Abstract: A remote control system capable of controlling electrically operable equipment in a person occupiable structure and which has an essentially unlimited command format. The system comprises a signal receiving sensor such as an infrared sensor, and which can receive a signal from a remote control unit, typically a hand-held remote control unit. The infrared signal is processed to be compatible with electrically operable equipment as for example, sound entertainment system, electrical appliances or the like. A central computer or microprocessor is associated with the dwelling structure and receives a signal from the remote control unit, via the signal receiving sensor, and which computer generates a control signal for control and operation of the electrically operable equipment. The remote control system has an input means to receive the code format of each type of electrically operable equipment to thereby generate a format of encoded signals for each type of electrically operable equipment.

Abstract: A telephone dialing system which utilizes a calling card having party identification information thereon as well as a telephone number digitally encoded thereon. The calling card is capable of being inserted into a dialing unit which will automatically dial the telephone number encoded on the calling card. The dialing unit automatically determines whether or not the area code included within the telephone number is to be dialed or disregarded. In addition, the dialing unit will automatically determine whether or not additional digits are to be generated for dialing of the telephone number on the card.