Intelligent multiplexers in an antenna line management system

1. A method of transmitting a communication signal between a radio base station and multiple radiation elements, the method comprising:

a) receiving data signals from multiple radiation elements;

b) generating a single modulated signal that combines data signals;

c) producing a single input modulated signal, such that the input signal is adapted to be transmitted over a common feeder cable, wherein the data signals include values representing operating parameters of devices at the multiple radiation elements;

d) transmitting the input modulated signal along with transmitted and received communication channel signals though the common feeder cable;

e) receiving the input signal from the multiple radiation elements over the common feeder cable;

f) extracting the data signals from the input signal; and

g) producing a status signal for each device based upon the values representing operating parameters that simulates a feedback signal for the device.

2. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein the input signal comprises a plurality of communication signals.

3. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein the devices include system cables.

4. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein the devices include a mast head amplifier.

5. A method of transmitting a communication signal between a radio base station and multiple radiation elements, the method comprising:

a) receiving data signals that include control signals representing operating parameter settings for devices at multiple radiation elements;

b) generating a single modulated signal the combines data signals;

c) producing single input modulated signal, to be transmitted over a common feeder cable;

d) transmitting input modulated signal along with transmitted and received communication channel signals;

(e) receiving the input signal over the common feeder cable;

(f) extracting the data signals from the input signal; and

(g) producing an output signal for each device that transfers the control signals representing operating parameter settings to the device.

6. A method as defined in claim 5 , wherein the input signal comprises a plurality of communication signals.

7. A method as defined in claim 5 , wherein the devices include a mast head amplifier.

8. An apparatus for transmitting a communication signal between a radio base station and multiple radiation elements, the apparatus comprising:

a bias tee configured to receive an input signal from the multiple radiation elements over a common feeder cable, wherein the input signal comprises data signals that are received from multiple radiation elements and are combined into a single modulated signal for transmission over the common feeder cable, the data signals including values representing operating parameters of devices at the multiple radiation elements;

a controller configured to extract the data signals from the input signal and to produce a status signal based upon the values representing operating parameters for the devices; and

a load simulator that simulates a feedback signal for the devices in accordance with the status signal.

9. An apparatus for transmitting a communication signal between a radio base station and multiple radiation elements, the apparatus comprising:

a bias tee configured to receive an input signal over a common cable, wherein the input signal comprises a single modulated signal that is a combination of data signals that include control signals representing operating parameter settings for devices at multiple radiation elements; and

a controller configured to extract the data signals and to produce an output signal for each device that transfers the control signals representing operating parameter settings to the device.