Other

At+t Corp.

Vonage Network, LLC

Donald J Weber

Daniel Thomas Smires

Dale E Lynn

Richard Y Hsia

Frank William Lescinsky

Philip Silvano DiPiazza

Donato Joseph Forlenzo

Arthur F Corvo

Gerard W Elson

Douglas P Greeley

Vandy W Lee

Thorp Rivingston

Ghanshyam A Bhat

Method and apparatus for authorizing a calling card telephone call are described. In one example, a telephone calling card includes a planar body having a memory system, an input circuit, a controller, and a display. The memory system is configured to store key code information. The input circuit is configured to receive a personal identification number (PIN). The controller is configured to derive a key code from the key code information using the PIN. The display is configured to present the key code. The user may then use the key code for purposes of authorizing a call made using a calling card. The key code may change from time-to-time as the user uses the calling card. Since the user's PIN is not entered into a telephone by the user, the calling card is less susceptible to unauthorized and/or fraudulent use by third parties.

Method and apparatus for authorizing a calling card telephone call

A cordless telephone set advantageously includes a wireless test mode accessible by a user for evaluating performance levels of operating parameters in the cordless telephone set in diverse geographical locations. When configured in a normal operating mode, the cordless telephone set provides normal wireless communications. When configured in the wireless test mode, the cordless telephone set provides audible and visual input to its user for use in determining a maximum acceptable separation distance for satisfactory communications between a telephone handset unit and its associated base unit in the cordless telephone set. This operating range determination for the cordless telephone set is achieved by providing a simulation of a recognizable tone, such as dial tone, to which a user subjectively listens while testing an application environment. At the same time, statistical readings of signal strength and voice quality also are provided in a display on the telephone handset unit while in this wireless test mode. The simulated tone and the statistical readings allow the user to quickly and easily correlate effective, usable operating range for the cordless telephone set.

Wireless test mode for a cordless telephone

The sensitivity of an optically-based touch screen is substantially impro by adaptively establishing the detection threshold based on the peak trapped light measured over a number of frames on the screen being painted. In accordance with one feature of the invention, the peak trapped light from a target area painted on the screen is compared with a priorly established threshold as a way of determining that a target area is being touched by the user. In accordance with another feature of the invention, the threshold is modified in a way that compensates for possible erroneous touch indications due, for example, to bright spots on the screen.

Adaptive thresholding scheme for optically-based touch screens

A pair of retractable leg assemblies for use in raising the frame of a motorcycle from the ground to permit servicing the same is disclosed. Each leg assembly includes a pair of telescopically engaged members having a cooperating pin and slot arrangement which enables them to be extended and locked simply by extending and twisting the same. Latching mechanisms are provided for releasably retaining the leg assemblies in either the retracted position for riding or the extended position for jacking. One of the leg assemblies enables the motorcycle to be jacked by rocking it side to side.

Jack stand for motorcycles

Growing community of inventors

Shrewsbury, NJ, United States of America

Donald J Weber