Patent ID: 6519334
Filing Date: 2003-02-11
Classification: H04M

Abstract:
A method, comprising:when an incoming telephone call is received, generating a first audible ring at a called extension telephone; reading data stored in a button information table of a memory of an exchange system, the button information table storing at least three items of data corresponding to each respective one button of a plurality of buttons, said plurality of buttons being located on different telephones of a plurality of additional extension telephones, said plurality of additional extension telephones and said called extension telephone being connected to said exchange system, the at least three items of data including ring/lamp data, time delay data, and designated phone number; when the data read from the button information table identifies at least one particular button designating the first phone number corresponding to said called extension telephone, with the data read from the button information table indicating that said one particular button has predetermined time delay data, driving a timer for a time period corresponding to the predetermined time delay data, said one particular button being located on a first telephone selected from among said plurality of additional extension telephones, the data in the button information table further indicating that said one particular button has predetermined ring/lamp data, the predetermined ring/lamp data corresponding to one function selected from among generate a second audible ring at said first telephone, turn a lamp on-and-off on said first telephone, and generate the second audible ring at said first telephone and turn said lamp on-and-off together, said lamp corresponding to said one particular button; and when the time period elapses and said called extension telephone has not been answered, performing said one function corresponding to the predetermined ring/lamp data.