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Abstract

An improved telephone call processing apparatus for processing facsimile messages. The facsimile processing apparatus comprises a message control system including a voice control unit (VCU), a control processor unit (CPU), and a telephone line card. Multiple buses including a high speed voice/data bus, a control bus, and a time division multiplexed (TDM) bus are used to couple the VCU, the CPU and the line card. The high speed data bus is dedicated for voice and data transmission only. The control bus is dedicated to command controls and system background tasks. The TDM bus is used to make full duplex voice connections between individual line card ports and facsimile message controller modem channels. The CPU manages the connections between line card ports and fax channels. The VCU comprises a high speed processor and a control processor. The VCU controls the transmission of voice and facsimile data over the high speed data bus to and from a non-volatile message storage unit, the line card, and a facsimile message controller (FMC). The cooperative processing of these components provides a highly integrated and versatile apparatus for processing both voice and facsimile messages in an integrated environment. Facsimile messages may be received, stored, forwarded, and sent from mailboxes. Status information pertaining to the facsimile messages is maintained and accessible to users via telephone line links.

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First Claim