MXPA97006129A - Univer demarcation point - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a universal demarcation point for managing the assortment of communications services to a subscriber providing an interconnection between a public network distribution network and the subscriber's equipment, the universal demarcation point comprising: an accessible portion of the public network comprising: a port of entry at the point of universal demarcation to supply the communications services from the distribution network of the public network, the communications services being supplied through a hybrid cable, which has a plurality of fiber optic cables and a plurality of copper cables, fiber optic cables are capable of transmitting light signals, copper cables are capable of transmitting electrical power, an output port at the universal demarcation point to supply the communications services in the residence of the subscriber, a plurality of modulator connectors mounted s fixed to the point of universal demarcation, a power supply removably mounted to the point of universal demarcation, the power supply that converts electric power into a voltage to drive the operation of the universal demarcation point, and a plurality of modules of service that are capable of being plugged into the modular connectors, the service modules that convert the light signals that are transmitted into the fiber optic cables into cables that are suitable for use in the subscriber's residence, and an accessible portion of the subscriber being adjacent to the accessible portion of the public network and having ports that allow the subscriber to test the integrity of the communications services located from the public network distribution network

Description

POINT OF UNIVERSAL DEFLECTION BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a device that facilitates the provision of communications services to subscribers. More particularly, the present invention refers to a universal demarcation point that provides an interconnection between a network of dist ibuci n of the public network and the equipment of a subscriber to be used with the provision of communication services to subscribers by means of copper or fiber optic cables. When communications services are provided to subscribers, it is common for a public network to be a Iñ of service to the residence of the subscriber. The service call provides an interconnection between the network of distribution of id public network and the equipment of the sub-network? "As used herein, the term" subscriber equipment "means equipment that a subscriber fixes either directly or indirectly. to a public network distribution network to receive or transmit communications services through the re-public distribution network. Examples of subscriber equipment include telephones, television and odems. When the subscriber subscribes to multiple types 2H of communication services, the service provider mounts a separate service call to the subscriber's residence for each type of communications service. Each of the separate service boxes is subsequently connected to the appropriate service distribution network. For example, the telephone service box is connected to the telephone distribution network and the cable television service is connected to the cable television distribution network. When the public network provides communications services in rural areas where there may be many miles between each subscriber, the public network must install separate copper wires to each service box in the residence of each subscriber. In addition, when communications services are transmitted over long distances using certain types of copper wires, elect ruces will weaken and become distorted. To overcome these disadvantages, the public network must install amplifiers or repeaters at regular intervals in the network of the public network so that the public network can provide the subscriber with communications services of a desirable quality. As a result of the costs associated with service to subscribers in rural areas, public networks have been restricted in their ability to provide subscribers with a range of communications services that public networks are typically able to provide to the public. Subscribers in urban areas. There are several designs of service boxes. Such a design is described in the U.S. patent. No. 4,673,771 to Grant. Grant's patent describes a universal building entry terminal for telephone service. The terminal is designed mainly for fixing to commercial buildings where it is necessary to have access to the terminal blocks to add, delete or change the telephone lines of the subscribers. The terminal has a modular structure that allows the components in the terminal to be recharged and changed. Several service box designs include the ability to supply more than one type of public network service. For example, the patent of E.U.A. No. 3,614,538 to Niel-Ola, describes a pedestal that is mounted adjacent to a mobile home 1 to supply electric power, telephone service and gas service to the mobile home. Conventional gas and electricity meters, as well as a conventional telephone box, can be mounted to the pole in such a way that public networks can be easily connected and disconnected from the mobile home. The patent E.U.A. No. 4,785,376 to Dively, describes a public network pedestal that is designed primarily for use in marine. The pedestal allows the supply of electric, telephone, television and water service to a single point. The pedestal also contains connectors that make it possible for the services of the public reti to be connected and disconnected conveniently to a boat or vehicle.

The patent of E.U.A. No. 5,196,988 to Horn and the patent of E.U.Pl. No. 5,184, 279 to Horn, describe an adapter faceplate for use on a metal power pedestal. The adapter provides the ability to add television and telephone capabilities to the power pedestal. The adapter isolates the telephone and television cables from the electrical components on the pedestal. The patent of E.U.A. No. 5,134,541 to Frouin, describes a distribution system for water, gas, fuel, electricity and other fluids .. The system is included in a container that resists vandalism and accepts payment for disbursement of services public network BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention includes a universal demarcation point to handle the provision of communication services to a subscriber. The universal demarcation point provides an interconnection between a public network distribution network and the subscriber's equipment. The universal demarcation point includes an accessible portion of the public network and a portion accessible by the subscriber. The accessible public network portion has an input port, an output port, a plurality of modular connectors, a power supply and a plurality of service modules.

