Abstract: A remote control terminal includes an input section which allows selection of predetermined services offered from an information provider managing the services, a transceiver for obtaining a service selected by the input section from the information provider, and displaying means for displaying the contents of the service obtained by the transceiver.

Abstract: In this invention, an apparatus of which the power supply is in the off state is remotely controlled through a communications network. Each of one or a plurality of controlled apparatus has a ROM for holding the MAC address of the controlled apparatus, and a network control IC that reads out the MAC address from the ROM and transmits it through a LAN to a control apparatus. The control apparatus receives the one or plurality of MAC addresses from the one or plurality of controlled apparatus through the LAN, stores the received one or plurality of MAC addresses in a cache memory and controls the one or plurality of controlled apparatus by using the one or plurality of MAC addresses stored in the cache memory.

Abstract: An apparatus, system and method for providing remote control service to devices in a home network are disclosed. A web page provider provides a master page of the home network, information on the devices in the home network, and a list of remote control service to remote and in-house users in a web page form. An identifier identifies the remote users. A message processor processes message inputs and outputs related to service registration, service validness, etc. of the devices in the home network. A storage device stores device and service information on the devices in the home network. A main controller controls operations of each element. Accordingly, a remote control service limited to a specific household device becomes applicable to various devices. Not only remote control and management, but also program download, installation and upgrade necessary for the remote control is possible.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for communication over telephony wireline. A command interface and control device may include a wireline input configured to connect the device to an operative line of a wireline telephony network (such as the PSTN) and to transmit voice signals to and receive voice signals from the wireline telephony network. The device may also include a cellular module configured to transmit signals to and receive signals from a cellular telephony network and a system controller to control communications on the wireline input and the cellular module. One or more wireline adapter modules may be configured to provide control functionality local to a telecommunications device.

Abstract: System and method for remotely controlling at least one local security system from a telephone device. The system includes a reception section for receiving a telephone call, a decoding section for decoding input from a caller and a controller for receiving the information and authenticating the caller based upon the detected information. The system also includes a voice server controlled by the controller for interfacing between the system and the caller. The voice server prompts the caller for information used to authenticate the caller, reports a status of each local security system and prompts the caller to select a particular local security system to control. Furthermore, the system includes a central database that contains subscriber information separated into subscriber records. The subscriber record includes at least one subscriber identifier authorized to control each local security system. The control instruction is transmitted to a selected local security system by a transmission section.

Abstract: Picture telephone monitoring system in which a picture telephone (14) in a monitoring side and another picture telephone (18) in an operating side are connected to each other, and the picture telephone (14) is connected to an operation console (16). The operation console includes an infrared sensor (17) for detecting an intruder, a displacing device for moving a view field of a camera combined with the picture telephone (14), a sound pickup microphone, a speaker for outputting audio signals transmitted from the picture telephone (18) and received by the picture telephone (14) via an earphone terminal thereof, and a preset value accumulating section for recording therein a telephone number of and an in-coming dial tone from the picture telephone (18).

Abstract: An interactive interface facilitates the setting of preferences and other programmable parameters of an appliance. The interface is hosted by a server on a global computer network. The appliance owner initiates a connection to the server and is presented with a graphical user interface for setting the preferences and features of the appliance. Once the desired settings have been made, they are downloaded to the appliance either directly from the server or the appliance owner's computer or indirectly using a portable transfer device.

Abstract: An arrangement using an Instant Messaging (“IM”) chat-type interface for monitoring and controlling devices in an automated home is provided. The automated home is arranged to be accessible as an IM contact (often called a “buddy”) to a user of an IM service that is located remotely from the automated home. After initiating an IM chat session, the user queries the status of systems and devices in the automated home, and operates devices in the automated home. In various illustrative examples, natural language commands are utilized to enable the user to ask simple questions regarding the status of devices in the home, take a virtual “walk through” the home, and turn devices on and off, among other options. As IM interfaces are being increasingly used on a variety of devices including mobile phones and personal digital assistants, users can conveniently access and control their automated home while traveling.

