Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for providing controlling the presentation of information using a telephone including monitoring a signal received from the telephone; receiving control information sent from the telephone; interpreting the control information; generating commands based on the control information; sending the commands to a media source wherein the media source outputs information based on the command; and displaying the information output from the media source on a device separate from the telephone.

Abstract: The present invention enables the remote activation of a device by a packet-switched service, e.g., VoIP network service for the purposes of receiving calls identified as urgent from a pre-identified calling party when the device is disabled. The present invention enables registered users to select the calling parties they wish to receive emergency calls from.

Abstract: A remote control terminal includes an input section which allows selection of predetermined services offered from an information provider managing the services, a transceiver for obtaining a service selected by the input section from the information provider, and displaying means for displaying the contents of the service obtained by the transceiver.

Abstract: An apparatus, system and method for providing remote control service to devices in a home network are disclosed. A web page provider provides a master page of the home network, information on the devices in the home network, and a list of remote control service to remote and in-house users in a web page form. An identifier identifies the remote users. A message processor processes message inputs and outputs related to service registration, service validness, etc. of the devices in the home network. A storage device stores device and service information on the devices in the home network. A main controller controls operations of each element. Accordingly, a remote control service limited to a specific household device becomes applicable to various devices. Not only remote control and management, but also program download, installation and upgrade necessary for the remote control is possible.

Abstract: A telephone device such as a speaker phone or message recording device is remotely controlled either as a standalone device or as part of a security system. The telephone device can be controlled by a key fob or other user-operated transmitter that a user actuates to answer a call by speaker phone, end a call, place a call, or control functions of the message recording device such as playing back messages. The key fob transmits a wireless signal that is received and processed by a security system. In response, the security system controls the telephone device. The key fob may control security functions as well. In another approach, the key fob may control the telephone device directly without intervention of a security system. Or, the key fob may control the telephone device via a home automation network.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for providing connectivity to portable electronic devices, such as a cordless telephone, for the purpose of upgrading software features. In a preferred embodiment, portable electronic devices can receive incoming data at the PSTN jack from a personal computer that is also connected to the PSTN via a PSTN modem. In this manner, upgrades can be accomplished without requiring users to disconnect the telephone or to connect additional cables or components. The telephone is temporarily disabled from service only during the downloading of the upgrade software from the personal computer to the telephone. Upgrade software can be received at the personal computer from downloads or from other sources.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for notifying an end user of a messaging event in a multi-user setting is disclosed. An apparatus that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a terminal device having a User Interface (UI) element that selectively identifies one or more parties to whom a messaging event is directed according to one or more matches between a caller identifier associated with the messaging event and one or more entries in a plurality of contact books corresponding to a plurality of users of the terminal device. Additional embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: Automated facsimile monitoring methods, systems, and computer program products can track response data from multiple facsimiles sent to different locations and generate electronically accessible failure reports to allow for error or faults to be tracked and assessed to thereby allow corrective action to be initiated in a more timely manner.

Abstract: The present invention enables the remote activation of a device by a packet-switched service, e.g., VoIP network service for the purposes of receiving calls identified as urgent from a pre-identified calling party when the device is disabled. The present invention enables registered users to select the calling parties they wish to receive emergency calls from.

Abstract: A communication system serving as a transmitter terminal and a receiver terminal for communications with a second communication system via a communication line, the communication system includes a storage section for data storage; a communication section for data communications, the communication section being adapted for reception and transmission of data and size information indicative of the size of the data with respect to the second communication system; a detection section for detecting a free space in the storage section; a comparing section for comparing the data size contained in the size information with the size of the free space in the storage section; a calculating section for, if the storage section is short of free space for accommodation of the data size, calculating a waiting period required for recovery from the shortage of the free space in the storage section; and a timer section for timing the lapse of the waiting period.

