Telephone answering unit accessed in local exchange - has record and replay facility to user subscriber telephones and permits continued use for outgoing calls whilst accessed

摘要

The subscriber uses an abbreviated dialling code to associate the answering machine with his line and initially records any messages over the local network into the machine. Incoming recorded messages are also replayed from the machine to the subscriber's telephone over the local network. Outgoing calls are made as normal. The subscriber (TA) dials an abbreviated code through the local exchange (ovst) to gain access (GW) through a control unit (FA-Ue) to the answering machine (AB). The control unit (FA-Ue) uses tone signals for identification purposes. The control unit (FA-Ue) uses RAM and ROM storage for its control commands and signals. The answering machine (AB) is connected into the exchange peripheral services unit (Fe-AD-St) with its own common control (FSE) for call control. The subscriber's incoming calls are diverted into the answering machine and recorded whilst the full facility for outgoing calls is retained.