Abstract: A telephone device such as a speaker phone or message recording device is remotely controlled either as a standalone device or as part of a security system. The telephone device can be controlled by a key fob or other user-operated transmitter that a user actuates to answer a call by speaker phone, end a call, place a call, or control functions of the message recording device such as playing back messages. The key fob transmits a wireless signal that is received and processed by a security system. In response, the security system controls the telephone device. The key fob may control security functions as well. In another approach, the key fob may control the telephone device directly without intervention of a security system. Or, the key fob may control the telephone device via a home automation network.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for providing connectivity to portable electronic devices, such as a cordless telephone, for the purpose of upgrading software features. In a preferred embodiment, portable electronic devices can receive incoming data at the PSTN jack from a personal computer that is also connected to the PSTN via a PSTN modem. In this manner, upgrades can be accomplished without requiring users to disconnect the telephone or to connect additional cables or components. The telephone is temporarily disabled from service only during the downloading of the upgrade software from the personal computer to the telephone. Upgrade software can be received at the personal computer from downloads or from other sources.

Abstract: The systems and methods disclosed herein relate to digital data communication systems, and more particularly, the systems and methods relate to systems and methods for facilitating digital communication between a modem equipped meter and a central data acquisition system. In one example, the system has the central data acquisition system, a first telemetry device that utilizes a modem for data communication, and a second telemetry device with a processor for communicating with the first telemetry device, and a digital cellular radio for communicating with the processor. The processor relays digital meter data from the first telemetry device to the digital cellular radio and the digital cellular radio transmits the digital meter data to the central data acquisition system. This system allows the utility company to transmit the reading of utility consumption by a consumer without the use of telephone lines.

Abstract: A central system can quickly pass on job requests intended for remote systems with minimal costs and delays. When a job request for a remote system is received, the central system initiates a conventional telephone call to the remote system. At the remote system, a communications terminal logs the incoming call without allowing it to be completed. When the call is refused, the central system terminates the call attempt. The remote system analyzes the logged call information to determine whether the call originated with the central system. If it did, the remote system, generates an HTTP request which is transmitted to the central system via a public computer network such as the Internet. The central system responds to the HTTP request by retrieving the job request from storage and passing it on to the remote system via the public computer network in the form of an HTTP response.

Abstract: A remote operating system capable of operating a given home electric appliance by simple operation from a portable telephone is disclosed. A service equipment connected to an internet and a public network provides a home page using the function of a portable telephone to browse the internet home pages. An instruction to operate the home electric appliance is given by way of the home page using the portable telephone. Thus, an operating instruction is given through the public network to a remote operation adaptor installed in a home to control the home electric appliance.

Abstract: The invention relates to a telephone set comprises a connection apparatus to execute a connecting process for enabling transmission and reception of an information signal to and from a home appliance such as a general audio device remote-controllable by radio communication; a control apparatus for generating, upon arrival of an incoming call, a remote control signal such as a pause command to the home appliance; and a radio communication apparatus for sending the remote control signal to the home appliance by radio communication. Thus, upon arrival of an incoming call at the telephone set, the remote control signal is sent to the audio device or the like either directly from the telephone set or via a communication adaptor installed therein, hence pausing or muting the output of the audio device under remote control. Such control action enables a user to perceive the incoming call with facility.

Abstract: An interactive interface facilitates the setting of preferences and other programmable parameters of an appliance. The interface is hosted by a server on a global computer network. The appliance owner initiates a connection to the server and is presented with a graphical user interface for setting the preferences and features of the appliance. Once the desired settings have been made, they are downloaded to the appliance either directly from the server or the appliance owner's computer or indirectly using a portable transfer device.

Abstract: A wireless earphone with a built-in mobile communications module and a dial-up method of the same are proposed. The mobile communications module is used to automatically answer an incoming call. A wireless electronic dial-up device is used for dial-up communications. The wireless earphone comprises a mobile communications module, a digital signal processor, an earphone, a microphone and a wireless communications module. The mobile communications module is used to receive a first remote signal and emit a first reply modulation signal. The digital signal processor is connected to the mobile communications module and used for processing digital signals. The earphone is connected to the digital signal processor. The microphone is connected to the digital signal processor. The wireless communications module is also connected to the digital signal processor, and is used to receive a second remote signal and emit a second reply modulation signal.

