U.S. patent number RE42,714 [Application Number 10/962,388] was granted by the patent office on 2011-09-20 for apparatus for voice communications over wired and wireless networks.
Invention is credited to Phillip M. DeLaine, Jr..
United States Patent |
RE42,714 |
DeLaine, Jr. |
September 20, 2011 |
**Please see images for:
( Certificate of Correction ) ** |
Apparatus for voice communications over wired and wireless
networks
Abstract
Disclosed is a computer telephony device with a telephone line
distribution system. The invention enables simultaneous operations
of computer telephony and connected equipment. The connected
equipment can be modems, telephones, fax machines, answering
machines or any other device that needs access to a telephone line.
Priorities for telephone line usage by the equipment or the routing
of incoming calls to the equipment can be set by the user via
software selection. The invention can work in digital and analog
environments, and if necessary, perform digital-to-analog and
analog-to-digital conversions.
Inventors: |
DeLaine, Jr.; Phillip M.
(Tyngsboro, MA) |
Family
ID: |
32852924 |
Appl.
No.: |
10/962,388 |
Filed: |
October 8, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
|
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60130545 |
Apr 22, 1999 |
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Reissue of: |
09557113 |
Apr 24, 2000 |
6778662 |
Aug 17, 2004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
379/333;
379/399.01; 379/93.09 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04L
12/66 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
H04M
7/00 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;379/333,399,93.05,93.09
;370/352 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Primary Examiner: Deane; William J
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Merchant & Gould
Parent Case Text
RELATED APPLICATION
This application is based on, claims priority to and incorporates
by reference a U.S. Provisional Application dated Apr. 22, 1999,
entitled "Point Card", Provisional Patent Application No.
60/130,545 to Delaine.
Claims
What is claimed is:
.[.1. An apparatus for routing digital and analog data signals call
traffic among a plurality of telecommunication devices over a
network comprising: a network interface for connection to a local
area network; a discrimination circuit for detecting and
identifying an input data signal, wherein the input data signal is
at least one of an analog signal and a digital signal; a wireless
interface, connected to the discrimination circuit, wherein the
wireless interface communicates both digital and analog data
signals plurality of wireless telecommunication devices; and a
plurality of telephony interfaces, connected to the discrimination
circuit, for connecting a plurality of wireline telecommunication
devices, wherein each of the plurality of telephony interfaces
communicates both digital and analog data signals between the
plurality of wireline telecommunication devices, wherein the
apparatus routes the digital and analog data signals between the
network interface and the telephony and wireless interfaces for
communication over the local area network..].
.[.2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of telephony
interfaces comprise a plurality of jacks for connecting the
plurality of wireline telecommunications devices..].
.[.3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the plurality of wireline
telecommunications devices comprise a plurality of PSTN compatible
devices..].
.[.4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the plurality of PSTN
compatible devices comprise a telephone..].
.[.5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of wireless
telecommunication devices include wireless telephones..].
.[.6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an
analog-to-digital conversion circuit and a digital-to-analog
conversion circuit for enabling the wireline and wireless
telecommunications devices to communicate the digital and analog
data signals over the local area network..].
.[.7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the local area network is
an Ethernet network..].
.[.8. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a modem circuit
for communicating over the Internet through the network
interface..].
.[.9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the call traffic comprises
voice traffic and the apparatus further comprises a telephony
circuit for communicating the analog data signals voice traffic
through the network interface..].
.[.10. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a fax circuit
for communicating the analog data signals call traffic through the
network interface..].
.[.11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the wireless interface is
an antenna for sending and receiving the analog and digital data
signals call traffic from the wireless telecommunications
devices..].
.[.12. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising interface
connections for electrically connecting the apparatus to a computer
bus in a computer system..].
.[.13. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an upgradeable
memory device..].
.[.14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the upgradeable memory
device is upgradeable using software..].
.[.15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the network interface
communicates with a PBX system..].
.[.16. A system for routing analog and digital data signals call
traffic among a plurality of telecommunication devices over a
cellular network comprising: a switch comprising: a discrimination
circuit for detecting and identifying an input data signal, wherein
the input data signal is at least one of an analog signal and a
digital signal; an antenna, for communicating with a plurality of
cellular telecommunication devices over the cellular network,
wherein the antenna communicates analog and digital data signals
through the cellular telecommunication devices; a wireless
interface, connected to the discrimination circuit, wherein the
wireless interface communicates both digital and analog data
signals between plurality of wireless telecommunication devices;
and a plurality of telephony interfaces, connected to the
discrimination circuit, for connecting a plurality of wireline
telecommunication devices, wherein each of the plurality of
telephony interfaces communicates both digital and analog data
signals between the plurality of wireline telecommunication
devices, wherein the switch routes the digital and analog data
signals call traffic between the antenna and the wireless and
telephony interfaces..].
.[.17. The system of claim 16, wherein the switch is a peripheral
card for use in a computer system..].
.[.18. The system of claim 16, wherein the antenna is mounted to a
remote unit that is physically separate from the switch and is
electrically connected to the switch by a wire line..].
