Abstract: A system (100) and method (200) for managing group call is provided. The method can include assigning (210) time windows (140) to a plurality of mobile devices (110) in a group call, and balancing PTT requests (220) among the plurality of mobile devices in accordance with the time windows to reduce talking request contention. The time window can include a talk window 141 and a listen window 142 to identifies whether a mobile device can be in talking mode (620). The method can include randomizing (214) a start of the time windows among the plurality of mobile devices, and staggering (216) time windows devices during a hang-time (370) of the group call. The randomization and staggering can be based on user activity (230) or user preference settings (232). A user interface (500) can allow a user to preview a look and feel of the time window, using haptic representations such as audio, visual, or vibration effect.

Abstract: A technique for activating a transmit mode of a communication device (100) is provided encompassing the steps of generating a light signal on an outer surface of the communication device; inhibiting the light signal; and activating the transmit mode of the communication device in response to the light signal being inhibited. A communication device (100) operating in accordance with this technique includes a light transmitting device (108); and a sensor (110) for sensing light generated by the light transmitting device, the sensor disabling a transmit mode when light is detected and enabling a transmit mode when light is inhibited.

Abstract: A method and system for PTT management includes a PTT server (100) and a plurality of PTT devices (110) associated with the members of a PTT group (120) via a wireless network (130). The PTT server can include, or be coupled to, a mass storage device storing a database of member information (106) and a schedule (105). The stored schedule can use a scheduling application or module used to define the order of activities by each member of the PTT group to participate, to assign a time for an activity of each member, or to enter other information associated with the PTT group event. The member information can include contact information, task sign-on/sign-off information, current network status information, current availability information, alternative availability information, and request information. The plurality of devices is used to maintain contact and coordinate activities among the members of the PTT group.

Abstract: Provided is a frequency modulation circuit for outputting a frequency-modulated signal with a high precision. A VCO 13 includes a first variable capacitor 132 having a predetermined capacitance change rate, and a second variable capacitor 133 having a greater capacitance change rate than that of the first variable capacitor 132. When the frequency modulation circuit is applied in a narrowband modulation method, a switch 15 switches a connection path of an open loop such that an input terminal and the first variable capacitor 132 are connected. On the other hand, when the frequency modulation circuit is applied in a wideband modulation method, the switch 15 switches the connection path of the open loop such that the input terminal and the second variable capacitor 133 are connected.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus to provide an auxiliary receive path to support transmitter functions are disclosed. An example transceiver includes an antenna and a duplexer coupled to the antenna. A transmitter is coupled to the duplexer to output a transmit signal at a transmit frequency. A receiver is coupled to the duplexer to receive a received signal at a receiver frequency. A signal processor is coupled to the transmitter and receiver. An auxiliary receiver is communicatively coupled to the signal processor to receive the transmit signal output from the transmitter and send an auxiliary receiver signal to the signal processor. The signal processor adjusts the transmit signal based on the auxiliary receiver signal.

Abstract: The present invention is directed generally to providing systems and methods for designing a communication system that is both modular and easy to service. As such, the present invention includes various embodiments showing methods, systems, and apparatus for manufacturing and servicing a communications system(s) that may, at least in part, include a non-permanent connection interface between components that facilitates assembly and/or disassembly of components within a receiver front end in a telecommunication system(s). For example, in at least one embodiment, a female sleeve connection is integrated into a filter, duplexer, and/or multiplexer housing and provides a non-permanent connection interface with a male connection post integral to a radio frequency amplifier to improve both modularity and serviceability of a communication system. The communication system may be, for example, a front end receiver in a cellular communication system.

Abstract: A sliding assembly for a keypad protection cover of a telephone handset including at least one slide spring to urge the keypad protection cover in either the open or the closed position.

Abstract: When sending photographic image data obtained in an electronic camera 1 via a communication interface 42 to a radio telephone line of a PDC 3, a PHS 4, etc., an RISC-CPU 11 converts the image data to data having a configuration allowing communication and further converts by software processing the communication-allowing configuration data to data corresponding to the type of the radio telephone line.

Abstract: A method for providing information about a push-to-talk communication session includes facilitating a push-to-talk communication session among a plurality of endpoints and receiving from a first endpoint of the plurality of endpoints a request for floor control comprising a request to transmit communications in the communication session. The method includes, in response to receiving the request for floor control, providing to the first endpoint a signal communication indicating a status message and that the first endpoint has been granted floor control in the push-to-talk communication session.

