Importance

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Abstract

In stationary or generally stationary devices that utilize the cellular network as a wireless front-end to another data network and that are involved strictly in machine-to-machine communication activities, a system is provided that supports the re-use of MINs between cellular markets. The system may also be used in other types of networks. A remote device, such as, for example, a cellemetry modem, communicates a commissioning request to a host system that has an associated system identifier (SID). The commissioning request includes a unique serial number (S/N) assigned to the remote device and an initial mobile identification number (MIN). If the remote device has not previously been commissioned, a temporary MIN from a list of predetermined temporary MINs is transmitted; otherwise, a previously assigned permanent MIN is transmitted. If necessary, the host system transmits a permanent MIN (or a new permanent MIN) selected from a list of available MINs associated with the host system's SID to the remote device. The transmitted MIN is thereafter used by the remote device to access the host system, until the remote device is moved from that host system or removed from service. The host system is also in communication with a remote device database, which maintains a table of S/Ns and associated SIDs and MINs. The effective use of S/Ns in the commissioning process allows MINs to be reused in different host systems. Furthermore, the use of a remote device database allows MINs assigned to remote devices that have moved or taken out of service to be reclaimed for reuse.

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First Claim