Abstract: A device and a method for directing incoming calls from a single input telephone line to either a facsimile machine, a data modem, or a telephone is provided. An incoming call is initially assumed to be a voice call, with ample time provided for allowing a person to answer the phone. The device and method provide for "isolating" both a facsimile machine and a data modem until after a predetermined delay period, thus preventing them to answer the call. The delay period may, for example be three to seven rings, thus allowing ample time for an operator or answering machine to answer the call and not cause any serious inconvenience to the caller. If a person or answering machine has not answered the call within the delay period, an off-hook condition is simulated to the input telephone line, thus "answering" the call. The signal on the input telephone line is then detected. If the signal includes a DTMF digit, various functions are performed including resetting internal variables.

Abstract: A device and a method for directing incoming calls from a single input telephone line to either a facsimile machine, a data modem, or a telephone is provided. The device and method provide for "isolating" both a facsimile machine and a data modem until after a predetermined delay period, thus preventing them to answer the call. If a person or answering machine has not answered the call within the delay period, an off-hook condition is simulated to the input telephone line, thus "answering" the call. The signal on the input telephone line is then detected. If the signal includes a DTMF digit, various functions are performed including resetting internal variables. If a facsimile handshake signal is detected, the facsimile machine is rung with a ring simulator. The facsimile machine can then read the incoming handshake signal and proceed in a conventional fashion.

Abstract: An electronic device for controlling the flow of data between a single incoming telephone line and either a facsimile machine (fax machine) or a telephone handset comprising means for detecting an incoming call, and means for immediately activating the telephone in response to the detection means detecting the incoming call thereby allowing the called party to answer the telephone before the incoming call is switched to the facsimile machine. The fax machine is disconnected from the telephone line for a predetermined period of time in response to the detection means detecting the incoming call thereby preventing the fax machine from automatically answering the incoming call. The incoming call, once answered is "read" for handshake signals to determine if the call is a fax call.