Patent ID: 6463147
Filing Date: 2002-10-08
Classification: H04M

Abstract:
A method for concurrently performing a directory look-up service on a plurality of interconnected switching systems, each of which includes a directory look-up capability, comprising the steps of:receiving a request for a directory look-up at a first switching system from a telephone interface served by said first switching system; receiving a string of characters from said telephone interface corresponding to at least a portion of a desired name to be found by said directory look-up service; transmitting said string of characters to at least one other one of said plurality of interconnected switching systems; concurrently performing a search for a match between said string of characters and a name in a database storing telephone numbers and corresponding names in each of said first switching system and said at least one other one of said plurality of interconnected switching systems; returning matches found in said search of said database in said at least one other one of said plurality of interconnected switching systems to said first switching system; and determining whether said matches contain said desired name.