Patent ID: 6112269
Filing Date: 2000-08-29
Classification: G06F,H04M,Y02D

Abstract:
A modem interface unit for coupling a communications modem to a host processor, such modem interface unit comprising:a memory located in the modem interface unit for storing digital modem signals to be supplied to or received from a host processor;a digital signal processor located in the modem interface unit and coupled to the memory for performing signal processing operations on incoming and outgoing digital modem signals;a digital-to-analog converter located in the modem interface unit and coupled to the digital signal processor for receiving outgoing digital modem signals from the digital signal processor, converting them to analog signals and supplying the analog signals to a communications modem;an analog-to-digital converter located in the modem interface unit and coupled to the digital data processor for receiving incoming analog modem signals from the communications modem, converting them to digital signals and supplying the digital signals to the digital signal processor;a current supply mechanism located in the modem interface unit for supplying operating current to the digital signal processor for placing the digital signal processor in an operational mode;and a sleep mode mechanism coupled to the current supply mechanism for discontinuing the supplying of operating current to the digital signal processor when no modem signals have been have been transmitted or received for a predetermined period of time.