CPC Definition - Subclass H04M

Last Updated Version: 2024.01
TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION (circuits for controlling other apparatus via a telephone cable and not involving telephone switching apparatus G08)
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • Subscriber equipment (fixed and mobile phones), e.g. Constructional features of telephone sets, User interfaces for telephones.
  • Telecommunication systems including subscriber equipment and exchanges, e.g.
  • Interconnection arrangements between switching centres,
  • Interconnection arrangements not involving centralized switching,
  • Metering arrangements,
  • Time-controlling arrangements,
  • Time-indicating arrangements,
  • Party line systems,
  • Prepayment telephone systems,
  • Current supply arrangements for telephone systems,
  • Computer telephony integration (CTI),
  • SPIT and SPAM prevention in telephony;
  • Telephonic communication systems combined with other electrical systems;
  • Testing arrangements peculiar to telephonic communication systems.
Relationships with other classification places

With regard to mobile telephony, H04M covers communication systems using wireless extensions, i.e. wireless links without selective communication, e.g. cordless telephones, which are covered by group H04M 1/72, whereas H04W covers communication networks for selectively establishing one or a plurality of wireless communication links between a desired number of users or between users and network equipments, for the purpose of transferring information via these wireless communication links.

With regard to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), voice is considered in this context to be a specific form of "digital information". Since the Internet Protocol and IP networks are classified in H04L (H04L 12/00, data switching networks and real-time session management in data packet switching networks H04L 65/1066, Session management in data packet switching networks H04L 67/14), the transmission of voice over IP networks should be classified in H04L.

When VoIP is used to emulate or simulate services, the service, as presented to the user, is still classified in H04M. Any implementation details are however classified in H04L, for example SPIT and SPAM prevention in VoIP should be classified in H04M 3/436 or H04M 1/663.

VoIP is not covered by any single class, subclass, group or subgroup but rather classified as evolution of existing technologies. Therefore, aspects of VoIP are not fully classified in H04M and H04L, but also in other classes which have been used for classification of aspects related to telephonic communication, H04M and transmission of digital information, H04L such as by the Internet protocol.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Circuits for controlling other apparatus via a telephone cable and not involving telephone switching apparatus

G08

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Counting mechanisms

G06M

Information storage based on relative movement between record carrier and transducer

G11B

Arrangements of electric cables or lines between relatively-movable parts

H02G 11/00

Multiplex transmission between switching centres

H04J

Selecting

H04Q

Transducers

H04R

Wireless communication networks

H04W

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Exchange

Synonym for telephone switch.

Satellite

A kind of exchange the operation of which depends upon control signals received from a supervisory exchange.

Subscriber

General term for a user of terminal equipment, e.g. for the user of a telephone set, or for any equipment used by subscribers, e.g. telephones for public use.

Substation

Subscriber or monitoring equipment which may connect a single subscriber to a line without choice as to subscriber.

Switching centres

Include exchanges and satellites.

Voice mail system

A centralized system for managing telephone messages for a large group of users.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following abbreviations are often used:

PSTN

Public Switched Telephony Network.

ISDN

Integrated Services Digital Network.

ISUP

ISDN User Part.

SIP

Session Initiation Protocol.

H.323

A standard protocol used for Packet-Based Multimedia Communications Systems.

CTI

Computer telephony integration. A technology that allows interactions on a telephone and a computer to be integrated or co-ordinated. Common application interfaces and protocols for monitoring and controlling calls comprise Computer Supported Telecommunications Applications, CSTA, Java Telephony Application Programming Interface, JTAPI, Telephony Server Application Programming Interface, TSAPI, or Telephony Application Programming Interface, TAPI.

Gatekeeper

A gatekeeper provides a number of services to terminals, gateways and devices, e.g. endpoint registration, address resolution, admission control and user authentication.

Call agent

A call agent handles specific services to users e.g. alert the called party, send and receive voice data.

IMS; IP Multimedia Subsystem

An architectural framework for delivering internet protocol, IP, multimedia to a mobile user.

Softswitch

A central device in a telephone network which connects calls from one phone line to another, e.g. control connections at the junction point between circuit and packet networks.

PBX

Private Branch Exchanges, e.g. for making connections among the internal telephones of a private organization.

XDSL

Digital Subscriber Line. A family of technologies that provides digital data transmission over the wires of a local telephone network.

Party line system

An arrangement in which two or more customers are connected directly to the same link or circuit.

SPAM

The abuse of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages indiscriminately.

SPIT

Spam over Internet Telephony, i.e. unwanted, automatically dialled, pre-recorded phone calls using Voice over Internet Protocol, VoIP.

Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers (subscriber services or facilities provided at exchanges H04M 3/00; prepayment telephone coin boxes H04M 17/00; current supply arrangements H04M 19/08)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers;

Arrangements for indicating or recording called number or number of calling subscriber at the substation equipment;

Arrangements for answering calls and for recording messages and conversations at the substation equipment;

Substation extension, e.g. cordless telephones;

Arrangements for testing;

User guidance features in telephone sets;

Devices for signalling identity of wanted subscriber, e.g. telephone directories;

Substation equipment including speech amplifiers;

Arrangements for preventing unauthorized or fraudulent calling.

User interfaces for telephones applications.

Relationships with other classification places

Arrangements for services at the substation equipment are classified here. Arrangements for services at exchanges are classified at H04M 3/00

Public telephone booth E04H 1/14.

Subscriber network interface devices H04Q 1/028.

Terminal devices adapted for wireless communication networks H04W 88/02 (not for constructional features of portable telephones).

Portable transceivers H04B 1/3827

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Subscriber services or facilities provided at exchanges

H04M 3/00

Prepayment telephone coin boxes

H04M 17/00

Current supply arrangements

H04M 19/08

{Telephone sets using electrooptical means in the transmission path}
Relationships with other classification places

Transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio waves: H04B 10/00

Constructional features of telephone sets
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Portable telephone sets

H04M 1/0202- H04M 1/0279

Casings, cabinets or drawers for electric apparatus in general

H05K 5/00

{Portable telephone sets, e.g. cordless phones, mobile phones or bar type handsets (constructional features of telephone transmitters or receivers, e.g. of speakers or microphones H04M 1/03)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Constructional features of portable telephones. It is irrelevant whether they are mobile phones or handsets of a cordless phone having a local base station (e.g. DECT) at the user's premises. This group is intended to contain only candy-bar type telephone having no moving parts. For portable telephones having moving parts see below.

Example:

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Relationships with other classification places

For portable computers: G06F 1/1613

For portable transceivers per se: H04B 1/3827

For wristwatch telephones: H04B 1/385

For SIM card holding means: H04B 1/3816

For constructional features of portable transmitters: H04B 1/034

For constructional features of casing for electrical apparatus in general: H05K 5/00

For constructional features of portable and battery operated apparatuses: H05K 5/0086

For antenna support and mounting means for mobile phones: H01Q 1/241

Toy telephones: A63H 33/3016

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Constructional features of telephone transmitters or receivers, e.g. telephone handsets

H04M 1/03

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Construction or mounting dials

H04M 1/23

Arrangements for reducing RF exposure to the user

H04B 1/3838

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • mobile, cellular,
  • cordless, wireless, portable, hand-held,
  • smartphone, cellphone, handy,
  • appliance, terminal, station
{Portable telephones comprising a plurality of mechanically joined movable body parts, e.g. hinged housings}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Main aspect is the motion of body parts. This group is intended for documents that do not fit in any of the lower level groups.

Example EP1843554

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Relationships with other classification places

For portable computers: G06F 1/1615

Special rules of classification

Documents are only classified in this class when none of the lower classes applies.

{characterized by the relative motions of the body parts}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Neither rotatable nor foldable in the sense of the definitions of the classes H04M 1/0225 or H04M 1/0214: the axis of the movement is neither perpendicular nor parallel to the plane defined by the bodies in the closed position.

This group is for portable telephones having moving parts and that do not fit in any of the groups H04M 1/021, H04M 1/0214, H04M 1/0225 or H04M 1/0235.

Example: EP1659700

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{using combined folding and rotation motions (combined with translation movement H04M 1/0235)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Only foldable and rotatable phones without mechanical details of the hinge would be classified here (when combined with translation movement H04M 1/0235).

Example: US2004/0203485

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References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Slidable or telescopic telephones

H04M 1/0235

{with a two degrees of freedom mechanism, i.e. folding around a first axis and rotating around a second axis perpendicular to the first}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group is for documents disclosing details of the hinge mechanism that allow two degrees of freedom in the sense defined in the group H04M 1/021, i.e. folding around a first axis and rotating around a second axis, which is perpendicular to the first one.

Example:EP1298890

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{Foldable telephones, i.e. with body parts pivoting to an open position around an axis parallel to the plane they define in closed position (combined with translation movement H04M 1/0235)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Only foldable and portable phone without mechanical details of the hinge.

Example:EP1595386 :

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Relationships with other classification places

Foldable portable computers: G06F 1/1616.

Hinges for doors or windows E05D.

Hinged covers or doors H02B 1/38.