.[.19. The system of claim 16, wherein the plurality of wireless
communication devices include wireless telephones..].
.[.20. The system of claim 16, wherein the plurality of telephony
interfaces are compatible with a PSTN network..].
.[.21. The system of claim 16, wherein the plurality of telephony
interfaces are compatible with digital telephone lines..].
.[.22. A system for routing analog and digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunication devices over wirelines comprising: a
switch comprising: a discrimination circuit for detecting and
identifying an input data signal, wherein the input data signal is
at least one of an analog signal and a digital signal; a first
plurality of telephony interfaces, connected to the discrimination
circuit, for connecting a plurality of wireline telecommunication
devices, wherein each of the plurality of telephony interfaces
communicates both digital and analog data signals between the
plurality of wireline telecommunication devices; and a wireless
interface, connected to the discrimination circuit, wherein the
wireless interface communicates both digital and analog data
signals between plurality of wireless telecommunication devices; a
first remote unit, in electrical communication with the switch,
wherein the first remote unit includes an antenna for wireless
communication; and a second remote unit, in wireless communication
with the first remote unit through the antenna, wherein the second
remote unit includes a second plurality of telephony interfaces for
connecting at least one communication line, and wherein the second
remote unit communicates both digital and analog data signals
between the switch and the communication line, through the first
remote unit, wherein the switch routes the digital and analog data
signals from the first plurality of wireline telecommunication
devices and the wireless telecommunication devices to the at least
one communication line, and wherein the switch is a peripheral card
electrically connected to a computer bus in a computer
system..].
.[.23. The system of claim 22, wherein the plurality of wireless
communication devices include wireless telephones..].
.[.24. The system of claim 22, wherein the first and second
plurality of telephony interfaces are compatible with a PSTN
network..].
.[.25. The system of claim 22, wherein the at least one
communication line is a digital telephone line..].
.Iadd.26. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunications devices over a network, the
apparatus comprising: a network interface for connection to at
least one network communication line, wherein the network interface
receives digital data signals over the at least one network
communication line, the digital data signals comprising at least
one voice signal; a discrimination circuit connected to the network
interface for detecting incoming voice signals from among other
digital data signals; a wireless interface, wherein the wireless
interface communicates the digital data signals between a plurality
of wireless telecommunications devices; and a processor for
executing instructions to route the digital data signals between
the network interface, the wireless interface, and the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices for communication over the
network, wherein the processor is further operative to execute
instructions to: process a plurality of digital communication
sessions; and distinguish each of the plurality of digital
communication sessions using data transmission codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.28. The apparatus of claim 26 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.29. The apparatus of claim 26 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.30. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of an Ethernet
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.31. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of a local area
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.32. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of a Cable network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.33. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of a digital subscriber line
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.34. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of a fiber optic
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.35. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunications devices over a network, the
apparatus comprising: a network interface for connection to at
least one network communication line, wherein the network interface
receives digital data signals over the at least one network
communication line, the digital data signals comprising at least
one voice signal; a discrimination circuit connected to the network
interface for detecting incoming voice signals from among other
digital data signals; a wireless interface, wherein the wireless
interface communicates the digital data signals between a plurality
of wireless telecommunications devices; and a processor for
executing instructions to route the digital data signals between
the network interface, the wireless interface, and the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices for communication over the
network; and a circuit for routing voice communication sessions to
specific telecommunications devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.36. The apparatus of claim 35, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.37. The apparatus of claim 35 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.38. The apparatus of claim 35, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of an Ethernet
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.39. The apparatus of claim 35, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of a local area
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.40. The apparatus of claim 35, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of a Cable network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.41. The apparatus of claim 35, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of a digital subscriber line
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.42. The apparatus of claim 35, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of a fiber optic
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.43. The apparatus of claim 35, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.44. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunications devices over a network, the
apparatus comprising: a network interface for connection to at
least one network communication line, wherein the network interface
receives digital data signals over the at least one network
communication line, the digital data signals comprising at least
one voice signal; a discrimination circuit connected to the network
interface for detecting incoming voice signals from among other
digital data signals; a wireless interface, wherein the wireless
interface communicates the digital data signals between a plurality
of wireless telecommunications devices; and a processor for
executing instructions to route the digital data signals between
the network interface, the wireless interface, and the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices for communication over the
network; and configuration software which configures routing of
voice communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.45. The apparatus of claim 44, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.46. The apparatus of claim 45 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.47. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of an Ethernet
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.48. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of a local area
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.49. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of a Cable network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.50. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of a digital subscriber line
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.51. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein the at least one
network communication line is part of a fiber optic
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.52. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.53. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunications devices over a network, the
apparatus comprising: a network interface for connection to at
least one network communication line, wherein the network interface
receives digital data signals over the at least one network
communication line, the digital data signals comprising at least
one voice signal, wherein the at least one network communication
line is part of an Ethernet network; a discrimination circuit
connected to the network interface for detecting incoming voice
signals from among other digital data signals; a wireless
interface, wherein the wireless interface communicates the digital
data signals between a plurality of wireless telecommunications
