Using Portable Test Set (e.g., Handset Type) Patents (Class 379/21)
  • Patent number: 11815560
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method of analyzing an electrical wiring harness assembly comprises receiving, via a processing element, a test result associated with the electrical wiring harness assembly; determining, via the processing element, a probable error type based on the test result; retrieving from a memory element, via the processing element, a plurality of natural language terms associated with the probable error type, each of the plurality of natural language terms having a corresponding phrase order value; and reporting, via a user interface, each of the plurality of natural language terms in an order according to the phrase order values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: DIT-MCO INTERNATIONAL LLC
    Inventor: David Alan Shier
  • Patent number: 11785396
    Abstract: An Internet-connected system and method for adapting a hearing configuration in a smart environment includes a hearing system including a hearing device. The hearing system connects to the Internet and transmits or receives an identification parameter corresponding to the hearing system. The hearing system receives a hearing program parameter over the Internet for configuring the hearing device when the hearing system is within a smart environment defined by a smart space system. The hearing program parameter computed is based on an environmental parameter measured within the smart environment by a sensor system of the smart space system. The hearing program parameter is sent to the hearing system over the Internet in response to a discovery system of the smart space system detecting the presence of the hearing system in the smart environment in response to receiving the identification parameter. The hearing device is programmed based on the hearing program parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: Starkey Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Tao Zhang, Dean G. Meyer, Kelly R. Fitz, Ulrike Axen
  • Patent number: 11423128
    Abstract: A method for setting permissions of a user in a system in an information exchange unit is disclosed in the present invention, including: setting multiple information sections for the information exchange unit; setting participation roles for each information section respectively, wherein the participation role includes one or more roles in the system; and setting permissions of each of the participation roles in the information section, wherein each role is an independent individual not a group/a class, one role can only be related to a unique user during the same period, and one user is related to one or more roles; and creating relations between users and roles in the system. According to the present invention, when an employee changes his/her work content or is transferred from a post, permissions of the employee in an information section of the information exchange unit do not have to be set separately.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2022
    Assignee: CHENGDU QIANNIUCAO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Dazhi Chen
  • Patent number: 11205149
    Abstract: System, methods, and devices for measuring the performance of a component of a communications network recently installed by a technician using proactive network maintenance parameters, and further assessing the installation performed by the technician.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2021
    Assignee: Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Harvey Howard, Thomas Martin Davidson, Dean Alan Stoneback, Steven Richard Harris, Pamela Ann Nobles, Christopher Dale Bastian
  • Patent number: 11044109
    Abstract: Utilizing a data cable infrastructure to provide power includes a detector to determine whether data cables in the data cable infrastructure are being used by a data service provider, a circuit to determine an amount of power that can be provided on each of a number of wires within the data cables, and an adjustable power supply of a power system to selectively provide power over the wires within the data cables in the amount determined by the circuit and based on whether the detector determines the data cables to be in use by the data service provider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: John Michael Main, David H. Hanes, Matthew Flach
  • Patent number: 10841413
    Abstract: The disclosed technology teaches ad hoc testing a connection between subscriber mobile phone and counterpart location with which the subscriber is having trouble, including positioning a test harness near the location, remote from the subscriber and from a service technician. The harness includes a controller, two mobile phones with an audio cross-over cable connection between, and control connections between controller and phones. The cable feeds output of respective speakers to respective microphones and inhibits transmission between the phones of signals for button presses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: Spirent Communications, Inc.
