Importance

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Abstract

Methods and systems for obtaining information based on a calling number associated with a communication from a subscriber area defined within the service area. A grid/block/strip system defines at least one strip within a subscriber area and within a block. A strip table includes a strip entry for each strip and each strip entry includes strip entry information. In response to receipt of a communication including a calling number representing a point within the service area, a key is created. The key identifies a particular block encompassing the point. The key is used with the strip table to find a strip entry that corresponds to a strip encompassing the point. The encompassing strip is found by using the key to check only strip entries corresponding to the particular block, and in some embodiments, to check only the strip entry keys of a strip entry corresponding to the particular block. Further, the encompassing strip is found by using and changing the key as necessary to check the particular strip entries to determine whether the point is located in an N-strip of the particular block, an N/2-strip, an N/4 strip, etc. Based on finding the encompassing strip, information relating to the communication may be obtained from the encompassing strip entry information. Prior to obtaining the information relating to the communication from the encompassing strip entry information, a comparison may be made between the offset of the point and the min offset and the max offset of the encompassing strip entry information. If the offset of the point is between the min offset and the max offset, it may be confirmed that the strip corresponds to the encompassing strip. Then, information relating to the communication may be obtained from the encompassing strip entry information.

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First Claim