Abstract: A communication system comprises a processing system configured to support data, voice and video communications. A docking station is coupled to the processing system and is configured to provide power and data connections to a personal computer wireless device. The personal computer wireless device is configured to provide power, data, and analog connections. The docking station includes a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone, such as a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP), phone. The docking station may include a keypad configured to initiate, or otherwise enable, VoIP phone call functions. The docking station is coupled to the processing system over at least one pair of low-voltage wires having an electrical current sufficient to power the personal computer wireless device. The pair(s) of low-voltage wires may provide sufficient electrical current to charge a battery in the personal computer wireless device.

Abstract: Systems and methods for communicating using both radio frequency (RF) communication and light communication (LC) are disclosed. An example device comprises radio frequency communication circuitry, a light communication transmitter; a light communication receiver; a processor for controlling the device according to executable code; and memory for storing data and executable code, wherein the executable code comprises instructions for causing the processor to establish RF communication with an RF access point using the RF communication circuitry; and to establish LC communication with an LC access point using the LC transmitter, the LC receiver, or both.

Abstract: A communication device may be assigned to a resident of a controlled-environment facility. A data network interface of the resident device establishes a connection with a resident network via one or more network access points located within the facility. A tracking network interface of the resident device transmits location tracking signals received by location tracking devices located within the facility. The resident device connects with the resident network via the data network interface in providing services to the resident. During intervals when the resident device is not connected to the resident network via the data network interface, tracking network interface is used to transmit the location tracking signals.