devices; and a processor for executing instructions to route the
digital data signals between the network interface, the wireless
interface, and the plurality of wireless telecommunications devices
for communication over the network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.54. The apparatus of claim 53, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.55. The apparatus of claim 53 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.56. The apparatus of claim 53 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.57. The apparatus of claim 53, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.58. The apparatus of claim 46, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.59. The apparatus of claim 46 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.60. The apparatus of claim 46 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.61. The apparatus of claim 46, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.62. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunications devices over a network, the
apparatus comprising: a network interface for connection to at
least one network communication line, wherein the network interface
receives digital data signals over the at least one network
communication line, the digital data signals comprising at least
one voice signal, wherein the at least one network communication
line is part of a Cable network; a discrimination circuit connected
to the network interface for detecting incoming voice signals from
among other digital data signals; a wireless interface, wherein the
wireless interface communicates the digital data signals between a
plurality of wireless telecommunications devices; and a processor
for executing instructions to route the digital data signals
between the network interface, the wireless interface, and the
plurality of wireless telecommunications devices for communication
over the network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.63. The apparatus of claim 62, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.64. The apparatus of claim 62 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.65. The apparatus of claim 62 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.66. The apparatus of claim 62, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.67. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunications devices over a network, the
apparatus comprising: a network interface for connection to at
least one network communication line, wherein the network interface
receives digital data signals over the at least one network
communication line, the digital data signals comprising at least
one voice signal, wherein the at least one network communication
line is part of a digital subscriber line network; a discrimination
circuit connected to the network interface for detecting incoming
voice signals from among other digital data signals; a wireless
interface, wherein the wireless interface communicates the digital
data signals between a plurality of wireless telecommunications
devices; and a processor for executing instructions to route the
digital data signals between the network interface, the wireless
interface, and the plurality of wireless telecommunications devices
for communication over the network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.68. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.69. The apparatus of claim 67 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.70. The apparatus of claim 67 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.71. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.72. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunications devices over a network, the
apparatus comprising: a network interface for connection to at
least one network communication line, wherein the network interface
receives digital data signals over the at least one network
communication line, the digital data signals comprising at least
one voice signal, wherein the at least one network communication
line is part of a fiber optic network; a discrimination circuit
connected to the network interface for detecting incoming voice
signals from among other digital data signals; a wireless
interface, wherein the wireless interface communicates the digital
data signals between a plurality of wireless telecommunications
devices; and a processor for executing instructions to route the
digital data signals between the network interface, the wireless
interface, and the plurality of wireless telecommunications devices
for communication over the network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.73. The apparatus of claim 72, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.74. The apparatus of claim 72 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.75. The apparatus of claim 72 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.76. The apparatus of claim 72, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.77. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunication devices over a first network and a
second network, the apparatus comprising: a first network interface
for wireless communications with the first network; a
discrimination circuit connected to the first network interface for
detecting incoming voice digital data transmissions from among
other data transmissions; a second network interface, wherein the
second network interface communicates digital data signals between
a plurality of wireless telecommunications devices over the second
network; and a processor for executing instructions for routing the
digital data signals between the first network interface, the
second network interface and the plurality of wireless
telecommunications devices for communication over the first and
second networks, wherein the processor is further operative to
execute instructions to: process a plurality of digital
communication sessions; and distinguish each of the plurality of
digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.78. The apparatus of claim 77 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices, wherein the specific telecommunications
devices are specified by configuration software..Iaddend.
.Iadd.79. The apparatus of claim 77 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.80. The apparatus of claim 77, wherein the first network
comprises a cellular network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.81. The apparatus of claim 77, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.82. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunication devices over a first network and a
second network, the apparatus comprising: a first network interface
for wireless communications with the first network; a
discrimination circuit connected to the first network interface for
detecting incoming voice digital data transmissions from among
other data transmissions; a second network interface, wherein the
second network interface communicates digital data signals between
a plurality of wireless telecommunications devices over the second
network; and a processor for executing instructions for routing the
digital data signals between the first network interface, the
second network interface and the plurality of wireless
telecommunications devices for communication over the first and
second networks; and a circuit for routing voice communication
sessions to specific telecommunications devices, wherein the
specific telecommunications devices are specified by configuration
software..Iaddend.
.Iadd.83. The apparatus of claim 82, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.84. The apparatus of claim 82 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.85. The apparatus of claim 82, wherein the first network
comprises a cellular network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.86. The apparatus of claim 82, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.87. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunication devices over a first network and a
second network, the apparatus comprising: a first network interface
for wireless communications with the first network; a
discrimination circuit connected to the first network interface for
detecting incoming voice digital data transmissions from among
other data transmissions; a second network interface, wherein the
second network interface communicates digital data signals between
a plurality of wireless telecommunications devices over the second
network; and a processor for executing instructions for routing the
digital data signals between the first network interface, the
second network interface and the plurality of wireless
telecommunications devices for communication over the first and
second networks; and configuration software which configures
routing of voice communication sessions to the plurality of
telecommunications devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.88. The apparatus of claim 87, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.89. The apparatus of claim 87 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices, wherein the specific telecommunications
devices are specified by configuration software..Iaddend.
