Abstract: Methods of establishing multimedia conferences between a multimedia server and a plurality of endpoint devices. One or more of these endpoint devices are enhanced in that they include a memory adapted to store one or more telephone numbers, each telephone number corresponding to a respective endpoint device, and a user interface coupled to the memory for selecting a telephone number stored in the memory. The methods are performed in a substantially continuous manner, signifying that a third endpoint device is added to a preexisting conference between a first and a second endpoint device without substantially interrupting this preexisting conference. Therefore, a seamless multimedia conference is provided between the first and second enhanced endpoint devices even when a third endpoint device is added to the conference.

Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for controlling the communication of multimedia electronic signals representing audio, video, and/or data. These techniques operate in conjunction with a system including a network, a multimedia server (MMS) connected to the network, and a plurality of endpoint devices connected to the network. The network is comprised of communications links and switches adapted for selectively connecting and disconnecting the communications links. The endpoint devices are adapted for converting multimedia electronic signals into audio, video, and/or data. The MMS is equipped to control the network such that multimedia signals may be exchanged among a plurality of endpoint devices, thereby providing a multimedia conference.

Abstract: In a communications system having components which are interconnected via communications links, the system is provided with capability of responding to the application of a predetermined test signal to a link with information which identifies that link. Such information can take a variety of forms including the name of one or more persons assigned to use the link, and/or the telephone number or numbers associated with the link. This capability greatly reduces the time and expense associated with the maintenance and testing of a variety of communications systems, such as PBXs and central office switching machines.