Abstract: A method includes the steps of selecting an appliance to be controlled from a list of appliances stored in the cellular device, selecting an instruction to be communicated to the selected appliance from a list of instructions stored in the cellular device, and transmitting the instruction to a cellular interface associated with the selected appliance via a public cellular telephone infrastructure by dialing a telephone number stored in the cellular device.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a system for controlling at least one residential property in a plurality of connected residential networks. The system comprises a remote control unit arranged to control residential properties, which remote control unit via the Internet is in connection with an access network, which is provided and supported by a telecommunications operator. Each connected residential network is divided into an open branch containing content terminals, such as a personal computer and an interactive information terminal.

Abstract: The systems and methods disclosed herein relate to digital data communication systems, and more particularly, the systems and methods relate to systems and methods for facilitating digital communication between a modem equipped meter and a central data acquisition system. In one example, the system has the central data acquisition system, a first telemetry device that utilizes a modem for data communication, and a second telemetry device with a processor for communicating with the first telemetry device, and a digital cellular radio for communicating with the processor. The processor relays digital meter data from the first telemetry device to the digital cellular radio and the digital cellular radio transmits the digital meter data to the central data acquisition system. This system allows the utility company to transmit the reading of utility consumption by a consumer without the use of telephone lines.

Abstract: A method for handling an off-hook event can include the step of detecting an off-hook event with a modem communicatively linked to a circuit loop in which the off-hook event occurs. The detection can be based upon audible information conveyed within the circuit loop. At least one programmatic action can be initiated with a computing device communicatively linked to the modem. An off-hook notification can be conveyed as a result of the programmatic action.

Abstract: A method for implementing a remote receiver connected to a telephony network can include a call authorizer that can access remote receiver specific information, wherein the remote receiver specific information can include an authorization requirement. The call authorizer can receive a digitally encoded signal specifying an authorization code. Prior to a telephony connection being established between the remote receiver and an originating device, the call authorizer can determine whether the authorization code satisfies the authorization requirement. Responsive to this determination, the call authorizer can send a ringing signal via the telephone line to the remote receiver. The remote receiver can power an actuator within the remote receiver with a voltage from the ringing signal. The actuator can activate a device controlled by the remote receiver.

Abstract: One or more X10 gateway components of an apparatus in one example communicate one or more messages between one or more mobile communication devices and one or more module components.

Abstract: An external bilateral phone interface remote control system is disclosed. The external bilateral phone interface remote control system includes an external remote control host and a separate external addition-type remote control extension. The external remote control host having an input terminal coupled to a phone line. The separate external addition-type remote control extension is coupled to a wire or wireless switch for forming a remote control network as to control the wire or wireless switch by a phone. The separate external addition-type remote control extension includes a feedback module, adapted for feeding back an identified signal to the original super via the network and the phone line for achieving the bilateral control.

Abstract: A system and method for remotely controlling one or more monitoring devices in a user's household in the event of emergency so as to more productively monitor the emergency situation on a real-time basis. The monitoring devices may include a number of multimedia instruments such as a telephone with an answering machine, a computer with a built-in digital camera, a video recording device, a cellular phone with an integrated digital camera, etc. An emergency service provider may remotely activate the monitoring devices in the user's vicinity upon receiving an emergency help request from the user, and receive the information sent by the monitoring devices to enable the service personnel to plan appropriate response to the emergency at hand. Such an arrangement allows for better monitoring of the user's vicinity in an emergency situation without the need for prolonged user participation in narrating or describing the emergency situation.

