Abstract: A method for designating messages allows individual messages to be designated as "read" if (i) the message has been played for a predetermined amount of time (150) or (ii) the replay of the message is completed (154). After a playback session, messages designated as "read" can be designated as "old" (102). Because of the queuing capability of the digital answering machine (142), stored messages can be replayed in any order, or a portion of a message can be conveniently replayed to determine whether the message should be replayed in full. As a result, new messages (i.e., messages which have not been designated as "read") can be located anywhere in the sequence of recorded messages. Such a function of the present invention allows a user to preview messages to selectively listen to messages, while maintaining a designation as "new" for any message in the sequence which has not been replayed in full or at least for a predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A method provide delays during memory dialing by automatically inserting pause characters within the dialing sequence based upon the user's entry of the dialing sequence. The method establishes a time-out period (64) when storing dialing sequences, and adds a pause character (66) to the dialing sequence if the time-out has expired. The method also determines whether any digit keys have been selected (68) to be stored in the sequence. Finally, the method monitors the tip and ring line of a standard telephone line to detect a far end ringing signal (76) and insert a special pause character (78). The special pause character will provide a delay until a far end pickup is detected during automatic dialing.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting the state of charge of a battery during charging or discharging thereof. Voltage levels across the battery are measured during battery charging or discharging, and compared with preset values representative of a normal battery characteristic charge or discharge curve. The normal charge or discharge curve is modified responsive particular battery characteristics indicated by measured battery voltage levels, and, preferably, also responsive to measured battery temperature levels to form a modified normal battery charge or discharge curve. The modified normal battery charge or discharge curve is divided into curve portions defined by voltage levels and rates of changes of the voltage levels. Each curve portion defines a particular state of charge of the battery.

Abstract: A battery charging system for a multi-cell battery charger operative to apply a charging current to one or more battery packs, each comprised of one or more battery cells. Initiation of application of a fast charging current is permitted only when the voltage levels taken across output terminals of a battery pack positioned at the battery charger, and the ambient temperature of such battery pack, is within desired ranges. After initiation of application of the fast charging current, the ranges of voltage and ambient temperature levels within which application the fast charging current is permitted are expanded to prevent termination of application of the fast charging current responsive to transient changes of the temperature and voltage levels.

Abstract: A system and associated method for fast charging a battery. The current level of a fast charging curent supplied to a battery for the charging thereof is monitored. When the charging current falls below a predetermined level for a certain proportion of a time period, fast charging of the battery is terminated.

Abstract: A battery charging system for determining battery charge states of batteries positioned to be charged by a battery charger. A fast charging current is supplied for short intervals to each of the batteries during a charge state determination period. After the end of the charge state determination period, the battery charge states of each of the batteries is determined. The determined battery charge states may be utilized to form a battery charging priority sequence for sequentially charging the batteries.