    Inventors: Revanth K. Pentakota, Laukik R. Deshpande, Dat Phan
  • Patent number: 10313204
    Abstract: A method, system, and network providing hardware and software inventorying and monitoring provide the status of a local network of interconnected information technology devices. A user downloads and installs a local network monitoring software program from an online source onto a host computer system. The local network monitoring software system initiates an inventory of all information technology devices associated with said local network of information technology devices. Also, the local network monitoring software determines the operational status of the information technology devices and the status of software programs installed on the information technology devices. The results of the inventory and status determinations are presented to the host computer system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Inventor: Francis Sullivan
  • Patent number: 10094870
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for locating a fault affecting an electrical appliance that comprises a communication interface and a female electrical connector, the female electrical connector comprising at least one conductive element mounted movable between an active position and a rest position, the female electrical connector comprising test means connected to the conductive element when same is in the rest position; the locating method comprising: a disconnection step; a test step consisting of testing the communication interface by cooperating with the test means of the female electrical connector; a locating step consisting of locating the fault in the electrical appliance or in an external element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: SAGEMCOM BROADBAND SAS
    Inventor: Nicolas Dangy-Caye
  • Patent number: 10092746
    Abstract: A test apparatus for an implantable electrode line and also for an electrode line and an implantable device, including a directional coupler or a circulator for coupling an electrical test symbol into at least one electrical conductor of the electrode line and for decoupling the reflected test signal from the electrical conductor of the electrode line. Such a directional coupler makes it possible to couple a test signal, e.g., a steep voltage pulse, into an electrical conductor of the electrode line and to decouple again the returning reflected voltage pulse (namely, the reflected test signal) from the electrical conductor by means of the directional coupler or circulator. A method for testing an electrical conductor of an implantable electrode line including: 1) coupling a test signal into the electrical conductor; 2) decoupling the test signal reflected in the electrical conductor from the electrical conductor; and 3) evaluating the reflected test signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: BIOTRONIK SE & Co. KG
    Inventors: Uwe Stuermer, Thomas Doerr
  • Patent number: 10075356
    Abstract: Example methods disclosed herein to prioritize anomalies in a communication network include classifying respective nodes in the communication network as normal, abnormal or indeterminate based on measurements received for the nodes. Disclosed example methods also include selecting a subset of the nodes classified as abnormal to be root cause abnormal nodes representing sources of the anomalies in the communication network, respective ones of the root cause abnormal nodes being abnormal nodes identified in the communication network and determined to have respective sets of direct descendent nodes having majorities of nodes classified as abnormal or indeterminate. Disclosed example methods further include combining respective anomaly sizes and anomaly scopes determined for the respective ones of root cause abnormal nodes based on the measurements to determine respective rankings for the root cause abnormal nodes, and outputting the respective rankings to prioritize the set of root cause abnormal nodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.
    Inventors: Dan Pei, Ashley Flavel, Zihui Ge, Alexandre Gerber, Hiren Shah, He Yan
  • Patent number: 9999076
    Abstract: Disclosed is a surveillance applicable prioritized wireless communication system comprising one or more mobile surveillance applicable devices and one or more wireless networking nodes using a prioritized communication method, capable of faster response to emergencies and faster and more secured acquisition of real time scene evidences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: Real Imaging Technology Co. ltd
    Inventor: Xiaoning Huai
  • Patent number: 9674487
    Abstract: A transmission system includes a transmission terminal locally reproducing video and voice data and transmitting and receiving the video and voice data via a network; a relay apparatus transmitting the video data and voice data to another transmission terminal or the transmission terminal; and a transmission management apparatus managing a session for a single transmission terminal. Further, the transmission terminal sends a request for establishing a session for a single site to the relay apparatus via the transmission management apparatus, and the relay apparatus establishes the session for the single site related to the transmission terminal so that a connection check process is performed on the transmission terminal within the single site only.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: RICOH COMPANY, LTD.