Abstract: Systems and methods for remotely diagnosing, trouble shooting, and/or programming an end user telephone by a customer service representative using a telephone and modem system in communication with the user's telephone and modem system during a live telephone call between the customer service representative and the user are disclosed. The method for the user to obtain assistance from the customer service representative for the user system generally comprises initiating a telephone call to the representative, transmitting data signals containing information relating to the user system to the customer service system, speaking with the customer service representative, and receiving data signals that includes a command to control a remotely controllable feature of the user system from the customer service system, wherein the user and customer representative systems selectively alternate between data signal transmissions and voice signal transmissions.

Abstract: A document transmission apparatus is provided that includes a print document manager that stores a document to be printed in association with an e-mail address of a user of a cellular phone. When the document to be printed is stored in the print document manager, a mail transmitter transmits a print notification message to the e-mail address of the user of the cellular phone. The print notification message indicates that the document to be printed is present. A print instruction acquirer acquires print instruction information from the cellular phone that receives the print notification message. A document transmitter transmits the document to be printed to a print destination designated in accordance with the print instruction information acquired by the print instruction acquirer.

Abstract: The present invention comprises an improved device and method for automated cooking foods with a liquid such as water.

Abstract: A center apparatus manages a to-be-managed apparatus, wherein: the center apparatus performs a management operation on the to-be-managed apparatus by making a call to the to-be-managed apparatus so as to establish a communications circuit therewith according to predetermined parameters; and the to-be-managed apparatus makes a parameter change occurrence inquiry to the center apparatus at predetermined intervals for inquiring the center apparatus whether or not a parameter change occurs.

Abstract: A pet communication apparatus for allowing a user to communicate with a pet. The pet communication apparatus includes a housing member being designed for being selectively positioned on a support surface. A processing assembly is positioned in the housing member. The processing assembly is designed for being operationally coupled to a telephone jack whereby the processing assembly is operationally coupled to a telephone company. A speaker member is operationally coupled to the processing assembly whereby the speaker member is designed for audibly reproducing audio spoken by the user calling the pet. The speaker member is coupled to the housing member whereby the speaker member is designed for audibly reproducing sounds to be heard by the pet.

Abstract: A mobile communication device (104) loads an application bundle (200), which includes a software application (202) and an indication of a time limited license (206). To enforce the time limited license, the mobile communication device, upon attempting to invoke the application code (310), obtains a secure time reading (312). It is contemplated that a secure time server (116) may be used to facilitate license enforcement. Once the secure time reading is obtained, the mobile communication device compares the time with the license period, and executes the code only if the time reading is within the license period.

Abstract: A wireless answering system is disclosed in which answering functions executed at a main telephone answering device can be controlled from an extension answering device. The extension answering device is able to record new outgoing messages, screen calls and playback messages recorded at the main telephone answering device. Communication between the main telephone answering device and extension telephone answering device are by way of wireless communications, preferably through a Bluetooth™ compliant communications path.

Abstract: A system data sharing management system in a LAN telephone system 10 comprises: a plurality of terminals 201 to 20n connected to a LAN transmission line 300; and a terminal management device 100 for managing system data 400 of each terminal. At least a part 420 of the system data 400 for operating the LAN telephone system 10 is shared by the terminals 201 to 20n and the terminal management device 100. Each of the terminals 201 to 20n can change the shared system data 420.

Abstract: A system and method for creating a controlling device. In response to a user specifying one or more operating criteria for the controlling device, the system selects executable instructions from a library of executable instructions and command code sets from a library of command code sets that are to be stored in the memory of the controlling device. In addition, the system uses the criteria to suggest command key/command code mappings for use within the controlling device. The user may interact with the system to modify the selected executable instructions, command code sets, and command key/command code mappings. When stored in the memory of the controlling device, the executable instructions are to be used to perform various operations and functions within the controlling device and the command codes are to be transmitted from the controlling device to command the operation of controllable devices in response to activation of one or more of the command keys.

