GB2307825A - Call manager box - Google Patents

Abstract

Call management facilities at a domestic telephone handset 1 are provided through single or two key stroke operation by a call management apparatus 5 fitted between a conventional handset and an exchange network switch. Subscriber services, such as 1471 last caller information, call diversion, may be provided by single key activation operation.

Description

CALL MANAGER BOX Field of Invention The present invention relates to communications services, and particularly although not exclusively to a subscriber call management apparatus and method of operating call services over a subscriber line.

Introduction A conventional residential telephone situated in domestic premises, is conventionally plugged into a wall socket inside a residential premises, which is connected by a subscriber line to a communications network. The wall socket is either connected to a public switch telephone network (PSTN) by twisted copper wires leading to a local telephone exchange, or in the case of a cable network, a fiber optic cable extends between the wall socket at the residential address and the cable network, resulting in connection of the wall socket to a switching device of the cable network.

Conventionally communications companies and network operators provide advanced calling features extending beyond straighfforward direct dial communications between users of residential telephone handsets. For example, conventional analog telephone hand sets in the United Kingdom can be operated, subject to payment of quarterly or monthly service charges to divert incoming phone calls to another specified telephone number. In this case, the user of the residential telephone handset must key in a sequence of number and symbol digits to operate the service.For example, if a user wishes to divert calls to telephone number 0705 123 4567, the user must type in the following key sequence: *21*0705 123 4567# In some networks, for example the British Telecom PSTN network, upon entering the above sequence the exchange confirms by synthetically generated voice signal the telephone number to which calls are diverted, in this case, 0705 1234567. To cancel the divert facility, the user types in #21 at the telephone handset. The exchange then informs, via synthetic voice signal, that the diversion service is canceled. To check that the diversion service is operating, a user may type in *#21*.

Another service provided to residential telephone users is information about the last caller. By dialing 1471 at the residential telephone handset, a synthetically generated voice message informs the subscriber, through the ear piece of the handset, of the last number to call the subscriber's handset, and the time of call.

Conventional available services operated by entering key sequences at the telephone handset include the following: Divert to another number on no reply Divert to another number on line busy .Baning incoming calls Barring outgoing calls . Reminder calls . Multiple reminder calls . Short code dialing . Directory inquiries (192) International directory inquiries (153) . Operator service (100) . International operator services (155) .Speaking clock (123) Emergency services (999) Checking which services are in operation.

A major disadvantage of the above services, is that the user must remember the key sequences necessary in order to activate the service.

Additionally, typing in the key sequences and waiting for the switch to confirm using synthetic voice signaling that the service is set up is time consuming. A telephone handset is an item of consumer electronics which is used by people of different cultures and languages, and varying abilities.

Accessing added telephone services through extended key sequences typed in at the handset constitutes a barrier to usability of the services offered by network operators.

For business users, a conventional PBX (Private Exchange) and associated handsets includes features such as 3-way conferencing, call holding and call divert, accessed through additional keys on the handset. In the conventional PBX equipment, services such as 3-way conferencing, call diversion between handsets connected to the PBX is handled by the customer's PBX equipment. Conventional PBX equipment is unsuitable for domestic residential subscriber use due to its high cost. Further, the conventional PBX does not provide access to the aforementioned residential services with keystroke sequences which are significantly simplified as compared with the conventional domestic residential telephone handset.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a method and apparatus for simplifying access to subscriber call services, at a domestic residential line.

Summary of the Invention According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a call manager apparatus capable of communicating a sequence of dual frequency tone signals over a subscriber line, said apparatus comprising: a key pad display comprising a plurality of key pad display elements, each said key pad display element capable of generating a corresponding key signal; and means for generating a dual frequency tone signal representing a sequence of two or more digits in response to a said key signal.

Preferably said generating means generates a said dual frequency tone signal representing a sequence of two or more digits selected from the setO, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,*, #.

Preferably said key signal comprises a code signal representing a sequence of said digits, and said generating means generates said dual frequency tone signal in response to said code signal.

Preferably the call manager apparatus is capable of interrupting a subscriber line by an intenupt signal in response to activation of a key pad display element.

Preferably the call manager comprises a subscriber line port for connection to a subscriber line of a communications network switch, and a handset port for connection to a conventional telephone handset.

Preferably said generating means generates a dual tone frequency representing a string of three or more digits in response to one or two said key signals.

Preferably said call manager apparatus comprises a visual display device capable of displaying information relating to subscriber call services.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a call management device capable of being positioned on a subscriber line between a telephone handset and a network switch, said call management device comprising: a key pad having a plurality of key pad elements; a tone signal generator for generating tone signals; wherein said tone signal generator operates to transmit a sequence of said tone signals representing a request for subscriber call services in response to activation of one or more said key pad elements.

Preferably said call management device operates to receive coded signals over a subscriber line, and generates display signals in response to said received coded signals.

Preferably said sequence of tone signals correspond to a sequence of digits selected from the set 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, ,6, 7, ,8, *, #.

Preferably said call management device operates to transmit said sequence of tone signals in response to activation of a single key pad element.

Preferably said call management device is provided with a first port for connecting to a subscriber line and a second port for connecting to a telephone handset.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of operating subscriber call services on a subscriber line, said method comprising the steps of: inserting a tone generator device on a subscriber line between a network switch and a user handset; activating said tone generator device to generate a first sequence of tone signals in response to a single or double activation of a single key pad display element; and transmitting said first sequence of tone signals onto said subscriber line.

Preferably said first sequence of tone signals comprises a sequence representing a plurality of digits selected from the set 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, *, #.

A said call service may comprise a service selected from the following set: Call Divert; Call Waiting; 3-Way Calling; Short Code Dialing; Reminder Calls; Call Barring; Caller Return; Directory Enquiries; Intemational Directory Enquiries; Operator services; Intemational Operator Services; Speaking Clock; Emergency Services.

Preferably said method comprises generating a said sequence of tone signals on said line, said sequence of tone signals activating said switch apparatus to implement a said call service.

