JP2002532978A - Telecommunications system and connection equipment used therein - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) Abstract: First telecommunication means (11, 12) capable of receiving a first telecommunication signal in a first frequency range, a second telecommunication in a second frequency range A telecommunication system comprising a second telecommunication means (21) capable of transmitting a signal, and a telecommunication network (1). The first and second telecommunication means (11, 12, 21) are coupled to a telecommunications network (1) via a connection device (40). This connection device (40) includes separate signal paths (44, 45) to its input (43) and output (42), which signal paths are separated via a separating means (460) to the telecommunications network (1). ) Are connected to a common connection (41). In this case, the first telecommunication means (11, 12) is coupled to the output (42) and the second telecommunication means (21) is connected to the input (43). The separating means (460) is capable of conducting the first telecommunication signal at least almost exclusively via the first signal path (44) between the output (42) and the common connection (41). Via the second signal path (45) between the common connection (41) and the input (43), it is possible to conduct the second telecommunication signal at least almost exclusively.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a first telecommunication means capable of receiving a first telecommunication signal in a first frequency range, and transmitting a second telecommunication signal in a second frequency range. And a telecommunications system comprising a telecommunications network. The invention further comprises receiving a first telecommunication signal in a first frequency range with a second telecommunication means capable of transmitting a second telecommunication signal in a second frequency range. A single telecommunication comprising an output for the first telecommunication means, an input for the second telecommunication means, and a common connection for the telecommunication connection; A connection device for coupling to a connection.

[0002] Telecommunication services are mostly provided over specific telecommunications networks. Therefore, the main application is voice transfer in the public telephone network called PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network). For the purpose of exchanging data between computers, a number of data networks specially designed for this are available. Video and audio signals are usually transmitted over ether, but in many industrialized countries, they have been transmitted over wired television networks constructed using high-grade transmission media such as fiberglass and coaxial cables. I have. As a result, a user who wants to use all of these services must have many connection devices corresponding to them.

[Brief description of the drawings]

In the following, the invention is further described with reference to examples and the associated drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a telecommunications system showing an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a first embodiment of a connection device according to the present invention used in the telecommunication system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a second embodiment of a connection device according to the present invention, which can be used in the telecommunication system of FIG. 1;

[Procedure amendment]

[Submission Date] July 18, 2001 (July 18, 2001)

[Procedure amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] Full text

[Correction method] Change

[Contents of correction]

Patent application title: Telecommunication system and connection device used therein

[Claims]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a first telecommunication means capable of receiving a first telecommunication signal in a first frequency range, and a second telecommunication signal in a second frequency range. Possible second telecommunications means and a telecommunications system comprising a telecommunications network.
The present invention further comprises receiving a first telecommunication signal in a first frequency range with a second telecommunication means capable of transmitting a second telecommunication signal in a second frequency range. Comprising an output for the first telecommunications means, an input for the second telecommunications means, and a common connection for the telecommunications connection, combining the first telecommunications means capable of being connected to a single telecommunications connection. Related to the connection device.

[0002] Telecommunication services are mostly provided over specific telecommunications networks. Therefore, the main application is voice transfer in the public telephone network called PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network). For the purpose of exchanging data between computers, a number of data networks specially designed for this are available. Video and audio signals are usually transmitted over ether, but in many industrialized countries, they have been transmitted over wired television networks constructed using high-grade transmission media such as glass fiber and coaxial cables. I have. As a result, a user who wants to use all of these services must have many connection devices corresponding to them.

The advancement of computerization in society is increasingly targeting individual users, further expanding existing telecommunications services and encouraging the emergence of newer telecommunications services. In addition, as these services become increasingly interactive, high-speed data transmissions that can transmit large amounts of information to users in an acceptable time are desirable. Examples of these are telemetry, pay-as-you-go,
And especially, with the increasing implementation of multimedia applications, there is the Internet that requires faster data transmission.

[0004] The maximum rate of data transmission and the available frequency band in public telephone networks are:
As it is increasingly regarded as limiting such interactive services, research is underway to obtain alternative networks for data transfer. Possible candidates include a wide range of cable television networks already laid in many industrialized countries. This network stands out from the public telephone network in that it uses high-grade transmission media to the end user. The high-order part of the network is connected by high-grade glass fiber and to the subscriber by high-grade coaxial cable. Such a connection provides a significantly higher bandwidth and a significantly higher transmission rate than a public telephone network in which the subscriber is simply connected by a pair of twisted copper wires. In such a high-level network, the integrity of the digital signal can be easily guaranteed.

[0005] However, cable television networks are designed primarily for the distribution of radio and television programs in a single direction from the network to the subscriber. Return communication from the subscriber to a higher part of the network, such as a second telecommunication signal from the second telecommunication means mentioned in the introductory section, etc.
Although not anticipated in the early stages, it is greatly needed for telecommunications today. For this reason, existing cable television networks have been upgraded to be suitable for two-way communication. These modifications mostly consist of placing a bypass filter and a bypass amplifier that allows the transmission of signals back in parallel to existing amplifiers in the network. In this case, the return signal is not occupied by radio and television channel broadcasts, and is located in a relatively low frequency range where signal attenuation is small. After such a change to the network, not only is data transmission possible in the return direction, but noise called sneaking noise is generated at the end user and enters freely into the network, where it is amplified and transmitted. Problem arises. Infiltration noise mainly comes from cables connecting devices in the home. Such cables act as antennas to capture electromagnetic interference in the home, and this noise passes onto the cable network. This is of course undesired and of concern since it occurs in the lower frequency bands where digital data communication is relatively susceptible to noise.

Another situation is that by using a cable television network in two directions, the end user can now use not only a receiving device such as a radio or television receiver but also a transmitting device for transmitting a return signal. Is also needed. If all devices are simply connected collectively to the existing connection equipment of the cable television network, the return signal of such a transmission device necessarily flows to the reception device and interferes with the intended communication signal. there's a possibility that. Conventional transmitters for cable television networks are generally optimally tuned to transmit signals without considering the effects on other devices that may be present. The output level is typically between 80 and 115 dBμV.
Since television and radio signals are typically adapted to the standard levels of 60 to 80 dBμV, this will quickly result in interference to radio and television programs.

[0007] It is an object of the invention, inter alia, to provide a telecommunications system and a connection device of the type mentioned above, which at least substantially eliminate the above-mentioned problems and enable a shared use of the telecommunications network connections. That is.