Abstract: A system and method for interfacing with a personal telephony recorder is provided. Users can issue commands to the personal telephony recorder through a variety of means. A user using a device with video capabilities can use facial cues, such as a facial expression, that is recognized as a command and sent to the personal telephony recorder. Video-based users can also send commands using a Doppler shift created by moving away from or towards the video recorder or a portion of the recorder. Personal telephony recorder users that use a pervasive computing device, such as a handheld computer or personal digital assistant, can issue commands by using a thumb switch usually located on the side of the device, or by using a stylus to select portions of the device's screen, such as command buttons.

Abstract: A cover member for an electronic device, the cover member having a secure radio frequency identification (RFID) module within it, an electronic device including such a cover member, and a system including such an electronic device for authorizing providing of goods or services. If desired, the circuitry of the electronic device can supplement that of the RFID module, enabling storage, display and control of transactions enabled by the RFID module.

Abstract: A system and method for creating a controlling device. In response to a user specifying one or more operating criteria for the controlling device, the system selects executable instructions from a library of executable instructions and command code sets from a library of command code sets that are to be stored in the memory of the controlling device. In addition, the system uses the criteria to suggest command key/command code mappings for use within the controlling device. The user may interact with the system to modify the selected executable instructions, command code sets, and command key/command code mappings. When stored in the memory of the controlling device, the executable instructions are to be used to perform various operations and functions within the controlling device and the command codes are to be transmitted from the controlling device to command the operation of controllable devices in response to activation of one or more of the command keys.

Abstract: This invention has as its object to appropriately inform the user of reception of an incoming call in accordance with the operation mode of a video camera upon arrival of call. To achieve this object, an apparatus has a telephone and video camera in a single housing, and comprises a device for muting a ringing tone during image sensing by the video camera.

Abstract: A telephone handset that can be remotely activated. The audio data can be operating instructions of the handset and/or telephone numbers stored in the phone. The handset contains a line interface circuit that can detect a plurality of ring signals on a telephone line. The phone line is also coupled to a secondary phone device that has a line voltage detection circuit which detects a voltage drop within a predetermined time interval. The handset further contains a controller that can generate a tone signal to be transmitted onto the telephone line. The caller can then provide a responsive activation signal to activate the handset. The handset connects onto the telephone line for a time interval to detect the activation signal. The line connect time interval is less than the predetermined time interval of the line voltage detection circuit of the secondary phone device so that the line connect does not cause the secondary phone device to hang up the call.

Abstract: Systems and methods for remotely diagnosing, trouble shooting, and/or programming an end user telephone by a customer service representative using a modem in communication with the user's telephone during a live telephone call between the customer service representative and the user are disclosed. The user telephone and modem system generally comprises a telephone having a remotely controllable feature and a user modem that alternates between voice and data signal transmissions and communicates with a remote customer service modem. The user modem receives control signals from the remote customer service modem for controlling the controllable feature of the user telephone. The user telephone may be a DSP-enabled telephone with the user modem being embodied in the DSP. Examples of remotely controllable features include volume, frequency response, compression ratio, knee point, programmable memory, an LED light, self-diagnostic test, and/or user hearing test administration.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for providing controlling the presentation of information using a telephone including monitoring a signal received from the telephone; receiving control information sent from the telephone; interpreting the control information; generating commands based on the control information; sending the commands to a media source wherein the media source outputs information based on the command; and displaying the information output from the media source on a device separate from the telephone.

Abstract: A method and system for configuring and/or re-configuring an office device to satisfy each user's particular needs. Such a system allows a user to determine at user defined intervals, i.e., each use, monthly, or project based, what the user's needs are or will be and then access, via the Internet or intranet or some other means, a service center wherein the user can download or access via a code the desired, appropriate applications for the device.

