Patent ID: 6452492
Filing Date: 2002-09-17
Classification: G08B

Abstract:
An alert system for use in a cable system network, the cable system network comprising a plurality of cables over which communication signals are transmitted from a central transmission station to a plurality of receivers, each communication signal having associated therewith at least one distinguishable modulation frequency, the alert system comprising: means for generating an alert request in response to an emergency condition affecting at least two recipients,means located at said central transmission station for receiving an alert request; a transmitter located at said central transmission station having an input operatively connected to said request receiving means and an output coupled with the cable system network, said transmitter output providing an alert signal modulated at a frequency distinguishable from the frequencies of the communication signals in response to said alert request; a manual actuator operatively connected to said transmitter, said transmitter providing a continuous alert signal in response to said alert request and activation of said manual actuator; one of said plurality of receivers coupled with the cable system network, said receiver including means for detecting said alert signal and generating an alarm signal therefrom; and an alarm connected to said detecting means, said alarm activated in response to said alarm signal.