Abstract: A telephone is controlled using an external contact closure. The telephone includes a contact closure connector. The contact closure connector includes a first wire contact and a second wire contact. Control logic is connected to the first wire contact and the second wire contact. The control logic detects a change in electrical connection between the first wire contact and the second wire contact. Alternatively, the control logic detects a change in electrical connection between multiple pairs of wire contacts. In response to the change in electrical connection, the control logic issues a command to a processor connected to the control logic. The processor, upon receipt of the command issued by the control logic, implements a predetermined telephone function or set of functions.

Abstract: An interface device, such as a mouse input device, is used to provide input to a computer system or alternatively to a telephone system. The motion of the mouse input device over a first surface is detected. Selections made by a user on a mouse selection key are also detected. Numeric entry is received from numeric entry keys on a top surface of the mouse input device. In the preferred embodiment, the numeric keys are arranged as a dialpad for a telephone.

Abstract: A host telephone is connected by an interface to an accessory item. The accessory item is, for example, a cordless headset, a headset amplifier, a remote telephone dialing device, a cordless handset or some other device which is connected to a telephone. Two connectors are used to connect the host telephone to the interface. A first connector provides a standard headset connection to the host. The first connector propagates four signals: a transmit audio signal, a transmit return signal, a receive audio signal and a receive return signal. A second connector provides a propagation media for additional signals. The additional signals provide additional communication links between the host telephone and the accessory item.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for "piggy backing" a FAX transmission on a video call. A document, in the form of modulated facsimile data, is received from a machine located in proximity of a sending station. The document is demodulated, packetized and a header, indicating that the packet contains facsimile data, is added. The packets are then injected into a digital video stream carrying video conference data bound for the receiving station.