Hinges for casing of electrical apparatuses H05K 5/0226.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Slidable or telescopic telephones

H04M 1/0235

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Using combined folding and rotation motions

H04M 1/021

Special rules of classification

Indexing Codes will be converted to index classes and considered as additional information

{Foldable in one direction, i.e. using a one degree of freedom hinge}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group contains constructional details concerning the hinge. If the document does not provide any details concerning the hinge, the document should be classified in the group H04M 1/0214.

Example:EP1641224

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Relationships with other classification places

For portable computers: G06F 1/1681

Hinges for doors and windows: E05D

Flexible line connectors wound around the rotation axis for electrical connection of the two folding parts: H01R 35/00

Hinges including optical fibres between different housings: G02B 6/3604

{The hinge comprising input and/or output user interface means}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group is for hinges (folding in one direction) that contain input/out means like push buttons, a thumb wheel or other navigational tools. Additionally, folding portable telephones having cameras integrated in the hinge are classified here as well.

Example: US2005221865

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{The hinge comprising two parallel pivoting axes}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group is for folding portable telephones wherein the hinge comprises two paralles axes.

Example: EP1510905

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{Foldable in two directions, i.e. using a two degree of freedom hinge}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Portable communication devices foldable along two directional axis which are perpendicular to each other (Dual-axis hinge).

Example: US2006112519

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{Rotatable telephones, i.e. the body parts pivoting to an open position around an axis perpendicular to the plane they define in closed position (combined with translation movement H04M 1/0235)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group covers rotatable telephones whose body parts rotate relative to each other in the same plane as in the following Example: EP1349350

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Relationships with other classification places

For portable computers: G06F 1/1622

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Slidable or telescopic telephones

H04M 1/0235

{Rotatable in one plane, i.e. using a one degree of freedom hinge}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group contains constructional details concerning the hinge. If the document does not provide any details concerning the hinge, the document should be classified in the group H04M 1/0225.

For example: EP1615406

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Relationships with other classification places

For portable computers: G06F 1/1681

{The hinge comprising input and/or output user interface means}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group is for hinges (rotating in one direction) that contain input/out means like push buttons, a thumb wheel or other navigational tools. Additionally, rotating portable telephones having cameras integrated in the hinge are classified here as well.

For example: US2005280731

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{Including a rotatable keypad body part}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group is intended for rotating portable telephones wherein one of the rotating parts is a keyboard. If the document contains details of the hinge, the document is additionally classified in H04M 1/0227.

If there are a plurality of keyboards, the indexing code H04M 2250/18 is allocated as well.

For example: WO2005071928

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References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Construction or mounting of dials

H04M 1/23

{Including a rotatable display body part}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group is intended for rotating portable telephones wherein one of the rotating parts is a display. If the document contains details of the hinge, the document is additionally classified in H04M 1/0227.

If there are a plurality of displays, the indexing code H04M 2250/16 is allocated as well.

For example: US2005088075

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Relationships with other classification places

For portable computers: G06F 1/1622

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For mounting a display module on a telephone set

H04M 1/0266

{Slidable or telescopic telephones, i.e. with a relative translation movement of the body parts; Telephones using a combination of translation and other relative motions of the body parts}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Slidable telephones without mechanical details of the hinge.

Some examples of movement combinations:

EP1540836: Foldable and slidable.

Classes:H04M 1/0235: Main aspect.

H04M 1/0214: Foldable as additional information.

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WO2005071928: Rotatable and slidable.

Classes:

H04M 1/0235: Main aspect.

H04M 1/0233: Rotatable display as additional information.

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Relationships with other classification places

For portable computers: G06F 1/1624

Special rules of classification

Not only slidable phones would be classified here, but every possible combination (except from foldable and rotatable, classified under H04M 1/021). Thus, the non-translational movement receives an Indexing Code as the following:

Slidable + Foldable

H04M 1/0235 + H04M 1/0214 as additional information.

Slidable + Rotatable

H04M 1/0235 + H04M 1/0225 as additional information.

Slidable + Rotatable + Foldable

H04M 1/0235 + H04M 1/021 as additional information.

{Sliding mechanism with one degree of freedom}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group contains constructional details concerning the sliding mechanism (e.g. sliding bars, springs and so on). If the document does not provide any details concerning the hinge, the document should be classified in the group H04M 1/0235.

For example: EP1648145

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Relationships with other classification places

For portable computers: G06F 1/1681

{Sliding mechanism with two degree of freedom, e.g. translation in two different directions}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group conatins portable telephones wherein the housing parts can slide in two different directions (typically one perpendicular to the other one). If the document discloses mechanical details of the hinge, the code H04M 1/0237 is additionally allocated.

For example: WO2005071928

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{using relative motion of the body parts to change the operational status of the telephone set, e.g. switching on/off, answering incoming call}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Portable telephones having moving parts (folding, rotating, sliding) whereby the position of the moving parts is detected and is used for performing an action (e.g. selecting an operating mode, answering a call, switch on/off a display or its backlight).

For example: US2005136853

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'The method comprises the steps of detecting a relative position of the first electronic element relative to the second electronic element, and selecting an operational mode of the device based on the relative position'

Classification:

H04M 1/0241: Relative position.

H04M 1/0212: Details of foldable and rotatable hinge as additional information.

Relationships with other classification places

For portable computers

G06F 1/1675, G06F 1/1677

Special rules of classification

When the main aspect is the relative position of the body parts, then the type of movement would be classified as Indexing Code or additional information.

Foldable and rotatable phones with relative position detectors are classified here, as their functionality depends on a combination of both open/close positions and the relative angle between housings.

{using the relative angle between housings}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mainly for rotatable phones, which apart from close (0°) and open (90° or 180°) positions have other 'intermediate' positions, with different functionalities.

Example: US2006035685

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'the second housing ( 120 ) may have multiple positions relative to the first housing ( 220 ) in which each position activates a particular function of the device ( 100 ).'

Classification:

H04M 1/0243: Relative angle.

H04M 1/0227: Important details of rotatable hinge as additional information.

However, there are also those foldable telephones which detect not only an open/close condition, but the whole range:

Example: EP1601165

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the relative angle of aperture controls foldable or rotatable phone. Classification:

H04M 1/0243: Relative angle.

H04M 1/0214: Foldable phone as additional information.

H04M 1/0225: Rotatable phone as additional information.

{using open/close detection}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mainly for foldable and slidable phone.

Example US2003064688

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Slidable telephone with position detectors to control its functionality. Classification:

H04M 1/0245: Open/close condition.

H04M 1/0235: Slidable phone without important constructional hinge details as additional information.

Relationships with other classification places

For portable computers: G06F 1/1677

{comprising more than two body parts}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Portable telephones having at least three movable parts (folding, rotating, sliding). The type of movement is classified as additional information.

Example EP1396982: 3-body rotatable telephone.

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Classes:

H04M 1/0247: Main aspect.

H04M 1/0231: Rotatable keypad as additional information.

{Details of the mechanical connection between the housing parts or relating to the method of assembly}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Constructional assembly of a mobile phone. Details about the interconnection of the main housing parts. How the device is kept together.

For user replaceable housings having a decorative purpose see H04M 1/0283.

This class is also for application dealing with methods disclosing how to assemble the telephone set during manufacturing.

Example: EP2180668

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Relationships with other classification places

Casing and cabinets comprising several parts forming a closed housing: H05K 5/00

{by means of a snap-on mechanism}
Definition statement

This place covers:

When the connection is done by pressing the housing portions together (press-fit or snap-on mechanism).

Also for applications where a special tool is required to separate the housing.

Example: EP2219349

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Other examples:

US2004053649

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DE10314171

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.

{comprising one or a plurality of mechanically detachable modules}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mechanical assembly of a portable communication device comprising a plurality of detachable modules.

Example: WO2008017728. A communication device comprises a first structural module (101) with a power source (120), as well as second (102), and third (103) structural modules

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Relationships with other classification places

For personal computers: G06F 1/1656

Detachable keyboards for portable computers: G06F 1/1669

Special rules of classification

For a detachable accessory providing an expanded functionality to the communication device when connected to the same: H04M 1/72409.

{wherein the modules are operable in the detached state, e.g. one module for the user interface and one module for the transceiver}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mechanical assembly of a portable communication device comprising a plurality of detachable modules which may communicate between each other via a wireless link when they are detached from each other

Example: US2008167080. An improved portable mobile phone is disclosed wherein the mobile phone comprises two modules and the mobile phone can function properly when the two modules are physically connected as well as when the two modules are detached

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Special rules of classification

For an accessory providing an expandable functionality to the communication device and communicating with the same by using a short range radio link as the Bluetooth interface: H04M 1/72412.

{for a headset device}
Definition statement

This place covers:

The headset is fitted in a special compartment of the device when not in use.

Example :US2008090626

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References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Constructional features of headsets for use on head, throat or breast

H04M 1/05

Headsets for earphones to a mobile phone for hands-free use

H04M 1/6058

{Details of the structure or mounting of specific components}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mounting of specific components other than acoustic transducers like microphones and speakers.

The latching mechanism 10 is configured for mounting an accessory member 32 to a housing 31 of a portable electronic device 30.

