Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for selecting and sending mail pieces via an interactive kiosk. The interactive kiosk contains a microprocessor system programmed to interact with the customer for selecting a mail piece of choice. The microprocessor then displays queries and options for the purchaser to add a personalized message to the post card. The customer may also input the address or utilize an address locator feature for retrieving the address from a data base located in the kiosk. The kiosk then prompts the customer for payment via an electronic bill or credit card accepter. After the customer has completed using the kiosk, the kiosk communicates with a central processing location. The central processing location includes a microprocessor based system which electronically downloads the necessary information from the kiosk including the post card orders and customer/sales information.

Abstract: A telephone isolation device having a latching relay operated switch in one of the telephone conductors which when the relay is actuated brings a voltage dividing branch circuit that includes a restoring coil of the relay into parallel with a subscriber's telephone. If the telephone is connected and off of the hook, the low impedance of the telephone keeps the flow of current to the restoring coil below an operable value. When the telephone is placed on the hook, all current thereafter passes through the restoring coil to again connect the telephone to the telephone conductors. The disconnect coil of the relay is actuated by applying a positive 100 volt DC current to both lines of the telephone system.