Distribution network communication system with flexible message routes

Abstract

Each customer location is equipped with a remote terminal which contains a role code identifying the remote terminal as an end device and a plurality of address codes. A plurality of signal repeaters are each connected with certain of the remote terminals through a distribution network. Each signal repeater contains stored route and role codes as well as a unique address code allowing each signal repeater to be additionally addressed as an end device. A central station produces an outgoing communication signal intended for at least one end device. A communication link couples the central station to the power distribution network. The communication signal includes a route code identifying a signal path to the end device, a role code identifying the first device in the identified route, an address code and a message code. Upon receipt of the communication signal by a signal repeater which is not the intended end device, the received route and role codes are compared to the stored route and role codes. If there is a match, the signal repeater removes its role code from the communication signal, inserts the role code of the next device in the identified route and retransmits the signal. The signal is continually modified and retransmitted until the message code is received by the intended end device.