A mobile data terminal in which user-preselected action is taken following excessive use or excessive trend use

摘要

A mobile information terminal, such as mobile phone or a pda, maintains a running total of data packets handled. If the number of packets exceeds a user-defined threshold in a user-defined accounting period the packet service may be disconnected or image downloading by a browser may be halted. Alternatively, a visual notification or an audible alarm may be generated. Costs are thereby controlled. Similar action may be taken if the accumulated packet usage is growing at a rate which extrapolation suggests will lead to a set usage limit being exceeded before the end of the accounting period. The user preselects the actions which are to be taken when usage thresholds are exceeded. A notification or alarm may be provided if usage is very low, because on some tariffs considerable extra use incurs no further charge. A URL may be stored by the terminal to allow reconnection.