To this end, a connecting device of the type mentioned in the introduction has the following features according to the invention: The connection device has individual signal paths at the input and the output, the input and the output being coupled via decoupling means to a common connection for a telecommunication connection. The separating means at least substantially exclusively on the first signal path between the output and the common connection and at least substantially exclusively on the second signal path between the common connection and the input. A second telecommunication signal. The present invention provides
It is based on the insight that effective separation of signal paths for downstream and upstream communications can prevent mutual interference and the introduction of noise into the network. In the connection device according to the invention, this means that the upstream communication coming from the second telecommunication means is completely guided on the second signal path, and the downstream communication to the first telecommunication means is made up of the first signal It means finding the road through the road. Therefore, both communication flows are shielded from each other, and mutual interference is prevented.

A particular embodiment of the connection device according to the invention is characterized in that the separating means comprises frequency filtering means capable of guiding both telecommunications signals on respective signal paths. By performing the bidirectional communication in the network at least approximately in different frequency ranges, the two signal paths can be intentionally separated in a relatively simple manner using such separating means. Such a particular embodiment according to the present invention is, in particular, a method wherein the frequency filter means comprises a low-pass filter having a higher threshold than the lower one of the first and second frequency ranges, and a first and second frequency range. And a high-pass filter having a lower threshold value than the higher one. In this case, the upstream communication including the second communication signal is performed in the lower frequency range,
Preferably, the higher frequency range is assigned to downstream communication such as a first communication signal. In many existing cable television networks, a lower frequency band is still available for return communication, so upstream communication can be performed in that band. Another advantage in this case is that, since the signal is less attenuated at low frequencies, the number of amplifiers provided in the return path of the network may be small or low power.

[0010] The at least approximately strict separation of the two signal paths in the connection device according to the invention is
It also offers the possibility of significantly reducing the ingress of noise and other unwanted signals into the network. To this end, in a preferred embodiment of the connection device according to the invention, the signal path for the first telecommunication means is at least a substantial part of the communication in a direction opposite to the direction of the first telecommunication signal. It is characterized by including a rectification means capable of suppressing the occurrence of the rectification. Since the rectifying means mainly suppresses the flow of each signal in the upstream direction in the first signal path, inflow of infiltration noise into the network through the first signal path is effectively prevented. The desired return communication from the second telecommunication means is completely carried out in a separate second signal path and is not disturbed by the rectifying means. In this regard, a particular embodiment of the connection device is characterized by the fact that the rectifying means comprises an operational amplifier.

In another embodiment of the connection device according to the invention, in order to enable interactive services such as the Internet, telephony and pay-as-you-go, the device comprises a plurality of outputs, at least one of which comprises a second output. (2) It is characterized by being for remote communication means. Using this embodiment, the outgoing signal from the second telecommunication means is at least approximately strictly on the second signal path and the incoming signal is at least approximately strictly directed on the first signal path. This provides a two-way communication option for the second telecommunications means, while retaining the advantages of the present invention. In this case, information is transmitted within the second frequency range and information is received within the first frequency range. As a result of the present invention, full-duplex two-way communication is possible without alarming interference to incoming and outgoing signals. Since information is usually received more than transmitted, judging from the fact that there is a wide frequency band in the high frequency range, it is possible to select the first frequency range higher than the second. preferable.

[0012] Furthermore, a preferred embodiment according to the present invention is characterized in that a signal path between the first output and the second output includes an attenuation means. Signal separation is performed not only between the input and output of the device, but also between the outputs. Therefore, interference from one output to an adjacent output can be effectively suppressed by the attenuating means without damaging a useful signal. In this regard, a particular embodiment of the connection device according to the invention is characterized in that the damping means comprises at least one directional coupler. Placing a combiner with one input and at least two outputs, one with little attenuation and the other with significant attenuation, between successive outputs can provide effective separation of the signal.

In another preferred embodiment, the connection device according to the invention is characterized in that at least the output for the second telecommunications system is electrically isolated from direct current. Therefore, for the DC part of the signal supplied via this connection,
Electrical disconnection of the second telecommunications means is achieved. In this case, even if an overvoltage occurs from the network or from the first remote communication means, the second remote communication means will not be confused. This is particularly important if the first telecommunications means is an old type television receiver, as the chassis may be under high voltage.
In this case, even if the connection to the network in the television receiver is not properly grounded, this preferred embodiment can avoid said high voltage which would adversely affect the second telecommunication means.

In order to enable current and future telecommunication services, inter alia, according to the invention, a telecommunication system of the type mentioned in the introduction, wherein the first and the second telecommunication means are according to the invention, It has the feature of being coupled to a telecommunications network via a designated connection device. The telecommunications network may in principle be any existing or future network, but in a particular embodiment according to the invention, a wired television intended for distributing radio and / or television programs Consisting of a net,
The first telecommunication means comprises a radio receiver and / or a television receiver.
As already mentioned above, such a network generally provides a high-level infrastructure capable of large amounts of data communication and low distortion.

In a particular embodiment of the telecommunications system according to the invention, the second telecommunication means is coupled to one of the input and output of the connecting device and the other is coupled to the digital third telecommunication means. It is characterized by including conversion means. This conversion means can convert the digital signal from the third telecommunication means into a communication signal suitable for the telecommunications network and also in the reverse direction. Thus, for example, analog
Alternatively, a digital third telecommunications means can be included in the telecommunications system, even if the network is not directly acceptable, for example due to the use of signals of different frequencies. Examples of such digital telecommunications means include computers, digital telephones, and various devices in many forms for telemetry and remote control.

In general, it would be desirable to be able to use commercially available telecommunications means within a telecommunications system without changing the telecommunications means. The system of the present invention can be used widely and generally and has a low risk of interference to connected devices. In this regard, a specific embodiment of the telecommunications system according to the invention is:
A gateway unit is coupled between the third telecommunication means and the conversion means, the gateway unit being, on the one hand, with or without an associated interface, specially adapted to the type of the third telecommunication means Have connections and, on the other hand,
It has the feature that it is suitable for communication with the conversion means. The gateway unit in this case provides the necessary necessary adjustments between one third telecommunication means and the other conversion means and provides a standard connection for the third telecommunication means. For this reason,
The third telecommunications means itself generally requires no further changes to be integrated into the system.

In a more specific embodiment of the telecommunications system, in this regard, the gateway unit comprises a networked or stand-alone computer, analog or digital telephone means, and communication means via a standard RS232 serial port. Characterized by being suitable for connection of a third remote communication means selected from the group consisting of: The gateway unit, in its most comprehensive form, has all of these connections, and the interfaces required for it, available for direct connection of a wide variety of standard telecommunications devices. In order to save a specific interface here, in another embodiment, the gateway unit can communicate with the conversion means using a telecommunications protocol that allows the integration of different telecommunication services. There is a feature. In this way, depending on the situation, the signals of the different types of telecommunications device will be carried through the gateway unit to the translator without the intervention of a specific interface.