The input port allows a hybrid cable of the public network distribution network to pass within the universal demarcation point. The hybrid cable has a plurality of fiber optic cables and a plurality of copper cables. The fiber optic cables are capable of transmitting light signals and the copper cables are capable of transmitting electrical energy. The port of departure provides the communications services from the universal demarcation point to the residence of the subscriber. The plurality of modular connectors are fixedly fixed to the universal demarcation point. The power supply, which is mounted removable between the universal demarcation point, converts the electrical energy into a voltage to activate the operation of the universal demarcation point. The plurality of service modules are connected in the modular connectors and convert light signals that are transmitted in the optical fiber cables for cables that are suitable for use in the residence of the subscriber. The portion accessible by the subscriber is adjacent to the accessible portion of the public network and has ports that enable the subscriber to verify the integrity of the communications services provided from the public network distribution network.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a plan view of the universal demarcation point of the present invention. Figure 2 is a flow chart illustrating a path for communication signals through the unite-salt demarcation point. Figure 3 is a flow chart illustrating another path for communication signals through the universal demarcation point. Fig. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a further path for the communication signals through the point demarcation uni-see-salt. Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating another path more equal to the communication signals through the universal demarcation point. Figure 6 is a logical flow diagram for a control service module. Figure 7 is a flow chart illustrating a path for video signals through a module of f111 ro.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED MODALITIES The present invention includes a universal demarcation point which is illustrated with 10 in Figure 1. The universal demarcation point 10 provides an interconnection between a public network distribution network and a subscriber's equipment to handle the supply of communications services to the sub-cri-tores. The universal demarcation point 10 is particularly suitable for managing the supply of computer data services, video and audio through fiber optic cables and copper cables to subscribers in rural areas. The uni-view demarcation point 10 provided a single interconnection to supply audio, video and computer data services to subscribers. As a result, the public network only needs to install a hybrid cable to connect each subscriber to the distribution network of the public network. Installing only a single hybrid cable to each subscriber in rural areas also allows the public network to reduce the costs that are associated with the maintenance of several separately installed cables that run to each subscriber. Due to the cost associated with the transmission of electrical signals over long distances to areas sparsely? Ot >However, public networks that serve subscribers in rural populations are limited in their birth to provide a variety of communications services to their subscribers. However, by supplying various communications services to subscribers through a single interconnection, the universal demarcation point 10 allows computer audio, video and data services to be transmitted on a single optical fiber cable or on a single fiber optic cable. single group of optical fiber cables. The fiber optic cables have a width of t > it's bigger than conventional twisted pair cables. As a result, fiber optic cables are able to handle more information than interlaced pair copper cables or coaxial cables. Because optical fiber cables are able to handle a greater amount of information, it is possible to simultaneously transmit more than one type of signal, such as audio and video signals on a single fiber optic cable. Fiber optic cables also do not require the frequent use of amplifiers or repeaters that are required when communications services are transmitted through twisted pair copper cables or coaxial cables. As a result, the transmission of audio, video and data services by computer through fiber optic cables allows to improve the quality of communication services while reducing the cost of transmitting communications services. Public networks that serve urban areas where there are higher subscriber densities have discovered that they can take advantage of the benefits of transmitting communications services with fiber optic cables in a cost-effective way by installing fiber optic cables to a central location neighbor From this point, communications services are supplied to subscribers with twisted pair copper cables or coaxial cables. However, the sparsely populated nature of the rural areas makes it practical to install fiber optic cables either to the residences of the subscribers or to the neighboring central locations. However, the universal demarcation point now provides an effective mechanism in terms of costs to provide communications services to subscribers in rural areas with fiber optic cables. The universal demarcation point 10 has a modular configuration that allows the universal demarcation point 10 to be modified to handle the supply of any type of communication service that is provided by a public network. The modular configuration of the universal demarcation point 10 allows the universal demarcation point 10 to be installed with a limited number of components. When the subscriber requests additional services or the public network creates the capital to install the ability to provide additional services, the public network can easily modify the confi uration of the universal demarcation point 10 by adding or changing components. The point of universal demarcation is generally divided into an accessible portion of public network 1? and a