    Inventor: Kumiko Yoshida
  • Patent number: 9629186
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods for a point to node based surveillance applicable prioritized wireless communication system comprising one or more wireless communication devices and one or more wireless networking nodes using a prioritized wireless communication method, capable of faster response to emergencies and faster and more secured acquisition of real time scene evidences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Inventor: Xiaoning Huai
  • Patent number: 9621064
    Abstract: In a voltage-type DC power supply provided with an inverter, current supply from the inverter to the load side is suppressed when arc is generated. DC output from the voltage-type DC power supply is suspended and resumed: upon suspending the DC output, the chopper is separated from the inverter, thereby suppressing excessive current to the load when arc is generated, allowing the arc to be extinguished at high speed, and holding the current passing through the chopper in the form of circulating current. Upon restarting the inverter, the circulating current being held is supplied to the load, thereby reducing a delay of supply of DC power to the load at the time of resuming the DC output from the voltage-type DC power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: KYOSAN ELECTRIC MFG. CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Itsuo Yuzurihara, Shinichi Kodama, Toshiyuki Adachi
  • Patent number: 9332344
    Abstract: A emitter circuit for providing a bias voltage is disclosed. The emitter circuit can comprise an emitter. The emitter circuit can comprise a transductor that includes a primary winding and a secondary winding. The secondary winding can be operable to receive an alternating current (AC) carrier signal. The emitter circuit can comprise a voltage multiplier operable to receive the AC carrier signal from the secondary winding and generate a DC bias voltage. The emitter circuit can comprise a zener diode to limit an amplitude of the DC bias voltage applied across the emitter. The emitter circuit can comprise a filter capacitor operable to smooth the DC bias voltage applied across the emitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: Turtle Beach Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen Wood, Elwood Norris
  • Patent number: 9264973
    Abstract: A wireless communication system for use in a process environment uses mesh and possibly a combination of mesh and point-to-point communications to produce a wireless communication network that can be easily set up, configured, changed and monitored, thereby making a wireless communication network that is less expensive, and more robust and reliable. The wireless communication system allows virtual communication paths to be established and used within the process control system in a manner that is independent of the manner in which the wireless signals are sent between different wireless transmitting and receiving devices within the process plant. Still further, communication analysis tools are provided to enable a user or operator to view the operation of the wireless communication network to thereby analyze the ongoing operation of the wireless communications within the wireless communication network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: FISHER-ROSEMOUNT SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: John R. Shepard, Joe Nelson
  • Patent number: 9154984
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to techniques for estimating network performance of a mobile device. The techniques include a performance logging module and a performance analysis module. The performance logging module logs realized network performance of previously performed network operations and the operational conditions of a mobile device at the time of the performed network operations. The performance analysis module receives requests to estimate network performance, the requests including the current condition of the mobile device at the time of the request. The performance analysis module determines a network performance estimate based on the current condition of the mobile device and the operational conditions of the previously performed network operations, and the realized network performances of the previously performed network operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: Arvind Jain
  • Patent number: 9148504
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method, a node, a system and a computer program for input impedance measurements in the form of return loss measurements, such as single-ended line testing. The disclosure also relates to a communication system having a near-end terminal and at least one far-end terminal. The near-end terminal is capable of communicating instructions to the far-end terminal in order for the near-end terminal to perform echo impulse response measurements on subsequent states of impedance for comparing, analyzing and for enabling improved localization of faults.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET L M ERICSSON (PUBL)
    Inventors: Miguel Berg, Daniel Cederholm, Chenguang Lu
  • Patent number: 9148505
    Abstract: A hand held test instrument for testing a DSL line is provided. The test instrument includes an interface for unintrusive connection with the DSL under test. The interface is configured to capture Radio Frequency (RF) signals corresponding to a portion of a data stream transmitted by a communication device over the DSL under test. The hand held test instrument further includes a controller module configured to identify unique characteristics of the communication device based on the captured RF signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: Fluke Corporation
    Inventors: Paul S. Swanson, Clinton J. Wooton, Michael Imhof
  • Patent number: 9094869
    Abstract: A method and a system for service quality monitoring in a network includes radio interfaces. The measurements are end-to-end measurements between the end user and chosen network element. The measurements are implemented using monitoring stations which can monitor the traffic passively or actively by transmitting test signals. The antenna beam directions of the monitoring stations can be controlled. The performance server works as a counterpart of the active tests. A reporting suite may define the performed measurements and it also collects the measurement data from different monitoring stations. Monitoring data from several corporate intranets can also be collected to an external server through internet connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: 7Signal Oy