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References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Constructional features of telephone transmitters or receivers, e.g. of speakers or microphones

H04M 1/03

For portable computers

G06F 1/1633

{for a battery compartment}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mounting of a battery module in a portable communication device

Example: WO9966697

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Relationships with other classification places

For portable computers

G06F 1/1635

For general aspect of mounting batteries in a portable device housing

H01M 50/20

For battery mounting in a portable transceiver

H04B 1/3883

Portable or battery operated apparatus

H05K 5/0086

{for a camera module assembly}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mounting of a camera module in a portable communication device.

Example EP1267576. A camera module (30) is rotatably assembled between the inner sides of the rotary hinge support portions.

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Relationships with other classification places

For a camera module in portable computers: G06F 1/1686

For constructional details of videotelephones: H04N 7/142

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Photo or video cameras per se

G03B

Television cameras

H04N 23/00

{for a display module assembly}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mounting of a display module in a portable communication device

In the device (100), the flat-board-like display unit (200) provided with a display drive section (213) that drives a liquid crystal display section (211) is attached to a first case (110) with a metal rear plate (160) there between.

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References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Mechanical mounting details of display modules for fixed telephones

H04M 1/0295

For portable computers

G06F 1/1633

{including a flexible display panel}
Definition statement

This place covers:

The display being extendable and retractable.

Example :WO2005114309. The display device has an inner housing with inner slot through which a bend region of a rollable display device portion is disposed.

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Relationships with other classification places

For personal computers: G06F 1/1652

{including magnifying means}
Definition statement

This place covers:

A corrective lens (6), adapted to magnify the characters shown on the display, being associated with the display.

Example EP1643734

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Relationships with other classification places

For magnifying glasses per se: G02B 25/002

{for an electrical connector module}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mounting of an electrical connector in a portable communication device for connecting an accessory or external apparatus.

Example EP2239928. A portable electronic device includes a first slidable body (110), a second body (120), a motion assembly (132), a connector (140), and an ejector (150)

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Relationships with other classification places

Connectors per se: H01R

{for a printed circuit board assembly}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means for securing a printed circuit boards to the inside of a portable telephone.

Examples:

US6728112. A fastening module (1) for a printed circuit board (10) of a portable electronic device includes the printed circuit board and a casing (20). The casing includes at least one supporting plate (23, 25) and at least one clamp (22).

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US6041120

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Relationships with other classification places

Manufacturing printed circuits and assembling with electrical components: H05K 3/00

{Improving the user comfort or ergonomics}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Portable telephones having means for improving the user comfort or ergonomics.

Example US2010210329. Hand held, ergonomic grip having a portable telephone device removably coupled thereto

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Relationships with other classification places

Personal computers with ergonomic disposition of keys: G06F 1/1664

Ergonomic functions for miniature keyboards : H01H 13/84

{for providing single handed use or left/right hand conversion}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Constructional features allowing single hand use. Also for applications dealing with constructional aspects allowing right or left hand use.

An ergonomic housing that is shaped to fit comfortably in the palm of a human hand.

Example US6164853

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{for providing a decorative aspect, e.g. customization of casings, exchangeable faceplate}
Definition statement

This place covers:

User replaceable covers having a decorative function. If after changing the cover there is a change in the functionality see also H04M 1/7246.

This class also includes handsets made of precious metals or with other aesthetic improvements.

Housing with decorative pattern area.

Example US2010085690

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Special rules of classification

H04M 1/7246 when the exchange of a faceplate modifies the functionality of the device

{Pen-type handsets}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Portable telephone having a pen shape or form factor.

Examples:

US2009251338.

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DE19922777

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Relationships with other classification places

Pen or stylus-type devices: G06F 3/03545

{Telephone sets for operators}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mechanical arrangements for connecting expansion modules to telephone sets

Example US7500880

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{Door telephones}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Constructional features of a door telephone, intercom, or interphone.

Example US2004091092.

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Relationships with other classification places

Video door telephones: H04N 7/186

Door telephone systems: H04M 11/025

{Terminal boxes for telephone sets}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Constructional features of junction boxes (23) for connecting a telephone set to a telephone line.

Example US2003040223.

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Relationships with other classification places

Conductive connections between two or more conductive members: H01R

{Mechanical mounting details of display modules}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Mechanical mounting details of display modules for portable telephones

H04M 1/0266

{Telephone sets adapted to be mounted on a desk or on a wall}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Convertible desk-to-wall support for handheld devices.

Example US6130521

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Constructional features of telephone transmitters or receivers, e.g. telephone hand-sets
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mounting of a microphone and a loudspeaker in the telephone handset.

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Relationships with other classification places

Acoustic transducers per se: H04R 1/00

Mounting of acoustic transducers in a portable computer: G06F 1/1688

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Transducers in general

H04R 1/00

Special rules of classification

Mounting of an additional speaker/microphone in a fixed telephone set for handsfree use H04M 1/62.

{Improving the acoustic characteristics by means of constructional features of the housing, e.g. ribs, walls, resonating chambers or cavities}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means for improving or changing the acoustic characteristics of acoustic transducers (microphones, loudspeakers). Resonating chambers being provided on the back of the transducer, sound channels in housings.

For example EP0275996 : a sound passage opening (7) is disposed on the inside of the lid, connecting with at least one sound feeding channel (8) inside the lid for guiding sound waves to the microphone (3):

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Supports for telephone transmitters or receivers
Definition statement

This place covers:

Constructional features of a holster, holding device or docking station for fastening or supporting a portable telephone.

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Relationships with other classification places

Holders and other arrangements for carrying hand articles: A45F 5/02

Docking stations designed for portable computers: G06F 1/1632

Docking stations designed for a portable telephone in a vehicle: B60R 11/0241

Battery charging apparatuses: H02J 7/00

Casings to carry and protect a portable transceiver: H04B 1/3888

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Supports for a fixed telephone set

H04M 1/11

Transducers in general

H04R 1/00

Special rules of classification

H04M 1/72409 when the docking station provides additional functionality to the portable telephone.

specially adapted for use on head, throat or breast
Definition statement

This place covers:

Constructional features of devices for adapting a telephone handset for use on head, throat or breast.

Constructional features of headsets or earphones adapted for telephone communication

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Relationships with other classification places

Constructional features of earpieces per se and attachments for the same: H04R 1/08, H04R 1/10

Portable transceivers carried on the body: H04B 1/385

Head-up displays: G02B 27/01

Hearing aids per se: H04R 25/00

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Portable telephones adapted for handsfree use

H04M 1/6041

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • earphones
  • earpiece
  • earset
  • earplug
  • headphone
  • headset
  • microtelephone
  • hearing aid
Hooks; Cradles
Definition statement

This place covers:

For fixed telephone sets only.

associated with switches operated by the weight of the receiver or hand-set
Definition statement

This place covers:

Telephone cradle switch. Example: EP1005208

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Special rules of classification

for an answering machine H04M 1/6545.

Supports for sets, e.g. incorporating armrests
Definition statement

This place covers:

Supports for fixed telephone sets (meaning the whole telephone set housing).

Example:EP1467541

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Relationships with other classification places

Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon: F16M 11/00

Adjustable supports, e.g. extensible
Definition statement

This place covers:

Telescopic arm and carrying platform for the telephone set

Protecting or guiding telephone cords
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means for storing or protecting a telephone cord. Typically for fixed telephone sets. Documents relating to portable telephones having means for storing or protecting the cord of a headset are also classified in this group.

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Relationships with other classification places

For guiding electric cables in general: H02G 11/00

Devices for handling or storing cables: B65H 75/44

Hygienic or sanitary devices on telephone equipment (for mouthpieces or earpieces H04R 1/12)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Sanitary or hygienic devices for mouthpieces or earpieces

H04R 1/12

Telephone sets specially adapted for use in ships, mines, or other places exposed to adverse environment (H04M 1/19 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Water or dust resistant fixed telephone sets or mobile phones.

Relationships with other classification places

Modified payphones: H04M 17/026

Hermetically sealed housings: H05K 5/06

For keys and buttons: dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof or flameproof casings: H01H 13/06

Protective enclosures for remote controls devices: H01H 9/0242

Telephone cabinets or booths per se: E04H 1/14

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Arrangements of transmitters, receivers, or complete sets to prevent eavesdropping

H04M 1/19

Arrangements of transmitters, receivers, or complete sets to prevent eavesdropping, to attenuate local noise or to prevent undesired transmission; Mouthpieces or receivers specially adapted therefor (circuit arrangements for preventing eavesdropping H04M 1/68; telephone cabinets E04H 1/14)
Definition statement

This place covers:

All mechanical means for preventing noise from reaching the microphone (Directional microphones).

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Relationships with other classification places

Voice analysis or recognition and noise suppression per se: G10L

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Circuit arrangements for preventing eavesdropping

H04M 1/68

Telephone cabinets

E04H 1/14

Arrangements for preventing acoustic feed-back (H04M 1/62 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Telephone sets with mechanical arrangements for preventing acoustic feedback between microphone and loudspeaker.

Example WO0049788. The telephone handset has a microphone (2) with a unidirectional direction characteristic

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Relationships with other classification places

Electrical and circuit aspects of echo cancellers for two way loudspeaking telephone sets: H04M 9/08

Echo cancellers per se on line transmission systems: H04B 3/20

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Constructional arrangements

H04M 1/62

Combinations with auxiliary equipment, e.g. with clocks or memoranda pads
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structural integration of gadgets physically associated with the telephone (watches, agendas, bottle openers, thermometers, razor) which do not modify the functionality of the telephone. Personal electronics device with cosmetics compartment

Example US2009166247.