portion accessible by the subscriber 14. The accessible portion of the public network 12 includes a mother board 16. The mother board has a plurality of connectors 20 for attaching components to the universal demarcation point 10. The connectors 20 are preferably a plurality of modular edge board connectors 20. Each of the modular edge board connectors 20 is adapted to receive an end portion configured in addition to a service module 22. Modular edge board connectors 20 retain the service modules 22 in a desired position at the universal demarcation point 10 while allowing the service modules 22 to be easily removed from the universal demarcation point 10. The modular edge board connectors 20 having the above characteristics can be obtained from EDAC Systems inc. (Colmar, Pennsylvama), Texas Instruments, Inc. (Houston, fexas) and Siliins Electronics Corporation (San Marcos, C l norm). The end portion of the service module which is complementary to the modular edge board connectors 20 preferably includes conductive traces. The mother board 16 also preferably includes traces or conductive wires (not shown) for supplying electrical power from a supply of power. energy 24 towards the modular edge board connectors 20 so that the modular board board connectors 20 can transmit electrical power to the service modules 22 which are plugged into the modular edge board connectors 20. The operation of the demarcation point Universal 10 is completely activated by electric power that comes from the distribution network of the public network. The local energy that comes from the subscriber is not required to operate any of the components at the universal demarcation point 10. The ability of the public r-ed to provide telephone service without the use of local power is one of the slow r-equepr of design for the rural public networks to obtain loans from the rural electrification administration of the EU Ba or the State Telecommunications Modernization Plan 58 Reg. Fed. 66,259 (1993). The universal dual junction point 10 includes a power supply 2 that is mounted remotely in the accessible portion of the public network 12. The power supply 24 converts the electrical energy of a transmission voltage that is transmitted from the distribution network of the public network in a voltage of use that is required to activate the operation of the universal demarcation point 10. The energy supplies that convert the electrical energy of a voltage to electrical energy in a different voltage are known. In a preferred embodiment, the power supply 24 converts the electric power from a transmission voltage of approximately -48 volts DC to a use voltage of +1? DC volts. The power supply 24 is preferably selected to exhibit a peak-to-peak pulse velocity of 10 seconds at an RF output (radio frequency) of 400 volts. The speed or power capacity of the power supply 24 is selected based on the number of service modules 22 that are used at the demarcation point um see-salt 10. When four service modules 22 are used at the universal demarcation point 10, the power supply 24 is preferably selected with an energy speed of 250 watts ts. The power supply 24 is preferably plugged into the modular edge board connector 20 on the motherboard 16. The modular edge board 26 connects the power supply 24 to the strokes or wires (not shown) on the motherboard 16 while allowing the power supply 24 to be removed from the mother board 16. The accessible portion of the public network 12 has a power strip 28 mounted reliably between. The terminal energy strip 28 provides connections for the copper cables that activate the operation of the universal demarcation point 10. The energy terminal strip 28 also provides connections for the twisted pair copper cables when the copper cables of the twisted are used to provide telephone service to the subscriber. For example, the public network can transfer the telephone service through cat >The pair of twisted pair copper instead of fiber optic cables will reduce the initial cost of the installation of the universal demarcation point 10. The accessible portion of the public network 12 includes an output port 30 and a port of communication. input 32. The output port 30 allows the cables carrying the communications services to pass from the universal demarcation point 10 to the residence of the subscriber. The input port 32 allows the cables carrying the communication services from the distribution network of the public network to pass within the universal demarcation point 10. The output port 30 and the entry port 32 are preferably positioned on a bottom surface 34 or back surface 36 of the universal demarcation point 10 to minimize the problems associated with substances spilling at the universal demarcation point 10. The accessible portion of the public network 12 also preferably includes a handling area of fiber optic cable 40 which is located adjacent to the service modules 22. The optical fiber cable management area 40 preferably has a tray 42 which is suitable for holding excess or unused portions of fiber optic cables. The fiber optic cable management area 40 helps in this way to protect the fiber optic cables. The universal demarcation point 10 includes a cover (not shown) for the accessible portion of the public network 12. The cover protects the components within the accessible portion of the public network 12 from damage that may be caused from a variety of sources, such as vandalism or the weather. When the cover is in a closed position, the cover preferably creates a waterproof seal on the accessible portion of the public network 12. The cover preferably includes a securing mechanism (not shown) to prevent unauthorized access to the components within the accessible portion of the public network 12. The portion accessible by the subscriber 14 enables the subscriber to confirm whether a problem with the communications services is caused by a problem in the public network distribution network or in the public network. Subscriber equipment. Such a device is commonly known as a network interconnection device. Preferably, the network interconnection