Abstract: A novel paging system provides a apparatus and method for disseminating traffic condition information to subscribing commuters that is specific to the route or routes traveled by the commuter. Commuters provide the paging system service provider with a description of the routes along which they commute. The service provider then compiles traffic condition information and transmits traffic reports to the subscribing commuters. The reports are specific to the route traveled by each commuter.

Abstract: A telephone apparatus having a plurality of dedicated keys, a plurality of changeable keys each having at least one respective dedicated function associated therewith, and a display for displaying a plurality of lines of data. The telephone apparatus is adapted to perform a plurality of main functions including so-called menu, message, pad and book functions. Each of such main functions may be directly accessed by depressing only one of the keys. Further, the telephone apparatus enables messages, including voicemail and text data messages, to be received and stored therein. Messages or responses to received messages may be produced and transmitted from the telephone apparatus.

Abstract: A battery charger having a night light is described for use with a cordless telephone. The battery charger is energized by being plugged into a standard AC outlet and includes a cradle for receiving a cordless telephone handset having rechargeable batteries. The battery charger includes a phototransistor for detecting the level of light impinging on the battery charger and a lamp for providing illumination. When AC power is cut off and the phototransistor detects that the light level is below a predetermined level, the lamp is powered by the handset battery to provide illumination and to enable a user to locate the handset during low light conditions while it is being charged.

Abstract: A power outlet and phone jack adaptor having a generally rectangular recess and a back wall upon which a power outlet and telephone jack are positioned in close proximity to one another is disclosed. Indentations on the side walls of the recess enable the user to easily plug in or unplug an accessory, such as an electrical transformer. The recess is deep enough so that the accessory when plugged in does not protrude from the adaptor.