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by non-intrusive coupling means, e.g. acoustic couplers
Definition statement

This place covers:

The auxiliary equipment is connected without modifications to the telephone's circuit.

{Acoustic coupling}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Acoustic couplers for modems.

Relationships with other classification places

Communication by means of acoustic waves: H04B 11/00

Illumination; Arrangements for improving the visibility of characters on dials
Definition statement

This place covers:

Light source in combination with a fixed or portable telephone.

Includes also the backlighting of displays.

Relationships with other classification places

Illumination of keys per se: H01H 13/023

Illumination for keyboards: H01H 13/83

Illumination devices in combination with telephones: F21V 33/0052

Control of back illumination for visual indicators: G09G 3/3406

Combination of camera with lighting apparatus: G03B 15/03

Construction or mounting of dials or of equivalent devices; Means for facilitating the use thereof (by improving visibility H04M 1/22)
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group relates to the mounting of a keyboard in the telephone set housing.

Relationships with other classification places

Constructional structure of an array of key-operated switches per se e.g. keyboard: H01H 13/70

Keys with feedback: H01H 13/84

For personal computers: G06F 1/1662

With ergonomic disposition of keys: G06F 1/1664

Detachable keyboards for portable computers: G06F 1/1669

Special rules of classification

H04M 1/22 takes precedence for improving visibility.

{including a pointing device, e.g. roller key, track ball, rocker switch or joystick (constructional details of pointing devices per se G06F 3/033)}
Relationships with other classification places

Constructional details of pointing devices for personal computers: G06F 3/033.

{including keys on side or rear faces}
Relationships with other classification places

Special purposes keys or auxiliary keyboards for personal computers: G06F 1/1671

Arrangements for testing
Definition statement

This place covers:

Testing arrangements located in the subscriber set.

Relationships with other classification places

Subscriber line supervision and monitoring circuits at the exchange: H04M 3/2272.

Automatic routine testing for subscriber lines: H04M 3/30

For wireless networks: H04W 24/06, H04W 24/08

For line transmission systems in general: H04B 3/46

Testing/monitoring in general: H04B 17/00

Testing of printed circuit boards: G01R 31/2801

Testing transducers: H04R 29/00

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Measuring electric values

G01R

Testing transducers

H04R 29/00

Telephone sets including user guidance or feature selection means facilitating their use (user interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones H04M 1/724)
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group is only meant for fixed telephone sets.

Enhanced GUI for activating services provided by the exchange by using special function keys.

Relationships with other classification places

Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers: H04M 3/42

Interaction techniques with a graphical user interface per se: G06F 3/048

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones

H04M 1/724

{Configurable and interactive telephone terminals with subscriber controlled features modifications, e.g. with ADSI capability [Analog Display Services Interface] (systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers H04M 3/42; administration or customization of services H04M 3/42136; by downloading data to substation equipment H04M 3/42178)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Subscriber interaction with the exchange to configure the features of the telephone set

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers

H04M 3/42

Administration or customisation of services:

H04M 3/42136

By downloading data to substation equipment

H04M 3/42178

{with programmable function keys}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Downloading features or services related to certain keys and requested by the subscriber from the exchange.

Relationships with other classification places

By downloading data to the subscriber set

{Telephone terminals interfacing a personal computer, e.g. using an API (Application Programming Interface) (details of API H04M 7/0021)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Extended functionality of a telephone set when combined with a personal computer on the subscriber side.

Relationships with other classification places

Arrangements which combine a telephonic equipment with a computer

Details of Application programming interfaces

Private branch exchange with computer telephony integration (CTI)

{Telephone terminals specially adapted for disabled people (user interfaces for cordless or mobile telephones specially adapted for disabled users H04M 1/72475; network based special services or facilities for hearing-impaired persons H04M 3/42391; devices for conversing with the deaf-blind G09B 21/04)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group and subgroups are only meant for fixed telephone sets.

Relationships with other classification places

Analogous equipment in the exchange: H04M 3/42391

Devices for conversing with the deaf-blind: G09B 21/04

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

User interfaces for cordless or mobile telephones specially adapted for disabled users

H04M 1/72475

Network based special services or facilities for hearing-impaired persons

H04M 3/42391

Devices for conversing with the deaf-blind

G09B 21/04

{for a hearing impaired user}
Relationships with other classification places

Hearing-aids per se

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Deaf-aid sets

H04R 25/00

{for selecting a function from a menu display (H04M 1/2474 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group is only meant for fixed telephone sets.

User interaction with a menu display for selecting telephonic applications.

Relationships with other classification places

Interaction techniques with a graphical user interface per se

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Same subject-matter for mobile phones.

H04M 1/72469

Special rules of classification

H04M 1/2474 takes precedence.

{Telephone terminals specially adapted for non-voice services, e.g. email, internet access (centralized arrangements where telephones services are combined H04M 7/0024; for recording text messages H04M 3/5322; for accessing Internet H04M 3/4938)}
Relationships with other classification places

Text-based messaging services in telephone networks such as PSTN or ISDN

Centralised arrangements for recording text messages

Centralised arrangements providing data services like text-based messaging, instant messaging, short message service, electronic mail, or multimedia messaging

For accessing Internet

Interactive information services

Telephone sets using digital voice transmission
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group has not properly evolved as the ISDN telephone sets have been classified in the group H04Q 11/0471 from their origin onwards.

Relationships with other classification places

ISDN terminal access circuits

Analogue to digital conversion

Telephonic communication systems adapted for simultaneous speech and data transmission

{adapted for voice communication over an Internet Protocol [IP] network (Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) network equipment and services H04M 7/006; implementation or adaptation of Internet protocol [IP], of transmission control protocol [TCP] or of user datagram protocol [UDP] H04L 69/16)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Telephone terminals adapted for voice communication over an internet protocol (IP).

With regard to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), voice is considered in this context to be a specific form of "digital information". Since the Internet Protocol and IP networks are classified in H04L (H04L 12/00, data switching networks and H04L 41/00 - H04L 69/00, real-time communication in data packet switching networks H04L 65/00), the transmission of voice over IP networks should be classified in H04L.

When VoIP is used to emulate or simulate services, the service, as presented to the user, is still classified in H04M. Any implementation details are however classified in H04L, for example SPIT and SPAM prevention in VoIP should be classified in H04M 3/436.

Relationships with other classification places

Networks other than PSTN/ISDN providing telephone services and including a packet-switched transport layer such as the internet protocol multimedia system H04M 7/006

Implementation or adaptation of Internet protocol [IP], of transmission control protocol [TCP] or of user datagram protocol [UDP] H04L 69/16

Network arrangements, protocols or services for supporting real-time applications in data packet communication H04L 65/00

End user terminal functionalities specially adapted for real-time communication H04L 65/1059

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) network equipment and services

H04M 7/006

Internet protocols

H04L 69/16

Devices for calling a subscriber (H04M 1/66 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

General methods and devices for initiating a telephone call.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

With means for preventing unauthorized or fraudulent calling

H04M 1/66

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Constructional features

H04M 1/23

Devices whereby a plurality of signals may be stored simultaneously
Definition statement

This place covers:

Telephone terminals adapted for abbreviated dialling by storing a directory consisting of a plurality of telephone numbers.

Relationships with other classification places

Centralized directories assistance

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices disposed in the exchange with arrangements for automatic redialing

H04M 3/424

With additional connecting arrangements for providing access to frequently wanted subscribers

H04M 3/44

{controlled by voice recognition}
Definition statement

This place covers:

The telephone number is retrieved from the directory by voice recognition.

Relationships with other classification places

Voice recognition per se

Access to centralized directories by speech interaction

with provision for storing only one subscriber number at a time, e.g. by keyboard or dial
Definition statement

This place covers:

Telephone terminal storing only one telephone number.

with provision for storing more than one subscriber number at a time {, e.g. using toothed disc}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Electromechanical arrangements.

using static electronic memories, e.g. chips
References
Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

For facsimile machines

H04N 1/32037

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Addressing and accessing memory systems

G06F 12/00

Sorting, e.g. according to history or frequency of use
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sorting telephone directory items according to their frequency of use or other criteria.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Arrangements for providing access to frequently wanted subscribers at the exchange

H04M 3/44

Scrolling on a display
Definition statement

This place covers:

Retrieving a telephone number by scrolling a list of items, e.g. names or corresponding telephone numbers, on a display.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices for scrolling or navigating through a menu display

G06F 3/033

Scrolling or panning

G06F 3/0485

using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures

G06F 3/0488

using interactive graphical means or pictorial representations
Definition statement

This place covers:

Selecting a called party by means of a pictorial representation of the called party or by using interactive graphical means for accessing a directory on a display.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Interaction techniques for graphical user interfaces per se

G06F 3/048

by matching character strings
Definition statement

This place covers:

Retrieving a telephone number by matching character strings, e.g. the first letters of the name of a party to be called, with the entries of a directory.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Characters input methods by using selection from displayed items or retrieval techniques based on prediction

G06F 3/023

Appending a prefix to or inserting a pause into a dialling sequence
Definition statement

This place covers:

Calling a subscriber in a different area or country by appending an area code or international prefix to the telephone number before dialling.

