fault testing apparatus for testing telecommunications interfaces to BellCore's 2nd Level AC power fault standards. The apparatus is powered by a three-phase 480 VAC, 600 A power service. A plurality of transformers and load resistor banks are coupled to the power source in a network organized as a plurality of selectable and switchable power paths for interfacing to tip-and-ring interfaces or broadband coaxial cable interfaces of telecom equipment. Power relays are provided for interconnecting the transformers and load resistor banks in the network arrangement. Computer-controlled output relays are included for effectuating precise, repetitive time duration control of output power applied to the telecom interfaces under test.

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: An apparatus for use in an all digital loop contains a first network node (30), a second network node (31), and a data transmission line (32) there between. Each one of the first and second network nodes (30, 31) is operable to transmit to the other at least one digitised telephone signal with other digital data via a set of carriers. One of the first and second network nodes (30, 31) thereto includes or is associated with means which in the event of power failure at the first network node (30), is operable selectively to provide power to the first node (30) such that the first node (30) operates only via a limited subset of said carriers. This limited subset is such as to minimise the power required for the transmission of a telephone lifeline signal between the first and second nodes (30, 31).

Abstract: Metallic testing of a subscriber loop that provides voice and DSL services is provided by a voice switch and DSL services, each of which includes a metallic test unit. A voice line card has a connection to a first metallic test bus connected to the voice switch metallic test unit via a first relay set configured to connect the metallic test bus to the subscriber loop and to disconnect the subscriber loop from the line card during testing. The DSL line card has a connection to a second metallic test bus, which is also connected to the DSLAM metallic test unit, and to the subscriber loop. A second set of relays control the connection of the metallic test bus to the line card to the subscriber loop. A signal is sent from either metallic test unit to cause the relays to change to provide a clear path for metallic testing from DC to light.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a remotely actuated splitter bypass function (RASB) working in conjunction with a test head at the central office for testing and maintaining copper loops in the digital subscriber line environment. The RASB allows a competitive local exchange carrier to test and maintain the xDSL portion of the copper loop with minimal interference and disturbance to/from the plain old telephone system (POTS) service by bypassing the central office splitter. The splitter bypass operation includes the steps of selecting a copper loop pair for testing, actuating a first relay for monitor mode, actuating a second relay for bypass mode, testing the selected copper loop, and resetting the first and second relays back to normal mode. By applying positive and negative voltages from the tip and ring with respect to ground, various relays can be set (actuated) and reset to provide multiple modes of operations.

Abstract: An electronic relay matrix (22) is connectable between a plurality of customer telephone lines and a plurality of testers (2, 201-203). The electronic relay matrix (22) includes a line matrix (80) having a plurality of relay assemblies (821-8250). Each relay assembly (82) in a relaxed state connects together the line-side (12) and the drop-side (8) of one of the customer telephone lines. Each relay assembly (82) is adjustable to enable one of the plurality of testers (2, 201-203) to be connected to the drop-side (8) and/or the line-side (12) of a desired customer telephone line.

Abstract: A system and method for accessing a number of communication lines by one or more testing devices is disclosed. Each of the communications lines is coupled through the system and includes a first termination at a first telecommunications termination site and a second termination at a second telecommunications termination site. The system includes a number of line access devices, each of which is coupled to at least one of the communication lines terminating at the first telecommunications termination site and at least one of the communication lines terminating at the second telecommunications termination site. The system further includes a test device interface, signal direction circuitry, a communications device that facilitates remote access to the test access system by a remote processing unit, and a control device.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method a method for testing, configuring, and evaluating a transmission line. The method receives a set of command and data signals through an input/output interface and processes the command and data signals from the input/output interface for controlling at least one relay. The method also activates at least one switch for testing and improving a transmission signal line using the relay and testing and emulating the transmission signal line based upon the activated switch. The method also configures the transmission signal line based upon the testing and emulating.

Abstract: A telephonic apparatus comprises terminals for connecting it to respective electric cables, telephonic circuitry, and a switch between the terminals and the circuitry. It also includes a sensor for detecting a DC voltage above a first level between said terminals. It the sensor detects a DC voltage between said terminals above the first level, it prevents the switch from connecting the circuitry between the terminals.

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.