Patents Represented by Attorney Gregg G. Hendricks
  • Patent number: 4612419
    Abstract: A circuit which prevents a telephone station from being used for unauthorized toll calls while allowing toll calls to be made when preceded by authorized passwords. When the telephone station is in the toll restriction mode of operation a microprocessor disconnects the tone generator from the keypad and provides audible and visual error signals upon detection of operation of the "0" or "1" keypad buttons. Upon detection of simultaneous operation of the "1" and "2" keypad buttons, the microprocessor provides audible and visual signals to prompt entry of a password. If a valid password is entered, the telephone station enters the unrestricted mode of operation and the toll restriction circuit is disabled until the handset is returned to the on-hook position after termination of the subsequent toll call.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1986
    Assignee: GTE Communication Systems Corp.
    Inventor: Louis W. Smith