Patent ID: 6101249
Filing Date: 2000-08-08
Classification: H04M

Abstract:
In a call forwarding system generating a special ring tone different from a standard ring tone indicating call forwarding, a selective ring response device for a communication line comprising:a ring tone detector circuit for automatically detecting the special ring tone, said ring tone detector circuit coupled to the communication line;an interface circuit capable of automatically placing the communication line in an off-hook status and capable of applying a switch hook flash signal to the communication line, said interface circuit coupled to the communication line;a control circuit coupled to said ring tone detector circuit and said interface circuit, wherein in response to detecting the special ring tone, said interface circuit automatically places the communication line in said off-hook status and applies said flash hook signal to the communication line in response to a user's request; andan indicator activated in response to an enable signal indicative that a call is being screened;wherein said control circuit further provides said enable signal in response to said ring tone detector circuit detecting said special ring tone.