    Inventor: Veli-Pekka Ketonen
  • Patent number: 9083525
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for generating random jitter test patterns by generating a sequence of maximum-size asynchronous packets according to the P1394b standard and transmitting the sequence to the device under test. The present invention provides a method for generating jitter test patterns by disabling the transmitter data scrambler of the second device; clearing the port_error register of the device under test; and sending a test pattern to said device under test. The present invention provides for a method for generating supply noise test patterns comprising: transmitting a test pattern to the DUT comprising a maximum length asynchronous packet containing alternate 0016 and FF16 bytes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Colin Whitby-Strevens
  • Patent number: 9065933
    Abstract: An apparatus used to interface to a communications network is provided. Specifically, the apparatus is for placement in a network interface device (NID). An interface module that may be used as a splitter and balun for telephone and data services is also provided. The interface module may include a housing containing a pivotal rearward extending portion, in which a bottom of the pivotal rearward extending portion is above a bottom of an adjacent portion of the housing providing an open region below the bottom of the pivotal rearward extending portion, at least one wire extending from a front portion of the housing and connecting a balanced pair of telephone wires from the telephone company to the customer premises, and a coaxial connector disposed on a side of the pivotal rearward extending portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: AFL Telecommunications LLC
    Inventors: Michael Singaliese, Fred A. Traut
  • Patent number: 8897422
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of testing a transmission line from a copper access network. The transmission line is tested to generate values for a plurality of network parameters. Using previously determined test results, it is possible to calculate an estimate of the length of the transmission line based on the values of each of the measured parameters. These estimates of the transmission line length can then be used to compute a weighted average of the transmission line length. An inference of the condition of the transmission line can be made by comparing the estimates of the length of the transmission line with the weighted average length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: BRITISH TELECOMMUNICATIONS public limited company
    Inventors: Stephen C Beaumont, Christopher B Hatch
  • Patent number: 8861695
    Abstract: A communication system receives data that does not pertain to an attempted initial establishment of a communication. The communication system uses a new message format under an existing analog Caller ID standard. The communication system inserts the data (which can be in addition to existing Caller ID data) into a Caller ID message that uses the new message format. The communication system then sends the Caller ID message to a communication device/Private Branch Exchange (PBX)/contact center that can interpret the new message format. The communication device/PBX/contact center can use the data to further route the communication to a specific telephone and/or can use the data to display information such as Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates of a cell phone. The data can enhance the capabilities of devices and systems that currently work under the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Avaya Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas M. Grover, Paul Roller Michaelis
  • Patent number: 8811577
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention disclose an ATCA data exchange system which includes: a backboard, at least one exchange board and service board. The exchange board includes at least one Fabric port group, each of which is connected to a service board through the backboard to form a first exchange channel for broadband service, the Fabric port group includes four difference sending and receiving port pairs, and each port pair includes a pair of difference receiving and sending ports. A connector 20 in the Fabric interface of the exchange board includes at least one port pair, and each port pair is connected to a service board through the backboard to form a second exchange channel and is configured for a separate narrowband service data exchange that is independent of the broadband data exchange. Thus to simplify the processing of narrowband data and to decrease the time delay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fangmin Lu, Jianxing Liao, Ying Shi
  • Patent number: 8588374
    Abstract: Telephone test sets include a telephone test set housing and at least one lead that extends away from the telephone test set housing. The lead is configured to be coupled to a telephone line. A light source, a data port and/or a display are integrated with the telephone test set housing. The light source is configured to project light away from the telephone test set to illuminate an area adjacent the telephone test set. The data port is configured to receive a data jack operatively associated with a communications device. The display is configured to display identification information associated with the telephone line. Related methods and systems are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.
    Inventors: Blake R. Urban, Jorge Cobas
  • Patent number: 8571183
    Abstract: An apparatus such as a tool for testing lines at a network distribution cabinet allows the connection to the network of subscriber twisted pairs. The apparatus includes inputs for the connection of probes adapted to contact pairs of connection terminals of the distribution cabinet for the connection of the subscriber twisted pairs; a line test unit adapted to perform tests on the lines under the control of a programmable control unit; at least one memory for storing the results of the tests. The control unit is adapted to automatically perform a test of the lines terminating at the distribution cabinet according to a predetermined sequence, and to store the results of the test in a structured form in which a unique association is established between a physical position of each pair of terminal clamps in the distribution cabinet and the results of the test conducted on the corresponding lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Telecom Italia S.p.A.
