Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for permitting selected command sequences to be processed by a modem during data transfer operations. A preselected escape character is designated and inserted into a data stream to be applied to a modem in order to identify a selected command sequence which follows. A termination character is inserted into the data stream following the selected command sequence. Upon detection of the preselected escape character, the selected command sequence is coupled to a command processor within the modem and processed. In applications in which the modem is coupled between a data processing system and a cellular telephone communication channel, the selected command sequence may be utilized to transmit communication channel parameter status queries to a cellular telephone associated with the modem. In this manner, the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), bit error rate, or other indications of communication channel status may be queried.

Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for permitting selected command sequences to be processed by a modem during data transfer operations. A preselected escape character is designated and inserted into a data stream to be applied to a modem in order to identify a selected command sequence which follows. A termination character is inserted into the data stream following the selected command sequence. Upon detection of the preselected escape character, the selected command sequence is coupled to a command processor within the modem and processed. In applications in which the modem is coupled between a data processing system and a cellular telephone communication channel, the selected command sequence may be utilized to transmit communication channel parameter status queries to a cellular telephone associated with the modem. In this manner, the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), bit error rate, or other indications of communication channel status may be queried.

Abstract: A Cellular Data Network (CDN) identifies, collects and utilizes otherwise unused or unusable air time, in an existing Advanced Mobile Telephone System (AMPS). A Digital Cellular Overlay Network (DCON) is provided for performing CDN utilizing an underlying AMPS, where the DCON is transparent, with respect to the AMPS, and takes full advantage of existing AMPS equipment to keep the cost of performing CDN to a minimum. The resulting digital network may be used for high speed non-interfering data communications, i.e., data communications that do not degrade the underlying system's capacity and capability (qualitatively) to handle voice traffic. Expanded use of well-known radio control signals, in particular "busy bits" and "dotting sequences," provides a DCON capable of performing CDN in both a reliable and flexible manner.

Abstract: A portable paperless parcel tracking system capable of reading bar codes on packages, capturing signatures and alphanumeric data related to the parcels when entered into a touch panel display, disabling manual or finger touch entry when a stylus is near the surface of the display, storing the parcel related data electronically and transmitting the data to a host at a convenient time.

Abstract: An advanced display system controller is described for use in automotive vehicles. The controller has electronic circuitry to allow it to be programmed to display monochrome or color graphics and text on an all-points-addressable display device such as a CRT or an Electro-Luminescent (EL) Flat panel. The display resolution and scan rates may be programmed differently depending on the display type and size. The vehicle operator controls the display system via a reconfigurable switch system (RSS), such as an Infrared Touch Panel or Mylar Touch Switch Matrix mounted over the face of the display. In addition, external discrete switches may also be attached to the controller. The controller includes a master microprocessor and a slave microprocessor with preferred partitioning of functions and communicates with other parts of the vehicle via two serial data communication links, a Random Access bus and a Poll/Response bus.