Patent ID: 6477150
Filing Date: 2002-11-05
Classification: H04L,H04M,H04W

Abstract:
A system for providing a group communication service to a plurality of communication devices, comprising:a first communication device for converting information signals into data packets suitable for transmission over a data network, for providing said data packets to said data network, and for receiving data packets from said data network; a second communication device for converting information signals into data packets suitable for transmission over said data network, for providing said data packets to said data network, and for receiving data packets from said data network; a third communication device for converting information signals into data packets suitable for transmission over said data network, for providing said data packets to said data network, and for receiving data packets from said data network; and a communications manager connected to said data network for providing arbitrated group communications among at least said first communication device, said second communication device, and said third communication device, wherein said communications manager further comprises: a first timer for measuring an elapsed time in which said first communication device, said second communication device, and said third communication device have not transmitted data packets to said communications manager; and a processor for sending a message to said first communication device, to said second communication device, and to said third communication device to enter a dormant mode of operation if said elapsed time exceeds a predetermined time period.