    Inventor: Fabio Gro
  • Patent number: 8553846
    Abstract: A phone test set provides modem capability in a hand held device, enabling bi-directional data communications. Demodulation is provided by sampling digitized incoming phone line signals at 4 times carrier frequency, and employing values representing 0 and 90 degree samples to extract the information signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Fluke Corporation
    Inventors: Paul S Swanson, Danny L Maupin
  • Patent number: 8553571
    Abstract: A method of automatic response and loop-backing is developed for remotely measuring the quality of the Internet telephone by IP phone. When a quality measuring instrument is requested to measure the quality of Internet telephone, a request call is placed to an IP phone for quality measurement. The method of automatic response and loopback is enable the IP phone to handle the call for quality measuring without interrupting the user of IP phone without affecting utilization of supplementary Internet telephone services.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventors: Sun Joo Yang, Joo Young Kim
  • Patent number: 8526583
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for enabling a media terminal adapter (MTA) for locally ringing back coupled telephones having a caller identification display. Management information base (MIB) objects are defined to enable a caller identification information function along with caller identification name and number in order to verify the caller identification information is working properly. A technician or user dials a predetermined digit string from a coupled telephone, and the MTA responds with the defined caller identification information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: James M. Burns, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8494120
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: General Instrument Corporation
    Inventors: Dipak R. Patel, Robert L. Kirkner, Scott A. Reinert
  • Publication number: 20130182830
    Abstract: A portable signal testing system includes a transmitter, a first dynamically tunable receiver, a second dynamically tunable receiver, a first indicator and a second indicator. The transmitter transmits over a wired communications link a first signal having a corresponding first frequency representative of a first frequency range of the wired communications link, and transmits over the wired communications link a second signal having a corresponding second frequency representative of a second frequency range of the wired communications link. Signal losses for the first signal and second signal are measured, and indicators indicate whether the signal losses are acceptable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I, L.P.
    Inventor: AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I, L.P.
  • Patent number: 8451979
    Abstract: A system for correlating a subscriber unit to a physical port in a point to multipoint wire line network is disclosed. An installer is prompted to manually input a location code associated with the subscriber. The location code in the subscriber unit is received, and is transmitted via the network to a central repository. The location code is stored in the central repository toward associating the location code with the physical port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Calix, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert M. Lund, Chris D. Koch, Milton J. Johnson, Joel K. Lagerquist, Daniel R. Oelke, Jeffrey T. Kays, Joseph J. Knudsen, Steven J. Talus
  • Publication number: 20130101092
    Abstract: A handheld test device includes a keypad having keys associated with tests that can be performed on a subscriber line. The keys are arranged in rows to correspond intuitively with networking layers of the subscriber line and with an order in which to test those layers. Keys of a first row are associated with testing at a physical layer, of a second row with testing at a DSL layer, and of a third row with testing at a service layer. The test device is connected to the subscriber line at a location between CO and CPE, and powered on. In response to being powered on, without technician involvement, the test device automatically detects at least one of CO equipment and CPE on the subscriber line, and trains the test device with the detected equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: AWARE, INC.