Abstract: A telephone-controlled home appliance system and a method for controlling the same are provided. Thus, a remote user can remotely control a plurality of home appliances inside of a home using a remote telephone. A telephone control module is contained in each of the home appliances to detect ringing signals received over a telephone line. If the number of the detected ringing signals is equal to a predetermined reference value, each home appliance automatically enters an off-hook state to make a call connection with the remote telephone. Even though a plurality of telephone jacks are commonly connected to the telephone line and the home appliances are in turn connected to respective telephone jacks, the user can access the respective home appliances from a remote site to simultaneously/individually control them. Therefore, the plurality of home appliances can be remotely controlled over the telephone line in a simple manner.

Abstract: Systems and methods for automatically converting data received from a remote device are described. A representative data conversion system includes at least a first remote device. The system also includes a conversion device communicatively coupled to at least the first remote device. The conversion device is configured to receive information from at least the first remote device, wherein the information is configured to enable conversion of data from a first format to a second format. Other methods, devices, and programs are included.

Abstract: Connection is established from a communication device having a plurality of platforms, such as a push-button-type telephone 13, a personal computer 14 and a cellular phone 15, to a base station 12 through a public line network 22 and the Internet 20, and an operation guidance is given by means of a voice guidance or a Web page from base station 12, so that the base station 12 remote-controls an electric apparatus 11 in accordance with the user's operation on the communication devices 13 to 15. The guide program, voice guidance and Web pages in the base station 12 are made to be updateable in storing operations 24a, 27a, 27b, 27c in the base station 12, so that it is possible to easily add a function thereto and also change the functions. It becomes possible to correspond to various platforms, easily add various functions, and also to easily update the operation menu.

Abstract: A remote control for an interactive television system includes an integrated microphone and a wireless transmitter for transmitting audio information generated by the microphone to the interactive television system. A set top box for the interactive television system includes a wireless receiver for receiving the audio information and a converter for transforming the audio information into a network-compatible audio stream for transmission to a network.

Abstract: Disclosed is a power control apparatus of a public telecommunication terminal which makes the public telecommunication terminal (e.g., a public telephone) disposed in every place provided with a power control program so that the public telecommunication terminal itself can turn on/off the power supplied thereto in an automatic way.

Abstract: A system for communicating audio data signals comprises a source computer that performs an action, generates an event message corresponding to the action, converts the event message into an audio data signal, and communicates the audio data signal through its speaker. A source telephone receives a voice signal from a participant and the audio data signal through its microphone and communicates the audio data signal and voice as coherent sound via an audio communications medium. A recipient telephone receives the audio data signal from the coherent sound communicated via the audio communications medium and communicates the audio data signal via its speaker. A recipient computer receives the audio data signal through its microphone, extracts the event message from the audio data signal, and performs an action based on the event message from the audio data signal. The audio communications medium can comprise a telephone communications system or air.

Abstract: An interactive interface facilitates the setting of preferences and other programmable parameters of an appliance. The interface is hosted by a server on a global computer network. The appliance owner initiates a connection to the server and is presented with a graphical user interface for setting the preferences and features of the appliance. Once the desired settings have been made, they are downloaded to the appliance either directly from the server or the appliance owner's computer or indirectly using a portable transfer device.

Abstract: Disclosed is a security gate phone entry system that allows a person located at a security gate, that bars access into a secure area, to call an occupant within the secure area. The phone entry systems only communication connection port is a standard telephone line jack. Communication with phone entry unit can be established with the phone entry unit by connecting a standard telephone line to the unit. Alternatively, the phone entry unit can be connected directly to a computer with modem by using a telephone line simulator to connect the computer with modem to the telephone line jack of the phone entry unit. Additionally, the phone entry unit can be connected to a central control unit by a private communication line through a telephone line simulator connected to the telephone line jack.

Abstract: A command detector detects a control command based on voice input through a telephone or a door phone or the like, and a user and control command identifying section identifies the user and the control command. A command controller decides execution of the control command based on a comparison between a security level set to the control command and to an authority level and a priority level set to the user.

Abstract: A system and method for creating a controlling device. In response to a user specifying one or more operating criteria for the controlling device, the system selects executable instructions from a library of executable instructions and command code sets from a library of command code sets that are to be stored in the memory of the controlling device. In addition, the system uses the criteria to suggest command key/command code mappings for use within the controlling device. The user may interact with the system to modify the selected executable instructions, command code sets, and command key/command code mappings. When stored in the memory of the controlling device, the executable instructions are to be used to perform various operations and functions within the controlling device and the command codes are to be transmitted from the controlling device to command the operation of controllable devices in response to activation of one or more of the command keys.

