Importance

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Abstract

A printed telephone number in either numerical (OCR-readable) or standard bar code format can be dialed rapidly and accurately by scanning the number with a hand-held optical sensor or wand. The OCR or bar code wand output is connected to an automatic dialing apparatus that includes a processor, signal generator, and interface circuit. The processor decodes the wand output and translates the call number digits into digital control signals. The control signals drive a signal generator that outputs the call number address digits in the form of tone bursts, typically DTMF tones. The signal generator output is coupled either electrically or accoustically to the microphone input of a telephone set speech circuit. The telephone set then transmits the tone signals over the telephone line. No modification of the telephone set is required since the automatic dialing apparatus, including the hand-held wand, interfaces with the telephone set using either existing modular connectors or acoustic coupling. The call numbers, together with any bar code symbols, can be pre-printed in a directory, on file cards, on documents, or on adhesive labels using available printers.

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First Claim