.Iadd.90. The apparatus of claim 87, wherein the first network
comprises a cellular network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.91. The apparatus of claim 87, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.92. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunications devices over a network, the
apparatus comprising: a first assembly comprising a processor; a
first wireless interface (RU) connected to the first assembly for
communicating digital data signals; a second assembly comprising a
network interface for connecting a communication line, wherein the
network interface receives the digital data signals from the
network communication line; a second wireless interface (CLCU)
connected to the second assembly for communicating the digital data
signals to the first wireless interface; a discrimination circuit
connected to at least one of the first assembly and the second
assembly for detecting incoming voice digital data signals from
among other data signals; a third wireless interface connected to
the first assembly for communicating the digital data signals
between a plurality of wireless telecommunications devices, wherein
the processor executes instructions for routing the digital data
signals between the first wireless interface, the second wireless
interface, the third wireless interface, and the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices for communications over the
network; and a circuit for routing voice communication sessions to
specific telecommunications devices, wherein the specific
telecommunications devices are specified by configuration
software..Iaddend.
.Iadd.93. The apparatus of claim 92, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.94. The apparatus of claim 92 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.95. The apparatus of claim 92, wherein the network
communication line is part of an Ethernet network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.96. The apparatus of claim 92, wherein the network
communication line is part of a local area network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.97. The apparatus of claim 92, wherein the network
communication line is part of a Cable network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.98. The apparatus of claim 92, wherein the network
communication line is part of a digital subscriber line
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.99. The apparatus of claim 92, wherein the network
communication line is part of a fiber optic network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.100. The apparatus of claim 92, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.101. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunications devices over a network, the
apparatus comprising: a first assembly comprising a processor; a
first wireless interface (RU) connected to the first assembly for
communicating digital data signals; a second assembly comprising a
network interface for connecting a communication line, wherein the
network interface receives the digital data signals from the
network communication line; a second wireless interface (CLCU)
connected to the second assembly for communicating the digital data
signals to the first wireless interface; a discrimination circuit
connected to at least one of the first assembly and the second
assembly for detecting incoming voice digital data signals from
among other data signals; a third wireless interface connected to
the first assembly for communicating the digital data signals
between a plurality of wireless telecommunications devices, wherein
the processor executes instructions for routing the digital data
signals between the first wireless interface, the second wireless
interface, the third wireless interface, and the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices for communications over the
network; and configuration software which configures routing of
voice communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.102. The apparatus of claim 101, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.103. The apparatus of claim 101 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices, wherein the specific telecommunications
devices are specified by configuration software..Iaddend.
.Iadd.104. The apparatus of claim 101, wherein the network
communication line is part of an Ethernet network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.105. The apparatus of claim 101, wherein the network
communication line is part of a local area network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.106. The apparatus of claim 101, wherein the network
communication line is part of a Cable network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.107. The apparatus of claim 101, wherein the network
communication line is part of a digital subscriber line
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.108. The apparatus of claim 101, wherein the network
communication line is part of a fiber optic network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.109. The apparatus of claim 101, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.110. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunications devices over a network, the
apparatus comprising: a first assembly comprising a processor; a
first wireless interface (RU) connected to the first assembly for
communicating digital data signals; a second assembly comprising a
network interface for connecting a communication line, wherein the
network interface receives the digital data signals from the
network communication line, wherein the network communication line
is part of an Ethernet network; a second wireless interface (CLCU)
connected to the second assembly for communicating the digital data
signals to the first wireless interface; a discrimination circuit
connected to at least one of the first assembly and the second
assembly for detecting incoming voice digital data signals from
among other data signals; a third wireless interface connected to
the first assembly for communicating the digital data signals
between a plurality of wireless telecommunications devices, wherein
the processor executes instructions for routing the digital data
signals between the first wireless interface, the second wireless
interface, the third wireless interface, and the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices for communications over the
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.111. The apparatus of claim 110, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.112. The apparatus of claim 110 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices, wherein the specific telecommunications
devices are specified by configuration software..Iaddend.
.Iadd.113. The apparatus of claim 110 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.114. The apparatus of claim 110, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.115. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunications devices over a network, the
apparatus comprising: a first assembly comprising a processor; a
first wireless interface (RU) connected to the first assembly for
communicating digital data signals; a second assembly comprising a
network interface for connecting a communication line, wherein the
network interface receives the digital data signals from the
network communication line, wherein the network communication line
is part of a local area network; a second wireless interface (CLCU)
connected to the second assembly for communicating the digital data
signals to the first wireless interface; a discrimination circuit
connected to at least one of the first assembly and the second
assembly for detecting incoming voice digital data signals from
among other data signals; a third wireless interface connected to
the first assembly for communicating the digital data signals
between a plurality of wireless telecommunications devices, wherein
the processor executes instructions for routing the digital data
signals between the first wireless interface, the second wireless
interface, the third wireless interface, and the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices for communications over the
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.116. The apparatus of claim 115, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.117. The apparatus of claim 115 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices, wherein the specific telecommunications
devices are specified by configuration software..Iaddend.