In another embodiment according to the invention, a third telecommunication means is coupled to a local digital telecommunication network, which telecommunication network is coupled to the input and output of the connection device via a conversion means. It is characterized by that. By adding this digital communication network, digital protocols and digital telecommunication services that would not be supported by the original network can be provided within the communication network. In this case, the conversion means performs necessary conversion between the two networks. Therefore,
Hybrid remote, based on the one hand on the first network with a high-level infrastructure capable of two-way communication according to the invention and on the other hand a local network supporting the various desired telecommunication services at the user A communication system is obtained.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be further described with reference to examples and the accompanying drawings.

These figures are purely schematic and are not drawn to scale. In particular, some dimensions in the figures are greatly exaggerated. For clarity, corresponding parts in all figures are numbered the same.

The telecommunications system of FIG. 1 consists of an existing cable television network 1 intended mainly for the transmission and distribution of radio and television programs. Coupled to this network is a first telecommunication means in the form of a radio receiver 11 and a television receiver 12. For this purpose, at the subscriber there is a central common connection 2 for a network 1 from which a specific combination connection 3 for radio and television branches. Such networks typically range from 5 MHz to 862 MHz.
Is designed for signal distribution in discrete frequency bands that typically lie in the range Thus, radio and television receivers are suitable for receiving first telecommunications signals in a frequency range within these limits. For example, 87.5 to 108
The MHz range is occupied for radio programs, and the range from 115 to 862 MHz is allocated to television programs.

Thus, the region below 87.5 MHz is still free and is being used for return communication, ie, communication from a subscriber to a higher part of the network. . In this case, the subscriber also has telecommunication means such as the conversion means 21, decoder 34, computer 31, digital handset and / or analog telephone device 33 as shown in the figure, and the second frequency A second telecommunication signal, ie, a return signal, can be transmitted within range. Thus, the optional return communication opens the way to provide a number of interactive telecommunication services on the network 1, but with the danger of noise and other disturbances from the subscriber into the network. This is generally called infiltration noise. Furthermore, if both are supplied to this device, the return signal generated at the subscriber may interfere with the first telecommunication signal of the receiving device.

In order to avoid this, the receiving first telecommunication means 11 and 12 and the transmitting telecommunication means 21, 31, 32, 33 and 34, as shown in more detail in FIG. Connected according to the present invention. The connection device 40 includes a common connection 41 for connecting to the network 1, the first reception remote communication units 11 and 1.
Output 42 for the second and optional transmission second telecommunication means 2
Consists of an input for one. According to the invention, the connecting device 40 consists of individual signal paths 44 and 45 extending to the output 42 and the input 43, respectively, which paths
It is connected to the common connection via 60. The separating means 460 includes a high-pass filter 461 for guiding the first communication signal only on the first signal path 44 and a low-pass filter 462 for guiding the second communication signal on the second signal path 45. Combination of In this case, both filters are integrated as a single component as a diplex filter in excess of -60 dB. This is not essential to the invention.

The interference between the two signals is effectively prevented, since both signals follow at least approximately their own signal path. This implies, inter alia, that no return signal passing from the input 43 via the second signal path 45 will appear at the output 42 of the connecting device combining the receiving devices 11 and 12. Therefore, the output of the second telecommunication means is sent to the radio and television receiver anyway, the first signal path 44.
There is no danger of interference with radio and television programs provided at least almost exactly via, and can be increased within a reasonable range. Thus, the output of the transmitting telecommunications means can be freely optimized to obtain a high quality output signal without compromising the quality of the signal received by the receiving telecommunications means.

For the analog communication downstream, only the first signal path 44 is used, and the digital communication upstream in the network is sent via the second signal path 45, two in the connection unit 40. The separation of signal paths 44 and 45 provides the option of placing rectifying means 47 in the first signal path to suppress communication in the first signal path 44 in the opposite direction. The advantage is that noise generated at the user, called sneak noise, no longer has a chance to reach the network 1 via this signal path 44. The rectifier used in this embodiment is an operational amplifier having an attenuation of more than -70 dB. This operational amplifier, in fact,
It has been found sufficient to suppress a significant portion of the infiltration noise in the network 1. The return path 45, including the filter 460, has an attenuation of only -1 dB or less, so return communication along this side is still possible. The use of the operational amplifier 47 as a rectifier has another advantage. Since the gain of the operational amplifier is about 6 dB, the attenuation of about 5.6 dB caused by the splitter 48 that branches the output 42 of the device into three is corrected. Thus, the user has three connections 42, 42 'and 42 "to receive the downstream communication from the network 1.
Can be used freely. At least one of these connections 42 "is insulated to pass direct current and has a capacitor 49 incorporated in its signal path. This connection is coupled to another output 42 or 42 'of unit 40. To be electrically insulated from other devices, such as the first telecommunications means 11 and 12,
Especially for high-grade voltage sensitive devices. Connection 42 "provides protection against possible overvoltages and low grounding of other devices. Since the second signal path 45 also incorporates a capacitor 49, such protection is provided by: It is also present at the input 43 of the device.

Coupled to the input 43 and the output 42 ″ of the unit 40 thus protected, in this embodiment is a second telecommunication means comprising a conversion means in the form of a modem, shortly called a modem. 21. This is particularly suitable for a cable television network such as the network 1 of this embodiment, and the modem converts a digital signal from a device connected thereto into a signal suitable for communication in the network 1. And the same can be done in the reverse direction as well. For receiving communications from the network 1 occurring in the first frequency range, the modem 21 outputs to the output 42 "of the unit 40 for this purpose. The return communication in the second frequency range is provided at the output 212 and is intended therefor via the input 43 of the connection unit 40 It is guided onto a signal path 45. The modem is connected to the separating means 4 in the connection unit 40.
A specific modulation frequency can be added for both routes, adapted for 60.
On the other side, the modem 21 includes a computer 31 and a telephone 32 shown in this embodiment.
And a combined digital input / output 213 for connecting a digital third telecommunication means, such as a decoder 34 and a decoder 34.