Abstract: An electronic device automatically adjusts an output signal emanating from an output of the device. The device includes a telephony interface for receiving a telephony transmission. The device detects a ring signal from the telephony transmission, and automatically adjusts the output signal of the device. The adjusted output signal can be used to notify an operator of a detected ring signal or to attenuate the output signal of the device to allow for ease of hearing the telephone transmission. In one embodiment, the device can automatically restore the output signal following completion of the telephone transmission or an action by a user of the electronic device.

Abstract: Disclosed is a remote control module for a computer, which creates an order to control a shut down and a start of a computer system by analyzing a DTMF (dual tone multi frequency) signal received through a telephone line.

Abstract: A system and method for creating a controlling device. In response to a user specifying one or more operating criteria for the controlling device, the system selects executable instructions from a library of executable instructions and command code sets from a library of command code sets that are to be stored in the memory of the controlling device. In addition, the system uses the criteria to suggest command key/command code mappings for use within the controlling device. The user may interact with the system to modify the selected executable instructions, command code sets, and command key/command code mappings. When stored in the memory of the controlling device, the executable instructions are to be used to perform various operations and functions within the controlling device and the command codes are to be transmitted from the controlling device to command the operation of controllable devices in response to activation of one or more of the command keys.

Abstract: A telephone handset that can be remotely activated. The audio data can be operating instruction of the handset and/or telephone numbers store in the phone. The handset contains a line interface circuit that can detect a plurality of ring signals on a telephone line. The phone line is also coupled to a secondary phone device that has a line voltage detection circuit which detects a voltage drop within a predetermined time interval. The handset further contains a controller that can generate a tone signal to be transmitted onto the telephone line. The caller can then provide a responsive activation signal to activate the handset. The handset connects onto the telephone line for a time interval to detect the activation signal. The connect line time interval is less than the predetermined time interval of the line voltage detection circuit so that the line connect does not cause the secondary phone device to hang up the call.

Abstract: An embedded device configured to provide an audio status output is disclosed. The embedded device includes a processor, an input button in electronic communication with the processor and a speaker in electronic communication with the processor for outputting an audio output. Memory is used for storing data. An audio output generator is stored in the memory and operates to generate the audio status output. The audio generator receives a generate audio command initiated by a user through use of the input button. The generator then operates to convert the status data to audio output data through use of an audio generation table. The audio output data includes multiple distinct audio signals that are machine-decipherable and that correspond to individual data elements of the status data. The audio output data is provided to the speaker such that the audio output based on the audio output data is generated.

Abstract: There is provided a method of a modification of a message in a communication system and a device for execution of the method. After receiving a message, the message being delivered into a receiver communication unit through data communication means and stored in a storage unit, there is a password allocated to the sender, the password being allocated with respect to available information about an identity of the sender, and the password is delivered back to the transmitter communication unit as acknowledgement message and serves the sender as a key for obtaining an access to functions of modification and/or deleting a message stored in the receiver communication unit.

Abstract: An extendable mast arrangement, that is supported on a mobile vehicle, having a telescopically extending mast and a mast accessory supported at one end thereof. The mast arrangement having a control system for effecting the movements and functions of the mast and mast accessories, that includes a wireless remote control that utilizes coded command signals to communicate instructions to the control system of the mast arrangement. The control system, including the remote control, utilizes spread spectrum modulation to encode and decode the electromagnetically transmitted control commands. Particularly, the control system uses frequency hopping modulation, a form of spread spectrum modulation, to encode and decode the command signals.

Abstract: A method for remotely powering up a computer, includes: receiving a telephone call by a device coupled to a powered down computer; determining an originator's telephone number for the telephone call; determining if the originator's telephone number matches one of a plurality of authorized telephone numbers; and powering up the computer if the originator's telephone number matches one of the plurality of authorized telephone numbers. The method and system utilizes the well known “Caller-ID” technology to determine the originator's telephone number for a telephone call received by a modem coupled to the computer. If there is no match, the computer remains in a powered down state. In this manner, the system discriminates between the received telephone calls, and avoids powering up the computer when the received call is not for this purpose. This avoids wasting power.

