Abstract: A typing station at a remote location having a central processing unit and a terminal is interconnected with an information storage and retrieval system via a single telephone line. A typist at the remote location depresses a foot pedal associated with the central processing unit and controls shared transmission of audio messages and digital data between the typing station and the information storage and retrieval system. When the foot pedal is depressed, audio information is transmitted from the information storage and retrieval system at a central location to the typing station at the remote location. When the foot pedal is released, digital data defining previously transcribed audio information which is stored in the central processing unit is transmitted to the information storage and retrieval system via the single telephone line.

Abstract: A dictating apparatus for a remotely controlled central record/playback system, the dictating apparatus being connected to the record/playback system via a telephone network. The dictating apparatus has a handset with a plurality of motion control and function buttons which, when depressed, cause transmission of selected tone bursts for controlling the operation of the record/plyback system. The buttons are positioned on the handset to permit a one-hand dictating operation.

Abstract: Rapid simultaneous multiple access information storage and retrieval system including multiple simultaneously available audio dictation inputs and multiple simultaneously available audio outputs, an array of magnetic recording and playback instruments, and a controller operating under computer command for multiplexing the interchange of audio signals between inputs and outputs on the one hand and the magnetic recorder storage means on the other and at the same time for generating control signals to and from the input and output terminals.