    Inventors: James M. Wahl, Robert J. Medros
  • Patent number: 8406380
    Abstract: The invention provides a test phone whereby the test phone comprises means to communicate to a server, means to generate SIP signaling towards the server, whereby the test phone by means for SIP signaling may request the server to set-up a test call using specific resources for routing said test call.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (Publ)
    Inventors: Joerg Christian Ewert, Ola Melander
  • Publication number: 20130070908
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of testing a transmission line from a copper access network. The transmission line is tested to generate values for a plurality of network parameters. Using previously determined test results, it is possible to calculate an estimate of the length of the transmission line based on the values of each of the measured parameters. These estimates of the transmission line length can then be used to compute a weighted average of the transmission line length. An inference of the condition of the transmission line can be made by comparing the estimates of the length of the transmission line with the weighted average length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: BRITISH TELECOMMUNICATIONS public limited company
    Inventors: Stephen C. Beaumont, Christopher B. Hatch
  • Patent number: 8385973
    Abstract: A system for remote control of equipment such as office equipment is provided. The system involving a telephone interface and a control system. A method is provided for remote equipment control having steps of installing and configuring equipment. A method is provided controlling equipment remotely having steps relating to using elements of a control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventors: Peter Tamposi, Frank Thibodeau, Michael U. Bosowski
  • Patent number: 8340253
    Abstract: A telephone line terminator has a plug-in end to connect to a protector socket instead of the protector, which in turn is plugged in at a protector receptacle integrated with the terminator to provide continuous line protection while the terminator is connected to the telephone line. The terminator is dimensioned to fit in between adjacent protectors in a main frame. The terminator has circuitry powered by batteries to receive remote control signals for selectively ground connecting the wires. The batteries may be replaceable or rechargeable via voltage from the connected telephone line or via a separate charger that connects also via the plug-in end. A tone generator may provide a line tone and a warble tone in conjunction with several operation modes activated by a multi selecting push button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Kevin B. Larkin
  • Patent number: 8331538
    Abstract: A localized digital telephone network may automatically contact a centralized server to identify telephone numbers that connect the local network to a public switched telephone network (PSTN). The server may be a remote identification server that receives calls from local networks, and informs the local networks of the telephone numbers being used by the local networks. The server may capture caller-ID information of the incoming calls, and may return the calls with the captured information encoded in caller-ID signals of the return calls. A method for automated detection may include acts in which a local network generates an outgoing call to a server on a communications port, and then detects an incoming call from the server on the communications port. The local network may determine a caller identifier from the incoming call, and may map the caller identifier to the communications port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Cisco Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: James R. Tighe
  • Publication number: 20120257726
    Abstract: Telephone test sets include a telephone test set housing and at least one lead that extends away from the telephone test set housing. The lead is configured to be coupled to a telephone line. A light source, a data port and/or a display are integrated with the telephone test set housing. The light source is configured to project light away from the telephone test set to illuminate an area adjacent the telephone test set. The data port is configured to receive a data jack operatively associated with a communications device. The display is configured to display identification information associated with the telephone line. Related methods and systems are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Inventors: Blake R. Urban, Jorge Cobas
  • Patent number: 8284904
    Abstract: A method for evaluating the integrity of a cable shield utilizing wideband noise-to-ground measurements is provided. Upon determining that trouble with the cable shield exists, a method s is provided to isolate the location of the trouble with the cable shield. The method utilizes access locations along the cable and therefore does not require opening of the cable shield to isolate the trouble in the shield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Textron Innovations Inc.
    Inventor: Robert G. Crick
  • Publication number: 20120237001
    Abstract: A phone test set provides TDR capability in a hand held device, enabling measurements on phone lines including, distance to opens, distance to shorts, and distance to bridge taps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: FLUKE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Paul Alexander, Melissa Eiles, Paul S. Swanson, Russ Meyer, Danny L. Maupin, Sean O'Brien
  • Patent number: 8259906
    Abstract: A handset test adapter includes a telephone jack operable to receive a cord for testing a communications connection. The communications connection being POTS or DSL service. The handset test adapter includes a switch in communication with the telephone jack and a telephone plug in communication with the switch. The telephone plug is operable to communicate with a handset tester for testing the DSL service. The handset test adapter includes electrical plugs in communication with the switch. The electrical plugs are operable to communicate with the handset tester for testing the POTS. The switch is operable to receive a user selection of POTS or DSL service. The switch connects the telephone jack to the telephone plug in response to the user selection indicating DSL service, and the switch connects the telephone jack to the electrical plugs in response to the user selection indicating POTS.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: CenturyLink Intellectual Property LLC
    Inventors: James T. Knudson, John C. Albertson
  • Patent number: 8259907
    Abstract: A system and method for assisting telephone service technicians in repairing communications lines may include storing test parameters for testing operation of a communications line. An operational parameter of communications over the communications line may be tested and a determination as to whether the operational parameter meets an operational criteria established by at least one of the test parameters may be made. The measured operational parameters and a test result indicator may be stored. If the operational parameter met the operational criteria, then an indication that the operational parameter passed a test may be made. Otherwise, (i) an indication that the operational parameter did not pass the test, (ii) possible causes for the operational parameter failing the test, and (iii) recommendations for correcting at least one possible problem that lead to the operational parameter not passing the test may be displayed for a technician.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: CenturyLink Intellectual Property LLC
    Inventors: Kimberly Irenze, Robert Scarboro
  • Patent number: 8229077
    Abstract: Telephone test sets include a telephone test set housing and at least one lead that extends away from the telephone test set housing. The lead is configured to be coupled to a telephone line. A light source, a data port and/or a display are integrated with the telephone test set housing. The light source is configured to project light away from the telephone test set to illuminate an area adjacent the telephone test set. The data port is configured to receive a data jack operatively associated with a communications device. The display is configured to display identification information associated with the telephone line. Related methods and systems are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.