device includes a test port for each of the communication lines that enter the residence of the subscriber. For example, one plug R3-11 and one plug 44 are preferably provided for each telephone line and a plug and coaxial plug 46 are preferably provided for each ideo line. Other types of devices may be used in the portion accessible by the subscriber 14 to confirm whether there is a problem with the distribution network of the public network or with the subscriber's equipment. For example, the access portion > The subscriber 14 may include a sensor- and an LED (light emitting diode) 48 to indicate whether the communication signal falls by det > garlic from a threshold level. Similar to the accessible portion of the public network 12, the portion accessible by the subscriber 14 includes a cover (not shown) that protects the test ports from damage that may result from a variety of sources, such as vandalism or weathering. When the cover is in a closed position, the cover of the subscriber portion-presumably creates a waterproof seal with the portion accessible by the subscriber 14. The cover of the subscriber portion may also include an assurance mechanism (not shown) to prevent unauthorized access to the components within the portion accessible by the subscriber 14. The service modules 22 are selected based on the desired communications services that the public network is providing to the subscriber. The modular configuration of the demarcation point Universal 10 allows the universal demarcation point 10 to receive either analog or digital signals from the public network distribution network and transmit either analog or digital signals to the subscriber's residence for use on the subscriber's equipment. The modular configuration of the uruver-salt demarcation point 10 also allows the public network to modify the universal demarcation point 10 to supply the communications services by means of different types of cables. For example, the video signal can be transmitted from the universal demarcation point 10 to the subscriber's equipment using coaxial cable or fiber optic cable. Preferably, the service modules 22 include an optical receiver service module 22a. The optical receiver service module 22a converts the information transmitted as a light signal by the fiber optic cable into an electrical signal that is transmitted on a co-cable. To convert the light signal into an electrical signal, the optical receiver service module 22a preferably includes a conventional 'PIN-FET (negative intrinsic positive field-effect transistor) photodetector (not shown). The PIN-FET photodetector produces an electrical signal that varies based on the intensity and wavelength of the light hitting the photodetector. The PIN-FET photodetector has preferably the characteristics mentioned in Table 1. A preferred PIN-FET photodetector can be obtained from EpLtaxx Inc, (Tr-eton, Ne? Jersey) under the name ETX700.

TABLE 1 Optical input speed -10 to -ldBm Optical wavelength 1300 to 1500 nrn * _ 20 nin Optical return rate 40 dB I rn pe da nc L 75 Oh s Return loss Lda -15 dB Band width 50 to 550 Mhz (rnin) Frequency response = 1 dB Input voltage 12 Volts DC Current 100 Mi l l iarnps Operating temperatures -40 to + 80 ° C The optical receiver service module 22a also includes a monolithic microcircuit integrated circuit amplifier (MMIC) (not shown) that amplifies the electrical signal to a radio frequency output of approximately +6 dBmV. A preferred MMIC amplifier can be obtained from Hewlett Pacl - ard Cornpany of (San Dose, California) under the name MAV - 11. As would be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the optical-receiver service module 22a may also use a conventional amplifier to amplify the signal. The optical receiver service module 22a preferably includes a removable physical contact optical connector 72 to connect the photodetector-PIN-FET to the fiber optic cable. The optical contact connector 72 is preferable because it provides a low return loss while allowing the optical receiver service module 22a to be rapidly disconnected from the optical fiber cable. A preferred physical contact optical connector 72 can be obtained from Siecor Corporation (Orlando, Florida) ba or the name FC-PC. Once the optical receiver service module 22a converts the communications services into the electrical signal, the electrical signal is separated into the individual communications services. Preferably, the communications services are transmitted in regions of discrete wavelength so that the individual communications services can be separated by filtering based on their wavelength. Other conventionally known techniques can be used when the communication services are transmitted in a form. ato di it l. The optical receiver service module 22a also includes separate modular connectors 64 that provide a connection for the cables carrying the individual communications services from the accessible portion of the public network 12 to the test ports 44, 46 in the portion accessible by the subscriber 14. For example, when the optical receiver service module 22a supplies video signals, the optical receiver service module 22a preferably includes an SMB connector that provides a connection to a cal > coaxial To assist in the recall of the state of the light signal arriving at the optical fiber cable, the optical receiver service module 2a includes a signal from the signal 6b which lights up to indicate when the light signal falls for doL > a or of a threshold value. Preferably, the LE input signal 66 is illuminated when the light signal falls below -10 dBrn. The optical receiver service module 22a also includes a receiver power LED-68 which indicates that the power supply is providing electrical energy within a desired range to activate the operation of the PIN-FET photodetector and the MMIC amplifier. Preferably, the L.ED receiver energy is illuminated when the electric power is about -12 volts. The optical receiver service module 22a is preferably located in an outer layer of metal foil 70. The metal foil layer 70 protects the components in the optical receiver