DISTINCTIVE CALL WAITING ALERT AND MANAGEMENT DEVICE

摘要

An apparatus and method for an alert and signal management device for an already engaged telephone line is described. The device can interface to either a modem or FAX or answering machine, and to a telephone and is triggered by conventional call waiting or distinctive call waiting SAS tones. It will alert by audible and visual means. When a subscriber answers the third party's call a switching circuit is activated that disconnects any local modem or FAX interfaced to the device and signals a switch-hook flash. This allows a call waiting party to commence in conversation or a data-signal to be received. The device also incorporates a switch to select automatic answer mode to allow a subscriber to share an engaged telephone line with in-coming calls to a FAX or answering machine. Upon completion of these in-coming calls the device will automatically switch back to the previously engaged telephonic device.