.Iadd.118. The apparatus of claim 115 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.119. The apparatus of claim 115, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.120. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunications devices over a network, the
apparatus comprising: a first assembly comprising a processor; a
first wireless interface (RU) connected to the first assembly for
communicating digital data signals; a second assembly comprising a
network interface for connecting a communication line, wherein the
network interface receives the digital data signals from the
network communication line, wherein the network communication line
is part of a Cable network; a second wireless interface (CLCU)
connected to the second assembly for communicating the digital data
signals to the first wireless interface; a discrimination circuit
connected to at least one of the first assembly and the second
assembly for detecting incoming voice digital data signals from
among other data signals; a third wireless interface connected to
the first assembly for communicating the digital data signals
between a plurality of wireless telecommunications devices, wherein
the processor executes instructions for routing the digital data
signals between the first wireless interface, the second wireless
interface, the third wireless interface, and the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices for communications over the
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.121. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunication devices over a first network and a
second network, the apparatus comprising: a first network interface
for wireless communications with the first network; a
discrimination circuit connected to the first network interface for
detecting incoming voice digital data transmissions from among
other data transmissions; a second network interface, wherein the
second network interface communicates digital data signals between
a plurality of wireless telecommunications devices over the second
network; and a processor for executing instructions for routing the
digital data signals between the first network interface, the
second network interface and the plurality of wireless
telecommunications devices for communication over the first and
second networks, wherein the first network comprises a cellular
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.122. The apparatus of claim 121, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.123. The apparatus of claim 121 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices, wherein the specific telecommunications
devices are specified by configuration software..Iaddend.
.Iadd.124. The apparatus of claim 121 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.125. The apparatus of claim 121, wherein the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.126. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunication devices over a first network and a
second network, the apparatus comprising: a first network interface
for wireless communications with the first network; a
discrimination circuit connected to the first network interface for
detecting incoming voice digital data transmissions from among
other data transmissions; a second network interface, wherein the
second network interface communicates digital data signals between
a plurality of wireless telecommunications devices over the second
network; and a processor for executing instructions for routing the
digital data signals between the first network interface, the
second network interface and the plurality of wireless
telecommunications devices for communication over the first and
second networks, wherein the plurality of wireless
telecommunications devices comprise at least one telephone
handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.127. The apparatus of claim 126, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.128. The apparatus of claim 126 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices, wherein the specific telecommunications
devices are specified by configuration software..Iaddend.
.Iadd.129. The apparatus of claim 126 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.130. The apparatus of claim 126, wherein the first network
comprises a cellular network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.131. An apparatus for routing digital data signals among a
plurality of telecommunications devices over a network, the
apparatus comprising: a first assembly comprising a processor; a
first wireless interface (RU) connected to the first assembly for
communicating digital data signals; a second assembly comprising a
network interface for connecting a communication line, wherein the
network interface receives the digital data signals from the
network communication line; a second wireless interface (CLCU)
connected to the second assembly for communicating the digital data
signals to the first wireless interface; a discrimination circuit
connected to at least one of the first assembly and the second
assembly for detecting incoming voice digital data signals from
among other data signals; a third wireless interface connected to
the first assembly for communicating the digital data signals
between a plurality of wireless telecommunications devices, wherein
the processor executes instructions for routing the digital data
signals between the first wireless interface, the second wireless
interface, the third wireless interface, and the plurality of
wireless telecommunications devices for communications over the
network, wherein the plurality of wireless telecommunications
devices comprise at least one telephone handset..Iaddend.
.Iadd.132. The apparatus of claim 131, wherein the processor is
further operative to execute instructions to: process a plurality
of digital communication sessions; and distinguish each of the
plurality of digital communication sessions using data transmission
codes..Iaddend.
.Iadd.133. The apparatus of claim 131 further comprising a circuit
for routing voice communication sessions to specific
telecommunications devices, wherein the specific telecommunications
devices are specified by configuration software..Iaddend.
.Iadd.134. The apparatus of claim 131 further comprising
configuration software which configures routing of voice
communication sessions to the plurality of telecommunications
devices..Iaddend.
.Iadd.135. The apparatus of claim 131, wherein the network
communication line is part of an Ethernet network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.136. The apparatus of claim 131, wherein the network
communication line is part of a local area network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.137. The apparatus of claim 131, wherein the network
communication line is part of a Cable network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.138. The apparatus of claim 131, wherein the network
communication line is part of a digital subscriber line
network..Iaddend.
.Iadd.139. The apparatus of claim 131, wherein the network
communication line is part of a fiber optic network..Iaddend.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The invention herein is related to computers, and particularly to
computer telephony.
2. Description of Related Art
Companies usually have several pieces of office equipment that are
critical to their operations. This equipment includes telephones,
fax machines, answering machines and computers with modems. A
common requirement of this equipment is telephone lines. Companies
usually connect each piece of equipment to a dedicated telephone
line so that the equipment can operate independently and
simultaneously. This configuration results in maximum flexibility
and efficiency of company operations.
