Identifying a plurality of devices
US8232869B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 15, 2010 |
| Grant date | Jul 31, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 26, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L1/0061
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus of identifying a plurality of devices connected along a common communications link is disclosed. A control station scans the devices by sending a succession of interrogation signals along the communication link, the interrogation signals including representation of the identification numbers of the devices. A first scan is carried out with interrogation signals identifying a first level of the range of identification numbers, and each device is programmed to generate, and to send to the control station, a response signal that includes its complete identification number and a checksum, upon receipt of a scan signal applicable thereto. Successive scans are carried out by the control station, adding the next higher level or the range of identification numbers, wherein upon completion of the scan that does not give rise to valid responses, the previously-paused scan is resumed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.