Mci, Inc.

Worldcom, Inc.

Vaikunth N Gupta

William Christopher Hardy

A test unit provides testing capability at a network interface device (NID). The test unit may be remotely activated so that testing is initiated upon activation from a remote site. In one embodiment, a characteristic signal is sent over a telephone line toward the NID. A characteristic signal is detected and the testing unit is activated. The testing unit may perform multiple types of tests, including tests for detecting line loss, line noise and latency. The test may be implemented using electronic circuitry or using an intelligent computer system.

Test unit for use at a network interface device

A test unit provides testing capability at a network interface device (NID). The test unit may be remotely activated so that testing is initiated upon activation from a remote site. In one embodiment, a characteristic signal is sent over a telephone line toward the NID. A characteristic signal is detected and the testing unit is activated. The testing unit may perform multiple types of tests, including tests for detecting line loss, line noise and latency. The test unit may be implemented using electronic circuitry or using an intelligent computer system.

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Potomac, MD, United States of America

Vaikunth N Gupta