Abstract: A telecommunication device for the deaf is designed to operate under an enhanced TDD communication protocol. The TDD is capable of communicating with conventional TDDs operating under normal Baudot/Weitbrecht communications, but is also capable of communicating with a similarly enhanced TDD utilizing an enhanced protocol with a faster data transfer rate. The enhanced TDD is capable of signaling to another remote TDD through the use of a synchronization character that it is capable of enhanced TDD communications. If a similar synchronization character is received from the remote station, both TDDs can then switch to enhanced TDD communication with its advantages of speed and enlarged character set. The enhanced protocol permits increased functionality of the TTD terminals in providing machine-to-machine communication in a manner invisible to the TTD user. A machine-to-machine control character similar to the synchronizing character is used to designate such messages.

Abstract: A voice bridge for a telephone relay for the hearing impaired is constructed so as to pass voice data to and/or from a user who is capable of either speaking or hearing voice. The voice bridge is capable of passing voice communication between a pair of telephone lines while excluding data carrier TDD signals from passage. Several methods are possible to achieve TDD signal exclusion. A privacy option is also included to exclude the relay station operator from overhearing parts of conversation when the operator's assistance is not required.

Abstract: A telecommunication device for the deaf operates under conventional Baudot communication protocol, but has enhanced features enabling it to handle interrupts either from a conventional or a similar TDD. The improved TDD is also capable of pseudo-duplex communication with a similar TDD in which each device transmits packets of characters alternatively to the other thus making it appear to the users that simultaneous transmission is occurring. The implementation of these features is done in such a way that the TDD is fully capable of communication with existing TDD devices and the device obeys normals rules and conventions for Baudot communication.

Abstract: A telecommunication device for the deaf includes a self-identification sequence which automatically commences upon the initiation of communication with the device. The self-identification sequence consists of a series of characters which may be separated by pauses and the device listens during the pauses to see if TDD communication has been established. The purpose of the character string is so that a receiving station can identify, with a low rate of error, a calling TDD and therefore switch the incoming call to a TDD equipped operator. This capability is particularly useful for emergency service operators (911 services) which must be able to handle incoming TDD calls with a maximum of efficiency and a minimum of error.

Abstract: A telecommunications device automatically detects the code used by a second telecommunications device to which the devices are linked to transmit and receive therebetween. After the telecommunications device has been set to transmit and receive in code which has been detected, the telecommunications device continues to interrogate the second telecommunications device for a more optimal code (usually a code with higher transmission and receiving speeds) that is common to both devices.

Abstract: A public terminal receptacle for containing, protecting, and allowing a user access to a computer terminal, telecommunications device for the deaf, or another type of terminal which is telephonically linked and physically adjacent to a public telephone through which the terminal may telecommunicate with other electronic devices. The public terminal receptacle includes a housing having an opening and which is adapted to be attached to a public telephone booth, a drawer which is slidably mounted within the housing to move between a closed position where the drawer is within the housing and an open position where at least a forward portion of the drawer extends out through the opening, the terminal, and a motor drive system mounted within the housing and which is drivingly connected to the drawer for opening and closing the drawer in response to specific electrical signals.

Abstract: A public terminal receptacle for containing, protecting, and allowing a user access to a computer terminal, telecommunications device for the deaf, or another type of terminal which is telephonically linked and physically adjacent to a public telephone through which the terminal may telecommunicate with other electronic devices. The public terminal receptacle includes a housing having an opening and which is adapted to be attached to a public telephone booth, a drawer which is slidably mounted within the housing to move between a closed position where the drawer is within the housing and an open position where at least a forward portion of the drawer extends out through the opening, the terminal, and a motor drive system mounted within the housing and which is drivingly connected to the drawer for opening and closing the drawer in response to specific electrical signals.