Importance

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Abstract

The present invention provides a method and apparatus for placing and receiving telephone calls via a wireless communications network using a standard telephone and, therefore, is referred to as a wireless local loop system that uses a standard telephone. More specifically, in one embodiment, the '*' key is advantageously used to generate a send signal, while the '#' key is advantageously used to generate an end signal. Accordingly, automatic generation of false send signals may be eliminated, while the need of purchasing a specialized telephone handset having a send key and end key thereon may be avoided. Furthermore, in one embodiment, when placing a call, a recorded message (instead of a dial tone) is advantageously played to a user when a telephone is taken 'off-hook' so that a user may be notified that the call will be transmitted via a wireless network and, therefore, may be subject to a different pricing structure. In addition, upon receipt of an incoming call, a similar recorded message may be played to a user for like purposes.

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First Claim