Abstract: Appliances (102, 102, 106 and 108) are controlled by providing a source (2016, 112) of command fields (CMD, FIG. 2) that include a context subfield (Community, FIG. 4) defining operating modes and a command subfield (Command, FIG. 4) defining operations to be performed within the context subfield. A network (119) transmits the command fields between the source and the appliance. A controller (112, 116) processes the command fields so that an operation defined by one of the command subfields is performed.

Abstract: A system which uses a telephone system to remotely activate an electrical circuit. Using a remote telephone, the “ringing” signal causes an electrical circuit to initiate a timer which sends a signal for an operator specified amount of time to a relay switch. By closing the relay switch, electrical current is communicated for specified amount of time (ideally over five minutes in duration) to an electrical apparatus such as a light. This system allows a remote user to use the phone system to activates lights and other electrical apparatus at such sites as the user's home while the user is on vacation, or maintenance personnel activating parking lot lights.

Abstract: A system and method for creating a controlling device. In response to a user specifying one or more operating criteria for the controlling device, the system selects executable instructions from a library of executable instructions and command code sets from a library of command code sets that are to be stored in the memory of the controlling device. In addition, the system uses the criteria to suggest command key/command code mappings for use within the controlling device. The user may interact with the system to modify the selected executable instructions, command code sets, and command key/command code mappings. When stored in the memory of the controlling device, the executable instructions are to be used to perform various operations and functions within the controlling device and the command codes are to be transmitted from the controlling device to command the operation of controllable devices in response to activation of one or more of the command keys.

Abstract: This invention has as its object to appropriately inform the user of reception of an incoming call in accordance with the operation mode of a video camera upon arrival of call. To achieve this object, an apparatus has a telephone and video camera in a single housing, and comprises a device for muting a ringing tone during image sensing by the video camera.

Abstract: A remote control terminal includes an input section which allows selection of predetermined services offered from an information provider managing the services, a transceiver for obtaining a service selected by the input section from the information provider, and displaying means for displaying the contents of the service obtained by the transceiver.

Abstract: Television programs are tuned by a television tuner using a method involving establishing a communications link between a user of a television tuner and database of television schedule information, the database located a site remote from the user. The user communicates program selection criteria to the site remote from the user. A database of television schedule information is searched based on the program selection criteria and program identification data is derived from the database, the program identification data corresponding to television programs meeting the program selection criteria. The program identification data is transmitted over the communications link to a television tuner controller.

Abstract: A method for implementing a remote receiver connected to a telephony network can include a call authorizer that can access remote receiver specific information, wherein the remote receiver specific information can include an authorization requirement. The call authorizer can receive a digitally encoded signal specifying an authorization code. Prior to a telephony connection being established between the remote receiver and an originating device, the call authorizer can determine whether the authorization code satisfies the authorization requirement. Responsive to this determination, the call authorizer can send a ringing signal via the telephone line to the remote receiver. The remote receiver can power an actuator within the remote receiver with a voltage from the ringing signal. The actuator can activate a device controlled by the remote receiver.

Abstract: A system and method for remotely controlling one or more monitoring devices in a user's household in the event of emergency so as to more productively monitor the emergency situation on a real-time basis. The monitoring devices may include a number of multimedia instruments such as a telephone with an answering machine, a computer with a built-in digital camera, a video recording device, a cellular phone with an integrated digital camera, etc. An emergency service provider may remotely activate the monitoring devices in the user's vicinity upon receiving an emergency help request from the user, and receive the information sent by the monitoring devices to enable the service personnel to plan appropriate response to the emergency at hand. Such an arrangement allows for better monitoring of the user's vicinity in an emergency situation without the need for prolonged user participation in narrating or describing the emergency situation.

