Abstract: A Network Interface Unit (38, 38′, 38″) routes incoming calls to, and outgoing calls from, a plurality of telephone sets (12-22) at a subscriber premises (24). The Network Interface Unit continuously monitors for incoming calls and the availability of telephone sets. Upon receipt of a call, the Network Interface Unit determines which telephone sets are idle and applies a distinctive ring to each idle telephone set o identify the telephone line or equivalent on which the call was received. Once a telephone set goes off hook, the Network Interface Unit routes the call to that set and releases the remaining telephone sets for subsequent calls. When a subscriber initiates an outgoing telephone call, the Network Interface Unit detects the call and routes it on an idle outgoing telephone line or equivalent.

Abstract: A subscriber (12) seeking to enter a conference call does so by dialing a non-directory conference call access telephone number maintained by a telephone carrier for conference call service. Upon receipt of the call within its network (14), the carrier identifies the subscriber, and thereafter determines from a record stored in a database (24) the identity of the conference call that the subscriber desires to enter. Knowing the identity of the conference call, the network (14) can then route the subscriber's call to the corresponding bridge (26) carrying the conference call. In this way, the subscriber seeking to enter a conference call need not know the particular conference bridge number or access code.

Abstract: A subscriber receives substantially uninterrupted telecommunications service at a station set (12) by virtue of a connection between the set and a telephone facility (20) via a preferred communications channel (14) and an alternate communications channel (16). First and second intelligent switching means (44, 46) are associated with the subscriber station set and with the telecommunications facility (20), respectively. The first and second intelligent switching means route calls from the station set and the telephone facility to the telephone facility and station set, respectively, based on the availability of the first and second communications channels and on the characteristics of the call.

Abstract: A party (12, 14, 16 and 18) to a telephone call carried by a telecommunications network (10) may effect transfer of the call charges that would otherwise be billed to that party by entering a billing transfer request after the call has been set up. Upon receipt of the billing transfer request, the network verifies whether the subscriber is authorized. If so, then a billing record created upon call set up is transferred to an alternative number designated by the subscriber.