Automatic dialling or redialling systems, e.g. on off-hook or redial on busy
Definition statement

This place covers:

Automatic dialling or redialling systems, also for automatic dialling of a list of telephone numbers.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Arrangements for calling back a calling subscriber

H04M 3/42195

When the wanted subscriber ceases to be busy

H04M 3/48

implemented by means of discrete electronic components, i.e. neither programmable nor microprocessor-controlled (H04M 1/27457-H04M 1/2749 take precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Management of directories

H04M 1/27457

Sorting, e.g. according to history or frequency of use

H04M 1/2746

Predictive input, predictive dialling by comparing the dialled sequence with the content of a telephone directory

H04M 1/27463

Methods of retrieving data

H04M 1/27467

Appending a prefix or inserting a pause to a dialling sequence

H04M 1/27485

Automatic call origination and retry systems

H04M 1/2749

implemented by means of portable electronic directories
Definition statement

This place covers:

Using portable electronic directories, e.g. smart card storing a telephone directory and including acoustic coupling means for generating DTMF tone sequences corresponding to telephone numbers stored in the memory.

by optical scanning
Definition statement

This place covers:

Using optical scanning, e.g. for scanning bar codes corresponding to telephone numbers.

media67.png

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Constructional details of hand-held scanners

G06K 7/10386, G06K 2007/10524

Arrangements for transferring data from a sensing device to distant stations

G06K 17/0022

Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks

G06V 30/224

by data transmission, e.g. downloading
Definition statement

This place covers:

Telephone terminals whose directory is downloaded from another terminal or from the network.

{implemented by means of portable magnetic cards}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Cards with magnetic band and without processor.

{pulses produced by electronic circuits}
Definition statement

This place covers:

The dialling sequence is generated as a succession of pulses.

Relationships with other classification places

Electronic circuits for generating pulses per se: H03K 3/00

Clutches; Spring assemblies; Speed regulators, e.g. centrifugal brakes (H04M 1/32H04M 1/40 take precedence)
Special rules of classification

H04M 1/32 - H04M 1/40 take precedence.

by generating or selecting currents of predetermined frequencies or combinations of frequencies
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuits for generating the dialling sequence as a succession of DTMF tones.

Relationships with other classification places

Circuits for detecting sequences of DTMF tones: H04Q 1/45

Generation of additional signals, e.g. additional pulses
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. Hook flash (access to additional service of the exchange by pushing the hook switch).

Relationships with other classification places

Arrangements in the exchange for transferring calls based on the information specified by the calling party: H04M 3/54, H04M 3/58

Arrangements wherein a dial or the like generates identifying signals, e.g. in party-line systems
Relationships with other classification places

Party-line systems per se: H04M 13/00

Arrangements for indicating or recording the called number at the calling subscriber's set
Relationships with other classification places

Notifying the calling party with information concerning the called party: H04M 3/42093

Arrangements for indicating or recording the number of the calling subscriber at the called subscriber's set (at the operator set in a manual exchange H04M 5/20)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Providing the called party with information about the calling party before the call is answered or during the call.

Relationships with other classification places

Notifying the called party with information on the calling party: H04M 3/42042

Where the information is included in the ringing tone: H04M 3/42051

For distinctive ringing: H04M 19/04

Identification of class of calling subscriber at the exchange: H04Q 3/70

Arrangements at a manual exchange: H04M 5/18

Special rules of classification

Blocking transmission of caller ID, H04M 1/571.

{Line monitoring circuits for detecting caller identification}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Line interface circuits for detecting the identification code of the calling party (For instance transmitted within the ringing signal).

{associated with a pictorial or graphical representation}
Definition statement

This place covers:

A picture of the calling party is displayed.

{associated with a synthesized vocal announcement}
Definition statement

This place covers:

A vocal announcement provides the identity of the calling party.

Relationships with other classification places

For distinctive ringing tones: H04M 19/04 with H04M 19/041

Anti-side-tone circuits
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuit of a telephone line interface, which couples part of the signal from the handset microphone to the loudspeaker of the same handset through the hybrid circuit.

Relationships with other classification places

Hybrid circuit arrangements for transceivers: H04B 1/58

Hybrid circuits for line transmission systems in general: H04B 3/03

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Hybrid circuits for carrier-frequency operation

H04B 1/00

{implemented without inductive element}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Anti-side tone circuit implemented only with electronic components.

Relationships with other classification places

For transceivers: H04B 1/586

including speech amplifiers
Definition statement

This place covers:

Speech amplifiers within the telephone set.

Relationships with other classification places

Control of amplification in general: H03G

{in the transmitter circuit}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Speech amplifiers related to the transmitter (microphone) circuit.

{in the receiver circuit}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Speech amplifiers related to the receiver (loudspeaker) circuit.

{implemented as integrated speech networks}
Definition statement

This place covers:

For integrated circuits performing a two-way speech circuit function.

{for providing handsfree use or a loudspeaker mode in telephone sets (arrangements for preventing acoustic echo H04M 9/08)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Handsfree use of a fixed telephone set with external microphone and loudspeaker.

Relationships with other classification places

Two-way loud-speaking systems with means for suppressing echoes and acoustic feedback: H04M 9/08

Public address systems: H04R 27/00

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Two-way loud-speaking telephone systems with means for conditioning the signal

H04M 9/08

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Constructional arrangements

H04M 1/62

{Portable telephones adapted for handsfree use}
Definition statement

This place covers:

General arrangements for providing handsfree use of a mobile phone.

Relationships with other classification places

Arrangements for holding mobile phones in vehicles: B60R 11/0241

{involving control of the receiver volume to provide a dual operational mode at close or far distance from the user}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sensing the distance between the user and the device to control the operation mode and the amplification factor of the received and/or transmitted signal.

{involving the use of a headset accessory device connected to the portable telephone}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Cable connection of a headset or earphone to the mobile phone for handsfree use.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Constructional features of headset devices

H04M 1/05

{including a wireless connection}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Wireless connection between the mobile terminal and the headset.

{adapted for handsfree use in a vehicle (H04M 1/6058 takes precedence; arrangements for holding telephones in a vehicle B60R 11/0241)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Arrangements for handsfree use of a mobile terminal in a vehicle.

Relationships with other classification places

Arrangements for holding telephones in a vehicle: B60R 11/0241

Special rules of classification

H04M 1/6058 and H04M 1/6066 take precedence.

{by interfacing with the vehicle audio system}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Coupling the mobile terminal with the on board audio or navigation system of the vehicle.

Relationships with other classification places

Navigation systems

G01C 21/00

{including a wireless interface}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Wireless interface between the on board audio or navigation system and the mobile terminal.

Relationships with other classification places

Navigation systems: G01C 21/00

Constructional arrangements
Definition statement

This place covers:

Only for fixed telephone set.

Constructional arrangements of the loudspeaker and the microphone in the telephone housing to enable handsfree use of the telephone.

Automatic arrangements for answering calls; Automatic arrangements for recording messages for absent subscribers; Arrangements for recording conversations (centralised dictation systems H04M 11/10)
Definition statement

This place covers:

When a call is placed to an unattended telephone set, an outgoing message OGM or pre-recorded speech announcement is played back to the calling party who is not invited in this case to record a response to the announcement.

Relationships with other classification places

Centralized arrangements for answering calls: H04M 3/50

Centralized dictation systems: H04M 11/10

Special rules of classification

Only for playing back a speech announcement to the calling party without recording an answer from the calling party.

{storing speech in digital form}
Relationships with other classification places

Information storage per se: G11C.

{with speech synthesis}
Definition statement

This place covers:

A synthesized speech announcement is played back to the calling party.

{using magnetic tape (H04M 1/642 takes precedence)}
Special rules of classification

H04M 1/642 takes precedence.

Recording arrangements {for recording a message from the calling party (in the exchange H04M 3/50)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

When a call is placed to an unattended telephone set, an outgoing message OGM or pre-recorded speech announcement is played back to the calling party who is invited in this case to record a response to the announcement, which response is also called incoming message .

Relationships with other classification places

Centralized arrangements for recording incoming messages: H04M 3/53

Voice mail systems: H04M 3/533

Special rules of classification

For playing back a speech announcement to the calling party and recording the calling party's answer.

{storing speech in digital form}
Relationships with other classification places

Information storage per se: G11C

{with speech synthesis}
Definition statement

This place covers:

A synthesized speech announcement is played back to the calling party

{using magnetic tape (H04M 1/6505 takes precedence)}
Special rules of classification

H04M 1/6505 takes precedence.

Means for playing back the recorded messages by remote control over a telephone line (H04M 1/658 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means for enabling the subscriber to listen to the messages which have been recorded by its telephone set during its absence by remote control.

Special rules of classification

H04M 1/658 takes precedence.

Telephone line monitoring circuits therefor, e.g. ring detectors
Definition statement

This place covers:

Specific line monitoring circuits for answering machines.