The connection of these third telecommunication means 31 to 34 is made via a gateway unit 50 in this embodiment. This gateway unit, on the one hand, has connections with or without the necessary associated interfaces 51-54, and is adapted for a particular type of third telecommunication means, and, on the other hand, for communicating with the modem 21. It has a common port 55. In this embodiment, gateway unit 50 is a conventional network connection to telecommunications network 30 (LAN) of computer 31.
A network connection 51 combined with an interface, a DE for connecting a digital handset 32 comprising a cordless phone based on the DECT protocol.
DECT connection 52 combined with CT interface, conventional analog telephone 3
Connection 53 with a built-in analog-to-digital conversion interface for 3 and standard R to which the decoder 34 is coupled, for example for telemetry applications
It has an S232 interface. In this case, the decoder 34 digitally communicates with the network 1 via the RS 232 of the gateway unit 50 to exchange cryptographic and authentication information, while on the other hand, from the network 1 in a conventional manner,
It is connected directly to the output 42 of the connection device for passing analog program data.

In order to convert the signals from all the devices into a common protocol internally as required, in this embodiment, the Internet Protocol (TCP / TCP) supporting the integration of various telecommunication services is used. IP) is selected. gateway·
Communication between the unit and the modem 21 is performed based on this protocol. Therefore, the third remote communication means 31 to 34 need not be changed for use in combination with the modem 21 and the network 1. The user will implement,
It is unlikely that the types of the devices 31 to 34 need to be revealed to the network 1. The many conversions or adjustments required for this are made by connecting device 40, modem 2 respectively.
1 and the gateway unit 50. Since the Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), which enables both data communication and telephone communication, is also supported within the computer network 30, telephone communication is provided by the gateway unit 50 provided for that purpose. Instead of via input, it is also possible to do via computer network 30.

A second embodiment of the connection device according to the invention is shown schematically in FIG. This embodiment is quite consistent with that of FIGS. The connecting device comprises a common connection 41 for a telecommunication connection, again a CATV network, and furthermore a separate input 43 and a plurality of outputs 42, 42 'and 42 for coupling each transmitting and receiving telecommunication means.
The signal paths between the common connection 43 and the inputs 41, the respective outputs 42, 42 'and 42 "are separated from one another by separating means in the form of a diplex filter 460. As in the first embodiment, the diplex filter is connected between connection 43 and outputs 42, 42 'and 42 ", in this embodiment 47 to 862.
A first signal path is provided only for signals within a first frequency range of MHz.
The transfer of signals in the second signal path between the connection 43 and the input 41 is only possible in this embodiment via the filter 460 in a second frequency range of approximately 5 to 30 MHz. The separation from each other in this case will be -60 dB, but may actually be higher or optionally lower if desired. A low pass filter 46 having a limit frequency of about 50 MHz, in this embodiment, further suppresses the high frequency signal portion in the signal path leading to input 41.

An op-amp 47 in the first signal path to the outputs 42, 42 'and 42 "of the device provides effective suppression of spurious return communications along this signal path. A dedicated DC stabilizing power supply 471 is provided for high-level signal processing, and the operational amplifier 47 significantly prevents infiltration noise from entering the network coupled to the connection 43. Even if the power supply 471 fails, A bypass circuit 472 is placed in parallel with the operational amplifier to ensure distribution of radio and television programs via the device 40 from the CATV network, and the input 43 and the primary output when power from the power supply 471 is cut off. One or more normally open relays are provided to provide an open connection between the relay 42. The op amp 461 is also provided for this purpose.
Is used as a control voltage for this circuit 472.

To avoid alarming sneak noise interference with signals derived from the other outputs 42, 42 ′ or 42 ″, in this embodiment the individual outputs 42, 42 ′
Attenuating means are located in the signal path between 42 'and 42 ". The attenuating means comprises a main path, each having no or only -1 dB of attenuation, and about the signal of this embodiment being approximately 1 dB. It consists of directional couplers 62, 62 'and 62 "including significantly heavily attenuating branch lines which cause a -10 dB attenuation. The apparatus includes such an attenuator 62, 62 'or 62 "for each output 42, 42' or 42", to whose branches the outputs 42, 42 'and 42 "are coupled. , Terminator 64 is placed continuously in the main signal path terminating in terminator 64. The terminator has a 75Ω impedance to prevent reflections and is adapted to the signal path.

The operational amplifier 47 has an amplification factor of about 17 dB. This means that assuming about -1 dB of attenuation by the diplex filter 460, the input signal supplied to the connection 43 reaches the output of the amplifier 47 with 16 dB of amplification. A first directional coupler 61 "provides -10 dB of attenuation and another attenuator 62 comprises-
To provide an additional attenuation of 6 dB, a signal at approximately the input level can be obtained from the first output 42 ″. The −1 dB attenuation in the main path in each case means that the signal is The result is that it is available at the 5 dB level at the next output 42 ′ and finally at the 4 dB level at the last output 42.
These last two outputs can be used, for example, to connect radio, television and video equipment and, if necessary, the associated teleservice set-top boxes. By inserting an attenuator at the first output 42 "or the like, the output level can be further adjusted as needed.

Thus, the supplied signal is available at each output 42, 42 ′ or 42 ″, while the attenuation means 62, 62 ′ and 62 ″ are at least −20 dB.
Signal separation exists between adjacent outputs 42, 42 'and 42 ". Infiltration noise or other interference that may occur from any output 42, 42' or 42" The signal path to the output results in a -20 dB attenuation, which is almost completely suppressed. Therefore, in this embodiment, the input 4 of the device is used.
1 and outputs 42, 42 'or 42 "as well as mutual outputs 42, 42".
Also effective signal separation is provided between 'and 42 ".

The first output 42 ″ can be used, for example, in combination with the input 41, to connect to a personal computer in a network or with a cable modem 21. To protect the device, the connections 41 and 42 ″ used for this purpose are provided with DC electrical isolation in the form of a pair of capacitors 49. This makes it less likely that high voltages coming from the television device connected to either of the other outputs 42 and 42 'will reach the PC device.

In general, the invention provides a widely and generally applicable solution for connecting any type of telecommunications device to the common connection 2 of the telecommunications network 1. Therefore, it is possible to realize the high quality of both the reception and transmission signals. Mutual interference is minimized,
And noise infiltration from the user to the network is considerably suppressed.

