Path: utzoo!utgpu!news-server.csri.toronto.edu!mailrus!uunet!xavax!alvitar
From: alvitar@xavax.com (Phillip Harbison)
Newsgroups: comp.dcom.modems
Subject: Re: Use a auto-answer modem and answering machine on one line?
Message-ID: <1990Aug31.034046.5793@xavax.com>
Date: 31 Aug 90 03:40:46 GMT
Sender: alvitar@xavax.com
Followup-To: comp.dcom.modems
Organization: Xavax
Lines: 38

In article <1770@tssi.UUCP> nolan@tssi.UUCP (Michael Nolan) writes:
> In article <1990Aug22.164938.5316@sbcs.sunysb.edu>, e556@nysaes.cornell.edu
> (Ron Pool) writes:
> > Does anyone know of a workable method of using an auto-answer modem
> > (for a bulletin board system) and an answering machine on one phone
> > line with one phone number?
>
> I solved a similar problem with a device called "The Switcher", which
> answers the phone and switches to either an answering machine or a modem
> (and/or a fax machine).  The default is the answering machine.  To get
> to the modem, you have to key a '2' within 4.5 seconds of the answer.

I've tried such a device and my success wasn't near the 90% rate you have
experienced.  I talked with several other people having the same problem,
i.e. a need to cut down on line costs by sharing a line between some com-
bination of a modem, a fax, and voice.  My conclusion is that what is
needed is a box that automatically answers the phone, then gives a dial
tone.  The calling party must then dial the number of the extension they
wish connected.  If no number is dialed, the box would time out and connect
to the default port.  The major advantage of this is that it is not neces-
sary to detect when the called party has answered.  Most modems can wait
for multiple dial tones.  I don't know about fax machines, but I assume
they have similar features to modem autodialers.  In my situation, I'd
probably specify voice to be the default.  A ring sound could be sent back
to the caller to keep them amused until I pick up the phone.

I have some background in telecom and datacom and I am interested in
building such a device.  I also have a friend who owns a manufacturing
company who is interested in building and selling it.  I would like to
know if there are many people who would be interested in such a box,
or if they think it is an appropriate way to solve the problem.  I wel-
come your opinions, either by email or in this forum.  I will summarize
to the net if I get alot of email on this subject.

-- 
Live: Phil Harbison, Xavax, P.O. Box 7413, Huntsville, AL 35807
Uucp: alvitar@xavax.com
Bell: 205-883-4233, 205-880-8951