Pstn transaction processing network employing wireless concentrator/controller

摘要

A business transaction network including a wireless communication link for coupling a plurality of card transaction terminals to a host computer through a limited number of lines connected to the public switched telephone network (PSTN). The wireless link includes interface units for interfacing with the terminals and with the PSTN and encoding and decoding digital data based on analog signals from the terminals and from the PSTN, and spread spectrum wireless transceivers. A wireless concentrator/controller polls the plurality of terminals and selectively connects terminals to the PSTN through one of the telephone lines.