Device operable as a TDD and a standard computer keyboard

摘要

A telecommunication device for the deaf includes a standard size computer keyboard and is operable to function either as a standard TDD or a standard computer input device. The device includes a housing with a computer keyboard having alpha, numeric and function keys mounted on the housing. A TDD communication interface receives telecommunications for the deaf from and transmits telecommunications for the deaf to a telephone line wherein the interface is mounted in the keyboard housing. A mode switch mounted on the housing is actuable to indicate operation of the device in one of a number of modes wherein a controller is responsive to the mode switch to echo keyboard inputs to either a first computer, a second computer or a TDD communication interface depending upon the mode of operation.