Abstract: Mobile communication terminals comprising a processor unit, a microphone, and a sound processing module for processing sounds captured by the microphone. The processor unit is configured to operate the terminal for a push-to-talk communication with at least one other mobile communication terminal via the communication network, and to operate the terminal during said push-to-talk communication in a latency state or in an active state in which sound captured by the microphone is processed by the sound processing module and sent to the at least one other mobile communication terminal. The processor unit is also configured to change from the latency state to the active state in dependence of the sound captured by the microphone.

Abstract: A communication device for rock climbers and the like is provided. The communication device comprises an outer casing and a plastic insert mounted within the outer casing. Communication electronics are mounted within the plastic insert. An earbud is connected to the communication electronics and seatable in an opening in the outer casing with the earbud having an easy grab protrusion extending beyond the opening. A retraction mechanism connects the earbud for extending and retracting the earbud into the opening. A releasable closure mechanism is secured to the outer casing for securing the communication device to, and releasing the communication from, an object.

Abstract: Techniques for implementing a push-to-talk feature in a mobile telecommunications environment (100) involve receiving an indication to activate a push-to-talk service for a first mobile device (130(2)) and identifying a group of mobile devices (130) associated with the push to-talk service for the first mobile device in response to the indication. The indication is received in an unstructured supplementary service data message. A notification relating to the indication to activate the push-to-talk service for the first mobile device is sent to one or more mobile devices from the identified group of mobile devices.

Abstract: Provided is a method and system for transmitting media to a receiving PoC user without filtering according to importance indication information of a PoC user trying to transmit the media in a PoC system. Thus, if media transmitted by the PoC user is important, in order to inform the receiving PoC user of this, the PoC user transmits an MBCP Request message containing importance indication information to a PoC server, and the PoC server, which has received the MBCP Request message, transmits an MBCP Taken message containing importance indication information to the receiving PoC user. In addition, if media corresponding to an important message is filtered since media of a primary or locking-in session among a plurality of sessions or other media is being transmitted, the PoC server temporarily stores the media in a local memory or a PoC box and transmits the stored media after the preceding media is completely transmitted.

Abstract: A rescue device has a motion detector and a transceiver that either transmits a locating signal, which can be tracked by others, when worn by user and operated in a transmit mode or receives and tracks a locating signal transmitted by another transmitter when the device is operated by the user in a receive mode. A control logic circuit suppresses transmission of the locating signal unless a motion signal, generated by the motion detector responsive to the user's movement, indicates that the user has not moved for a predetermined time interval. Thus, the rescue device can transmit the locating signal when the user is motionless, providing notice that the user is immobile and aiding others in locating the user. When receiving, the device guides the user in locating the source of a transmitted locating signal to aid the user in locating an immobilized person or a building exit.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method (300) and system (100) for interrupting a dispatch call. The method can be practiced in a dispatch communications system (100) having at least a first communications channel (162) for carrying voice traffic and a second communications channel (164) for carrying communications-enabling information. The method includes the steps of assigning (312) the first communications channel to at least a first caller (133) and a second caller (135) to permit the first and second callers to engage in a dispatch call and as the first caller has control over the first communications channel, transmitting (314) an interrupt message (505) over the second communications channel to inform the first caller of an interrupt status of the second caller. The transmitting step is performed without terminating the dispatch call.

Abstract: A method of operating a mobile communication device, which comprises at least two parts, which can be oriented with respect to one another in at least a first and a second position to thereby provide two different physical appearances of the mobile communication device, wherein at least a region of a display and one or more navigation keys of the mobile communication device are accessible to a user when the parts of the mobile communication device are oriented with respect to one another in the first position, is disclosed.

Abstract: A portable communication terminal includes a front case, a plurality of operation buttons, a rubber sheet, and a light-emitting diode. The front case has a plurality of openings. The plurality of operation buttons are placed in the respective openings to operate the portable communication terminal. The rubber sheet fixes the operation buttons from a lower side. The light-emitting diode illuminates the operation buttons. A rib is formed on a lower surface of a casing portion between the openings of the front case. The rubber sheet is interposed between the rib and light-emitting diode.

