Importance

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Abstract

A communications method and a network for carrying out the method are provided. The network includes a loopback command system and a first link station connected to a communications link. The link traverses several loopback-capable devices as it extends from the first link station to a second link station remote from the first link station. The loopback command system controls the loopback-capable devices to cause them to loopback. In order to command a loopback of a particular loopback-capable device, the first link station generates an initial loopback value and forwards the same over the link to a downstream loopback-capable device located along the link. Each loopback-capable device receives a loopback value from an upstream device, and compares if the received value is equal to a predetermined value. If the loopback value is equal to the predetermined value, the device is placed into a loopback state. Otherwise, the loopback value is modified by the device, and the modified loopback value is forwarded to the next downstream device located along the link. The loopback value may be represented by a digital bit word, or by the position of a particular bit within a bit stream of the link.

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First Claim