Relationships with other classification places

Telephone line interface circuits in general: H04M 1/738

Telephone line monitoring and detecting circuits in general: H04M 1/82

{mechanically actuating hook switch, e.g. lifting handset}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Answering machines with mechanical means for lifting the handset and activating the hook switch to close the line loop in response to an incoming call.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Hook switches

H04M 1/08

for recording conversations
Definition statement

This place covers:

Arrangements for recording parts or the whole speech communication in the subscriber set.

Relationships with other classification places

Conversation recording systems at the exchange: H04M 3/42221

Means for redirecting recorded messages to other extensions or equipment
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means for forwarding a recorded message from an unattended telephone set to a remote location corresponding to a pre-stored telephone number.

with means for preventing unauthorised or fraudulent calling (verifying user identity or authority in secret or secure digital communications H04L 9/32)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Telephone sets adapted for preventing unauthorized calls (incoming or outgoing calls).

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Verifying user identity or authority in secret or secure digital communications

H04L 9/32

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Restricting the functionality or the communication capability of mobile telephones under specific circumstances

H04M 1/72463

Call monitoring, e.g. for law enforcement purposes; Call tracing; Detection or prevention of malicious calls by the exchange

H04M 3/2281

Preventing unauthorised calls to a telephone set
Definition statement

This place covers:

Screening or filtering incoming calls (for instance depending on the caller identification).

Relationships with other classification places

Arrangements for screening incoming calls at the exchange: H04M 3/436, H04M 3/4365

by checking the validity of a code
Definition statement

This place covers:

The calling party has to dial a special code prior to the dialling of the telephone number (for instance a certain DTMF sequence). This special code is checked at the called telephone set to accept or deny the communication.

Relationships with other classification places

Graded services arrangements in the exchange by using authorisation codes or passwords: H04M 3/382

Preventing unauthorised calls from a telephone set (H04M 1/677 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mostly mechanical means preventing the use of a telephone set for outgoing calls.

Special rules of classification

H04M 1/677 takes precedence.

by electronic means
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuits or functional arrangements to disable or lock the telephone set for outgoing calls. This group also includes fingerprint or biometric recognition systems to enable the use of the telephone set.

Relationships with other classification places

Systems for eye/iris/retina acquisition: G06V 40/19

Access control by means of physical/biometric data: G07C 9/37

Electronic locks using biometric data for granting access: G07C 9/00563

the user being required to key in a code
Definition statement

This place covers:

The user has to key in a special code to unlock the telephone set for outgoing calls.

Relationships with other classification places

Graded services arrangements in the exchange by using authorisation codes or passwords

H04M 3/382

the user being required to insert a coded card, e.g. a smart card carrying an integrated circuit chip
Definition statement

This place covers:

The user is requested to insert a smart card in the telephone set to activate the telephone set.

Relationships with other classification places

Graded services arrangements in the exchange by using subscriber identification cards: H04M 3/387

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

IC card mounting means in a portable telephone

H04B 1/3816

Preventing the dialling or sending of predetermined telephone numbers or selected types of telephone numbers, e.g. long distance numbers
Definition statement

This place covers:

For instance preventing long distance calls by analysing the dialling sequence at the telephone set.

Arrangements with few programmed keys corresponding to a limited set of telephone numbers for local calls (special telephones for children).

Circuit arrangements for preventing eavesdropping
Definition statement

This place covers:

Arrangements provided on the path between the local telephone and the junction box.

Relationships with other classification places

Eavesdropping prevention in the exchange: H04M 3/205

Lock-out or secrecy arrangements in party-line systems
Definition statement

This place covers:

For preventing subscribers sharing the same telephone line in rural areas to listen to someone else conversation.

Relationships with other classification places

Lock-out or secrecy provision provided by the exchange in party-line systems

H04M 3/16

using two or more extensions per line (cordless telephones H04M 1/725)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Arrangements of two or more telephone sets connected to the network via the same line.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Cordless telephones

H04M 1/725

Mobile telephones; Cordless telephones, i.e. devices for establishing wireless links to base stations without route selection
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mobile telephones, i.e. cellular or wireless telephones.

Cordless telephones, i.e. devices for establishing wireless links to base stations without route selection, e.g. DECT® telephones.

Telephones adapted for both mobile and cordless operation.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Interconnection arrangements not involving centralised switching

H04M 9/00

User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones
Definition statement

This place covers:

User interfaces specially adapted for the interaction of the user with mobile or cordless telephones.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Graphical user interface for managing generic applications

G06F 3/048

Sound input; Sound output

G06F 3/16

User interface programs per se

G06F 9/451

Measuring or estimating received signal strength

H04B 17/318

Selecting a network or communication service

H04W 48/18

with means for local support of applications that increase the functionality
Definition statement

This place covers:

User interfaces with means for locally supporting a plurality of applications that provide extended functionality, further to the main telephone mode.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Operating the device by selecting functions from two or more displayed items, e.g. menus or icons

H04M 1/72469

Medical applications

A61B

Protection of digital contents (Digital rights management: DRM)

G06F 21/00

Characterised by the use of a wireless device

G06Q 20/32

Electronic marketing and advertising

G06Q 30/00

Electronic payment applications

G07F 7/00

Broadcast applications for mobile receivers

H04H 20/57

Television applications

H04N 5/00

Video phones

H04N 7/14

Two way subscription systems

H04N 7/173

by software upgrading or downloading
Definition statement

This place covers:

Extended functionality obtained by software upgrading or downloading.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Software deployment

G06F 8/60

Arrangement for program loading or initiating

G06F 9/445

by interfacing with external accessories (hands-free H04M 1/60)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Extended functionality obtained by connecting external accessories.

For example:

An expansion display unit (10) is provided with a display section (13) having a display surface larger than the display section (8) of the mobile terminal.

media68.png

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

For hands-free use

H04M 1/60

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For mechanical assembly details

H04M 1/02

using two-way short-range wireless interfaces
Definition statement

This place covers:

Extended functionality obtained by connecting external accessories via short-range radio links, e.g. Bluetooth®.

Illustrative example of the subject matter classified in H04M 1/72412

A mobile phone 10 operating as a master performs a request to establish a piconet with a computer 21, a printer 22, a PDA 23, and a headset 24 located in an operating range 20 allowing direct connection. The computer 21 can form another piconet with a speaker 30.

media69.png

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Wireless connection of a headset for handsfree use of a mobile terminal

H04M 1/6066

Near field transmission systems

H04B 5/00

Discovery or management thereof, e.g. service location protocol [SLP] or web services

H04L 67/51

Services using short range communication

H04W 4/80

Discovery of other network devices in proximity of a mobile terminal

H04W 8/005

for remote control of appliances
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mobile or cordless telephones adapted for remote control of other appliances. For example, an appliance to be controlled is selected from a list of appliances (26) on the cellular device display (22).

media70.png

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Telephonic communication systems adapted for combination with remote control systems

H04M 11/007

Arrangements for transmitting signals using a radio link

G08C 17/02

Home automation networks

H04L 12/2803

Remotely managing devices over a network

H04L 67/125

Proprietary protocols involving control of end-device applications

H04L 67/125

Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station

H04Q 9/00

for supporting emergency services
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mobile or cordless telephones with applications supporting an emergency service.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Telephonic communication systems in combination with alarm systems

H04M 11/04

Alarm systems using wireless transmission

G08B 25/10

for supporting games or graphical animations
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mobile or cordless telephones with user interfaces for interacting with game applications or for supporting graphical animations, e.g. avatars, themes or wallpapers, background screens or screen savers.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Aspects of games using an electronically generated display in general

A63F 13/00

Digital output to display device

G06F 3/14

Display control per se

G09G 3/00

with interactive means for internal management of messages
Definition statement

This place covers:

User interfaces for interacting with messaging applications (e.g. voice or text messaging, SMS or MMS) in mobile or cordless telephones.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Telephone answering machines for answering a telephone call

H04M 1/64, H04M 1/65

Mail systems for messages comprising audio and non-audio components

H04M 3/5307

Computer-aided management of electronic mailing [e-mailing]

G06Q 10/107

Message switching systems

H04L 51/00

Instant messaging

H04L 51/04

for voice messaging, e.g. dictaphones (for answering incoming calls H04M 1/64)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

For answering incoming calls

H04M 1/64

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Voice mail systems

H04M 3/533

Dictation recording and playback systems

H04M 11/10

for text messaging, e.g. short messaging services [SMS] or e-mails
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Computer-aided management of electronic mailing [e-mailing]

G06Q 10/107

Instant messaging

H04L 51/04

Short messaging services

H04W 4/14

for image or video messaging
Definition statement

This place covers:

User interfaces for interacting with image or video messaging applications, e.g. for picture transmission as attachment to a message.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Transmission of still pictures with a mobile phone

H04N 1/00307

Videophones

H04N 7/14

for supporting Internet browser applications
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Interactive information services including a voice browser

H04M 3/4938

Retrieval of information from the web e.g. using browsers

G06F 16/95

with means for adapting the functionality of the device according to specific conditions
Definition statement

This place covers:

Customisation of a mobile terminal or modification of user settings.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Telephone sets including user guidance or feature selection means facilitating their use

H04M 1/247

Communication control, user profiles

H04L 67/306

according to schedules, e.g. using calendar applications
Definition statement

This place covers:

Adapting the functionality of mobile or cordless telephones according to schedules, e.g. using calendar applications.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Office automation, time management, e.g. reminders or meetings