The method may comprise the step of transmitting coded signals from said network switch along said subscriber line, said coded signals representing prompt messages.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a call manager apparatus capable of communicating a sequence of dual frequency tone signals to a network exchange switch of a communications network comprising a plurality of node elements linked by a plurality of link elements, said apparatus comprising: a key pad display comprising a plurality of key pad display elements, each said key pad display element capable of generating a key signal corresponding to a said respective key and display element; and means for generating a dual frequency tone signal representing a sequence of two or more digits in response to a said key signal.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a communications apparatus comprising: a network switch supporting a plurality of subscriber call services available over a subscriber line; a subscriber communications line; a telephone handset; and a call management device positioned on said subscriber line between said telephone handset and said network switch, said call management device comprising a key pad having plurality of key pad elements, wherein said call management device operates to transmit a sequence of tone signals corresponding to a sequence of digits selected from the set 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, *, # in response to activation of a single key pad element.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of operating subscriber call services on a subscriber line terminating at a network switch, said method comprising the steps of: generating a sequence of tone signals on said subscriber line at a subscriber premises in response to a single or double activation of a single key pad display element; transmitting said sequence of tone signals to said network switch; receiving said sequence of tone signals at said network switch; and in response to said received sequence of tone signals, transmitting call service signals implementing a said call service along said subscriber line.

Brief Description of the Drawings For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be canied into effect, there will now be described a specific method and embodiment according to the present invention by way of example only, and in which; Fig. 1 illustrates a call manager apparatus situated between a communications network and a conventional telephone handset; Fig. 2 illustrates schematically the communications network and subscriber line apparatus comprising the call manager apparatus and conventional telephone handset; Fig. 3 illustrates a functional hardware layout of the call manager apparatus; Fig. 4 illustrates a key pad of a first embodiment call manager apparatus; Fig. 5 illustrates a key pad of a second embodiment call manager apparatus; and Fig. 6 illustrates a method of operation of the call manager apparatus.

Best Mode for Carrying out the Invention Referring to Fig. 1 herein, there is illustrated at telephone handset 1 of the type conventionally used for domestic and residential premises at the end of a domestic or residential subscriber line. For example the handset may comprise a Binatone Speakerphone 5 model 00/00667A of Binatone Electronics plc, United Kingdom, having a conventional key pad having digit keys 0 to 9, * and #.

A wide area cable network 2 provides a cable 3 to a termination socket 4 situated at the residential premises. Connected between the handset 1 and the line socket 4, there is provided a call management apparatus 5 according to a specific embodiment of the present invention.

Although the call management apparatus is shown as a stand alone device in Fig. 1, the apparatus may be incorporated into a telephone handset 1.

Referring to Fig. 2, there is shown schematically a relationship between the call management apparatus 5 and a switch 201 of the cable network, the switch linking the residential premises to communications services provided over the cable network. Typically the switch 201 may comprise a Nokia asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) type switch or a GPT type switch.

Referring to Fig. 3 herein, there is shown a functional hardware layout of the call manager apparatus 5. Two separate embodiments will be described herein. A first specific embodiment call manager apparatus comprises a keypad 300, a controller 301, a code storage memory 302, a line interrupt means 303, a DTMF tone generator 304, and inputloutput pin connector ports 305, 306 respectively. A first inputloutput port 305 connects the call manager apparatus to the subscriber line premises box 4 via a conventional twisted wire cable. A second input'output port 306 connects the call manager apparatus 4 to a conventional handset, by plugging a conventional telephone pin connector of the handset into a socket connector comprising the port 306. The first and second ports 305, 306 are connected by a communications channel 307 capable of carrying the data traffic of the subscriber line. The pin and socket connector comprise conventional standard telephone components.

In the second specific embodiment apparatus, the call manager additionally comprises a display device 308 for displaying messages, for example voice mail service messages (VMS) and a decoder 309 for decoding voice mail signals carried over the communications channel 307.

Referring to Fig. 4 herein, there is illustrated a physical layout of keypad 300 of the first call manager apparatus. In the first call manager, the key pad comprises a selection of electrical key pad switches activated by push buttons segregated into sets of buttons for activating 3-way calling functions, call diversion functions, reminder call functions, a caller return functions, short code dialing function, call barring functions, and emergency service functions.

Referring to Fig. 5 herein, there is shown a key pad and display of the second embodiment call manager apparatus showing a visual display 500, in the form of a liquid crystal display, voice mail function switches 501-507 for activating dialing of voice mail, playing or replaying of voice mail, stepping backwards or forwards through a voice mail message, skipping portions of a voice mail, saving portions of voice mail and erasing voice mail messages. A further set of key pad switches 508-512 for activating call waiting functions such as taking or switching a call, sending a call to voice mail, calling back, waiting, or activating a conference. Key pad switches are provided for scrolling the display (key pad switches 513, 514) in a forward or reverse direction, dialing a number, deleting display items, repeat dialing and retuming a last call (515-518).

Referring to Fig. 6, there is shown a method of operation of the call manager apparatus upon activation of a key pad switch of the type which is assigned a function replacing the conventional 0-9, *,# series of inputs, for example replacing the 1471 function, call divert function *21* --- ----#, call barring function or similar functions involving inputting a series of key pad numbers or symbols available on a subscriber line. In step 601, a key pad switch is activated by a user. The keypad sends a corresponding key pad switch signal to the controller 301. The key pad switch signal is unique to the particular key pad switch activated, and may be distinguished from other key pad switch signals by its voltage level or average voltage level.

The controller 301 may regularly poll the key pad for a signal denoting activation of any of the key pad switches. The controller 301 receives the key pad switch signal, and in accordance with a set of pre-stored control instructions in the form of electronic signals stored in a memory, addresses the code storage memory 302 which contains a stored code representing a predetermined set of tone signals corresponding to a conventional handset key pad signal sequence, for example *21*0705 123 4567# or #21# or *#21# etc. The code signal output from the code storage memory 302 is input into the DTMF generator 304. The DTMF generator generates a dual frequency analog signal which is output onto the subscriber line 6 in response to the code signal received from the code storage means.For each digit instructed by the code signal received from code storage means 302, the DTMF generator generates a dual frequency signal in accordance with the following table 1.

Table 1

Low Group Frequencies (Hz) High Group Frequencies (Hz) 1209 1336 1477 697 1 2 3 770 4 5 6 852 7 8 9 941 * 0 The DTMF signal generated by the DTMF generator 304 comprises a low group frequency selected from the set 697 Hz, 770 Hz, 852 Hz and 941 Hz together with a high group frequency selected from the set 1209 Hz, 1336 Hz, 1477 Hz. These frequencies are found in CCITT (now called Intemational Telecommunications Union, ITU) recommendations for tone signals generated on a conventional analog telephone handset apparatus.

The signal output by the DTMF generator onto the line 6 at the switch site has a power of greater than -28.5 dBmO. The difference in amplitude level between the lower and upper signaling frequencies is 2 + 1 dBm. Table 2 characterizes the frequencies, amplitude levels, periodicity and other special characteristics of tones generated by the DTMF generator 304 in response to code storage signals received from the code storage memory 302.

