The P3 represents a very sophisticated authentication system that is deceptively simple to use. It offers unparalleled flexibility while maintaining a high degree of system integrity. There are over 1 billion handshake combinations that change with each call, resulting in an extremely high degree of authentication. No AC power or batteries are required. The units derive their power from the active TelCo lines.

The upgraded P3 has the same basic propriety time tested challenge/response technology used in the Challenger P2 with thousands of installations in a multitude of industries as well as the government. However, the P3s are basically oriented toward larger and more permanent types of installations. They incorporate additional configuration and programming options for expanded application requirements and they provide a more automated remote programming approach. Unlike the P2s, they do not require any additional manual intervention at the remote site when or if remote programming is necessary.

Operation
The small hardware boxes connect to the analog side of the operative modems with RJ-11s. Any call received by a modem with a Lock connected to it will be challenged for the presence of a proper Key at the calling end. If the Key is present, the call will be allowed to progress transparently with no additional delay or operator intervention. However, if there is no Key, or an invalid Key is detected, the call will be defeated within a ½ second and it will never be identified as a modem answered call by war dialers or other equipment.

Dip Switches Options
Any of the P3 auxiliary units can function as Locks, Keys or a combination of Locks and Keys. The following dip switch options are sure to provide an optimum configuration tailored to your application. In fact, the configurations can vary by locations.

• Key Only - The P3 acts as a Key. Can call any "Locked location" or unprotected location. Inbound calls are received transparently.

• Lock/Key - In this mode the P3 "Lock" Challenges the inbound calls for the presence of a proper Key. It also automatically becomes a Key on outbound calls. It can call other "Lock sites" or non-protected sites. (any to any, one to many or many to one).

• Lock Only - The P3 acts as a Lock only (no auto transition to key), but can still call non-protected sites.

• Lock Only XO - The P3 acts as a Lock only. Also prevents outbound calls.

• Program Mode - Allows the P3 unit to be reprogrammed (Y/N), remotely or locally.

Programmer
The P3 Systems use a separate programmer to re-program the auxiliary P3s. Each programmer has a unique factory assigned "Base Code". The random extension of the "Base Code" is enabled via a dip switch on the programmer. Once the new "Full System Code" is locked in, the programmer can be used to reprogram any other P3 that is dip switch enabled and has the same "Base Code", including another programmer.

If additional P3 auxiliary units are added at a future date, they are shipped as "Virgins". The encrypted "Base Code" is also transferred as a part of the first programming operation. It cannot be changed thereafter. Hence it becomes part of your unique "base system".

One programmer is currently available. It is the P3-BP (Basic Programmer). It requires that the phone numbers be dialed manually, from either end, when or if remote reprogramming is necessary. Programming can also be accomplished locally "on the bench" by connecting to a phone line for power. An LED verifies the programming effort.

An automatic Programmer (P3-AP) is under development to help with the administration of your P3 network. It provides a more automated programming approach. It connects to the serial port of a PC and the supplied software will automatically dial your database of phone numbers and display the progress of the programming effort. It also has a "Direct Connect Port" so that connections to a phone line are not necessary when programming locally on the bench.

Corporate War Dialer
The P3-AP programmer is more than just an automated programming system. It can be used as a corporate war dialer to scan the P3 locations, or any locations. It can be used to verify that that the lines and the modems are functioning correctly. It can also identify rouge modems or other devices connected to the line. This stand alone war dialer function alone, may be worth the price of admission.

Ordering
The minimum system is composed of one programmer and two P3 auxiliary units, the "Starter Set". They are all factory programmed with the same "Base Code" and cannot be changed. If additional P3s are ordered with the initial order, they will also be programmed the same. This allows them to be used right out of the box.

For more information on the Challengers, check out the Challenger Family Page. Also check out security comments and questions that were "Heard at the Booth".

Should you be interested in placing a test call to see (hear) how the CHALLENGER handles unauthorized callers, simply dial (770) 945-7479 between 6:00 PM and 8:00 AM EST.