Abstract: Systems and methods by which voice/data communications may occur in multiple modes/protocols are disclosed. In particular, systems and methods are provided for multiple native mode/protocol voice and data transmissions and receptions with a computing system having a multi-bus structure, including, for example, a TDM bus and a packet bus, and multi-protocol framing engines. Such systems preferably include subsystem functions such as PBX, voice mail and other telephony functions, LAN hub and data router or switch functions. In preferred embodiments, a TDM bus and a packet bus are intelligently bridged and managed, thereby enabling such multiple mode/protocol voice and data transmissions to be intelligently managed and controlled with a single, integrated system.

Abstract: A video conferencing method is provided in a system for managing voice and data communications to a plurality of users. Computer data is communicated between the system and one of a plurality of computers coupled to the system over one or more packet buses. Voice data is communicated between the system and one of a plurality of telephone devices coupled to the system. The voice data is coupled to a TDM bus in the system, and the voice data and/or the computer data are coupled from the TDM bus to a digital transmission link. Video and audio data are coupled between the system and a video conferencing unit and coupled to the TDM bus. The video and audio data are coupled from the TDM bus to a digital transmission link of the telecommunications network. A video conference participant participates in a video conference with the video conferencing unit over the digital transmission link, while concurrently a user participates in a telephone call with one of the telephone devices over the digital transmission link.

Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring, making, managing and controlling telephone communications with a computer call assistant with an integrated voice/data communications system are disclosed. A call assistant computer application preferably runs on a personal computer (“PC”) coupled to the integrated system over a packet bus. The call assistant exchanges control and/or status packets with the integrated system preferably over a packet bus. The call assistant enables the user to make, receive and control telephone calls, monitor the status of the user's extension, voice mail, etc., and preferably operates with integrated systems capable of transmitting and receiving voice and data in multiple modes.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing configurable caller ID information are disclosed. A communications service includes a caller ID configuration function. The communications service controls packetized call data, and outbound caller ID options are configurable via the caller ID configuration function.

Abstract: Systems and methods by which voice/data communications may occur in multiple modes/protocols are disclosed. In particular, systems and methods are provided for multiple native mode/protocol voice and data transmissions and receptions with a computing system having a multi-bus structure, including, for example, a TDM bus and a packet bus, and multi-protocol framing engines. Such systems preferably include subsystem functions such as PBX, voice mail and other telephony functions, LAN hub and data router. In preferred embodiments, a TDM bus and a packet bus are intelligently bridged and managed, thereby enabling such multiple mode/protocol voice and data transmissions to be intelligently managed and controlled with a single, integrated system. A computer or other processor includes a local area network controller, which provides routing and hub(s) for one or more packet networks. The computer also is coupled to a buffer/framer, which serves to frame/deframe data to/from the computer from TDM bus.

Abstract: Systems and methods by which voice/data communications may occur in multiple modes/protocols are disclosed. In particular, systems and methods are provided for multiple native mode/protocol voice and data transmissions and receptions with a computing system having a multi-bus structure, including, for example, a TDM bus and a packet bus, and multi-protocol framing engines. Such systems preferably include subsystem functions such as PBX, voice mail and other telephony functions, LAN hub and data router. In preferred embodiments, a TDM bus and a packet bus are intelligently bridged and managed, thereby enabling such multiple mode/protocol voice and data transmissions to be intelligently managed and controlled with a single, integrated system. A computer or other processor includes a local area network controller, which provides routing and hub(s) for one or more packet networks. The computer also is coupled to a buffer/framer, which serves to frame/deframe data to/from the computer from TDM bus.

Abstract: A method for providing communications systems and network connection services is disclosed. Via a portal, user requirements data are entered, which are determinative of a configuration of the communications system. The user requirements data are translated into configuration data, which is stored in a storage location in electronic communication with the portal. The configuration data is provided to a manufacturing agent, which manufactures the communications system. The step of manufacturing the communications system includes loading the configuration data into the communications system, and the communications system operates based on the configuration data. The communications system is provided to a customer, and the communications system is operative to provide voice and data communications to a plurality of users in accordance with the configuration data.

Abstract: A method for operating an integrated communications system providing voice and data communications to a plurality of users and simulating a key system. An outside line appearance is provided on a telephone coupled to the system; the outside line appearance is associated with a predetermined outside telecommunications trunk and has associated therewith a button and a lighting implement. In response to activation of the button, a lighting condition of the lighting implement is changed and a dial tone to the telephone by the integrated system. Digits are entered by a user depressing keys on the telephone and collected by the system. Restriction rule are applied to determine if a telephone number dialed by the user is restricted, and if restricted an error tone is provided. Caller ID information may be determined for the user.