Microprocessor controlled dispatcher activated response identification system with telephone and radio frequency interface

Abstract

A signaling system (,) in the form of a dispatcher activated response identification system is provided for responding exclusively to a predefined signal transmitted from a first location through a telephone service line interconnected thereby with a telephone at a second location to assist responding personnel in identifying the second location when the predefined signal is transmitted from the first location. The signaling system includes first and second electronic circuits (,) at the second location. The first electronic circuit is adapted to generate a first signal (,) at the second location in response to receiving the predefined signal transmitted through the telephone service line. The second electronic circuit is physically separated from the first electronic circuit and is preferably placed where it is easily visible from the street such as in a window. The second electronic circuit generates a visual indicia at the second location in response to the first signal being transmitted from the first circuit. Preferably, the visual indicia is generated by a stroboscopic light emitting diode. The first electronic circuit is responsive to dual tone (DTMF) signals, a sequence of tone signals, or modem signals transmitted on the telephone service line. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the first electronic circuit is responsive to radio frequency signals transmitted from the dispatcher to the caller's location.