Many large companies have sophisticated telephone networks to
support such office equipment. However, in the Small Office Home
Office (SOHO) environment where the financial resources and the
number of telephone lines are limited, connection of the equipment
has often meant compromises in flexibility, utility and
efficiency.
Many SOHO environments have 2 or 3 telephone lines available for
use. Since the telephone system usually takes priority, 1 or 2
telephone lines are dedicated to it. This usually means that the
rest of the office equipment shares a telephone line. To enable
telephone line sharing, many businesses use a device called a "Fax
Switch". An example of a Fax Switch is the Radio Shack Model
AFX-400 Three-Device Home Fax Switch. This device has a facility to
connect a telephone line to a telephone, a computer modem, a fax
machine, and an answering machine. For incoming calls, this device
analyzes the incoming call on the telephone line and automatically
routes the call to the appropriate piece of equipment. For out
going calls, this device provides the equipment with access to the
telephone line. This device is beneficial because it allows all of
the equipment to operate on a telephone line. The problem with this
configuration is that when one piece of equipment is in use, the
remaining equipment cannot be used. This lack of flexibility is
often frustrating to many small businesses, especially when a
business opportunity requires simultaneous operations. Some
companies address the problem by changing the telephone line
connections so that the desired operations can be performed.
However, this process is cumbersome and often comes at the expense
of other equipment operation.
The modem industry has attempted to provide a solution by
integrating data, voice, fax and answering machine functions into a
single device. However, the computer modem has disadvantages
similar to the fax switch. The modem usually operates on one
telephone line and is thus limited in the functions that it can
perform simultaneously. Currently, with the proper telephone line
service connected, the modem can simultaneously perform voice
telephony and a data connection, to the Internet for example. This
restriction could be resolved by the use of multiple modems,
however, this solution has a redundancy and complexity of operation
that is not practical for most small businesses. In addition, the
computer modem offers little or no connectivity to other pieces of
office equipment. The computer modem does provide some level of
integration of equipment functions onto a telephone line, however
its inability to perform the required office operations
simultaneously indicates that it is not the optimum solution.
With no practical alternatives, many small companies continue to
use telephones for voice communications and fax switches for their
office equipment. What is needed is a device that provides multiple
telephone line management and device connectivity such that office
operations can be performed efficiently and simultaneously through
the available telephone lines.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to the principles of the invention, there is provided a
computer telephony device with a telephone line distribution
system. The invention enables simultaneous operations of computer
telephony and connected equipment. The connected equipment can be
modems, telephones, fax machines, answering machines or any other
device that needs access to a telephone line. Priorities for
telephone line usage by the equipment or the routing of incoming
calls to the equipment can be set by the user via software
selection. The invention can work in digital and analog
environments, and if necessary, perform digital-to-analog and
analog-to-digital conversions.
The invention herein is a computer telephone line distribution
system. The invention enables simultaneous operations of computer
telephony and connected equipment. The connected equipment can be
modems, telephones, fax machines, answering machines or any other
device that needs access to a telephone line. The invention can
accommodate several telephone lines and pieces of equipment.
Priorities for telephone line usage by the equipment or the routing
of incoming calls to the equipment can be set via software.
The invention can take the form of a peripheral card that can be
added to a computer .[.or.]. .Iadd.on the .Iaddend.fly) .Iadd.or
.Iaddend.be built into and made an integral part of a computerized
system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The foregoing and other objects and advantages of the invention
will be appreciated more fully from the following further
description thereof, with reference to the accompanying drawings,
wherein:
FIG. 1 shows a device according to the principles of the
invention;
FIG. 2 shows a connection setup screen according to the principles
of the invention;
FIG. 3 shows an outgoing call setup screen according to the
principles of the invention;
FIG. 4 shows an incoming call setup screen according to the
principles of the invention;
FIG. 5 shows a peripheral card according to the principles of the
invention;
FIG. 6 shows a communication line information setup screen
according to the principles of the invention; and
FIG. 7 shows a remote unit according to the principles of the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
The invention herein provides a multi-function peripheral device
that has connection facilities for telephone lines and equipment
which uses telephone lines. FIG. 1 shows a computer card 1
according to the invention, with connection points 3 for external
connections. Several connection points are shown in an exploded
view 4 as connection points 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. The connection
points can receive RJ-11 type connectors, which is the standard for
most telephone line accessing equipment.
In an embodiment of the invention, telephone lines may be connected
to connection points 5 and 6, devices may be connected to
connection points 7 and 8, and a telephone base may be connected to
connection point 9. Each RJ-11 type connection provides four wire
contacts. With the use of a Y-adapter, two pieces of equipment can
connect at each connection point. Thus, in this embodiment, the
invention may accommodate four telephone lines, four devices, and
two telephone bases.
The invention can accept a variety of telephone lines. The
telephone lines can carry analog or digital signals. The telephone
lines can operate on a variety of networks including Public Switch
Telephone Network (PSTN), Integrated Services Digital Network
(ISDN), Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line (SDSL), Asymmetric
Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL), or any other Digital Subscriber
Line (xDSL). Optionally, the invention can accept a variety of
other communication lines, including Private Branch Exchange (PBX),
Analog and Digital (Hybrid), Cable, Fiber Optic, and Ethernet.