Table 2

Tone Frequency Level Periodicity Special characteristics 1 Dial Tone 1.1 Normal Tone 400 Hz modulated - 20dBm (min) Continuous with 50 Hz -IodBm (max) 1.2 Special Dial Tone 400 Hz modulated -20dBm (9min) continuous OA Sec on - 0.4 with 50 Hz -1OdBm(max) Sec off OASec on - ASec off Continuous 1.3 Internal Dial Tone 400 Hz modulated - 20dBm (min) Continuous wi 50 Hz 600 Hz modulated - lOdBm (max) with 50 Hz

Tone Frequency Level Periodicity Special charlctertsucs 1.4 Internal Dial Tone -20dBm(min) Continuous 400 Hz 2 Busy Tone i5dBm (min) 0.5 Sec on 5dBm (max) 0.5 Sec off 400 Hz 3 Congestion Tone -1 SdBm (min) 0.3 Sec on -5dBm (max) 0.3 Sec off In addition to sequences of DTMF signals representing sequences of digits being generated by pressing a single key pad switch on the key pad 300, a sequence of two key pad switch activations either of two different key pad switches, or the same key pad switch activated twice, may be used for activating a call service.

The network switch supports the plurality of subscriber call services available over the subscriber line, and subscriber call services are accessed by receipt of the dual tone frequency signals generated by the call management apparatus. Receipt of dual tone signals representing digits *, #, together with one or more dual tone frequency signals representing numbers, activates the switch to supply a call service over the subscriber line. The switch transmits signals representing voice data, over the subscriber line in response to activation of a call service, or, depending upon the type of call service activated, may effect switching, setting up of 3way calling, call diversion or other available call services. The dual tone frequency signals received by the switch comprise dual tone frequency signals generated by the call management apparatus, from a first key pad, and dual tone frequency signals representing single digits, generated by the conventional telephone handset key pad.

It will be appreciated that the historical second call management device and telephone handset, may be incorporated into a single physical unit.

Table 3 summarizes sequences of key pad switch activations in relation to the required call service function, and the resulting functionality of connections and services at the handset, together with the corresponding digit sequence forming the basis of the DTMF signal sent to the switch. For example, to set a basic call divert to another telephone number using the call manager key pad 300, a user activates key pad switch number 2 by pressing it, followed by entering the number to which the call is to be diverted using the handset key pad containing digits 0-9, *, # followed by a # sign entered at the handset key pad. The advantage of using the call manager key pad switch number 2 for this function is that activation of key pad switch number 2 generates via the DTMF generator and controller a DTMF signal corresponding to the digit sequence *21*.The signal sent from the call manager to the switch over line 6 and cable connection 3 comprises a first signal consisting of frequencies 941 Hz and 1209 Hz followed by a second signal burst consisting of frequencies 697 Hz and 1336 Hz, followed by a third signal burst consisting of frequencies 697 Hz, 1209 Hz followed by a fourth signal burst consisting of frequencies 941 Hz and 1209 Hz. This electrical signal is converted at the wall mounted fiber optic cable twisted wire cable interface, and is transmitted to the switch 201 in the cable network.On receipt of the signal by the switch 201, the switch responds by activating the appropriate channel connection within the switch and the rest of the network, to divert incoming calls to the altemative telephone number entered as a signal from the telephone handset 1. Table 3

Feature Switch Action Sequence No 18 followed by No Sets up initial sequence 34 16 for canceling a bar on outgoing calls No 19 followed by o 16 Checks outgoing call *#34# barring Call Waiting Bo. 1 depressed two Activate call waiting times with a one second interval No 1 Switch party R2 No 10 followed by No 1 Cancel call waiting #43# No 9 followed by No 1 Check call waiting *#43# OWay Calling No 5 Establish initial call to R third party.

After connecting a 3- R4 way call, call the second party and speak to the third party privately No 7 Before connecting 3- R2 way call calls third party allows to speak to second party privately Cont/d After connecting to 3- R6 way call, hold third party and speak to second party privately No 6 Establishes a 3-way call R3 3-Way Callling No 8 followed by No 5 After having established R5 cont'd a 3-way call, disconnected second party and allows to speak to third party No 8 followed by No 7 After having established R7 a 3-way call, disconnects the third party and allow to speak

Feature Switch Action Sequence to second party No 8 followed by No 6 Hangs up both lines Hook Flash and provides dial tone Call divert 1 No 2 Establishes the *21* sequence for basic call divert After pressing this switch the number to which the call is being diverted will need to be entered followed by a #; switch in the telephone set No 10 followed by No 2 Cancels basic call divert #21# No 9 followed by No 2 checks basic divert Caller Retum No 4 Triggers caller return 1471 Call Barring No 3 Sets up initial sequence *34 to trigger the barring of outgoing calls No 10 followed by No 3 Sets up initial sequence #;34 for canceling a bar on outgoing calls No 9 followed by No 3 Checks outgoing call *#34# barring The signal generated by the call manager is followed by the signal generated by the telephone handset representing the digits comprising the telephone number of Table 2, followed by a signal comprising the lower frequency 941 Hz and upper frequency 1477 Hz representing the # digit.

The signals generated by the DTMF generator comprises signal bursts sent with a duration of greater than 4 milliseconds. Signals transmitted by the telephone handset are within+ 1.5% of the nominal frequency, and the permissible distortion products resulting from harmonics or inter-modulation is at least 20 dBm below the power of the fundamental frequency. Signals generated by the telephone handset are at a level at least -6 +3 dBm for the high frequency set, and at least -7 + 3 dBm for the low frequency set.

The call manager apparatus is provided with a recall key pad switch.

Activation of the recall key pad switch results in a signal sent to the controller 301, which activates the line interrupt unit 303. The line interrupt unit places a timed break on the telephone line 6 of duration in the range 20 milliseconds to 200 milliseconds.

Examples of generation of the call manager apparatus are as follows: Call Barring Call barring functions are implemented by activation of a key pad switch on the call manager, in conjunction with activation of a number digit switch on the telephone handset, followed by the b digit switch on the telephone handset. Activation of key pad number 3 on the call manager provides a DTMF signal representing initial sequence *34*. After this, the handset is used to enter code with the following functions.

