Abstract: A method and apparatus for entering data into a computer including an abbreviated keyboard wherein each key represents a plurality of characters. Depression of a key of the keyboard causes the generation and transmission of a first electronic signal to a computer. The computer receives the signal and according to a predetermined algorithm, generates a best guess of which one of the plurality of alphanumeric characters represented by the key and signal sent to the computer is desired to be ultimately entered into the computer. A second electronic signal is generated by the computer and transmitted to a display to cause the display to indicate the guess. By subsequent stroke or strokes of the keyboard, the guess is either selected if correct, or if incorrect changed until the correct alphanumeric character is guessed.The computer programmed with the algorithm for making the guesses may be remote to the keyboard or contain within the keyboard such as by the incorporation of an appropriate microchip.

Abstract: Apparatus for use in conjunction with a PBX system and a telephone answering system is disclosed in which line scanners are used to detect the presence of ring signals on each of the extension lines within the PBX system and to determine when the number of such ring signals on a monitored line exceeds a predetermined limit. A computer coupled to each of the line scanners, upon determining that the predetermined limit has been exceeded, actuates automatic dialing circuitry, which is connected to both the PBX and telephone answering systems, to dial the PBX system and cause it to carry out a directed call pick-up of the incoming call. Simultaneously, the automatic dialing system dials the telephone answering system on a different telephone line. The computer then controls the automatic dialing circuitry to couple the incoming call to the telephone answering system without the incoming call having been answered.