G06Q 10/109

Network applications for presence management

H04L 67/54

according to context-related or environment-related conditions
Definition statement

This place covers:

Adapting the functionality of cordless or mobile telephones according to events detected by a context application or according to their physical environment, e.g. by using sensors.

according to geographic location
Definition statement

This place covers:

Adapting the functionality of mobile or cordless telephones according to their locations.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Network applications adapted for the location of the user terminal

H04L 67/52

User location related services provided by wireless communication networks

H04W 4/02

by connection of exchangeable housing parts
Definition statement

This place covers:

Adapting terminal functionality by connection of exchangeable housing parts, e.g. by using interchangeable faceplates

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For changing aesthetic appearance

H04M 1/0283

to restrict the functionality of the device
Definition statement

This place covers:

Partial suppression of functionality, e.g. of ringing in theatres or hospitals.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Electronic means for preventing unauthorised calls

H04M 1/67

Network access restriction based on user location

H04W 48/04

for operating the device by selecting functions from two or more displayed items, e.g. menus or icons
Definition statement

This place covers:

For operating the device by selecting telephonic functions on menu displays, e.g. simple accept/reject icons.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

User interaction with a menu display for generic applications

G06F 3/048

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Telephonic functions

Any functions connected with the primary reason for having telephones, e.g. diverting incoming or outgoing calls to voicemail, forwarding incoming or outgoing calls to another device, sending a response message, listing all available modes for communicating with desired call parties.

specially adapted for disabled users
Definition statement

This place covers:

Portable communication devices adapted for disabled people.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Fixed telephone sets for disabled persons

H04M 1/2474

Devices for conversing with the deaf-blind

G09B 21/04

for hearing-impaired users
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Hearing-aids per se

H04R 25/00

for visually impaired users
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Arrangements for improving visibility of characters on dials

H04M 1/22

Cordless telephones (user interfaces specially adapted therefor H04M 1/724)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Cordless telephones used as extension of a telephone base station by communicating via a wireless link with the base station.

Relationships with other classification places

With regard to mobile telephony, H04M covers communication systems using wireless extensions, i.e. wireless links without selective communication, e.g. cordless telephones, which are covered by group H04M 1/72, whereas H04W covers communication networks for selectively establishing one or a plurality of wireless communication links between a desired number of users or between users and network equipment, for the purpose of transferring information via these wireless communication links.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

User interfaces specially adapted forcordless telephones

H04M 1/724

with one base station connected to a single line
Definition statement

This place covers:

Cordless telephones registered with the same and unique base station.

Radio link set-up procedures
Definition statement

This place covers:

Radio link set-up procedure between a cordless phone and the base station.

using a control channel
Definition statement

This place covers:

Radio link set-up procedure by using a control channel.

Searching for available channels
Definition statement

This place covers:

Radio link set-up procedure by selecting and using an idle communication channel.

On hold, intercom or transfer communication modes
Definition statement

This place covers:

Placing calls on hold.

Intercom functions between at least two cordless telephones registered with the same base station.

Direct communication links between two handsets without intervention of the base station. Transfer communication modes to redirect calls to other telephones.

Identification code transfer arrangements
Definition statement

This place covers:

For registration of a cordless telephone with a base station.

Battery saving arrangements
Definition statement

This place covers:

For cordless telephones only.

Relationships with other classification places

For mobile and cellular phones: H04W 52/02

For personal computers: G06F 1/3203

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Switching on/off the receiving circuit

H04B 1/1615

with a plurality of base stations connected to a plurality of lines {(for selection in cordless PBX H04W 84/16)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group refers to the head group H04M 1/725 and relates only to cordless telephones

Relationships with other classification places

Wireless PBX: H04W 84/16

Characterised by transmission of electromagnetic waves other than radio waves, e.g. infrared waves
Definition statement

This place covers:

For cordless telephones.

Interface circuits for coupling substations to external telephone lines (H04M 1/78 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Line interface circuits for fixed telephone sets.

Relationships with other classification places

Analogous interface circuits for subscriber telephone lines at the exchange: H04M 3/005

Modems and ADSL lines: H04M 11/06

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Circuit arrangements in which low-frequency speech signals proceed in one direction on the line H04M 1/78

with means for reducing interference; with means for reducing effects due to line faults
Definition statement

This place covers:

Arrangements located at the subscriber side.

Relationships with other classification places

Indicating faults in circuits or apparatuses at the exchange: H04M 3/08

Reducing interference in line transmission systems: H04B 3/28, H04B 3/30

{Protection devices or circuits for voltages surges on the line}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuit arrangements located at the subscriber side.

Relationships with other classification places

Analogous equipments at the exchange, H04M 3/18

Emergency protective circuit arrangements in general for limiting excess current or voltage without disconnection, H02H 9/00

Compensating for differences in line impedance
Definition statement

This place covers:

Line impedance adaptation implemented in the subscriber set.

Relationships with other classification places

Control of transmission and equalising in line transmission systems in general: H04B 3/04

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Transmission in general

H04B

Circuit arrangements in which low-frequency speech signals proceed in one direction on the line, while speech signals proceeding in the other direction on the line are modulated on a high-frequency carrier signal
Relationships with other classification places

Systems for transmission via power distribution lines: H04B 3/54

Repeater circuits H04B 3/38

Telephone line holding circuits
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuits arrangements on the subscriber side.

Relationships with other classification places

Call holding circuits at the exchange: H04M 3/4283

Line monitoring circuits for call progress or status discrimination {(for detecting caller identity H04M 1/573)}
Relationships with other classification places

Line supervising and monitoring at the exchange: H04M 3/2209

Line monitoring in transmission systems in general: H04B 3/46

Special rules of classification

For detecting caller identification H04M 1/573.

Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • Telephonic communication services, in particular supplementary services specifically adapted for telephonic communication provided by networks comprising any type of switching devices, such as telephone exchanges, telephone switches, softswitches, call agents or and call state control function or control protocols, such as ISDN User part [ISUP], H.323 and SIP;
  • Telephone exchanges or telephone switches, in particular digital switches which work by connecting two or more digital circuits together, according to a dialed telephone number. This main group covers both switches of Public Switched Telephone Networks, PSTN, and Private Branch Exchanges [PBX];
  • Application servers for information services, call distribution and queuing services, messaging services and conference services;
  • Arrangements for providing information services, such as Interactive Voice Response Systems, Voice Portals or Voice Browsers;
  • Centralised arrangements for answering requiring operator intervention (also referred to as a call centers), usually employing call queuing and call distribution;
  • Centralised arrangements for recording messages for absent or busy subscribers (also referred to as Voice Mail Systems);
  • Arrangements for connecting several subscribers to a common circuit (also referred to as Conference Bridges).
Relationships with other classification places
  • Services or devices which are arranged for use in substation equipment are classified in H04M 1/00, whereas services arranged for use in the exchange are classified in H04M 3/00.
  • Exchanges in and services specially provided for mobile radio systems are classified in H04W 4/00-H04W 92/00.
  • Implementation details and protocol details of networks comprising call agents, call controllers and call state control functions and/or employing the SIP or H.323 protocol are classified in H04L 65/1104 or H04L 65/1106.
  • Protocol details of call control protocols such as Q.931 and ISDN User part (ISUP) are classified in H04Q.
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Constructional details of telephone exchanges

H04Q 1/02

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Selecting arrangements

H04Q 3/00, H04Q 5/00 - H04Q 11/00

Wireless communication networks

H04W

{Applications of echo suppressors or cancellers in telephonic connections (in two-way loud-speaking telephone systems H04M 9/08, echo suppressors or cancellers per se H04B 3/20)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Two-way loud-speaking telephone systems with means for suppressing echoes or otherwise conditioning for one or other direction of traffic

H04M 9/08

Echo suppressors or cancellers in general

H04B 3/20

{Interface circuits for subscriber lines (current supply H04M 19/00 and subgroups; supervisory, monitoring or testing arrangements H04M 3/22 and subgroups; in key telephone systems H04M 9/006)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • [Digital] line cards which are modular electronic circuits on a printed circuit board.
  • The line card interfaces a telecommunication line coming from the subscriber.
  • Telephone line cards used in PSTN perform so-called BORSCHT functions.
  • A line card can terminate a line supporting voice POTS service, ISDN service or DSL service.
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

supervisory, monitoring or testing arrangements 

H04M 3/22

in key telephone systems

H04M 9/006

current supply

H04M 19/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

And for DSL service

H04M 3/007.

For ISDN service

H04Q 11/0471

Some of the BORSCHT functions or at least related functions can be found in the following groups:

R=Ringing:

H04M 3/02, H04M 19/02

O=Overvoltage:

H04M 3/18

Monitoring and testing arrangements

H04M 3/22

S=Supervision:

H04M 3/2272

T=Test access .

H04M 3/30

Exchange line cards of key telephone systems

H04M 9/006.

B=Battery feed:

H04M 19/00

Current supply arrangements in general

H04M 19/00

C=CODEC

H=Hybrid

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following abbreviations are often used:

SLIC

Subscriber Line Interface Circuit

Calling substations, e.g. by ringing (selective calling H04Q)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for ringing or otherwise calling substations as well as call notifications services where the type of notification is adapted to the specific context of the incoming call.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Constructional details and the switching fabric of a telephone exchange

H04Q

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

One-way selective calling services

H04W 4/06

Special rules of classification

Providing distinctive or selective ringing capability can also be found in H04M 19/04 when the ringing current is generated at the substation.

