Importance

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Abstract

A outbound telemetry device type of meter interface unit (MIU) is provided which enables the automated collection of utility consumption information from a telephone subscriber's site via a conventional subscriber phone line between a central office and the subscriber's site. The unit includes a processor which is capable of collecting consumption information at the subscriber's site. The processor draws electrical power from the phone line in an electrically isolated fashion. When the unit detects the presence of an alerting signal intended for that particular unit, the unit seizes the phone line. The processor then transmits telemetry data with respect to the information back over the phone line. The unit continues the seizure of the phone line for so long as the telemetry data transmission from the processor continues. The unit includes a data detection circuit which detects when the telemetry data transmission ceases. A disengaging circuit within the meter interface unit disengages the unit from the phone line when the detection circuit detects that the telemetry data transmission has ceased. In this manner the unit readily accommodates telemetry data transmissions of virtually any size including variable duration without seizing the subscriber's phone line for undue periods of time.

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First Claim