Importance

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Abstract

An electronic device for controlling the flow of data between a single incoming telephone line and either a facsimile machine (fax machine) or a telephone handset comprising means for detecting an incoming call, and means for immediately activating the telephone in response to the detection means detecting the incoming call thereby allowing the called party to answer the telephone before the incoming call is switched to the facsimile machine. The fax machine is disconnected from the telephone line for a predetermined period of time in response to the detection means detecting the incoming call thereby preventing the fax machine from automatically answering the incoming call. The incoming call, once answered is 'read' for handshake signals to determine if the call is a fax call. If the call is determined to be a fax call, the fax machine is automatically activated by the present device through the generation of imitation 'ring' signals which simulate an incoming call so that the facsimile machine answers the imitation 'ring' signals. Once the fax machine answers the imitation 'ring' signals means is provided for connecting the fax machine back with the single telephone line for fax communication.

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First Claim