Although the invention has been described with reference to a few embodiments, the invention is in no way limited to these embodiments, but rather, many modifications within the scope of the invention will occur to those skilled in the art. It is possible to add The gateway unit may be expanded or restricted depending on the diversity of the devices to be connected. Furthermore, although the invention has been described with reference to a cable television network, it can be used not only for cable television networks, but also for other types of networks. As a result of the present invention, there is always an effective separation between upstream and downstream communications at the user, so that these two communications do not interfere with each other.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a telecommunications system showing an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a first embodiment of a connection device according to the present invention used in the telecommunication system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a second embodiment of a connection device according to the present invention, which can be used in the telecommunication system of FIG. 1;

[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] July 19, 2001 (July 19, 2001)

[Procedure amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] Full text

[Correction method] Change

[Contents of correction]

Patent application title: Telecommunication system and connection device used therein

[Claims]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a first telecommunication means capable of receiving a first telecommunication signal in a first frequency range, and a second telecommunication signal in a second frequency range. Possible second telecommunications means and a telecommunications system comprising a telecommunications network.
The present invention further comprises receiving a first telecommunication signal in a first frequency range with a second telecommunication means capable of transmitting a second telecommunication signal in a second frequency range. Connection apparatus for coupling a first telecommunication means capable of connection to a single telecommunication network connection. The connection device comprises an output for the first telecommunication means, an input for the second telecommunication means, a common network connection to the telecommunications network, and a separating means. Adapted to direct a first telecommunication signal on a first signal path between the network common connection and a second telecommunication signal on a second signal path between the network common connection and the input. I have.

[0002] Telecommunication services are mostly provided over specific telecommunications networks. Therefore, the main application is voice transfer in the public telephone network called PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network). For the purpose of exchanging data between computers, a number of data networks specially designed for this are available. Video and audio signals are usually transmitted over ether, but in many industrialized countries, they have been transmitted over wired television networks constructed using high-grade transmission media such as glass fiber and coaxial cables. I have. As a result, a user who wants to use all of these services must have many connection devices corresponding to them.

The advancement of computerization in society is increasingly targeting individual users, further expanding existing telecommunications services and encouraging the emergence of newer telecommunications services. In addition, as these services become increasingly interactive, high-speed data transmissions that can transmit large amounts of information to users in an acceptable time are desirable. Examples of these are telemetry, pay-as-you-go,
And especially, with the increasing implementation of multimedia applications, there is the Internet that requires faster data transmission.

[0004] The maximum rate of data transmission and the available frequency band in public telephone networks are:
As it is increasingly regarded as limiting such interactive services, research is underway to obtain alternative networks for data transfer. Possible candidates include a wide range of cable television networks already laid in many industrialized countries. This network stands out from the public telephone network in that it uses high-grade transmission media to the end user. The high-order part of the network is connected by high-grade glass fiber and to the subscriber by high-grade coaxial cable. Such a connection provides a significantly higher bandwidth and a significantly higher transmission rate than a public telephone network in which the subscriber is simply connected by a pair of twisted copper wires. In such a high-level network, the integrity of the digital signal can be easily guaranteed.

[0005] However, cable television networks are designed primarily for the distribution of radio and television programs in a single direction from the network to the subscriber. Return communication from the subscriber to a higher part of the network, such as a second telecommunication signal from the second telecommunication means mentioned in the introductory section, etc.
Although not anticipated in the early stages, it is greatly needed for telecommunications today. For this reason, existing cable television networks have been upgraded to be suitable for two-way communication. These modifications mostly consist of placing a bypass filter and a bypass amplifier that allows the transmission of signals back in parallel to existing amplifiers in the network. In this case, the return signal is not occupied by radio and television channel broadcasts, and is located in a relatively low frequency range where signal attenuation is small. After such a change to the network, not only is data transmission possible in the return direction, but noise called sneaking noise is generated at the end user and enters freely into the network, where it is amplified and transmitted. Problem arises. Infiltration noise mainly comes from cables connecting devices in the home. Such cables act as antennas to capture electromagnetic interference in the home, and this noise passes onto the cable network. This is of course undesired and of concern since it occurs in the lower frequency bands where digital data communication is relatively susceptible to noise.

Another situation is that by using a cable television network in two directions, the end user can now use not only a receiving device such as a radio or television receiver but also a transmitting device for transmitting a return signal. Is also needed. If all devices are simply connected collectively to the existing connection equipment of the cable television network, the return signal of such a transmission device necessarily flows to the reception device and interferes with the intended communication signal. there's a possibility that. Conventional transmitters for cable television networks are generally optimally tuned to transmit signals without considering the effects on other devices that may be present. The output level is typically between 80 and 115 dBV. Since television and radio signals are typically adapted to standard levels of 60 to 80 dBV, this will quickly result in jamming interference to radio and television programs.

[0007] It is an object of the invention, inter alia, to provide a telecommunications system and a connection device of the type mentioned above, which at least substantially eliminate the above-mentioned problems and enable a shared use of the telecommunications network connections. That is.

To this end, a connecting device of the type mentioned in the preamble according to the invention comprises:
The signal path is separated from each other between the separating means and each of the input and output, and the first signal path includes rectifying means for suppressing communication in a direction opposite to a direction of the first telecommunication signal. It is characterized by being provided. The present invention is based on the recognition that effective separation of signal paths for downstream and upstream communication at the user can prevent mutual interference and the introduction of noise into the network. In the connection device according to the invention, this means that the upstream communication coming from the second telecommunication means is exclusively guided on the second signal path and the downstream communication to the first telecommunication means is carried out by the first telecommunication means. This means finding that path through a signal path. Therefore, both communication flows are separated from each other, and mutual interference is prevented.

By providing a rectifier in the first signal path, the inflow of noise and other unwanted signals into the network can be significantly reduced. Since the rectifying means mainly suppresses the flow of each signal in the upstream direction in the first signal path, inflow of infiltration noise into the network through the first signal path is effectively prevented. The desired return communication from the second telecommunication means is completely carried out in a separate second signal path and is not disturbed by the rectifying means. In this regard, a particular embodiment of the connection device is characterized by the fact that the rectifying means comprises an operational amplifier.

In a particular embodiment of the connection device according to the invention, the separating means comprises frequency filtering means capable of directing both telecommunications signals on respective signal paths. By performing the bidirectional communication in the network at least approximately in different frequency ranges, the two signal paths can be intentionally separated in a relatively simple manner using such separating means. Such a particular embodiment according to the present invention is, in particular, that the frequency filter means comprises a low-pass filter having a higher edge frequency than the lower one of the first and second frequency ranges, and a first and second frequency range. A high-pass filter having a lower edge frequency than that of the higher range, wherein the edge frequency of the high-pass filter is higher than that of the low-pass filter. In this case, the upstream communication including the second communication signal is preferably performed in the lower frequency range, and the higher frequency range is preferably allocated to the downstream communication such as the first communication signal. In many existing cable television networks, a lower frequency band is still available for return communication, so upstream communication can be performed in that band. Another advantage in this case is that, since the signal is less attenuated at low frequencies, the number of amplifiers provided in the return path of the network may be small or low power.

