Importance

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Abstract

A meter interface unit for interconnecting utility meter reading apparatus to a telephone line to allow the automatic reading of utility usage at the telephone central office in response to an interrogation signal from the telephone central office. The meter interface unit converts meter reading signals to alternating signals for transmission to the telephone central office when a subscriber's telephone is on-hook. The unit also encodes a subscriber or customer identification signal which is transmitted with utility usage data to eliminate the need of any manual reading of the utility meter at the customer's premises. The meter interface unit is powered over the telephone line.

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First Claim