Hereafter, unless otherwise specified, the communication lines and
telephone lines that can connect to a connection point according to
the invention will be generically referred to as "communication
lines". As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a
device according to the invention may be fitted with a suitable
connector type to accommodate a desired communication line.
The invention can be configured to the communication lines via
software. FIG. 2 shows a software configuration screen for
communication lines 1, 2, 3, and 4 which may be set by menus 20,
21, 22 and 23, respectively. Optionally, the user can activate an
auto detection system for the communication lines via buttons 24,
25, 26 and 27, respectively.
A device according to the invention can accept connection of
devices that can include telephones, fax machines, modems,
answering machines, satellite dish control units, alarm systems, or
any combination thereof, or any other device that requires access
to a communication line. As shown in FIG. 2, each of these devices
can be configured via software. For example, "Device 1" can be
identified by entering a device type 28, a model 29, and a
manufacturer 30. Optionally, the user can activate an auto
detection system for the connected device via a button 31. Or,
optionally, a device according to the invention can go into an auto
detection mode as soon as the device is plugged in. In order to aid
auto detection, an identification chip can be included in a
connected device so that it can be identified more easily.
A device according to the invention can be fitted with circuitry to
perform telephony operations. Telephony operational codes are
specified by TAPI and the Hayes Computer AT Command Set.
Additionally, U.S. Pat. No. 5,802,152 describes telephony circuits
and controlling software. These technologies are well known to a
person of reasonable knowledge and ordinary skill, so there will be
little attempt to restate them here. The telephony audio signals
can be made to pass through a computer's audio sound card, or
through a connected telephone base. Optionally, a device according
to the invention can be fitted with a camera so that video
conferencing functions can be performed.
The setup screen in FIG. 2 can be used to configure the invention
for operation on a PBX or Hybrid telephone system. The invention
can have four methods for adapting to these various systems: 1) The
invention can have a dedicated hardware design to operate on a
limited number of systems; 2) The invention can poll the telephone
system's control unit with the necessary signals to determine the
telephone system; 3) The invention can be configured for a specific
telephone system via software driver; or 4) The invention can be
trained for use on a telephone system by the user picking up the
telephone handset and pushing the buttons on telephone base as
prompted by software according to the invention. Once properly
configured, a system according to the invention can perform
telephony and signal conversions for operation of connected
devices. Manual selection of telephone operation may be provided in
the setup screen, as shown by a "Telephone 1" menu 32, and a
"Telephone 2" menu 33.
A device according to the invention processes outgoing calls in
accordance with a Communication Line Use Priority (CLUP) setting.
The CLUP establishes a priority in which communication lines are
accessed by a device. FIG. 3 shows an outgoing call software setup
screen and the options available for each device. The settings work
in the following manner: If Device 1's CLUP is set for "1" to "2",
as shown in a first line priority 40, and Device 1 requests a line,
then a system according to the invention connects Device 1
communication line 1, if available. If line 1 is unavailable or is
in use by another device, then a system according to the invention
connects Device 1 to communication line 2, if available. If the
line connection is unsuccessful, the invention can be set to repeat
the CLUP sequence or stop after the first attempt. The menu options
can include different line combinations, attempts for one line
only, line seizing regardless of activity, and no line access.
In a second line priority 41, a line request by Device 1 will be
connected to line 2 if available, and then to line 1, if available.
In a third line priority 42, Device 1 will only be connected to
line 1. In a fourth line priority 43, Device 1 will only be
connected to line 2. In a fifth line priority 44, Device 1 will
seize line 1, and line 1 will be withdrawn from availability for
other devices until the CLUP for Device 1 is subsequently changed.
In a sixth line priority 45, Device 1 will seize line 2, and line 2
will be withdrawn from availability for other devices until the
CLUP for Device 1 is subsequently changed. In a seventh line
priority 46, no line priority is provided for Device 1.
Line priority settings may be provided for other devices using the
outgoing call setup screen. Thus line priorities may be assigned
using Device 2 line priorities 50-56, Telephony line priorities
60-66, and Modem line priorities 70-76.
A system according to the invention may process incoming calls in
accordance with a Device Order (DO) setting. The DO establishes the
order in which the devices are signaled by a communications line.
FIG. 4 shows an incoming call software setup screen and the options
that may be provided for each line. The settings work in the
following manner: The device listed on top is the device that is
rung first. The device listed below the first is rung second, and
so forth. Therefore, if Line 1's DO is set for "Tel Base 1" 100 and
"Device 3" 101 and the Ring to Transfer (RTT) is set for "3" 103
and "0" 104, respectively, and a call comes in on Line 1, a system
according to the invention will connect Line 1 to Tel Base 1, if
available, for 3 rings. If Tel Base 1 is in use or did not respond
by the third ring, the invention will connect Line 1 to Device 3
for the remaining rings. The devices available for a connection are
shown in a selection box 105. Note that when the RTT is set to "0",
rings will not transfer to another device. Thus, a selection area
102 for a third device shows "None."
