Automatic routing of incoming telephone calls to a plurality of

Abstract

Apparatus for routing incoming telephone calls to a telephone or an automatic answering device, wherein caller identification numbers are received, compared to stored caller identification numbers, and arranged into priority groups for handling such calls. The apparatus has at least three operating modes designed to accommodate the user at home, the user while away from home, and another when the user wants not to be disturbed. The system is programmable between and among the operating modes, group priorities, and offers a password to restrict programming changes. The inventive apparatus and method provides for connecting incoming calls to a programmed sequence of different outputs, and to switch or 'bounce' the incoming call among these outputs according to the programming. A microprocessor (6), memory (10), operating mode displays (9), and an interactive two row LCD display (8) are provided. There are four function keys which are programmed to allow inputting and displaying all the functions of the apparatus, including information status, system test/status and all the various operations required to receive and route incoming calls.