. 1# Bars all calls except 999 . 2# Bars national and international calls 3# Bars intemational calls only 4# Bars operator connected calls . 5# Bars any sequence starting with the recall switch In order to cancel a bar function on outgoing calls, a sequence of two key pad switches are activated. Referring to Fig. 4 herein, activation of key pad switch number 10 followed by key pad switch number 3 provides and initial sequence to cancel a bar. After this, one of the above option codes entered through the telephone handset needs to be entered followed by an * from the telephone handset and a digit sequence comprising a list of numbers used as a password followed by a #.Each of these key pad switch activations results in a sequence of DTMF signals transmitted to the switch. For the telephone handset, activation of each digit switch results in a binary frequency signal corresponding to a single digit, 0-9, *. #.

The switch receives the DTMF signal, and activates the call bar service to the subscriber line in a conventional manner.

Caller Return Activating key pad switch number 4 causes the DTMF generator 304 to issue a series of signal bursts comprising dual tone signals transmitted to the network exchange switch, representing the sequence of digits 1471. On receipt of the signal, the switch responds by transmitting a synthesized voice message back to the telephone handset giving information about the time and number of the last received call on the telephone line.

3-Way Calling The call manager apparatus determines which state the telephone line is in, ie on hook, off hook or answer in order to implement a 3-way calling function. Four key pad switches are utilized in order to implement 3-way calling: Firstly after having established a call with a second party, pressing key pad switch 7 caused the call manager apparatus to issue a sequence R. The exchange network switch provides a dial tone, and at this point the number of a third party to be called must be dialed using the telephone handset. The telephone handset generates a set of DTMF codes, one for each number dialed by pressing the appropriate number key on the telephone handset. If the third party responds to the call, the user activates key pad switch number 5 (line A) and the call manager implements putting the third party on hold, and speaking privately to the second party.The call manager implements putting third party on hold by issuing a set of dual frequency tone signals which are transmitted down the telephone line to the network exchange switch. The sequence of dual frequency tone signals representing digits and symbols *, # are generated by the DTMF generator under control of the controller in response to a key pad signal of a single key pad. Placing the third party caller on hold is handled by the network exchange switch 201. If the third party does not respond, the user presses key pad switch 5 to go back to speak to the second party. The sequence of pulse signals issued down the telephone line by the call manager apparatus in this case, corresponds to R1. The call manager issues either R2 or R1 depending on which of the previous situations occurs.

In order to establish a 3-way call, key pad switch number 6 is pressed.

The call manager issues the R3 sequence as a set of pulses sent down the telephone line to the network exchange switch. Once 3-way call session has been effected, if the user presses key pad switch number 5, the call manager apparatus issues an R6 sequence which places on hold the third party and allows the third party to speak privately to the second party'. If the user presses key pad switch number 7, signals are transmitted by the call manager apparatus which put on hold the second party and allow him to speak privately to the third party'.

At any time during the 3-way call session, the user may choose to drop either one or both of the parties. To drop the second party', the user presses key pad number 8 followed by key pad switch number 7 (line 8) to drop the third party', the user activates key pad switch number 8 followed by key pad switch number 3. In either case, the targeted line is dropped and the connection is switched back to the active party'. Pressing keypad switch number 8 (drop) followed by key pad switch number 6 (both) causes the call manager to issue a hook flash, which in effect hangs-up the call and provides a dial tone.

Call Waiting The call waiting service provides a signal to customers who are on the telephone, that a second call is waiting on the line. This permits the customer to hold the first call and answer the second call. The effect of the call waiting service is that a bleep sound will be produced every five seconds at the telephone handset upon arrival of a second call. This bleep sound is inaudible to the calling party'. Meanwhile, the second caller is informed that the number is busy but the exchange is trying to connect the call.

To set up call waiting, key pad switch number 17 is activated followed by keypad 1. This triggers the issuance of signals down the telephone line to the network exchange switch representing the digit sequence *43#. The network exchange switch recognizes this sequence and sets up a call waiting service on the subscriber's telephone line.

To cancel call waiting, a combination of two key pad switches are pressed before the call manager apparatus sends the appropriate sequence of tones. The call manager apparatus sends dual frequency signal series representing the digit sequence #43# the switch receives the signals, decodes the signal, and implements the appropriate cancel call waiting on the line.

To check a call waiting, a combination of two key pad switches are activated at the call manager apparatus. The call manager apparatus sends an appropriate signal representing the sequence of digits *#43*. The switch recognizes the signal and issues a synthetic voice message audible at the telephone handset, given the appropriate information on checking of call waiting.

Call Divert The call manager apparatus implements the following process in respect of call divert facilities. To set up a basic call divert, key pad switch 2 is activated1 sending the appropriate series of dual frequency tones down the telephone line, representing the appropriate sequence of digits *21*.

The user follows this by manually entering using the telephone handset, individual digits representing the individual numbers of the telephone number to which the call is to be diverted, followed by activation of the # digit at the telephone handset.

To cancel a call divert, a sequence of two key pads are activated at the call manager apparatus. Firstly, key pad switch 10 is activated, followed by key pad switch 2. The call manager apparatus then sends the appropriate series of signals representing the digit sequence #21#. The switch receives the signals representing the digit sequence #21# and implement the call divert cancel function.

To check a call divert facility on the line, using the call manager apparatus, a combination of two key pad switches need to activated.

Firstly, key pad switch number 9 is activated followed by key pad switch number 2. This triggers the DTMF generator in under control of the controller to send the appropriate sequence of signals representing the series of digits *#21#. The switch receives the signals representing the digits NQ1# and sends the appropriate synthetic voice message signals to the hand set which are audible at the hand set, giving information on whether call diversion is operational and other information about call diversion, such as the telephone number to which calls are being diverted.

