Abstract: A computer system including a small array of backlit buttons that can be used to control certain computer system functions. Each button includes a built-in backlight which preferably is a light emitting diode ("LED") that allows a user to see more easily the label on the button. Visual feedback that a button is pressed is provided to the user by turning off a button's backlight when the button is pressed. Thus, once the light in a button turns off, the user knows the button has been depressed sufficiently to activate the function associated with the button. In another aspect of the invention, the computer system may enter a low power consumption sleep mode in which most of the computer's functions are disabled. In the sleep mode the backlights in the button array are turned off to further save power. The computer system also includes a telephone answering machine ("TAM") capability which includes a backlit button that allows the user to play back a previously recorded telephone message.