In another embodiment of the connection device according to the invention, in order to enable interactive services such as the Internet, telephony and pay-as-you-go, the device comprises a plurality of outputs, at least one of which comprises a second output. (2) It is characterized by being for remote communication means. Using this embodiment, the outgoing signal from the second telecommunication means is at least approximately strictly on the second signal path and the incoming signal is at least approximately strictly directed on the first signal path. This provides a two-way communication option for the second telecommunications means, while retaining the advantages of the present invention. In this case, information is transmitted within the second frequency range and information is received within the first frequency range. As a result of the present invention, full-duplex two-way communication is possible without alarming interference to incoming and outgoing signals. Since information is usually received more than transmitted, judging from the fact that there is a wide frequency band in the high frequency range, it is possible to select the first frequency range higher than the second. preferable.

[0012] Furthermore, a preferred embodiment according to the present invention is characterized in that a signal path between the first output and the second output includes an attenuation means. Signal separation is performed not only between the input and output of the device, but also between the outputs. Therefore, interference from one output to an adjacent output can be effectively suppressed by the attenuating means without damaging a useful signal. In this regard, a particular embodiment of the connection device according to the invention is characterized in that the damping means comprises at least one directional coupler. Placing a combiner with one input and at least two outputs, one with little attenuation and the other with significant attenuation, between successive outputs can provide effective separation of the signal.

In another preferred embodiment, the connection device according to the invention is characterized in that at least the output for the second telecommunications system is electrically isolated from direct current. Therefore, for the DC part of the signal supplied via this connection,
Electrical disconnection of the second telecommunications means is achieved. In this case, even if an overvoltage occurs from the network or from the first remote communication means, the second remote communication means will not be confused. This is particularly important if the first telecommunications means is an old type television receiver, as the chassis may be under high voltage.
In this case, even if the connection to the network in the television receiver is not properly grounded, this preferred embodiment can avoid said high voltage which would adversely affect the second telecommunication means.

In order to enable current and future telecommunication services, inter alia, according to the invention, a telecommunication system of the type mentioned in the introduction, wherein the first and the second telecommunication means are according to the invention, It has the feature of being coupled to a telecommunications network via a designated connection device. The telecommunications network may in principle be any existing or future network, but in a particular embodiment according to the invention, a wired television intended for distributing radio and / or television programs Consisting of a net,
The first telecommunication means comprises a radio receiver and / or a television receiver.
As already mentioned above, such a network generally provides a high-level infrastructure capable of large amounts of data communication and low distortion.

In a particular embodiment of the telecommunications system according to the invention, the second telecommunication means is coupled to one of the input and output of the connecting device and the other is coupled to the digital third telecommunication means. It is characterized by including conversion means. This conversion means can convert the digital signal from the third telecommunication means into a communication signal suitable for the telecommunications network and also in the reverse direction. Thus, for example, analog
Alternatively, a digital third telecommunications means can be included in the telecommunications system, even if the network is not directly acceptable, for example due to the use of signals of different frequencies. Examples of such digital telecommunications means include computers, digital telephones, and various devices in many forms for telemetry and remote control.

In general, it would be desirable to be able to use commercially available telecommunications means within a telecommunications system without changing the telecommunications means. The system of the present invention can be used widely and generally and has a low risk of interference to connected devices. In this regard, a specific embodiment of the telecommunications system according to the invention is:
A gateway unit is coupled between the third telecommunication means and the conversion means, the gateway unit being, on the one hand, with or without an associated interface, specially adapted to the type of the third telecommunication means Have connections and, on the other hand,
It has the feature that it is suitable for communication with the conversion means. The gateway unit in this case provides the necessary necessary adjustments between one third telecommunication means and the other conversion means and provides a standard connection for the third telecommunication means. For this reason,
The third telecommunications means itself generally requires no further changes to be integrated into the system.

In a more specific embodiment of the telecommunications system, in this regard, the gateway unit comprises a networked or stand-alone computer, analog or digital telephone means, and communication means via a standard RS232 serial port. Characterized by being suitable for connection of a third remote communication means selected from the group consisting of: The gateway unit, in its most comprehensive form, has all of these connections, and the interfaces required for it, available for direct connection of a wide variety of standard telecommunications devices. In order to save a specific interface here, in another embodiment, the gateway unit can communicate with the conversion means using a telecommunications protocol that allows the integration of different telecommunication services. There is a feature. In this way, depending on the situation, the signals of the different types of telecommunications device will be carried through the gateway unit to the translator without the intervention of a specific interface.

In another embodiment according to the invention, a third telecommunication means is coupled to a local digital telecommunication network, which telecommunication network is coupled to the input and output of the connection device via a conversion means. It is characterized by that. By adding this digital communication network, digital protocols and digital telecommunication services that would not be supported by the original network can be provided within the communication network. In this case, the conversion means performs necessary conversion between the two networks. Therefore,
Hybrid remote, based on the one hand on the first network with a high-level infrastructure capable of two-way communication according to the invention and on the other hand a local network supporting the various desired telecommunication services at the user A communication system is obtained.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be further described with reference to examples and the accompanying drawings.

These figures are purely schematic and are not drawn to scale. In particular, some dimensions in the figures are greatly exaggerated. For clarity, corresponding parts in all figures are numbered the same.

The telecommunications system of FIG. 1 consists of an existing cable television network 1 intended mainly for the transmission and distribution of radio and television programs. Coupled to this network is a first telecommunication means in the form of a radio receiver 11 and a television receiver 12. For this purpose, at the subscriber there is a central common connection 2 for a network 1 from which a specific combination connection 3 for radio and television branches. Such networks typically range from 5 MHz to 862 MHz.
Is designed for signal distribution in discrete frequency bands that typically lie in the range Thus, radio and television receivers are suitable for receiving first telecommunications signals in a frequency range within these limits. For example, 87.5 to 108
The MHz range is occupied for radio programs, and the range from 115 to 862 MHz is allocated to television programs.

Thus, the region below 87.5 MHz is still free and is being used for return communication, ie, communication from a subscriber to a higher part of the network. . In this case, the subscriber also has telecommunication means such as the conversion means 21, decoder 34, computer 31, digital handset and / or analog telephone device 33 as shown in the figure, and the second frequency A second telecommunication signal, ie, a return signal, can be transmitted within range. Thus, the optional return communication opens the way to provide a number of interactive telecommunication services on the network 1, but with the danger of noise and other disturbances from the subscriber into the network. This is generally called infiltration noise. Furthermore, if both are supplied to this device, the return signal generated at the subscriber may interfere with the first telecommunication signal of the receiving device.