Table 4

Feature Keypad Switch Action Sequence Call Waiting No 1 Take all switch party R2 No 2 followed by No 1 Ends current call and R1 connects with waiting callers No 17 followed by No 1 Set call waiting *43#; No 18 followed by No 2 Cancel call waiting #43# No 19 followed by No 1 Check call waiting 3-Way Calling No 4 Establish initial call to R third party After connecting a 3- R4 way call hold the second party and speak to third party privately No 3 Before connecting the R2 3-way call holds third party allows to speak to second party privately After connecting a S R6 way call to hold third party and speak to second party privately No 5 Establishes 3-way call R3 No2 Follow by switch 3 alter R5 connecting 3-way call disconnects second party and allows to speak to third party Follow switch No 4 after R7 connecting 3-way call disconnects the third party and allows to

Feature Keypad Switch Action Sequence speak to the second party Follow by switch No 5 Hook Flash provides hang up both lines Call Divert No 6 Sets up basic divert *21* No 18 followed by No 6 Cancels basic divert #21# No 19 followed by No 6 Checks basic divert '#21 No 7 Sets up divert on busy *67* No 18 followed by No 7 Cancels divert on busy *#67# No 8 Set up divert on no *61* reply No 18 followed by No 8 Cancels divert on no #61 reply No 19 followed by No 8 Checks divert on no *#61# reply Reminder Call No 9 Sets up single reminder *55* call No 18 followed by No 9 Cancels single reminder #55# call No 19 followed by No 9 Checks single reminder *#55# call No 10 Sets up multiple *56* reminder call No 18 followed by No Cancels multiple 56# 10 reminder call No 19 followed by No Checks multiple *#56 10 reminder call Caller Retum No 11 Triggers caller retum 1471 Short Code Dialing No 12 Dials a stores number ** No 13 Provides initial code to *51* stored number No 14 Provides the final *261 sequence to stored number No 18 followed by No Cancels incoming call #21# 15 baning No 19 followed by No Checks incoming call *#261#; 15 barring

Feature Keypad Switch Action Sequence No 16 Sets up initial sequence *34 for barring outgoing calls Referring to Fig. 5 herein, there are described further features of the second embodiment call manager. The second embodiment call manager includes decoder 309 for receiving signals from the exchange network switch and visual display 308 for displaying signals and messages. The visual display unit provides additional functionality in the second embodiment call manager apparatus. The second call manager apparatus has the following modes of operation: Power Up Mode; Program Mode; Blank Display Mode; Status Display; Mode; Function Mode.

Operation of these modes is described hereunder with reference to the following examples of displays. The user is prompted by a message displayed on the display device 308 to activate the relevant key pad switches. The display may display options for obtaining further call services from the network switch, through activation of the key pad switches. The prompting is controlled from the switch, through sending dual frequency tone signals down the subscriber line which are received by the second embodiment call manager apparatus. The second embodiment call manager apparatus decodes the dual frequency tone signal sent by the switch in decoder 309, and generates the appropriate prompt messages on the display unit 308.Examples of prompting and further operation of the second embodiment call manager apparatus are described hereafter with reference to exampies of displays, and their corresponding operations at the call manager device, or the switch.

POWER UP MODE:

G) 95 CDT V4 M MEMORY TEST OK TEST FINISHED AREA CODE 1 0: 0 0 Copyright displayed Memory tested If bad, prompt is MEMORY TEST FAIL" Test diagnostics OK Displayed for 2 seconds Unit goes to PROGRAM MODE Dotted box indicates digit is blinking on the actual display PROGRAM MODE: Area Code Entry Screen:

AREA CODE 1 0 0 0 AREA CODE 1 :9::0 0 AREA CODE 1 .9'0 0 AREA CODE 1 9 1 0 AREA CODE 1 :9:1 4 SAVED ::9.1 4 AREA CODE 2 '0'0 0 Dotted box indicates digit is blinking on the actual display PROGRAM MODE screen active for 1 minute in absence of key presses Scroll Up and Scroll Down keys change the number up or down Forward and Back keys mode blinking digit Scroll Up and Scroll Down keys change the number up or down Forward and Back keys mode blinking digit Scroll Up and Scroll Down keys change the number up or down Pressing Save stores the first area code in memory After one second the display changes to allow entry of a second area code if desired Pressing Save goes to "AREA Code 3" where pressing Save goes to Access Code Entry Screen PROGRAM MODE: Voice Mail Access Code Entry Screen::

ACCESS CODE '0''0 0-0000 ACCESS CODE 40010000 4 0 0-0000 ACCESS CODE 40010000 4 0 0-0000 ACCESS CODE 4 1 0-0000 ACCESS CODE 4 1 3-7387 SAVED 4 13-7387 Digit in dotted box is blinking Scroll Up and Scroll Down keys change the number up or down Forward and Back keys move blinking digit Digit in dotted box is blinking Scroll Up and Scroll Down keys change the number up or down Pressing Save stores the access code in memory After 1 second the display returns to the STATUS DISPLAY MODE PROGRAM MODE Voice Mail Password Entry Screen::

PASSWORD PASSWORD --- --- --- PASSWORD - -- 5 -- --- PASSWORD --- 5 0 - ---- PASSWORD - -- 500 4087.

SAVED 500 4087 Digit in dotted box is blinking Password may be 4 to 10 digits, including easing zeroes.

Forward and Back keys move blinking digit Scroll Up and Scroll Down keys change the number up or down Forward and Back keys move blinking digit Scroll Up and Scroll Down keys change the number up or down Scroll Up and Scroll Down keys change the number up or down Pressing Save stores the password in memory After 1 second the display returns to the STATUS DISPLAY MODE Note:Saving without entering digits keeps password secret Receiving Caller ID from STATUS DISPLAY MODE:

TOTAL NEW 45 12 12116 11:54 MARSHALL JAMES 345-6784423 NEW 12116 11:54pm CALLS46 TOTAL NEW 46 13 12/16 11: :56pm STATUS DISPLAY MODE Typical default screen when on AC power, Call Manager idle Real time clock running Incoming call, typical Caller ID After 25 seconds, returns to STATUS DISPLAY MODE, the default screen Updated for additional calls Receiving Caller ID from BLANK DISPLAY MODE

MARSHALL JAMES 345-6784423 NEW 12/16 11:54 REPEAT 03 CALLS 46 BLANK DISPLAY MODE Typical default screen when on battery power only, Call Manager idle No clock Incoming call, typical Caller ID Indicated repeat call After 25 seconds, retums to BLANK DISPLAY MODE, the default screen Receiving Caller ID from STATUS DISPLAY MODE. then using Dial.

