Abstract: Instant communications with voice activated connections by both initiating and responding individuals are disclosed using advanced telephones and data networks. A users' speech is captured through an advanced telephone and is automatically recognized to initiate communications with another individual or a group over a data network. The system forwards a predefined communication alert to the designated individual or group. Recipients of the communications alert can indicate acceptance of the communication attempt by speech which is also automatically recognized. Two way communications are instantly established upon acceptance. System configuration, group definitions, user's access permissions, voice activation phrases, and communication alerts are managed through software in a user-accessible network-based service.

Abstract: Normalized Detector Scaling is the transformation of output data from pattern recognition systems that allows decision rules or operating criteria for the pattern recognition system to be established simply, and independently of the particulars of the pattern recognition system. This is achieved by combining information from the probability distributions that describe the pattern recognitions systems output statistics for the classes of interest. The probability distributions are transformed into an intuitive one-dimensional scale providing both flexibility and convenience in the operation or administration of a pattern recognition system.