Abstract: An access control system such as a telephone entry system (TES) capable of seamlessly transmitting facsimile log reports to remote locations for storage. Alarms are selected such that upon an occurrence of an alarm, the access control system will send a fax to the selected phone number with information about the alarm situation and, for example, all the transaction information within the memory. Alarm situations can include, for example, a number of transactions, a specific person accessed, or code being used, a specific time of day, a specific time since the last alarm situation, a door staying open, and/or a door being forced open. Log information may be sent to an office located in a building that is remote from the access control system. This information may be sent in a standard format to any location around the world.

Abstract: A monitoring system especially adapted for remote surveillance. Listening and/or visual devices such as microphones or video cameras (hereinafter “monitors” or “surveillance devices”) are disposed in selected rooms or other selected areas. These are interconnected by communications paths to one or more communication/control modules (hereinafter “modules”) which in turn communicate over wired or wireless paths to a remotely located telephone. The remotely located telephone may be of the cellular or conventional hard wired type from which a user can communicate with the module either to conduct conventional audible conversations or to visually/audibly monitor activities within a selected area.

Abstract: A remote control device comprises a telephone and a touch screen functionality to enable the user to participate in interactive TV programs and interact with advertisements. This approach is independent of the infrastructure delivering traditional content, and independent of the configuration of an STB.

Abstract: In an enhanced 911 (E911) response system, a callback monitor including a microphone and a speaker is connected to a telephone. When a caller dials 911 from the telephone, upon the telephone going on-hook, the callback monitor is activated to allow a 911 operator who calls back to detect sounds from the location of the caller's telephone without that phone ringing or being taken off hook. The callback monitor includes a timer; when the timer expires, the monitoring ends. In alternative embodiments, the timer can be extended.

Abstract: It comprises a central processing unit (CPU), to which a control panel (PC) is attached, said central processing unit (CPU) being connected to the input of a power control circuit (CCP) that selectively controls the opening and closing of a set of valves of hydraulic systems for the passage of hot water (Q), cold water (F), sinking and draining (Ed) and of odoriferous essence (E); said central processing unit (CPU), besides being controlled by the control panel (PC), allows the remote control by means of data receiving and transmitting interfaces (IT, IRF, IES) which are directly and individually connected to the relevant central processing unit (CPU); a voice synthesizing circuit (CSV) that interconnects the central processing unit (CPU) with the data receiving and transmitting interfaces (IT) being provided; the central processing unit (CPU) being connected to an analog-to-digital converting circuit (CCAD), which in turn receives the signals from the sensors (S) physically disposed in strategic places on th

Abstract: Various home appliances are connected to a gateway card. The gateway card receives a remote control request and remote control data from a remote client. The apparatus to be remote controlled is identified from the remote control request. When remote control request is received, the gateway card receives the changes the power mode of the personal computer from power-saving operation mode to a normal operation mode, sets the remote control data to the apparatus to be remote controlled, notifies the client of completion of the data setting, and changes the power mode of the personal computer from the normal operation mode to the power-saving operation mode.

Abstract: An environment monitoring system and method for systematically and continuously monitoring an environment. The system and method includes a data acquisition system which is programmed to systematically collect environment air quality environmental data and non-weather data for a site. The data acquisition system includes sensors coupled to a data storage device having a remote access device for electronic access from a remote system. Data may be uploaded to a remote database for storing environment data from many sites. The remote database includes a remote access device so that the data storage devices of various data acquisition sites can be electronically coupled to the remote database for centralized data collection and storage.

Abstract: A system and method for creating a controlling device. In response to a user specifying one or more operating criteria for the controlling device, the system selects executable instructions from a library of executable instructions and command code sets from a library of command code sets that are to be stored in the memory of the controlling device. In addition, the system uses the criteria to suggest command key/command code mappings for use within the controlling device. The user may interact with the system to modify the selected executable instructions, command code sets, and command key/command code mappings. When stored in the memory of the controlling device, the executable instructions are to be used to perform various operations and functions within the controlling device and the command codes are to be transmitted from the controlling device to command the operation of controllable devices in response to activation of one or more of the command keys.