TOTAL NEW 45 12 12/16 11:54pm MARSHALL JAMES 345-678-4423 NEW l2l16l1:55pm CALLS 46 DIALLING NUMBER 134 NEW 12/16 11:55pm cALLS46 DIALLING NUMBER 1345-678-4 NEW 12/16 11 55pm CALLS 46 DIALLING NUMBER 1345-678-4423 NEW 12/1611 55pm CALLS 46 TOTAL NEW 46 13 12116 1I::56pm STATUS DISPLAY MODE Typical default screen when on AC power, Call Manager idle Real time clock running Incoming call, typical Caller ID Phone stops ringing, caller hangs up To call the number on the display, pick up handset and press Dial Number begins to be dialed Number partially dialed Number dialed, phone ringing If number had been dialed in users area code, the area code would have been removed before dialing If user wanted to keep own area code, pressing Dial twice in two seconds retains the area code After 25 seconds, retums to STATUS DISPLAY MODE, the default screen Updated for the additional call Reviewing calls in memory from STATUS DISPLAY MODE:

TOTAL NEW 46 13 12/17 09:32AM MARSHALL JAMES 345-678-4423 NEW 12/16 11::55pm CALLS46 JOHNSON MARY 555-1456 NEW 12/16 10:21p", = 45 SMITH LARRY 645-887-2984 NEW 12/10 08:25AM CALLS 1 - END OF LIST- 12117 09:36 CALLS 46 MARSHALL JAMES 345-678A423 12/16 11::55PM cALLS46 STATUS DISPLAY MODE Typical default screen when on AC power, Call Manager idle Real time clock running Press Scroll Down to start memory review with newest call Time, date and other information are part of the call record in memory Press Scroll Down again to see next newest call Press Scroll Down to continue through the memory oldest call in memory shown Holding key down more than 1 second scrolls through calls at rate of 1 per second Pressing Scroll Up changes direction of review Next press of Scroll Down reaches the end of calls Real time clock running Press Scroll Down starts the memory loop again, reviewed calls are no longer indicated as new With no presses for 25 seconds, display returns to STATUS DISPLAY MODE Reviewing calls in memory from STATUS DISPLAY MODE. then using Dial::

TOTAL NEW 46 13 12/1709:32 MARSHALL JAMES 345-6784423 NEW 12116 11:55pm cALLS46 JOHNSON MARY 555-1456 NEW 12/1503 CALLS 42 DIALING NUMBER 555 NEW 12/10 08:25AM CALLS 1 JOHNSON MARY 555-1456 NEW 12115 03:21PM CALLS 42 TOTAL NEW 46 08 12116 11::55PM STATUS DISPLAY MODE Typical default screen when on AC power, Call Manager idle Real time clock running Press Scroll Down to start memory review with newest call Time, date and other information are part of the call record in memory Press Scroll Down again as many time as needed to see the desired call To call the number on the display, pick up handset and press Dial Number begins to be dialed Number dialed, phone ringing After 25 seconds, retum to STATUS DISPLAY MODE, the default screen Updated, since any new calls review are no longer new calls, regardless of whether any dialing was done Using Repeat Dial after Dial Editor's Note:Repeat Dial works at any time as well

DIALING NUMBER 555 NEW 12/15 03 21pm CALLS 42 JOHNSON MARY 555-1456 NEW 12/15 03:21, CALLS42 REPEAT DIAL NEW 12115 03:21, CALLS 42 REPEAT DIAL NEW 12/15 O3 21PM CALLS 42 JOHNSON MARY 555-1456 NEW 12/15 03:21PM CALLS42 TOTAL NEW 46 08 12117 09::38^" To call the number on the display, pick up handset and press Dial Number begins to be dialed Number dialed, phone busy, user hangs up User picks up handset, presses Repeat Dial to activate Automatic Callback (*66) User listens for status, hears delayed processing announcement (if still busy) and hands up After 4 seconds screen reverts to previous display Repeat Dial is in effect and will notify the user when the call can be completed After 25 seconds, return to STATUS DISPLAY MODE, the default screen Repeat Dial is in effect and will notify the user when the call can be completed Deleting Call from Memory:

TOTAL NEW 46 13 12/17 09:32AM MARSHALL JAMES 345-678-4423 NEW 12116 11::55pm CALLS JOHNSON MARY 555-1456 NEW 12/15 03:21pm CALLS 42 SON MARY 555-1456 NEW 12/15 03 21 CALLS 42 CALL REMOVED SMITH HAROLD 346-9743 12115 02: :22PM CALL 41 STATUS DISPLAY MODE Typical default screen when on AC power, Call Manager idle Real time clock running Press Scroll Down to start memory review with newest call Time, date and other information are part of the call record in memory Press Scroll Down again as many time as needed to see the desired call for deletion Press Delete twice within 2 seconds, characters in the top line are removed one character at a time, then the second line scrolls off screen to the left, then the last line is removed at one time - takes 1 second total Prompt displayed for 1 second After 1 second screen shows next cell record in direction previously scrolled Next earlier call in memory is shown, since Scroll Down was previously used Deleting Call from Memory::

JONES MARTHA 691-9273 12115O6:2T 42 TOTAL NEW 45 09 12117 09:38M' Press Scroll Up to see the next more recent call in memory More recent calls are renumbered due to the one removed: this was call W3 before W2 was removed After 24 seconds, returns to STATUS DISPALY MODE Updated for calls removed (TOTAL reduced) and for call reviewed (NEW reduced) Call Manager - Prompt to press Deleted key correctly:

JOHNSON MARY 555-1456 12115 03:21pm CALLS 42 TO DELETE ENTRY NEW 12/15 03:21PM CALLS 42 PRESS KEY TWICE NEW 12/15 03:21, CALLS42 JOHNSON MARY 555-1456 12/15 03::21pm cALLs42 The desired call record for deletion Pressing Delete only once causes this prompt to show after 2 seconds This prompt is displayed for 2 seconds This prompt is displayed for 2 seconds The desired call record for deletion reappears Pressing Delete twice in two seconds removes the call record as previously described To delete all calls from memory:

JONES MARTHA 691-9273 12/15 06:27, CALLS 42 When viewing any call record, (or from STATUS DISPLAY MODE) press Deleted for 5 seconds

After 5 seconds of pressing Delete, all LCD element on all three lines go on as long as Delete continues to be pressed

TOTAL NEW 00 00 12117 09::42AM When Delete is lifted, the copyright O screen is displayed briefly, then the screen reverts to the STATUS DISPLAY MODE Updated to show all calls removed Using Return Last Call from a call record of the last incoming call:

MARSHALL JAMES 345-6784423 1211611:55,,,, CALLS CALL RETURN 12/16 11 :55p", CALL RETURN 12116 11 55cm TOTAL NEW 46 08 12/16 11::56p,, Incoming call, typical Caller ID Viewed as it occurred or from call memory Therefore this is the last incoming call User picks up handset, presses Retum Last Call to access and activate the Automatic Recall feature (*69) User listens for ring or delayed processing announcement If ring - completes call if hangs uD before 25 second timeout remove prompt from display If busy - Call Return will be in effect and will notify the user when the call can be completed After 25 seconds, retums to STATUS DISPLAY MODE, the default screen Call return may be in effect and will notify the user when the call can be completed Call Return may also be pressed when in the STATUS DISPLAY MODE or the BLANK DISPLAY MODE Call manager will not always have a record of the last incoming call since a call interrupted after the first ring before the reception of Caller ID information will be access by *69 but not be a Call Manager call record Caller ID on Call Waiting