service module 22a from damage and protects the other components in the universal demarcation point 10 of the interference by radio frequency radiation emissions. The service modules 2? they also preferably include an optical transmitter 22b for converting electrical signals into light signals that are transmitted from the universal demarcation point 10 to the public network by means of optical fiber cables. The electrical signals are preferably converted into light signals using a Fabry-Perot laser (not shown). Variations in electrical signals cause the laser to divert current through light sources. The l is preferably a Fujitsu Lightwave semiconductor that can be obtained from Fujitsu America, Inc. (Lako Bluff, Illinois) under the name FLD 130C2PL. The optical transmitter service module 22b has modular connectors 78 that provide a connection to the cables that transmit the communications services to the subscriber. For example, when the optical transmitter service module 22b supplies video signals, the optical transmitter service module 22b preferably includes an SMB connector providing a connection to a coaxial cable. The optical transmitter service module 22b preferably includes the capability to transmit various subscriber communications services to the public network distribution network by means of a single fiber optic cable. To facilitate the transmission of more than one communication service through the cat >fiber optic, communications services are preferably transmitted at different wavelengths. In a manner similar to the optical collector service module 22a, the optical answerer service module 22b preferably includes a transmitter power LED 74 which indicates that the power supply is providing electrical energy within a desired range to activate the function. of the components in the optical transmitter service module 22b. Preferably, the transmission power LED 74 is illuminated when the electrical power is about -12 volts. The laser is preferably connected to the fiber optic cable with an optical connector 76 of removable physical contact. The optical contact connector 76 is preferably preferred because it provides a return loss at the same time allowing the service module 22b optical transmitter be quickly disconnected from the fiber optic cable. A preferred physical contact optical connector 76 can be obtained from Siecor Corporation (Orlando, Florida) under the FC-PC ignation. The public network preferably connects the public network distribution network to the universal demarcation point 10 with a hybrid cable 60. The hybrid cable 60 contains a plurality of fiber optic cables and a plurality of copper cables. The number of ubra optical and copper cables is selected based on the type of communications services provided by the public network to the suscpptor and the number and type of service modules 22 at the universal demarcation point 10. When it is being used the universal demarcation point 10 with a residence, the hybrid cable 60 preferably includes four single-mode fiber optic cables and four 16-gauge copper coiled cables. The hybrid cable 60 has a protective coating 86 to protect fiber optic and copper cables from being damaged. The protective cover 86 is selected based on the location where the hybrid 60 cable is installed. For example, a double layer polyethylene cover with an individual armor layer is suitable for protecting the fiber optic and copper cables when install the hybrid cable 60 underground. A hybrid cable 60 having the above characteristics can be obtained from ATST Fitel (Carrollton, Georgia). When the hybrid cable 60 contains four fiber optic cables, a first fiber optic cable is preferably used to transmit the audio, video and computer data signals to the subscriber and a second copper cable is preferably used to transmit computer audio, video and data signals from the subscriber-. A third fiber optic cable and a fourth fiber optic cable are reserves that can be used to replace a defective fiber optic cable. In the alternative, the third fiber optic cable can be used to provide a high speed computer data link (greater than 1.5 Mbps) between the subscriber and the public network. When the hybrid cable 60 contains four coL cables > Two threaded copper wires provide electrical power for the operation of the components at the universal demarcation point 10. The other two threaded copper wires are preferably used to provide conventional telephone service to the subscriber. The service modules 22 can also include a control service module 22c. The control service module can be programmed using conventional techniques to carry out a variety of tasks at the universal demarcation point 10. For example, the control service module 22c can control the operation status of the other service modules 22. and notify the public network if a problem arises. When the control service module 22c is used to modify the other service modules 22, it is to provide a data path 80 between the service modules. The control service module 22c can also be programmed to actively control the operation. of the other service module or other meters of the public network. For example, the control service module can be assigned an identification number, similar to the "caller ID", which is unique for each subscriber. The identification number allows the public network to remotely control each use of the service subscriber of the public network, such as natural gas, water and electricity and then transmit the readings to the public network. By remotely controlling each use of the service subscriber of the public network, the public network reduces the costs associated with the manual reading of the meters of the public network at the residence of the subscriber. The remote control systems that are used for the above characteristics are described in Brennan, 3rd. and others, Patent of E.U.A. No. 5,243,330, and Venkat rarnan et al., U.S. Patent. No. 4,862,493. The identification number also allows the public network to turn off the power of the building in case of a fire or if the subscriber has not paid for the communications services.