Optionally, the invention can be fitted with a discrimination
circuit that can detect the type of call and automatically route
the communication line to the corresponding DO. In an embodiment of
the invention, a system may handle three types of calls: voice,
data and facsimile ("fax"). DO for a data call is shown in a
selection area 107, and DO for a fax call is shown in a selection
area 108. In an embodiment of the invention, the same devices may
be available to handle the above incoming call that are available
for a voice call, as shown in a device list 106. A system according
to the invention may be fitted with ring simulation circuitry that
probes the devices in the DO after the type of call is
detected.
The efficiency and flexibility of the invention is dependent on the
number of communication lines connected to it. If four standard
PSTN lines are connected to the invention, then four connected
devices can operate simultaneously. If the number of PSTN lines
drops to two, then only two operations can be conducted
simultaneously. It should be noted that even with two communication
lines the invention still improves line utilization due to the CLUP
and DO settings. However, more communication lines provide better
efficiency and flexibility. In one embodiment of the invention,
digital communication lines may be used, such as DSL or ADSL. Such
a digital line can provide several logical communication channels
through one physical line.
Communications over a digital line may require the transmission of
account numbers and passwords in order to access telecommunication
services and other services. FIG. 6 shows a communication line
information setup screen according to the invention. For each line
available, information specific to that line may be provided. A
line identifier is provided, such as "Line 1" 200, "Line 2" 204,
"Line 3" 208, and "Line 4" 212. More or less lines may be listed,
according to the number of lines available to the system, or the
line capacity of the device. As shown for "Line 1" 200, a telephone
number 201 is provided. A field for an account number 202 and an
access code 203 are also provided, however, as shown in FIG. 6, no
such information is included for Line 1. Line 2 also has fields for
a telephone number 205, an account number 206, and an access code
207. Line 3 may be a digital line which does not have a telephone
number, as seen in a telephone number field 209, but Line 3 does
include an account number 210 and an access code 211. Line 4
similarly has fields for a telephone number 213, and account number
214, and an access code 215. As shown in FIG. 6, Line 4 also has an
account number and an access code, but no telephone number.
A device according to the invention may include circuitry to
perform analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog signal processing
as needed. Such signal conversions may be used to allow a PSTN
(analog) compatible device to operate over a digital communications
line. For example, such signal conversions would permit a
PSTN-compatible fax machine to communicate over a digital ISDN
line. The setup shown in FIG. 2 may be used to specify appropriate
signal conversions for the connected devices and communication
lines.
A device according to the invention can be fitted with modem like
circuitry to provide the user with access to the Internet. This
modem function is identified in FIGS. 3 and 4 as "OB Modem" (On
Board Modem). Some modems process analog signals. A modem according
to the principles of the invention will be able to process analog
or digital signals. A device according to the invention may include
a socket so that a communications chip can be upgraded as
necessary. Additionally, a device according to the invention can be
provided with flash memory hardware so that upgrades can be
performed via software or the Internet. Optionally, the invention
can perform fax modem functions.
FIG. 7 shows a device 201 according to the invention fitted with a
Remote Unit (RU) 205 to enable wireless or cellular communications.
For wireless communications, the RU 205 communicates with the
Communication Line Control Unit (CLCU) 206 via digital, signals
through the air. The CLCU 206 is connected to digital or analog
communication lines in a physically convenient location. For
cellular communications, the RU 205 communicates through the air to
a cellular network. The wireless and cellular configurations
provide the invention with communication lines that are wire free
and allow the user to relocate the computer system and other office
equipment (the connected devices) without having to rewire the
communication lines. Optionally, the RU can provide additional
space to connect more devices 204. Optionally, the RU can connect
to the peripheral card 201 via a connection 203, such as a
Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection, with a connection point 200
physically adapted to the connection 203. Optionally, the RU can be
made as an internal device or manufactured onto the peripheral card
201.
The benefits of the wireless configuration can be greatly expanded
by the integration of a wireless phone system into the RU. The
communication lines used by the wireless phones can be controlled
by the CLUP and DO. This configuration provides the office
environment with the best efficiency and flexibility of
operations.
A device according to the invention can be controlled by an on
board microprocessor or the microprocessor of the host machine.
FIG. 5 shows a peripheral card 163 with an on board microprocessor
150 and interface circuitry 154, 155, and 156, a signal conversion
system 152, voice/video communications circuitry 153, and data
communications circuitry 151, which may operate to provide the
functions described herein. The invention is shown on a peripheral
card 163 that includes a computer interface and connection 162,
which may be adapated to a computer bus such as an ISA, EISA, PCI,
or other bus or connection type. A device according to the
invention may also be configured as an external peripheral device
connected to the computer via a serial or parallel port, universal
serial bus (USB), or other connection.
While the invention has been disclosed in connection with the
preferred embodiments shown and described in detail, various
modifications and improvements thereon will become readily apparent
to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the spirit and scope of
the present invention is to be limited only by the following
claims.
* * * * *