ROBERTS JULIE 212-6784723 NEW 12/16 11::55pm cALLs46 While on the phone during an established call, after the user hears the Subscriber Alerting Signal indicating a waiting call, the information on the waiting call is displayed Dashed border in diagram indicates name and number are blinking, 1 sec on 0.2 sec off Disposition of Call Waiting:

CALL TAKEN 212-678-4723 12/21 11:55pm CALLS31 ROBERTS JULIE 212-678-4723 NEW 12121 11:55pm CALLS 31 CALL SWITCHED 12116 11:55pm TOTAL NEW 46 08 12121 11::58p Pressing Take/Switch Call switches to the waiting call The prompt *CALL TAKEN* and the phone number are displayed for 4 seconds (not blinking) After 4 seconds the display retums to showing the incoming call (not blinking now) Pressing Take/Switch Call again in the same session switches back to the original call Subsequent presses display this same prompt This prompt is displayed for 4 seconds Clock running After 4 seconds display retums to STATUS DISPLAY MODE Editor's Note:This screen new replacing the one above Caller ID on Call Waiting:

ROBERTS JULIE 212-6784723 NEW 12121 11:55pm CALLS 31 While on the phone during an established call, after the user hears the Subscriber Alerting Signal indicating a waiting call, the information on the waiting call is displayed Dashed border in diagram indicates name and number are blinking, 1 sec on 0.2 sec off Disposition of Call Waiting:

SENT TO MAILBOX 212-6784723 12I2111: :55 CALLS 31 TOTAL NEW 46 08 12121 11/55PM Press to Send to Voice Mail routes the waiting call to Call Answering The prompt is displayed for 4 seconds (not blinking) After 4 seconds display retums to STATUS DISPLAY MODE Caller ID on Call Waiting:

ROBERTS JULIE 212-6784723 NEW 12121 11:55pm cALLs3 While on the phone during an established call, after the user hears the Subscriber Alerting Signal indicating a waiting call, the information on the waiting call is displayed Dashed border in diagram indicates name and number are blinking, 1.6 sec on 0.2 sec off Disposition of Call Waiting::

ASKED TO WAIT 212-6784723 1S2111:55- cALLS31 ROBERTS JULIE 212-678-4723 NEW :12121 11:55pm CALLS 31 Pressing "Wait" plays an announcement to the waiting caller asking them to hold The prompt is displayed for 4 seconds (not blinking) After 4 seconds the display retums to showing the incoming call Name and Number blinking After 25 seconds returns to STATUS DISPLAY MODE Caller ID on Call Waiting:

ROBERTS JULIE 212-6784723 NEW 12/21 11::55, CALLS 3 While on the phone during an established call, after the user hears the Subscriber Alerting Signal indicating a waiting call, the information on the waiting call is displayed The name and number are blinking, sec on, 0.2 sec off Dlsposition of Call Waiting:

ASKED TO WAIT 212-6784723 12121 11:55m CALLS 31 CALL BACK 212-678-4723 NEW 12/21 11:55pm CALLS 31 ROBERTS JULIE 212-6784723 NEW 12121 11::55pm CALLS 31 Pressing "Call Back" plays an announcement to the waiting caller asking them to call back later The prompt is displayed for 2 seconds (not blinking) The prompt is displayed for 2 seconds (not blinking) After 25 seconds returns to STATUS DISPLAY MODE After 4 seconds the display retums to showing the incoming call The name and number are blinking After 25 seconds returns to STATUS DISPLAY MODE Caller ID on Call Waiting:

I ROBERTS JULIE 212-6784723 NEW 12/21 11::55pm CALLS 31 L - While on the phone during an established call, after the user hears the Subscriber Alerting Signal indicating a waiting call, the information on the waiting call is displayed The name and number are blinking, 1.6 sec on, 0.2 sec off Disposition of Call Waiting:

CONFERENCED 212-6784723 12121 11:55pm CALLS 31 < DROP 1 DROP 2 > 12/21 11::55pm CALLS 31 Pressing "Conference" adds the waiting call to the existing call (3-way call) The prompt is displayed for 2 seconds (not blinking) After 4 seconds the display indicates options for dropping the first or last (second) caller This screen active until call ends Editor's Note This screen new replacing the one above.The < and > will be rendered in the 5X7 dot matrix to look like the arrown on the Forward and Back Keys Accessing Voice Mail:

TOTAL NEW 45 12 12/16 11:54pm CALLS42 DIALING MAILBOX 532-6 12/16 11:54pm VOICE MAIL 12/16 11::55pm STATUS DISPLAY MODE Typical default screen when AC power, Call Manager idle Real time clock running Pressing Dial Voice Mail will automatically dial the stored access phone number Number begins to be dialed Prompt displayed after dialing complete and before any other keys pressed Pressing Dial Voice Mail at this point sends the users Password if programmed and displays te prompts PASSWORD SENT" for 4 seconds before reverting to the Drompt "VOICE MAIL Pressing any key in the Voice Mail section of Call Manager causes the key name to appear as a prompt on the display:

PLAY ERASE 12116 11:55 12/16 11:55PM BACK FORWARD 12116 11:55 12/16 11::55pD, SKIP SAVE 12/16 11:55PM 12116 11:55PM These prompts indicate the second function of the Forward and Back keys

REPLAY 12/16 11:55PM END OF MESSAGE 12/16 11:55PM Prompt displayed after pressing Back twice within 1 second Prompt displayed after pressing Forward twice within 1 second (If time stamp is optionally "on demand", this key gives the time stamp) Using Dial.Return Last Call or Dial Voice Mail if the user does not lift the receiver or if an extension is in user - example is for Dial others similar:

TOTAL NEW 45 12 12/16 11:54pm CALLS 42 MARSHALL JAMES 345-678-4423 NEW 12/16 11 :55p", CALLS46 PICK UP HANDSET 345-6784423 NEW 12116 11:55 CALLs46 LINE IS USE 345-6784423 NEW 12116 11:55 CALLS46 DIALING NUMBER 134 NEW 12/16 11: :55pm CALLS46 DIALING NUMBER 1345-6784423 NEW 12/16 11 :55p", CALLS46 STATUS DISPLAY MODE Typical default screen when AC power, Call Manager idle Real time clock running Incoming call, typical Caller ID Phone stops ringing caller hangs up To call number on the display, user press Dial without or until lifting receiver first Prompted to pick up handset: displayed for 4 seconds or until user picks up Pick up handset.Call Manager checks for dial tone This prompt given if no dial tone (An extension is offhook or the attached phone had a call in progress and Dial was pressed by mistake) If dial tone is present and no extension is off-hook Number begins to be dialed Number partially dialed, call proceeds as normal Uslng Repeat Dial after Dial if user does not go on-hook from the busy call before activating Repeat Dial

DIALING NUMBER 555 NEW 12/15 03:21p", CALLs42 JOHNSON MARY 555-1456 NEW 12/15 03:21p", CALLS42 REPLACE HANDSET 12/15 03:22, PICK UP HANDSET 12/15 03::22p", REPEAT DIAL 12115 03:22, TOTAL NEW 46 08 12/15 03:24, To call the number on the display pick up handset and press Dial Number begins to be dialed Number dialed, phone busy, user decided to use Repeat Dial (*66) Call Manager checks for dial tone, and in the case of Repeat Dial displays this prompt when there is no dial tone Displayed for 4 seconds or until user hangs up When user goes on-hook this prompt is displayed for 4 seconds or until the user picks up When the user picks up the receiver, Call Manager dials *66 to activate Repeat Dial Number dialed, user listens to status, hears delayed processing announcement (if still busy) and hangs up After 25 seconds, returns to STATUS DISPLAY MODE, the default screen Repeat Dial is in effect and will notify the user when the call can be completed Using Call Waiting or Voice Mail sections while on battery only power.

WALL PWR RQD Prompt indicates the features selected work only when the AC adapter is in use After 25 seconds, returns to BLANK DISPLAY MODE, the default screen for battery power only Call Manager - AC Power Loss while on AC adapter if previously received message waiting indication

WALL POWER LOSS PLEASE CHECK YOUR VOICE MAIL Prompt indicates the loss of AC power, and that there could be messages which the box will not indicate Each screen on for 1 second, activated upon power loss and any tome the Call Manager features are used After 25 seconds, retums to BLANK DISPLAY MODE, the default screen for battery power only

Claims (20)

Claims

1. A call manager apparatus capable of communicating a sequence of dual frequency tone signals over a subscriber line, said apparatus comprising: a key pad display comprising a plurality of key pad display elements, each said key pad display element capable of generating a corresponding key signal; and means for generating a dual frequency tone signal representing a sequence of two or more digits in response to a said key signal.

2. A call manager apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein said generating means generates a said dual frequency tone signal representing a sequence of two or more digits selected from the set 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, , #.

3. A call manager apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said key signal comprises a code signal representing a sequence of said digits, and said generating means generates said dual frequency tone signal in response to said code signal.

4. A call manager apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which is capable of interrupting a subscriber line by an interrupt signal in response to activation of a key pad display element.

5. A call manager apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a subscriber line port for connection to a subscriber line of a communications network switch, and a handset port for connection to a conventional telephone handset.

6. A call manager apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said generating means generates a dual tone frequency representing a string of three or more digits in response to one or two said key signals.

7. A call manager apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a visual display device capable of displaying information relating to subscriber call services.

8. A call management device capable of being positioned on a subscriber line between a telephone handset and a network switch, said call management device comprising: a key pad having a plurality of key pad elements; a tone signal generator for generating tone signals; wherein said tone signal generator operates to transmit a sequence of said tone signals representing a request for subscriber call services in response to activation of one or more said key pad elements.

9. A call management device according to claim 8, which operates to receive coded signals over a subscriber line, and generates display signals in response to said received coded signals.

10. A call management device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein said sequence of tone signals correspond to a sequence of digits selected from the set 0, 1,2,3,4,5,6,7, ,8,*,#.

11. A call management device as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 10, operating to transmit said sequence of tone signals in response to activation of a single key pad element.

12. A call management device according to any one of claims 8 to 11, which is provided with a first port for connecting to a subscriber line and a second port for connecting to a telephone handset.

13. A method of operating subscriber call services on a subscriber line, said method comprising the steps of: inserting a tone generator device on a subscriber line between a network switch and a user handset; activating said tone generator device to generate a first sequence of tone signals in response to a single or double activation of a single key pad display element; and transmitting said first sequence of tone signals onto said subscriber line.

14. A method according to claim 13, wherein said first sequence of tone signals comprises a sequence representing a plurality of digits selected from the set 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, *, &num;.

15. A method as claimed in claim 13 or 14, wherein a said call service comprises a service selected from the following set: Call Divert; Call Waiting; 3-Way Calling; Short Code Dialing; Reminder Calls; Call Barring; Caller Retum; Directory Enquiries; International Directory Enquiries; Operator services; International Operator Services; Speaking Clock; Emergency Services.

16. A method as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 15, comprising generating a said sequence of tone signals on said line, said sequence of tone signals activating said switch apparatus to implement a said call service.

17. A method as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 16, comprising the step of: transmitting coded signals from said network switch along said subscriber line, said coded signals representing prompt messages.

18. A call manager apparatus capable of communicating a sequence of dual frequency tone signals to a network exchange switch of a communications network comprising a plurality of node elements linked by a plurality of link elements, said apparatus comprising: a key pad display comprising a plurality of key pad display elements, each said key pad display element capable of generating a key signal corresponding to a said respective key and display element; and means for generating a dual frequency tone signal representing a sequence of two or more digits in response to a said key signal.

19. A communications apparatus comprising: a network switch supporting a plurality of subscriber call services available over a subscriber line; a subscriber communications line; a telephone handset; and a call management device positioned on said subscriber line between said telephone handset and said network switch, said call management device comprising a key pad having plurality of key pad elements, wherein said call management device operates to transmit a sequence of tone signals corresponding to a sequence of digits selected from the set 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, *, &num; in response to activation of a single key pad element.

20. A method of operating subscriber call services on a subscriber line terminating at a network switch, said method comprising the steps of: generating a sequence of tone signals on said subscriber line at a subscriber premises in response to a single or double activation of a single key pad display element; transmitting said sequence of tone signals to said network switch; receiving said sequence of tone signals at said network switch; and in response to said received sequence of tone signals, transmitting call service signals implementing a said call service along said subscriber line.