The control service module 22c also preferably includes the ability to control when there is unauthorized access to the accessible portion 12 of the public network. The control service module 22c not only notifies the public network of unauthorized access to the accessible portion 12 of the public network without also preferably stopping all the transmission of the communication services from and to the subscriber until the network publishes to re-adjust the universal demarcation point 10. By stopping all transmission of communications services, the control service module 22c prevents subscribers from messing with the components within the accessible portion 12 of the public network. Because the universal demarcation point 10 provides a source for the input of all or substantially all of the public network of the building, it provides a central junction location for which the entire public network can be placed underground. In this way, the possibility of having citrus problems arising from improper grounding is minimized. The modular construction of the demarcation point or salt-see 10 allows the universal demarcation point 10 to operate in a variety of configurations. Once the universal demarcation point 10 is mounted to the subscriber's residence, the universal demarcation point 10 allows the public network to offer the subscriber additional communications services that would not be possible without having already had access to the subscriber's residence. . In the following flow diagrams, each of the components is generally identified as being within the limits of the universal demarcation point 10"A person skilled in the art would appreciate that the placement of the components in particular service modules 22 is a choice of design based on the size of the service modules 22 and the desired aspects of the service modules The universal demarcation point 10 allows audio, video and data signals to be transmitted from the distribution network of the public network on a fiber optic cable and the distribution network of the public network on another cable of the public network. individual optical fiber, as illustrated in Figure 2. The light signal input is t-shaped into an electrical signal with an optical receiver. After conversion into an electrical signal, the electrical signal is separated from the audio, video and computer data signals based on the differences in the wavelengths at which the signals are transmitted. The separated audio, video and computer data frames are then transmitted in a computer audio, video or data output processor, respectively. The processors of audio, video and computer data output convert the signals into a form that can be used by the subscriber. For example, the audio serial is preferably transmitted at the subscriber's residence using a twisted pair copper cable having R3-11 connectors and the computer data signal is preferably transmitted at the subscriber's residence using the RS 232 protocols. or RS 485. This preferred modality of the universal demarcation point also includes the ability to transmit audio, video and data signals by computer from the subscriber. The electrical input signals separated from audio, video and computer data are first multiplexed into an individual copper cable based on the different wavelengths at which the signals are transmitted. The electrical signals are then transmitted using copper cable to an optical transmitter wherein the electrical signals are converted into light signals that are transmitted through the public network distribution network on a fiber optic cable. With this preferred embodiment, the operation of each of the components is preferably controlled by a control service module. When the control service module detects that there is an error with one of the components, the control transmits an error message to the public network. The error message is multi-layered with audio, video and computer data serials for transmission through the distribution network of the public network on an F &L cable.Optical The universal demarcation point of the present invention also allows input and output of computer audio, video and data signals to be transmitted on an individual fiber optic cable as illustrated in FIG. 3. With this embodiment, the The light signal of the public network distribution network is preferably separated from the light signal by being transmitted to the distribution network of the public network using a conventional voltage meter. Conventional ultipix is preferably obtained from JDS Fitel (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada) under the designation U0- 1315X. Then, the input light signal is processed similar to the described procedure or with reference to the mode illustrated in FIG. 2. After converting the audio, video and data output signals by computer into light signals as described above with Referring to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the light signals are then transmitted to the distribution network of the public network using a conventional ipLexoi rnul. Also similar to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the operation of each of the components in this mode is controlled by a control service module. In yet another mode of the universal demarcation point of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 4, the audio and video signals are transmitted from the distribution network of the public network on a first fiber cable. optics. This mode includes a decoder to decode communication services from a digital signal. The audio and video output signals are transmitted from the subscriber in a second fiber optic cable. This mode also includes an encoder for encoding the communications services in a digital signal. This mode also illustrates that computer data output and input signals are transmitted and received on a third cable of f < Optical Using a separate optical fiber cable to transmit and receive only computer data signals, this mode allows computer data transfer to occur at higher speeds than when computer data signals are combined into an individual fiber optic cable with audio or video signals. Even the modality of the universal demarcation point of the present invention is illustrated in Figure 5. This embodiment illustrates the universal demarcation point as it receives video and data signals on a fiber optic cable. The optical receiver converts the light signals into an electrical signal. The electrical signal is then separated into individual video and data signals that can be transmitted at the subscriber's residence using conventional cables such as copper conductors in twisted pair or coaxial cable. To reduce the manufacturing cost of the umver-salt demarcation point with an optical transmitter as well as an optical receiver, the universal demarcation point accepts audio signals on a twisted pair copper cable. However, it is pointed out that the modular construction of the universal demarcation point allows the public network to later ascend the universal demarcation point to include the audio input and output signals in the fiber optic cables. The state of operation of the components at the universal demarcation point is controlled with the control service module, illustrated at 22c in Figure 1. The logic followed in a mode of the control service module is established in the figure. 6. The control service module begins each cycle by detecting whether the power supply is providing electrical energy within a specific operating range. If the electrical power is not within the operating range, the control service module sends an error message to the public network indicating the error. The control service module then controls the operation of the receiver, the decoder, the video output unit, the data output unit, and the audio transmission level. If any of these values is not satisfactory, the control service module transmits an error message corresponding to the public network. The control procedure is repeated continuously while the unison-salt demarcation point remains connected to the distribution network of the public network.

