Patent ID: 6049701
Filing Date: 2000-04-11
Classification: H04M

Abstract:
A kit for converting to cordless operation a telephone having a corded handset and a base unit, the base unit having a handset connector jack and a handset receiving cradle for matingly cradling the handset, the corded handset having a housing, a microphone, a speaker, and a cord for electrically connecting the handset to the handset jack, the kit comprising:a module matingly engageable with the base unit and having a connector for electrically connecting the module to the handset jack; andan uncorded handset mating with the handset receiving cradle, the uncorded handset having a housing generally matching that of the corded handset and including therewithin a microphone and a speaker spaced from one another at opposite ends of the handset and facing the base unit when the handset is cradled on the cradle and a battery,the module including an electromagnetic transmitter transmitting signals obtained from the handset jack,the uncorded handset including an electromagnetic receiver for receiving, amplifying, and conveying to the speaker signals transmitted by the module, an electromagnetic transmitter for transmitting signals obtained from the microphone, and a permanent magnet, andthe module including an electromagnetic receiver for receiving, amplifying and providing signals transmitted by the uncorded handset to the handset jack, and a magnetic field responsive switch responsive to a magnetic field of the permanent magnet in the uncorded handset, wherein the switch opens to supply power to the electromagnetic transmitter and receiver in the module with removal of the uncorded handset from the cradle, thereby removing the magnetic field of the permanent magnet from the proximity of the switch, and wherein the switch closes to stop the supply of power to the electromagnetic transmitter and receiver in the module with re-cradling of the uncorded handset in the cradle, thereby placing the magnetic field of the permanent magnet within the proximity of the switch.