Abstract: A select call receiver, such as a pager, is disclosed which comprises a canned message memory. The canned message memory has canned message memory storage locations that are linked to message tag identifiers. The pager recalls and displays canned messages upon receipt of message tag identifiers. In the first embodiment, the pager provides a programming mode wherein the user of the pager can remotely program canned messages into the pager by accessing a convention paging terminal and keying numeric data into a telephone keypad. The numeric data is converted to alphanumeric data according to a mnemonic entry scheme and stored in the pager's canned message memory. In a second embodiment, the message tag identifier is also remotely programmable by the user, allowing great flexibility in the definition of the message tag identifiers.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for secure, remote programming of a receiving device by instructions transmitted in data format, whereby previously stored messages may be selectively updated, capcodes may be reprogrammed, and the pager display may be activated or deactivated.

Abstract: A pager has a display and a selectively activated light for illuminating the display. The illumination of the display is accomplished using a minimal number of components thereby reducing the size and cost requirements of the pager. The method of message sequencing and the illumination of the pager display is controlled solely by the pager user through a single switch.