Abstract: A push-to-talk feature on a mobile handset is initiated by speaking a recipient's name as the first part of an initial message. A speech recognition device located in the handset or in a push-to-talk server may recognize the recipient's name, determine the proper addressing for the message, establish a push-to-talk session, and deliver the message to the intended recipient. The session may continue until a session timeout has occurred, until another session is started, or until the user otherwise terminates the session.

Abstract: A method performed by a network system is provided for canceling interference signals brought by introducing P2P communication in wireless communication systems, comprising: receiving a call request from a user equipment in a cell for communicating in UP-BASE STATION-DOWN mode; judging whether there is an appropriate link timeslot in the several available timeslots for the user equipment to avoid being interfered by P2P signals transmitted by the chosen user equipments allocated in the appropriate timeslot when the user equipment communicates in the appropriate timeslot, according to the relative position of the user equipment and the chosen user equipments in P2P communication in the cell; approving the call request from the user equipment and allocating the appropriate timeslot to the user equipment if the appropriate timeslot is available.

Abstract: A service providing receiving client receives at least one first message containing first media and at least one second message containing second media. The first message contains first relative time information, e.g. an RTP timestamp and the second message contains second relative time information (another RTP timestamp). The first relative time information and second relative time information could be used by the service providing receiving client for delivering both media to a media recipient in a synchronized way. The sending push-to-talk-over-cellular (PoC) client, PoC server and receiving PoC client must be changed in the way that the synchronization information needed for the media streams are provided in the Talk Burst Control Protocol messages or Media Burst Control Protocol messages of the Media-floor Control Entity.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a wireless communications system. The system includes a first wireless headset having a first headset body member, a first RF transceiver tuned to a predetermined RF channel, a first microphone element and a first speaker element electrically coupled to the RF transceiver, and a first battery configured to provide electrical power to the first RF transceiver, the first microphone element and the first speaker element. The first RF transceiver and the first battery being disposed in the first headset body member. At least one second wireless headset includes a second headset body member, a second RF transceiver, a second microphone element and a second speaker element electrically coupled to the second RF transceiver, and a second battery configured to provide electrical power to the second RF transceiver, the second microphone element and the second speaker element. The second RF transceiver and the second battery are disposed in the second headset body member.

Abstract: A push-to-talk switch can have a switch that does not produce an audible sound when actuated. For example, the push-to-talk switch can comprise a membrane switch or a capacitive switch that produces less than 0 dB(A) of wideband sound when actuated. The switch can be actuated by pushing a diaphragm. Sound damping material can be used to mitigate audibility of the switch. Because the push-to-talk switch is substantially silent, it can be used in applications such as covert operations and battle situations where the sound of actuating the switch could have life threatening consequences.

Abstract: A push-to-talk switch can have a diaphragm that is supported about a periphery thereof and can have a thicker portion which defines a button. A bezel can be configured so as to guide a user's finger to the button. A magnetic switch can be used to provide the momentary contact required for radio transmissions. Thus, a push-to-talk switch that has enhanced reliability is provided. More particularly, the push-to-talk switch of the present invention is more likely to operate properly regardless of how the button thereof is pushed and is less likely to fail during operation.

Abstract: New emergency settings for a cellular telephone. The emergency settings allow the user to access emergency instructional information from their cellular telephone when the user is an emergency situation. In the preferred embodiment sets of sequential procedural instructions are programmed into the internal memory of the cellular telephone for various emergency situations. A selection means is provided for the user to allow the user to select the set of sequential procedural instructions that is desired. When the user makes the selection, a function recalls the instructions from the internal memory and displays the instructions to the user.

Abstract: A method of determining at least an estimate of media latency for push-to-talk communications includes determining a first time associated with transmitting a first packet from a push-to-talk transceiver device. In a disclosed example, the same device receives a second packet that corresponds to the first packet and includes an indication of the first time, a second time associated with receipt of the first packet by another device such as a push-to-talk server and a third time associated with transmission of the second packet to the push-to-talk transceiver device. That same device determines a fourth time associated with receipt of the second packet. In a disclosed example, the push-to-talk transceiver device uses a relationship between the first time, second time, third time and fourth time for determining at least an estimate of media latency associated with the push-to-talk communication corresponding to the first and second packets. A plurality of latency test procedures are disclosed.

