Abstract: A system and method for directly converting encoded speech-frames in a conference environment communication system which has a transmitting unit that transmits an input signal of an input modulation type, a plurality of receiving units that each receive an output signal of an output modulation type and a direct interface system that directly interfaces the input signal to the plurality of output signals.

Abstract: A system and method for directly converting encoded speech-frames in a communication system which has a transmitting unit that transmits an input signal of an input modulation type, a receiving unit that receives an output signal of an output modulation type and a direct interface system that directly interfaces the input signal to the output signal.

Abstract: Apparatus for performing a smooth by-pass of extra Vocoders in a mobile station to mobile station connection. Vocoders are used in mobile stations using digital signals to communicate with base stations. When the vocoded signals are to be transmitted over the public switched telephone network, they are normally converted into the kinds of signals such as 64 Kb per second pulse code modulation (PCM), used in the public switched network. In accordance with one preferred embodiment of this invention, when a connection is made between two mobile units, the connection is made via a separate asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) network. Arrangements are also available to switch between the ATM network and Vocoders connected to the public switched telephone network when it is necessary to transmit a PCM signal to a land based station, or other equipment.