The universal demarcation point may also include a filter module, as illustrated in Figure 7. The filter module allows the public network to control the channels that the subscriber can see. The filter module allows the public network to transmit unencrypted video signals through the distribution network of the public network. By transmitting uncoded audio signals through the public network distribution network, the public network can provide higher quality video signals to the sub-subscribers. Because the video signals are transmitted from the distribution network of the public network over fiber optic cable, which is difficult for unauthorized users to make a connection, it is not necessary for the public network to transmit signals from the public network. video encoded. Before entering the filter module, the video signal is preferably divided into two lines (lines 1, 2). Line 1 is directed through the filter 1 where the video signal is filtered so that only the video signals outside the air remain on line 1. Alternatively, off-air video signals can be obtained from from a separate source such as an antenna or satellite dish. Line 2 is directed in the filter module where the video signal is filtered to produce video signals that the r * ed publishes restricts access based on the services for which the subscriber pays. Restricting access to certain services, the public network is able to charge-ai subscriber additional fees to receive services. Line 2 is preferably divided into a plurality of lines. Each of the lines is filtered so that only a desired portion of the video signal remains in the lines. After filtering each video signal, each video signal passes through a controller. The con < The coder allows the video signal to pass through or block the signal from vi eo based on the question that the subscriber has paid for the desired channel. For example, video signals can be divided into basic cable television services, special channels and pay-per-view channels. The operation of each of the controllers is controlled by a control signal (line 4) from the control service module. The control signal goes through the master controller where the control signal is directed to the appropriate controller. The master controller can also transmit a signal to a controller-in the lines of off-air video signals (not shown) so that a portion of the video frames outside the air are blocked when the subscriber receives a special channel. or a pay-per-view channel. Trans iando ma < : of a video signal on each channel, the puLilica network is able to increase its ability to offer subscribers a greater variety of programming within a given bandwidth. The filter module also preferably includes audio and video signal system services (line 6). While line 6 indicates that the system services are carried on an individual cable, one skilled in the art will appreciate that separate cables can be used to transmit audio and video signals. When the audio and VLdeo signals are transmitted on separate cables, a conventional multiplexer is preferably included in the cable to allow each signal to be transmitted to the RF modulator. As indicated in Figure 7, the RF modulator preferably produces a signal that can be observed by the subscriber in channel 3. After the system service signal passes through the RF modulator, the service signal of system passes through a controller. Similar to others with rollers, the controller is controlled by a signal from the control service module that is transmitted to the controller through the master controller. Before being transmitted outside the filter module, each VLdeo signal is preferably joined on an individual cable. After joining in the individual cable, the signals * of the video are amplified preferably using a conventional amplifier. The conventional! - amplified returns the video signals to a level that is needed for use by the subscriber. After the video signals are output from the filter module, the video signals are joined with the video signals out of the air on an individual cable (line 8). Placing all video signals on the individual cable allows the subscriber to plug the individual cable into the subscriber's equipment and obtain all video services. Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes in form and detail can be made without accommodation of the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims (1)

1. NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS 1. - A universal demarcation point to handle the assortment of communications services to a subscriber-providing an interconnection between a distribution network of the public r-ed and subscriber's equipment, the universal demarcation point comprising, an accessible portion of the r-ed publishes that understands; an entry port at the universal demarcation point to supply the communications services from the distribution network of the public network, the communications services being supplied through a hybrid cable, which has a plurality of fiber cables optical and a plurality of copper cables, fiber optic cables are capable of transmitting light signals, copper cables are capable of transmitting electrical energy; an exit port at the universal demarcation point south-to-go communications services at the subscriber's residence; a plurality of modular connectors mounted fixedly to the universal demarcation point; A power supply mounted removes the leme to the universal demarcation point, the power supply that converts the electric energy into a voltage to drive the operation of the universal demarcation point; and a plurality of service modules that are capable of being plugged into the modular connectors, the service modules that convert the light