Abstract: When an emergency button 8a of a radio communication apparatus has been turned ON and a transmit mode button 8b has been depressed, an MCU 11 sets frequencies of a receiving section 2 and a transmitting section 3 to an emergency communication frequency. The MCU 11 also causes an indicator lamp 10 to illuminate or flash at peak intensity, and causes a burst sound to be supplied from a loudspeaker 6 at the maximum volume. Then, the MCU 11 causes a built-in timer to measure a given time period while resetting the timer whenever a reception/transmission switching operation is performed or a communicating signal is detected. While the timer measures the time period, the MCU 11 causes the indicator lamp 10 to be turned off. When a timer expiration is detected, the MCU 11 causes the indicator lamp 10 to be turned on or flashed again.

Abstract: The invention proposes an apparatus for vocal communication over computer networks comprising a speaker, a microphone, and network connection. It should be noted that the apparatus has a USB connector, an audio connector, as well as a microphone connector, and its connection to the computer is not through a single USB connector, so as to allow the apparatus to achieve vocal communication without the need for an integrated audio circuit or chip.

Abstract: An instant messaging terminal manages multiple conversation sessions across multiple instant messaging services. The terminal includes a display for conversation session windows, a data entry device, a communications module for wireless network communication, and a control module for coordinating network access and controlling conversation session management. The data entry device includes programmable keys for emoticons and the control module automates the generation of a key sequence for generation of a graphical symbol that is compatible with the service being used by a message recipient.

Abstract: A method is proposed for maintaining uplink synchronization with P2P communication in wireless communication networks, comprising steps of: the wireless communication system overhears the P2P communication between two UEs (user equipments), determines the SS (synchronization shift) information of said UEs according to the overheard information transferred by each UE in P2P communication, and transmits the SS information to the corresponding UE via the downlink common control channel; the UE monitors the downlink common control channel, and adjusts the TA (timing advance) for transmitting signals according to the SS information transferred via the downlink common control channel.

Abstract: An improved wireless communication device, method, and system, that is easy to operate for people of all ages, particularly for senior citizens, that is compact, ergonomic, and comfortable, but which also provides simplicity of operation for those users who do not require complex cellular telephone capabilities or features.

Abstract: After consecutive photographing by consecutive photographing function of a camera at step S1 or selecting animation from an album function at step S2, display transit to a self-animation producing screen at step S3. In a display area (#1) on right side of a display screen, picked up images are displayed in thumbnail form, and in a display area (#2), images set for respective frame numbers of the self-animation are displayed in thumbnail form. In the display area (#1), a determination key is depressed in the condition where a cursor is focused on the image, the currently selected image is set in the frame of the self-produced animation. The selected image is displayed in the corresponding frame number of the display area (#2) in thumbnail form.

Abstract: A method for supporting P2P communication between two user equipments in TDD CDMA systems, performed by user equipment, comprising: receiving signals transferred via the downlink control channel from network system; acquiring the timeslot allocation information and the spreading code allocation information of other active user equipments allocated in the specific downlink timeslot associated with the direct link used by said user equipments, according to the received signals; and synchronizing the P2P communication signals received by the user equipment and signals from network system, according to the acquired timeslot allocation information and spreading code allocation information, so as to reduce the interference caused by the downlink signals transmitted from network system to other user equipments during the P2P communication process.

Abstract: Electronic teleconferencing configurations use one or more remote microphones for added functionality. A base unit includes an interface to a telecommunications network and at least one remote microphone in wireless communication with the base unit, enabling a carder of the microphone to speak to a listener through the base unit over the telecommunications network. The base unit may form part of a telephone, and would preferably further include a docking station to receive the remote microphone along with electrical contacts causing the telephone to enter into a speakerphone mode when the remote microphone is removed for use. A speaker may either be provided in the base unit, or may be disposed in the housing of the remote microphone, for example, in the form of a headset. With multiple wireless microphones audio processing circuitry may be added for level control or microphone/speaker discrimination.

