Patent ID: 7944861
Filing Date: 2011-05-17
Classification: H04Q

Abstract:
1. A method of providing automated conference call connections, comprising: initiating a conference call between multiple conferees using a conferencing controller, of an automated conference call system, by using the conferencing controller to place each of the multiple conferees in a half-duplex listen only mode; using said automated conference call system to automatically initiate the conference call when said automated conference call system has determined that a minimum number of multiple selected conferees have joined the conference call; receiving a signal at the conferencing controller from at least one of the multiple conferees to request active participation in the conference call; using the conferencing controller to switch at least one of the multiple conferees into full-duplex mode to provide active participation for said at least one of the multiple conferees in the conference call; using the conferencing controller to monitor the time during which each of the multiple conferees is in full-duplex mode and participates in the conference call; returning said each of the multiple conferees to said half-duplex listen only mode, using the conferencing controller, after participation in the conference call; using the conferencing controller to register when said each of the multiple conferees was already in full-duplex mode, and prohibiting the same of said each of the multiple conferees from being placed in full-duplex mode a second time.