Abstract: A programmable telephone powered by a telephone line, and responsive to ringing signals for providing an automatic answer. A microprocessor in the telephone is powered by periodic signals during ringing intervals for executing instructions to count the number of ring cycles, and is placed in a sleep mode if such number does not exceed a predefined threshold. When the threshold number of rings occurs, the microprocessor places the telephone in a simulated off-hook condition for allowing programming of the memory thereof. The memory of the microprocessor is an EEPROM having a file allocation table with addresses pointing to an input dialing pattern table, an area code/exchange code table and to an output dialing pattern table. Multiple levels of user and software security codes are employed to provide a high degree of security to the programming of the telephone.

Abstract: A telephone set for automatically accessing operator service facilities in response to a user initiating a long distance type of telephone call. The access of the operator services is automatic and transparent to the user. After the user dials the "1" or similar long distance designation, the area code and a seven-digit telephone number of the called party, the telephone set stores such information, and in response thereto outpulses a predefined telephone number of the operator services. The telephone set responds to a precision dial tone transmitted as an acknowledgment by the operator services, and outpulses first an internally stored telephone set identificaiton number, followed by the area code and seven-digit number input by the calling party. Such outpulsed information appears on a video terminal of the operator services, whereupon the calling party and an operator can discuss billing of the telephone call, as well as completion thereof to the called party.