Abstract: Dual tone multifrequency (DTMF) signals are automatically generated by a telecommunications device after a telephone number is called. The signals generated to call the telephone number are determined by a manually operated switch indicating pulse code signal generation or dual tone multifrequency signal generation. It is determined that the telephone number has been dialed by detecting a ring-back signal, voice frequency signals, DTMF signals, or data stream signals. Alternatively, if a predetermined period of time, such as ten seconds, passes without the user pressing a number on the keypad, it may be assumed that the telephone number has been dialed. Upon detecting one of these signals or the passage of time, the telecommunications device is controlled to generate only dual tone multifrequency signals for communication with automated services, such as voicemail, telephone banking, reservation systems, etc.

Abstract: A pay telephone message system is disclosed that includes a voice message system storing and forwarding to a destination telephone a voice message left by a user. Call information including the destination telephone number is routed out-of-band, that is, in a data or service request channel separate from the voice channel, over a packet concentrator network separate from the voice telephone network. During operation a message telephone call is placed to the voice message system over the existing telephone network. The call information is routed over the concentrator network as a voice message service request. The voice message system returns a token, a call identifier or service request number, corresponding to the service request to the pay telephone interface making the request and handling the pay telephone call. The interface sends the token in-band over the telephone network to the voice message system prior to allowing the pay telephone user to store a message.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus that receives various types of call record information when a called number is busy or does not answer, and converts the call record information into uniform format information suitable for recording messages on a message storage system. The system receives the different call forwarding information from different devices and translates and reformats that information into mailbox information suitable for controlling a message storage operation. The system includes one integration process for each type of switching device even when plural devices of a particular type are connected to the system. The integration processes provide a uniform packet routed to the message storage system. Packets arriving from the message storage system defined for a switching device are presented to the integration processes in a uniform format.

Abstract: A coin tone validator (CTV) is located in a local central office and is connected between a pay telephone and a switching system. The CTV monitors DC loop current changes using opto-couplers inserted into a local loop in addition to measuring standard 1700 Hz and 2200 Hz tone frequencies generated when a coin is inserted into the paystation. A comparison of the two components, the current changes and the frequencies, is performed to determine a timing and magnitude relationship. If the frequency component is misaligned within a specified time frame or the magnitude is not sufficient, then the tones received or the current change sensed are dismissed as interference. The CTV prevents users of pay telephones from fraudulently generating coin tones that are acoustically coupled into the handset of a paystation from a calling station at any time during a call.