Abstract: A software driven, timing dependant method for entering alphanumerical characters using a conventional push button telephone system having automatic response functions is based upon the position (first, second or third) of each alphabetic letter upon each key of the standardized telephone keypad matrix. DTMF signals are generated following the pressing of a key to identify the key pressed and thereby generate a sequential message menu for that particular key. The key is pressed a predetermined number of times (once, twice, or three times) to select the desired letter, and the letter signals are transmitted to conventional voice tone recognition apparatus and storage facilities. The first, second and third messages on each key each consist of a silence interval segment of known length followed by, respectively, a first, second and third letter interval segment of known length.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the conversion of a standard push button telephone keypad into a data entry terminal permitting full alphanumeric DTMF entry through a telephone system to a file server for delivery to a service provider computer. The alphabetical letters are prearranged to enable single or adjacent keypairs to be defined for each alphabetical letter. DTMF signals are generated by the keypairs and are transmitted to conventional voice tone recognition apparatus and storage facilities of the central computer for later or simultaneous delivery to a service provider computer such as a facsimile machine, an E-mail system, a paging system, and/or any data base connected to a telephone line.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for entering alphanumerical characters into a push button telephone system having automatic response functions. Each alphabetic letter and character is assigned a keypair having a dual tone multifrequency signal which is stored in the memory of the telephone system. The code provides for the conversion of analog voice frequency signals to digital signals. The digital signals may be converted to analog signals to provide voice prompts to the caller. The letters and characters are sequentially arrayed on a matrix overlaying the telephone keypad. Characters are positioned above and between the push buttons so that each character may be separately accessed from adjacent keys. Entry of a keypair requires the sequential pressing of at least one key two times. Sequential operations that require the pressing of two different and adjacent keys may be performed in any sequence.

Abstract: A multikey keyboard for inputting data into a computer, whose keys place in circuit the points of intersection of an X rank conductor and Y rank conductor matrix, characterized in that X rank and Y rank conductors are respectively connected together by interconnection resistors (R) and to an X output and Y output of the keyboard, intended to be connected to two analog inputs of the computer, so that the resistance values applied at the input of these two latter are representatively X rank and of the Y rank of any key pressed.

Abstract: A device for generating electric signals representing the position coordinates of a stylus on a reference surface, characterized in that it comprises a signal generator (6) that is fixed with respect to the reference surface and comprising a movable part (5) which works in conjunction with at least two potentiometers generating the voltages representing the said coordinates, the stylus (7) being a stylus for pointing on the reference surface, and mechanical linkage means being provided between this stylus and the said movable part so as to obtain a scaling down effect on the movements given to the stylus when they reach the potentiometers.