Abstract: A management unit includes a collector for collecting various data of a connected unit, a connector to a communication line, a communicator transmitting the various data to a centralized management unit through the communication line. The management unit has at least two data communication processing methods, and includes a timer, a comparator for comparing the time measured by the timer with a time band set in advance in the centralized management unit, and a communication process initiator responsive to the results of comparison by the comparator for selecting a data communication processing methods and initiating a communication process. As a result, it is possible for one centralized management unit to manage a plurality of management units transmitting data in accordance with different communication methods.

Abstract: The present invention is an access control system such as a telephone entry system (TES) wherein tenant codes are selectively displayed and therefore, tenant codes that are not selected for display are not listed in a system tenant code directory. Tenants may control who knows that they live in the building and, therefore, control who can get in touch with them. Thus, tenants may avoid having their name displayed on the Access Control System. Tenants still may have a unique number in the index without having their name displayed, keeping their name unlisted.

Abstract: A facsimile machine provides firmware to remotely activate and deactivate fax forwarding. The firmware enables a user to remotely activate or deactivate fax forwarding through an email, fax, or a telephone. The facsimile machine may be set by the user to activate and deactivate fax forwarding at a predetermined activation time and a predetermined deactivation time. If fax forwarding with local printing is activated, the facsimile machine locally prints a fax after the fax is forwarded. The facsimile machine may be a multifunctional peripheral.

Abstract: A personal information system comprises a personal kiosk system (132) and a personal presence identifier (122) carried by a user and coupled to the personal kiosk system by a short-range two-way wireless link. The personal kiosk system and the personal presence identifier are arranged and programmed to establish a two-way personal area network with one another when the personal presence identifier is within wireless transmission range of the personal kiosk system. The personal presence identifier and the personal kiosk system are also arranged and programmed to exchange needs specifications and capability specifications with one another after establishing the two-way personal area network.

Abstract: To control multiple electronic devices in homes and other buildings through telephone lines, a user may establish communication by utilizing Caller ID supplied by a local telephone service supplier and, where such Caller ID service is unavailable, user generated Caller ID tones and simultaneous FAX pilot tones and data transmission, to signal to a device to be controlled or to a receiving station that instructions are received and communication is required.

Abstract: A peer device (132) is arranged and programmed for handling a transaction at a point of sale provided by a merchant, and a personal presence identifier (122) is carried by a user and coupled to the peer device by a short-range two-way wireless link. The peer device and the personal presence identifier are arranged and programmed to establish a two-way personal area network (22) with one another when the personal presence identifier is within wireless transmission range of the peer device. The personal presence identifier and the peer device are also arranged and programmed to exchange needs specifications (70) and capability specifications (72) with one another after establishing the two-way personal area network.

Abstract: The invention concerns a system for local or remote switching on and off of computers and/or peripherals with differentiation of local and remote switching-on mode and switching-off software, enabling to switch on a computer (4) and/or all or part of its peripherals (5) manually by the user or by sensing a calling signal coming through a digital or analog communication network (20), whether or not there is a communication interface powered or not (5), without requiring previous put through call. Said two switch-on modes are differentiated by the operation of software means particular to the system and permanently available on the computer. The switching-on mode signal is permanently available. The switching-on of certain peripherals can be made conditional to the local or remote switching-on mode. The invention enables to switch off a computer (4) and all or part of its peripherals (5) by operating software means particular to the system and permanently available.

Abstract: The keypad 23 of a remote selection device 20 is operated to select a display object displayed on the monitor 3 of a processor unit 2. In response to the selection, the infrared ray emission unit 22 transmits an infrared ray signal. The infrared ray signal receiving unit 6 of the processor unit 2 receives the signal, and then the telephone function unit 4 calls up to a corresponding party. After the session established, telephone conversation is made using the microphone unit 26 and speaker unit 27 of the remote selection device 20.

