Patent ID: 6072753
Filing Date: 2000-06-06
Classification: H04B

Abstract:
A recording device comprising:an input for receiving electrical signals representing audible sound;a recording mechanism adapted to encode and record said electrical signals on recording media for later playback;a programmable timer for starting and stopping said recording mechanism for operating said recording mechanism during at least one user-defined interval of time;a power output connector for providing electricity at a required voltage to an external audio source such that said audio source receives its operating power from said recording device;said programmable timer automatically energizing said power output connector during said at least one user-defined interval of time, said user-defined interval of time is defined by data entered through an input peripheral unit connected to the programmable timer, said data includes a start time, a stop time a start day of the week and a stop day of the week and a means for alternatively setting a mode for a single interval of time, a daily interval of time, and a weekly interval of time wherein when the single mode is set only a single recording is made; when the daily mode is set, the interval repeats at the same time every day; and when the weekly mode is set, the interval repeats on the same time on the same day every week;a display for displaying said data; anda CPU, said programmable timer is programmed using software which runs on said CPU, said software causing said CPU to drive said display such that said display displays a series of options and instructions for entering said data into said programmable timer.