Call waiting-caller identification notification device

Abstract

An Internet Call Waiting Device (ICW) detects a Call Waiting signal even when a modem is currently using the phone line. Upon sensing the Call Waiting signal, the internet Call Waiting device alerts the user using one or more flashing lights and/or generating audible signals that the user can hear. If the user has a Call Waiting-Caller ID service the caller's name and number are also displayed if it is available from the phone company. After being notified, the user can choose to ignore the call or take the call by picking up a telephone. If the user picks up the telephone, the ICW signals the central office to put the first modem connection on hold. A connection is then made with the second call. When the second call is completed and the user hangs up the telephone for the second call, the ICW signals the central office to reconnect the first modem call. The ICW includes a signal detector for detecting a Call Waiting or Call Waiting-Caller ID signal on the phone line. A switch automatically disconnects the modem from the phone line when a Call Waiting-Caller ID signal is detected by the signal detector. A signal generator then enables a central office switch to transmit Caller ID information while the modem is disconnected from the phone line.