how many volts and amps (or milliamps) goes through a phone line?

Question

how many volts and amps goes through a phone line commonly and how many volts and amps will go through a phone line when it rings

if anyone is wondering what i am doing, i am trying tom build a telepgone from scratch (i found some parts on ebay like the dial that uses the pule dialing technique so far so good now all i need to do is get the reciever and the ringer working)
it's still in the designing process

Answer 1

i'm not sure how many amps, and i will tell you the amount of voltage varies.

i personally have seen 24volts on my line, i should also not that I have DSL, which uses a higher frequency signal in addition to the normal phone signal, so my voltages might not be correct for everone.

normally, most articles state they use 6 to 12v when not in use. I do know that the ringing signal is 86~92 VAC modulated at 20hz. In the old days of telephones, this was the voltage required to make the phone ring, where as newer technologies use digital synths, the 90vac signal is still sent down.

as far as amps or milliamps, i honestly can't tell you. I know, based on wiriing, that it's probably under an amp at best.

if you're trying to figure out how to use your phone line as a power source, don't bother. the amount of juce supplied by the line is too low to power anything heafty, and it also is prohibited by your phone company, not to mention with the spikes in voltages. some devices do exist, however, much like the blue box, they're do it yourself/goodluck and illegal.

Answer 2

-48 VDC on the line when its not active, and usually 90 VAC when ringing voltage is applied. As far as amps, a small small amount, nothin to be concerned with. Been shocked many times workin on lines. Doesnt hurt just shocks (startles) you.