Telephone network interface device

Abstract

A telephone network interface device utilizing network termination modules for interconnecting telephone company wiring to the wiring of respective subscribers incorporates an improved organization of elements to reduce the cost of such elements; to facilitate their use; and to improve the flexibility and compactness of the organization. The device incorporates an improved hinge arrangement for use with the internal security closure that permits ready removal of the closure to facilitate servicing the installed equipment. A novel ground bus organization comprising an assemblage of bus sections of uniform length arranged to accommodate the length of stack of network termination modules housed in the device reduces the variety of ground buses required to accommodate module stacks of various size. Moreover, an improved connection between the respective modules and the ground bus sections insures correct positioning of the modules within the device and reduces the danger of inadvertent disconnection of the modules from ground. A particular form of network termination module is utilized which permits ready transfer of subscriber wiring between available network interface jacks in the device. The subscriber wiring is connected via a detachable terminal strip secured by a releasable latch which is concealed beneath a dedicated closure cover that is mounted for movement with the terminal strip. Transfer of terminal strips between interface jacks is enhanced by a wire routing arrangement including wire guides of particular design that enable access of all terminal strips with every interface jack without need for wiring disassembly.