In order to avoid this, the receiving first telecommunication means 11 and 12 and the transmitting telecommunication means 21, 31, 32, 33 and 34, as shown in more detail in FIG. Connected according to the present invention. The connection device 40 includes a common connection 41 for connecting to the network 1, the first reception remote communication units 11 and 1.
Output 42 for the second and optional transmission second telecommunication means 2
Consists of an input for one. According to the invention, the connecting device 40 consists of individual signal paths 44 and 45 extending to the output 42 and the input 43, respectively, which paths
It is connected to the common connection via 60. The separating means 460 includes a high-pass filter 461 for guiding the first communication signal only on the first signal path 44 and a low-pass filter 462 for guiding the second communication signal on the second signal path 45. Combination of In this case, both filters are integrated as a single component as a diplex filter in excess of -60 dB. This is not essential to the invention.

The interference between the two signals is effectively prevented, since both signals follow at least approximately their own signal path. This implies, inter alia, that no return signal passing from the input 43 via the second signal path 45 will appear at the output 42 of the connecting device combining the receiving devices 11 and 12. Therefore, the output of the second telecommunication means is sent to the radio and television receiver anyway, the first signal path 44.
There is no danger of interference with radio and television programs provided at least almost exactly via, and can be increased within a reasonable range. Thus, the output of the transmitting telecommunications means can be freely optimized to obtain a high quality output signal without compromising the quality of the signal received by the receiving telecommunications means.

For the analog communication downstream, only the first signal path 44 is used, and the digital communication upstream in the network is sent via the second signal path 45, two in the connection unit 40. The separation of signal paths 44 and 45 provides the option of placing rectifying means 47 in the first signal path to suppress communication in the first signal path 44 in the opposite direction. The advantage is that noise generated at the user, called sneak noise, no longer has a chance to reach the network 1 via this signal path 44. The rectifier used in this embodiment is an operational amplifier having an attenuation of more than -70 dB. This operational amplifier, in fact,
It has been found sufficient to suppress a significant portion of the infiltration noise in the network 1. The return path 45, including the filter 460, has an attenuation of only -1 dB or less, so return communication along this side is still possible. The use of the operational amplifier 47 as a rectifier has another advantage. Since the gain of the operational amplifier is about 6 dB, the attenuation of about 5.6 dB caused by the splitter 48 that branches the output 42 of the device into three is corrected. Thus, the user has three connections 42, 42 'and 42 "to receive the downstream communication from the network 1.
Can be used freely. At least one of these connections 42 "is insulated to pass direct current and has a capacitor 49 incorporated in its signal path. This connection is coupled to another output 42 or 42 'of unit 40. To be electrically insulated from other devices, such as the first telecommunications means 11 and 12,
Especially for high-grade voltage sensitive devices. Connection 42 "provides protection against possible overvoltages and low grounding of other devices. Since the second signal path 45 also incorporates a capacitor 49, such protection is provided by: It is also present at the input 43 of the device.

Coupled to the input 43 and the output 42 ″ of the unit 40 thus protected, in this embodiment is a second telecommunication means comprising a conversion means in the form of a modem, shortly called a modem. 21. This is particularly suitable for a cable television network such as the network 1 of this embodiment, and the modem converts a digital signal from a device connected thereto into a signal suitable for communication in the network 1. And the same can be done in the reverse direction as well. For receiving communications from the network 1 occurring in the first frequency range, the modem 21 outputs to the output 42 "of the unit 40 for this purpose. The return communication in the second frequency range is provided at the output 212 and is intended therefor via the input 43 of the connection unit 40 It is guided onto a signal path 45. The modem is connected to the separating means 4 in the connection unit 40.
A specific modulation frequency can be added for both routes, adapted for 60.
On the other side, the modem 21 includes a computer 31 and a telephone 32 shown in this embodiment.
And a combined digital input / output 213 for connecting a digital third telecommunication means, such as a decoder 34 and a decoder 34.

The connection of these third telecommunication means 31 to 34 is made via a gateway unit 50 in this embodiment. This gateway unit, on the one hand, has connections with or without the necessary associated interfaces 51-54, and is adapted for a particular type of third telecommunication means, and, on the other hand, for communicating with the modem 21. It has a common port 55. In this embodiment, gateway unit 50 is a conventional network connection to telecommunications network 30 (LAN) of computer 31.
A network connection 51 combined with an interface, a DE for connecting a digital handset 32 comprising a cordless phone based on the DECT protocol.
DECT connection 52 combined with CT interface, conventional analog telephone 3
Connection 53 with a built-in analog-to-digital conversion interface for 3 and standard R to which the decoder 34 is coupled, for example for telemetry applications
It has an S232 interface. In this case, the decoder 34 digitally communicates with the network 1 via the RS 232 of the gateway unit 50 to exchange cryptographic and authentication information, while on the other hand, from the network 1 in a conventional manner,
It is connected directly to the output 42 of the connection device for passing analog program data.

In order to convert the signals from all the devices into a common protocol internally as required, in this embodiment, the Internet Protocol (TCP / TCP) supporting the integration of various telecommunication services is used. IP) is selected. gateway·
Communication between the unit and the modem 21 is performed based on this protocol. Therefore, the third remote communication means 31 to 34 need not be changed for use in combination with the modem 21 and the network 1. The user will implement,
It is unlikely that the types of the devices 31 to 34 need to be revealed to the network 1. The many conversions or adjustments required for this are made by connecting device 40, modem 2 respectively.
1 and the gateway unit 50. Since the Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), which enables both data communication and telephone communication, is also supported within the computer network 30, telephone communication is provided by the gateway unit 50 provided for that purpose. Instead of via input, it is also possible to do via computer network 30.

A second embodiment of the connection device according to the invention is shown schematically in FIG. This embodiment is quite consistent with that of FIGS. The connecting device comprises a common connection 41 to a telecommunications network, again a CATV network, and furthermore a separate input 43 and a plurality of outputs 42, 42 'and 42 "for coupling each transmitting and receiving telecommunications means.
With The signal paths between the common connection 41 and the inputs 43 and the respective outputs 42, 42 'and 42 "are separated from one another by separating means in the form of a diplex filter 460. As in the first embodiment. , This diplex filter has connection 4
3 and outputs 42, 42 'and 42 ", in this example, 47 to 862M
Hz provides a first signal path only for signals within a first frequency range. The transfer of signals in the second signal path between the connection 43 and the input 43 is only possible in this embodiment via the filter 460 in a second frequency range of approximately 5 to 30 MHz. The separation from each other in this case will be -60 dB, but may actually be higher or optionally lower if desired. A low pass filter 46 having a limit frequency of about 50 MHz, in this embodiment, further suppresses the high frequency signal portion in the signal path leading to the input 43.