Abstract: The present invention provides a wireless network system for establishing peer-to-peer communication between mobile terminals. Upon determining that peer-to-peer communication can be established between two mobile terminal, the wireless network system transmits to each of the mobile terminals information about radio resources used by the other one of the mobile terminals. Each mobile terminal then uses the radio resources information to test the characteristics of a dedicated uplink channel between the other one of the mobile terminals and the network system. Thus, no separate radio channel needs to be allocated for the channel testing. Furthermore, each mobile terminal uses the same radio resources to establish a dedicated radio channel in the peer-to-peer communication with the other one of the mobile terminals, which were previously used by itself for communication with the network system on the dedicated uplink channel.

Abstract: An initiator transceiver for operating in a two-way half-duplex communication mode with multiple recipient transceivers. The transceivers includes a body having a cavity and a control device, positioned within the cavity, for receiving a recipient identification code that identifies a remote transceiver and for transmitting an initiator identification code and the recipient identification code to the remote transceiver. The control device scans a plurality of channels for a signal or interference and designates a first available channel as a primary channel and a second available channel as a standby channel.

Abstract: Apparatus, and an associated method, for facilitating formation of an apparent push-to-talk communication session connection at a mobile station operable in a conventional cellular communication system. Upon initiation of push-to-talk operation, a user of the mobile station immediately commences voice communications. During call connection procedures, voice data is buffered at a buffer of the mobile station. When a communication connection is formed, the buffered data is played out. Thereafter, additional communications commence.

Abstract: A reconfigurable peripheral device for use with a wireless apparatus is employed for receiving a signal from the wireless apparatus and transmitting a signal to the wireless apparatus. The reconfigurable peripheral device includes a first member, a second member and a third member. The first member includes a badge. The second member is detachably coupled to the first member, and includes a wireless signal processing circuit for receiving the signal from the wireless apparatus and transmitting the signal to the wireless apparatus. The third member is coupled to the second member, and includes an output device for outputting the signal received by the second member to the user.

Abstract: A self configuring multiple element portable electronic device (100) and method is provided. The device comprises at least a first electronic element (104) and a second electronic element (106) and a joint (112) connecting the first electronic element and the second electronic element, with the joint allowing movement in more than one plane of the first electronic element in relation to the second electronic element, wherein the self configuring multiple element portable electronic device is capable of self configuring an operational mode based on a relative position of the first electronic element with respect to the second electronic element. The method comprises the steps of detecting a relative position of the first electronic element relative to the second electronic element, and selecting an operational mode of the device based on the relative position.

Abstract: Apparatus, and an associated method, for a PoC (Push-to-Talk over Cellular)-capable communication system. A user equipment PoC box is provided, and a corresponding network PoC box is also provided. A transport mechanism is defined and provided by which to communicate a PoC media burst that is delivered to a PoC box and stored thereat. Control functionality is provided by which to control disposition of the media burst, such as to make notification of a delivered media burst or to dispose of the media burst when no longer needed, is further provided.

Abstract: The send, end, and/or push-to-talk functions of a combination cellular telephone/two-way radio, are controlled with a single button on a hands-free device having a cable attached to the button, a microphone, and an earpiece. The button is pressed to instruct the cellular telephone/two-way radio to transmit in a half-duplex communications mode for a two-way radio conversation. The user speaks while continuing to press the button, to transmit the user's words in the two-way radio conversation. Next, the user releases the button, to instruct the cellular telephone/two-way radio to cease transmitting, to permit the user to hear words transmitted by the other party to the two-way radio conversation. Additionally, in some examples the user may answer an incoming cellular telephone call by pressing the button used during the two-way radio conversation, to instruct the cellular telephone/two-way radio to establish communications for a full duplex cellular telephone conversation.

Abstract: A wireless telecommunications unit is attachable to and detachable from an external unit such as a personal computer, and has a wireless telecommunications apparatus, a microcontroller, and a memory mechanism. The wireless telecommunications apparatus has an identification number for wireless telecommunications, and is for carrying out wireless telecommunications with the outside. The microcontroller is for controlling the wireless telecommunications apparatus and the memory mechanism, it has control functions for the external unit to carry out telecommunications with the outside in accordance with the wireless telecommunications apparatus, to use the memory mechanism as a file system of a designated operating system, when the wireless telecommunications unit is connected to the external unit, and a control function for the wireless telecommunications apparatus to carry out telecommunications using the memory mechanism in accordance with instructions from the external unit or generated in the microcontroller.

