Abstract: The vehicle communication and control system of the present invention includes a transceiver for sending and receiving RF signals, a processor coupled to the transceiver, a location identifying sensor coupled to the processor for supplying vehicle location data, a user interface coupled to the processor for providing information to a user and for enabling a user to input commands to be executed by the processor, and a vehicle accessory interface for coupling the processor to a vehicle accessory control circuit to enable the processor to issue commands to a vehicle accessory. The processor is preferably adapted to perform a wide variety of functions in response to user input commands, received RF signals, and other commands received from other vehicle accessories and components coupled to the system of the present invention through the vehicle system bus.

Abstract: A pager is powered by the vehicle's battery and coupled to a power control circuit for selectively applying power to the pager upon an operator initiated event. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the power control circuit is controlled by a switch associated with the movement of a door handle for providing power to the pager for a predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A system for remotely controlling vehicle accessories is disclosed that allows a user to remotely control vehicle accessories using a conventional telephone. The system is particularly well-suited for use in controlling an in-vehicle voice recorder while recording therein navigational instructions formed of a plurality of navigational steps. Through remote control of the vehicle recorder, a recorded message may be segmented in response to DTMF signals generated by pressing keys on a keypad of a conventional telephone. A driver may then playback the navigational steps one at a time as needed while driving to the identified destination. The system further allows for remote control of other vehicle accessories through the manipulation of keys on a conventional telephone keypad.