| Name | Pointphone PIM 96 LG |
| Date | 1996 |
| Manufacturer | Landis & Gyr, |
Development of the Pointphone PIM 96 LG
| The PIM 96, manufactured by Landis & Gyr, was a compact coin-operated payphone introduced in 1996, representing a late evolution of simple public telephony devices in France. Designed for ease of use and flexible installation, it accepted a wide range of French coins through a single selector, including ½ franc, 1 franc, 2 franc, and 5 franc (Semeuse Roty), as well as 10 franc and 20 franc (Génie de la Bastille) coins. A notable feature of the PIM 96 was its backlit liquid crystal display, which indicated the amount of credit already consumed, rather than the remaining balance. This approach provided users with a clear understanding of call costs as they accumulated. As with earlier models, any unused coins were automatically returned, maintaining user confidence and transparency. Weighing just 2.1 kilograms, the PIM 96 was lightweight and highly adaptable, suitable for installation in a variety of semi-public and indoor environments. Identified under France Télécom nomenclature number 115-184 B, it formed part of the final generation of coin-operated terminals before the widespread decline of payphone usage. Importantly, the PIM 96 was later adapted for the transition to the euro between 1 January and 17 February 2002. This modification allowed the device to remain operational with the new currency, provided it was connected to a standard analogue telephone line equipped with centralised pulse metering retransmission, ensuring continued service into the 21st century. The PIM 96 was introduced in 1996 and remained in use through the late 1990s and into the 2000s, particularly after its adaptation to the euro in early 2002. Many units continued operating on analogue (RTC) lines in semi-public locations such as shops, cafés, and small businesses well into the early 21st century. It was manufactured by Landis & Gyr, a Swiss-based company with a long history in electrical engineering and telecommunications equipment. Production for French publiphone markets was carried out within its European manufacturing network, primarily in Switzerland and associated facilities serving Western Europe. |
| More info- https://www.publiphonie.fr/ |
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