Abstract: An extended microphone for a radio communication equipment is disclosed. The extended microphone includes a microphone body; an adapter for connecting the extended microphone with the radio communication equipment; a GPS module disposed on the microphone body for providing a positioning message; and a display module disposed on the microphone body and connected with the GPS module for receiving the positioning message and displaying the positioning message thereon.

Abstract: A baseband receiver having quadrature analog outputs and a plurality of analog control and status signals and a transmit modulator having analog quadrature inputs and a plurality of analog control and status signals are coupled to a transmit processor having a digital output and a plurality of digital control and status signals and to a receive processor having a digital input and a plurality of digital control and status signals by multiplexing analog to digital converters and digital to analog converters such that during a receive time the converters are used for a receive purpose and during a transmit time, the converters are used for a transmit purpose.

Abstract: Mobile telephone handset navigation functions are integrated into certain of the alphanumeric keys of the mobile keypad. Up, down, right, and left navigation functions are integrated into four alphanumeric keys. The mobile automatically toggles between the navigation and alphanumeric functions of these keys based on where the user is within the interface routine of the mobile. Optionally the user can manually toggle between the navigation and alphanumeric functions by pressing a menu key.

Abstract: A self-service terminal (10 or 200 or 300) comprises a plurality of intercommunicating modules (114 to 126, or 214 to 226, or 314 to 326). Each module includes a transceiver for wireless communication with another module. In one embodiment, the wireless communication is directed between two modules so that only those two modules can participate in the communication. In another embodiment, the wireless communication may be implemented by a transceiver broadcasting information to all of the modules.

Abstract: A method for managing communication sessions in a packet-oriented communication system, consisting of a central control unit and a plurality of mobile stations, which can be interconnected via the central control unit. To achieve this, a communication session is established between mobile stations that are assigned to a first communication group. Session priorities are then defined for a first mobile station of the first communication group, said station being in addition assigned to at least a second communications group. Finally the session priorities are transmitted to the central control unit. A second communication session is also established between those mobile stations that are assigned to the second communication group(s), including the first mobile station. Both the first and the second communication session are established via the central control unit, in such a way that the latter can manage the first mobile station in both communication sessions according to the transmitted session priorities.

Abstract: A communication system for use by a helmeted rider of power sports equipment which enables the rider to control operating characteristics, such as the operating mode, of a microphone-including arrangement for a two-way radio or public address (PA) equipment while the rider maintains his grip about the handlebars of the power sports equipment for operation thereof. In addition, the microphone-including arrangement is supported entirely by the helmet of the rider, and the communication system does not involve any connecting wires which may otherwise extend between any components of the system which are carried by the rider and any components of the system which are carried by the power sports equipment.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for routing voice communications through a mobile communication system having a self-contained infrastructure, such as a two-way radio communication system. The voice communications are transmitted as digitized voice packets over radio frequency links. The digitized voice packets contain one or more destination addresses in addition to other routing information. Routers receive the digitized voice packet and extract the routing information. The routing information is used in conjunction with a member router database to determine where to route the digitized voice packets.

Abstract: An economical, reliable, robust and easy to use multi-user voice communication system and method suitable for use in rapidly evolving tactical or hazardous situations continuously permits each user to hear every voice communication occurring among the other users, no matter when each user speaks, and no matter how many users try to speak at once. One may characterize this as a wearable party-line radio network, because it works like a wireless party-line telephone service in that all users continuously hear every speaker, even when speaking simultaneously. The system is transportable and operable without requiring any set-up procedure or installation of a central hub or router for controlling a varying number of users when moving. Each user carries a transceiver handset with one transmitter and two or more transceivers tuned to the other transmitters in a group.

Abstract: A communication terminal apparatus such as a portable telephone apparatus has a main body, a selection operation unit, an operation inputting unit, a display unit, and a controller. The main body has a speaker and a microphone. The selection operation unit is provided on the main body and selects one mode from a plurality of modes of the communication terminal apparatus. The operation inputting nit is provided on the main body and changes functions based on the mode selected by the selection operation unit. The display unit is provided on the main body and displays information required for selection operation or inputting operation by the selection operation unit and/or the operation inputting unit. The controller sets a mode selected based on the input from the selection operation unit, and switches a function of the operation inputting unit based on the input from the selection operation unit.