Abstract: A remote control system includes a first network configured for communication via a first format. The first network includes a router configured to receive packetized remote control codes transmitted to the router in the first format. The remote control system further includes a second network configured for communication via a set of second formats. The second network includes a translator communicatively coupled to the router via a network link The translator is configured to receive the packetized remote control codes from the router in the first format and translate the remote control codes from the first format to a set of second formats. The second network further includes a blaster communicatively coupled to the translator. The blaster is configured to received the packetized remote control codes in the set of second formats and transmit the packetized remote control codes in the set of second formats to a set of consumer-electronic devices.

Abstract: An emergency telephone system has a dual mode, hybrid emergency telephone station connected with a central station through both a digital ethernet connection for digital VOIP communication and through a wire line for analog communication. Circuitry at the dual mode emergency station connects a user terminal with the digital ethernet connection and the wire line. A processor forming a part of the circuitry directs communication through the ethernet connection if operative and through the analog wire connection if the ethernet connection is inoperative.