Patent ID: 8515034
Filing Date: 2013-08-20
Classification: H04M,H04N

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for selectively allowing calls to a device which is capable of receiving calls on a signal line, the apparatus including: means for detecting incoming calls on the signal line; and means for allowing incoming calls to reach the device if received during an enabled period and preventing incoming calls from reaching the device if received outside the enabled period, wherein in a first mode of operation, the apparatus is arranged to, upon detecting an incoming call, begin measuring ring duration, initiate a blocking period during which the incoming call is prevented from reaching the device, and to terminate the blocking period when the measured ring duration has elapsed, and upon termination of said blocking period to initiate the enabled period such that the incoming call is routed to by the device; wherein a second mode of operation, the apparatus is arranged to, upon detecting an incoming call as a redial call, update the measuring ring duration based on the redial call, initiate the blocking period during which the incoming call is prevented from reaching the device, and to terminate the blocking period when a redial interval threshold has been enabled, and upon termination of the blocking period to initiate the enable period such that the incoming call is routed to the device based on the redial interval threshold.