    Inventors: Blake R. Urban, Jorge Cobas
  • Patent number: 8213577
    Abstract: A phone test set provides modem capability in a hand held device, enabling bi-directional data communications. Demodulation is provided by sampling digitized incoming phone line signals at 4 times carrier frequency, and employing values representing 0 and 90 degree samples to extract the information signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Fluke Corporation
    Inventors: Paul S. Swanson, Danny L. Maupin
  • Patent number: 8184777
    Abstract: A test cable is spooled on a spring loaded cable reel that is structurally connected to a buttset via an anchor that holds on to a cable outlet of the buttset housing. A releasable ratchet holds the spool against a reeling spring such that the pulled out test cable may be conveniently handled without cable tension. To retract the test cable, the ratchet may be released by a small pull on the test cable. A number of such cable reels may be stacked inside a compact housing. Existing buttsets may be easily retrofitted by merely replacing its strain relief and dangling test cable. As a favorable result, test cable damage due to its wrapping around the buttset is avoided while test cable handling is optimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Kevin B. Larkin
  • Patent number: 8170181
    Abstract: A compact multifunction 5-terminal type compatible telephone line tester has batteries fitted in its frontal access shaft that fits into a to be tested connector between tightly arrayed protectors assembled in a cross connect box. A light powered by the battery is integrated at the tester front face in between the connection pins. The protector removed from the to be tested connector may be inserted in a terminal that laterally extends from the tester. An electric circuit tests and indicates the protector condition and switches the light on upon manual pushing of a switch. The electric circuitry is powered by the batteries. A mechanical switch is actuated by the protector housing while the protector is connected to the terminal for automated protector through connection to the to be tested connector. Lateral terminals and a jack connector on the back side provide access to the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventor: Kevin B. Larkin
  • Publication number: 20120071158
    Abstract: A portable telecommunication test set with a web browser incorporated therein is provided. A standard Hyper Text Mark-up Language or Wireless Application Protocol browser may be incorporated within the portable test set, allowing a network technician to access the Internet as well as other remotely-located sources of information to retrieve data and other useful technical information while in the field for communication network or telephone line maintenance, troubleshooting or repair. The test set may contain memory to locally store certain technical information that may be retrieved and “read” by the built-in browser module when prompted by the network technician. The web browser may display the content of the requested information on a display provided on the test set. Line-specific (as well as manufacturer-specific) test information need not be in a manufacturer-dictated proprietary format. Testing-related data may thus be supplied by a vendor other than the manufacturer of the test set.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I, LP
    Inventors: Samuel N. Zellner, Nathan Sargent, Mark J. Enzmann, Robert T. Moton, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120008750
    Abstract: An apparatus such as a tool for testing lines at a network distribution cabinet allows the connection to the network of subscriber twisted pairs. The apparatus includes inputs for the connection of probes adapted to contact pairs of connection terminals of the distribution cabinet for the connection of the subscriber twisted pairs; a line test unit adapted to perform tests on the lines under the control of a programmable control unit; at least one memory for storing the results of the tests. The control unit is adapted to automatically perform a test of the lines terminating at the distribution cabinet according to a predetermined sequence, and to store the results of the test in a structured form in which a unique association is established between a physical position of each pair of terminal clamps in the distribution cabinet and the results of the test conducted on the corresponding lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicant: TELECOM ITALIA S.P.A.
    Inventor: Fabio Gro