signals that are transmitted into the fiber optic cables into cables that are suitable for use in the residence of the subscriber; and an accessible portion of the subscriber being adjacent to the accessible portion of the public network and having ports that allow the subscriber to test the integrity of the communications services assorted from the distribution network of the public r-ed. The point of demarcation according to claim 1, further characterized in that it comprises a motherboard that is removably mounted to the universal demarcation point in the accessible portion of the public network, wherein the plurality of modular connectors are mounted at the motherboard, the motherboard comprising a plurality of conductive traces formed in e-> On the motherboard, the conductor lines are capable of transmitting the electrical energy from * the power supply to the service modules. 3. The universal demarcation point according to claim 1, further characterized in that the plurality of service modules includes a video service module. 4. - The universal demarcation point according to claim 3, further characterized in that the video service module includes a receiver for converting the light signals into electrical signals and transmitting the electrical signals in a coaxial cable. 5. The universal demarcation point according to claim 4, further characterized in that the video service module includes a transmitter for converting the electrical signals into light signals and transmitting the light signals on a fiber optic cable. 6. The universal demarcation point according to claim 5, further characterized in that the video service module includes a multiplexer, the multiplier i plexer that allows the light signals to be transmitted by the transmitter-and be received by the receiver to be carried on an individual fiber optic cable. 7. The universal demarcation point according to claim 1, further characterized in that the plurality of service modules includes an audio sevice module. 8. The universal demarcation point according to claim 7, further characterized in that the audio service module includes a receiver for converting the light signals into electrical signals and transmitting the electrical signals on copper cables in twisted pair. 9. The universal demarcation point according to claim 8, further characterized in that the audio service module includes a transmitter for converting the electrical signals into light signals and transmitting the light sera on a fiber optic cable. 10. - The universal demarcation point according to claim 9, further characterized in that the audio service module includes a multiplexer, the multiplexer - which allows the light signals to be transmitted by the transmitter and received by the receiver to be carried in an individual fiber optic cable. 11. The universal demarcation point according to claim 1, further characterized in that the plurality of service modules includes a computer data service module. 12. The universal demarcation point according to claim 11, further characterized in that the computer data service module includes a receiver for converting the light signals into electrical signals and transmitting the electrical signals in a computer cable. 13. The universal demarcation point according to claim 12, further characterized in that the computer data service module includes a transmitter for converting the electrical signals into light signals and transmitted the light signals on a fiber optic cable . 14. The universal demarcation point according to claim 13, further characterized in that the computer data service module includes a multiplexer, the multiplexer that allows the light signals to be transmitted by the transmitter and received by the receiver - to be carried on an individual fiber optic cable. 15. - The universal demarcation point according to claim 1, further characterized in that the plurality of service modules includes a control service module. 16. The universal demarcation point according to claim 15, further characterized in that the control service module includes a receiver to receive sera from a meter of the public network to control the use of public network services that flow through the public network meter 17. The universal demarcation point according to claim 16, further characterized in that the control service module includes a transmitter for transmitting signals to the meter of the public network for Controls the flow of public network services through the public network meter 18 ..- The universal demarcation point according to claim 15, further characterized in that each service module contains a control port, each control port that transmits signals to the role service module 19.- The universal demarcation point according to claim 18, character Also, because the control service module contains a receiver to receive signals from the control ports and a transmitter to transmit the signals over the fiber optic cables. 20. - The universal demarcation point according to claim 15, further characterized in that it comprises a ground terminal or ground that provides a central base for all the services of the public network supplied through the universal demarcation point. 21. The universal demarcation point according to claim 18, further characterized in that the plurality of service modules include a filter module, the filter module comprising: a plurality of filters to separate the portions of the electrical signals to split-of1 video service module; and a plurality of controllers associated with each filter, the contactors being in communication with the control service module to block the portions of the electrical signals from the transmission to the subscriber's equipment.