Abstract: It comprises a central processing unit (CPU), to which a control panel (PC) is attached, said central processing unit (CPU) being connected to the input of a power control circuit (CCP) that selectively controls the opening and closing of a set of valves of hydraulic systems for the passage of hot water (Q), cold water (F), sinking and draining (Ed) and of odoriferous essence (E); said central processing unit (CPU), besides being controlled by the control panel (PC), allows the remote control by means of data receiving and transmitting interfaces (IT, IRF, IES) which are directly and individually connected to the relevant central processing unit (CPU); a voice synthesizing circuit (CSV) that interconnects the central processing unit (CPU) with the data receiving and transmitting interfaces (IT) being provided; the central processing unit (CPU) being connected to an analog-to-digital converting circuit (CCAD), which in turn receives the signals from the sensors (S) physically disposed in strategic places on th

Abstract: A wireless telecommunications system uses location or position information to initiate actions on behalf of travelers. As position information of a wireless mobile unit is received, it is compared to stored position information of a remote location, such as a home. As the traveler approaches his home, and gets within a certain distance of home, a signal is then sent to a controller within his home to perform an action or instruct the performance of an action.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a switching system which can control a corresponding load by means of manipulating a manual switch and a remote control switch, and optionally turn on/off any load among a plurality of loads via a telephone line even though a user is at any distant places beyond the remote control of loads. The switching system of the present invention recognizes an allowed subscriber by inputting a predetermined password, and confirms an turning-on/off state of loads connected to a switching set unit via a voice to then control turning-ON/OFF of the corresponding load via button manipulation of a telephone set. Accordingly, the switching system can perform manual switching control or remote switching control using a remote controller, and also carry out switching control with regard to any load via the telephone line even under a poor condition of remote control, thereby conveniently confirming and manipulating a state of loads regardless of places.

Abstract: A platform for use in a communications system integrates voicemail and faxmail functionality. The platform collects, stores, and retrieves voicemail and faxmail messages for numerous subscribers. Each subscriber accesses his or her account with, for example, a single telephone number assigned to the subscriber. The integrated voicemail and faxmail platform collects, stores, forwards, distributes, saves, deletes, and retrieves voicemail and faxmail messages for the numerous subscribers based on the single number. The platform also provides capability for enhanced features such as automatic callback to individuals who leave a message for a subscriber, broadcasting of fax messages to multiple recipients, and the creation and management of distribution lists for voicemail and faxmail messages.

Abstract: Apparatus for a cable television subscriber to log onto a computer network with a modem over an upstream path using a USERID and password. The network validates the subscriber USERID and subscriber password with a stored database of valid USERIDs and associated passwords. After the USERID and password are validated, the modem then provides its electronic serial number to the network for validation against a stored database of authorized serial numbers. Upon additional validation of the modem's serial number, the subscriber is authorized to use the network.

Abstract: An interactive interface facilitates the setting of preferences and other programmable parameters of an appliance. The interface is hosted by a server on a global computer network. The appliance owner initiates a connection to the server and is presented with a graphical user interface for setting the preferences and features of the appliance. Once the desired settings have been made, they are downloaded to the appliance either directly from the server or the appliance owner's computer or indirectly using a portable transfer device.

Abstract: A system and method for creating a controlling device. In response to a user specifying one or more operating criteria for the controlling device, the system selects executable instructions from a library of executable instructions and command code sets from a library of command code sets that are to be stored in the memory of the controlling device. In addition, the system uses the criteria to suggest command key/command code mappings for use within the controlling device. The user may interact with the system to modify the selected executable instructions, command code sets, and command key/command code mappings. When stored in the memory of the controlling device, the executable instructions are to be used to perform various operations and functions within the controlling device and the command codes are to be transmitted from the controlling device to command the operation of controllable devices in response to activation of one or more of the command keys.