An op-amp 47 in the first signal path to the outputs 42, 42 'and 42 "of the device provides effective suppression of spurious return communications along this signal path. A dedicated DC stabilizing power supply 471 is provided for high-level signal processing, and the operational amplifier 47 significantly prevents infiltration noise from entering the network coupled to the connection 43. Even if the power supply 471 fails, To ensure distribution of radio and television programs from the CATV network via the device 40, a bypass circuit 472 is placed in parallel with the operational amplifier and connects to the common connection 43 when the supply from the power supply 471 is cut off. One or more normally open relays are provided to provide electrical coupling to output 42. For this purpose, too,
The supply voltage of 61 is used as a control voltage of this circuit 472.

To avoid alarming sneak noise interference with signals derived from the other outputs 42, 42 ′ or 42 ″, in this embodiment the individual outputs 42, 42 ′
Attenuating means are located in the signal path between 42 'and 42 ". The attenuating means comprises a main path, each having no or only -1 dB of attenuation, and about the signal of this embodiment being approximately 1 dB. It consists of directional couplers 61, 61 'and 61 "including a significantly heavily attenuating branch line producing a -10 dB attenuation. The device includes such an attenuator 61, 61 'or 61 "for each output 42, 42' or 42", to which the outputs 42, 42 'and 42 "are coupled. , Are successively placed in the main signal path terminating in a terminator 64. The terminator has an impedance of 75 to prevent reflections and is adapted to the signal path.

The operational amplifier 47 has an amplification factor of about 17 dB. This means that assuming about -1 dB of attenuation by the diplex filter 460, the input signal supplied to the connection 43 reaches the output of the amplifier 47 with 16 dB of amplification. A first directional coupler 61 "provides -10 dB of attenuation and another attenuator 62 comprises-
To provide an additional attenuation of 6 dB, a signal at approximately the input level can be obtained from the first output 42 ″. The −1 dB attenuation in the main path in each case means that the signal is The result is that it is available at the 5 dB level at the next output 42 ′ and finally at the 4 dB level at the last output 42.
These last two outputs can be used to connect, for example, radio, television and video equipment and, if necessary, the associated teleservice overhead boxes. By inserting an attenuator at the first output 42 "or the like, the output level can be further adjusted as needed.

Thus, the supplied signal is available at each output 42, 42 ′ or 42 ″, but the attenuation means 61, 61 ′ and 61 ″ have at least −20 dB.
Signal separation exists between adjacent outputs 42, 42 'and 42 ". Infiltration noise or other interference that may occur from any output 42, 42' or 42" The signal path to the output results in a -20 dB attenuation, which is almost completely suppressed. Therefore, in this embodiment, the input 4 of the device is used.
3 and the outputs 42, 42 'or 42 "as well as the mutual outputs 42, 42".
Also effective signal separation is provided between 'and 42 ".

The first output 42 ″ can be used, for example in combination with the input 43, to connect to a personal computer in a network or with a cable modem 21. This electronically relatively sensitive device To protect the device, the connections 41 and 42 ″ used for this purpose are provided with DC electrical isolation in the form of a pair of capacitors 49. This makes it less likely that high voltages coming from the television device connected to either of the other outputs 42 and 42 'will reach the PC device.

In general, the invention provides a widely and generally applicable solution for connecting any type of telecommunications device to the common connection 2 of the telecommunications network 1. Therefore, it is possible to realize the high quality of both the reception and transmission signals. Mutual interference is minimized,
And noise infiltration from the user to the network is considerably suppressed.

Although the invention has been described with reference to a few embodiments, the invention is in no way limited to these embodiments, but rather, many modifications within the scope of the invention will occur to those skilled in the art. It is possible to add The gateway unit may be expanded or restricted depending on the diversity of the devices to be connected. Furthermore, although the invention has been described with reference to a cable television network, it can be used not only for cable television networks, but also for other types of networks. As a result of the present invention, there is always an effective separation between upstream and downstream communications at the user, so that these two communications do not interfere with each other.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a telecommunications system showing an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a first embodiment of a connection device according to the present invention used in the telecommunication system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a second embodiment of a connection device according to the present invention, which can be used in the telecommunication system of FIG. 1;

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuation of front page (81) Designated country EP (AT, BE, CH, CY, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, IE, IT, LU, MC, NL, PT, SE ), OA (BF, BJ, CF, CG, CI, CM, GA, GN, GW, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG), AP (GH, GM, KE, LS, MW, SD, SL, SZ, TZ, UG, ZW), EA (AM, AZ, BY, KG, KZ, MD, RU, TJ, TM), AE, AL, AM, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BR, BY, CA, CH, CN, CR, CU, CZ, DE, DK, DM, EE, ES, FI, GB, GD, GE, GH, GM, HR, HU, ID , IL, IN, IS, JP, KE, KG, KP, KR, KZ, LC, LK, LR, LS, LT, LU, LV, MA, MD, MG, MK, MN, MW, MX, NO, NZ, PL, PT, RO, RU, SD, SE, SG, SI, SK, SL, TJ, TM, TR, TT, TZ, UA, UG, US, UZ, VN, YU, ZA, ZW (71 ) Applicant Stockholm S-12625, Swe den (72) Inventor Otter Edwin Robert, Netherlands Zalto Bommel, JS N-5301, De Frank 37 F term (reference) 5C064 BA07 BB05 BC11 5K051 AA02 BB02 CC01 CC02 5K060 BB08 CCH DDH KK04 LL22 5K101 KK20 LL01 MM04

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. A first telecommunication means capable of receiving a first telecommunication signal in a first frequency range, transmitting a second telecommunication signal in a second frequency range. With a second telecommunication means capable of providing a single output comprising an output for the first telecommunication means, an input for the second telecommunication means, and a common connection for the telecommunication connection. A connection device for coupling to a telecommunications connection, said connection device providing separate signal paths to said inputs and outputs coupled to said common connection for said telecommunications connection via isolation means. Wherein said separating means is capable of conducting said first telecommunications signal at least almost exclusively via a first signal path between said output and said common connection, wherein said common connection and said common connection Via a second signal path between the input and the second A connection device characterized in that it is possible to at least almost exclusively guide telecommunications signals.