Abstract: A remotely controlled telephone operator simulator includes a microprocessor control circuit for supplying digitally recorded voice messages and non-voice messages, as initial "answers" to an incoming telephone call, which is automatically "call forwarded" to a remote telephone set. When the call is received at the remote telephone set, the user supplies tone signals back to the initial called line. Duplexer circuits and a two-input multiplex circuit are provided to prevent these tone signals from being heard by the calling party on the first line. The tone signals, however, do cause operation of the microprocessor control circuit, to cause selected ones of the voice and non-voice messages to be supplied through the multiplex circuit to the calling line. After the desired number of these stored messages are supplied, the microprocessor control circuit switches the multiplex circuit from response to the stored messages to "live" outgoing conversation from the second telephone line.

Abstract: A telephone operator simulator system comprises a desk top device connected to a telephone line and which is enabled for operation by the detection of a ringing signal on the line. The system includes a keypad which is selectively operated by the user to cause the system to "answer" the phone by supplying a pre-recorded synthesized voice message over the line. This message is followed by the production of a suitable synthesized background sound during the time the calling party states his or her request. The user then operates another key on the keypad, and the same synthesized voice provides a second message, and places the calling party on hold. The user then uses any conventional phone connected to the same line to communicate with the calling party. When this second phone is placed "off-hook", the operator simulator system is turned off or disabled, and a normal telephone conversation takes place between the user and the calling party.