If the ringing tone is used as a means to notify the called party of information on the calling party, H04M 3/42051 takes priority

Indicating faults in circuits or apparatus
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements which are specifically adapted to the troubleshooting of faults or failures.

Special rules of classification

The troubleshooting of faults or failures belongs in principle to Operations, Administration, Maintenance, and Provisioning [OAM&P], which is classified in H04M 3/22, but since it is an IPC group it has been kept on the same hierarchical level.

with means for reducing interference {or noise}; with means for reducing effects due to line faults {with means for protecting lines}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means which are specifically adapted to telephone subscriber lines consisting of twisted copper pairs. For example the use of load coils or overvoltage protection arrangements are covered here.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Protective circuit arrangements in general

H02H 9/04

Arrangements for supervision, monitoring or testing
Definition statement

This place covers:

Operations, Administration, Maintenance, and Provisioning OAM&P of telephonic communication services, arrangements and application servers as mentioned in the definition statement of the main group H04M 3/00 as well as individual telephone exchanges or switches.

Furthermore, it covers call monitoring, tracing and detail recording, as well as speech quality monitoring.

This group also covers OAM&P of the metallic twisted pair subscriber line, whereby testing of physical copper line parameters is covered by H04M 3/305 and xDSL line qualification testing is covered by H04M 3/306.

Special rules of classification

As far as management of networks is concerned, one has to distinguish between telephone networks and data networks.

Management of telephone networks is classified in group H04Q 3/0062, while management of data networks is classified in groups H04L 41/00 or H04L 43/00.

Testing of crosstalk effects is classified in group H04B 3/487.

Testing for cross-talk
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Transmission in general

H04B

Statistical metering, e.g. recording occasions when traffic exceeds capacity of trunks
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Digital computers for evaluating statistical data

G06F 17/18

Graded-service arrangements, i.e. some subscribers prevented from establishing certain connections (queuing arrangements H04Q 3/64)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for preventing the establishment of certain outgoing connections either by such services as outgoing call barring, i.e. by default the establishment is prevented, or call screening, i.e. by default the establishment is allowed.

Where the prevention can be [temporarily] disabled, this is classified in the hierarchically lower groups.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Queueing arrangements

H04Q 3/64

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

With call distribution or queueing

H04M 3/523

Special rules of classification

Prevention of incoming connections is classified in H04M 3/436.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following abbreviations are often used:

FAC

Forced Authorization Codes

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • call restriction services
  • service restriction in outgoing direction
  • outgoing call barring
Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers (specially adapted for wireless communication networks H04W 4/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements which provide supplementary telephonic communication services, that is any type of service which goes beyond basic call establishment. Arrangements for which specific subgroups exist are in particular enterprise telephonic communication servers H04M 3/42314, interactive voice response systems H04M 3/493, call or contact centers H04M 3/51, voicemail systems H04M 3/533, and telephonic conference bridges H04M 3/56.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Specially adapted for wireless communication networks

H04W 4/00

Special rules of classification

The arrangements which provide the supplementary telephonic communication services are the ones mentioned in the definition statement of this subclass. Certain arrangement and protocol details are classified as mentioned in the passage "Relationship between large subject matter areas" of this subclass. Mobile application services, also referred to as mobile apps, using supplementary telephonic communication services are covered by H04W 4/16.

{Systems for anonymous communication between parties, e.g. by use of disposal contact identifiers}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for establishing a connection to and from a party which has not been identified by the other party. For example the calling party only specifies a subject or a box number published in a newspaper. Also covers disposal numbers which are only usable for a limited amount of time.

Special rules of classification

Calling Line Identification Restriction [CLIR] is covered by the combination with H04M 3/42042. Connected Line Identification Restriction [COLR] is covered by the combination with H04M 3/42093

{Customized ring-back tones}
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • Methods and arrangements providing a customized notification to the calling party that the called party is alerted, usually in the form of a customized ring-back tone. "Customized" refers to the fact that the type of notification is specific to the context of the call, for example the called party.
  • The customized ring-back tone can be provided as a service to either the calling or the called party or even both.
  • When the service is customised by the calling party, i.e. the calling party configures the different contexts, such configuration information is referred to as a profile and classified by H04M 3/42068.
  • When the service is customised by the called party, i.e. the called party configures the different contexts, such configuration information is not explicitly classified since it is considered that by default such information is present.
  • When the customized ring-back tone triggers some further activity of one of the parties such as for example storing the tone in their own profile, retrieving additional information on the tone, in particular when it relates to a piece of music or the download of the piece of music then these aspects are classified in H04M 3/42153 and/or H04M 3/42178.
  • The configuration as such is classified in H04M 3/42153 but only if the way the configuration is performed are relevant.
  • When the context is defined by the network operator, this is typically related to advertisements, which are to be classified in H04M 3/4878. What mainly distinguishes H04M 3/42017 from H04M 3/487 is the fact that the parties themselves can determine the context.
Special rules of classification

When the customized notification mentioned above relates to an advice of charge, the groups H04M 15/00 or H04L 12/14 take priority.

{Calling or Called party identification service}
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • The hierarchically highest groups H04M 3/42025, H04M 3/42034 and H04M 3/42085 are only used for additional information because most often the subject-matter to be classified does not relate to the identification as such but rather to the use of the identification for the customization of supplementary services or the presentation of the identification itself which are both covered by the hierarchically lower groups. These comprise in particular the groups H04M 3/42042 and H04M 3/42093 which cover the services calling line identification presentation [CLIP] and connected line identification presentation [COLP], was well as any more enhanced forms of presentation of information relating to one of the call parties.
  • Furthermore, all caller-dependent services should receive H04M 3/42059 as additional information and all called party-depedent services should receive H04M 3/42102. The usage of profiles is covered by either H04M 3/42068 or H04M 3/4211.
{Administration or customisation of services}
Definition statement

This place covers:

The configuration of supplementary services. Whereas OAM&P as classified in H04M 3/22 also comprises configuration of network nodes by the network operator, this group specifically covers the configuration of supplementary services that are provided to subscribers as add-ons to basic telephony. Furthermore, service interactions are covered by H04M 3/4217.

{Lines and connections with preferential service}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements where certain lines or connections are prioritised which for example is important when the system is overloaded due to failure or disaster situations.

Special rules of classification

Preferential services are often provided in the context of overload which often occurs when a disaster occurred. The disaster is a specific form of emergency situation. Overload in general is covered by H04M 3/367 whereas any services related to emergency situations are covered by H04M 2242/04. Mobile application services, also referred to as mobile apps, handling emergency, urgent or hazardous situations are covered by H04W 4/90.

{Arrangements for calling back a calling subscriber (when the wanted subscriber ceases to be busy H04M 3/48)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for any kind of return calls, as well as for call completion on no reply [CCNR]. Call completion on busy [CCBS] is covered by H04M 3/48.

This group also covers services where the calling subscriber is a requestor of a return call in order to reverse the direction of the established call, as for example in calling card services. This group is also used for storing caller identity information in the network and inform called party about all calls that came in when he was busy/absent; i.e. even though nor "recall" is initiated; this service is often referred to as missed call notification.

Special rules of classification

Arrangements for calling back a calling subscriber in the specific context of call center queuing is covered by H04M 3/5231. Arrangements for calling back the sender of a voice mail messageis covered by H04M 3/53341.

Arrangements for calling back a calling subscriber when the wanted subscriber ceases to be busy is covered by H04M 3/48 

{Arrangements at the exchange for service or number selection by voice (at the terminal H04M 1/27)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for voice dialling.

Special rules of classification

When speech recognition is additional rather than inventive information, H04M 2201/40 is used. Selection by voice as provided by interactive voice response-type systems and classified by H04M 3/493 is not explicitly classified since it is implicit in such systems.

Arrangements at a terminal for service or number selection by voice is covered by H04M 1/271

{Call pickup (comprising simultaneous alerting H04M 3/46)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Method and arrangements where a third party is capable of to answer someone else's telephone call, which is referred to as picking up a call.

Special rules of classification

Simultaneous alerting is covered by H04M 3/46. The distinction between call pickup and simultaneous alerting is not the intended destination but the terminals or partys being notified about the call. When the party answering the call has been signalled the call, H04M 3/46 takes priority.

{Conversation recording systems (at the subscriber's set H04M 1/656)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for recording a telephone conversation independent of the specific context.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Recording at the subscriber's set

H04M 1/656

Special rules of classification

If used for law enforcement purposes it should be combined with H04M 3/2281 and if used for quality assurance in call centers it should be combined with H04M 3/5175. Contrary to H04M 3/2218 it is the speech exchanged during a telephone conversation that is recorded and not any call details such as time of or parties to the call.

{Personal communication services, i.e. services related to one subscriber independent of his terminal and/or location (diverting calls from one subscriber to another subscriber, i.e. two different subscriptions H04M 3/54; selecting arrangements in intelligent networks H04Q 3/005)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for handling a call according to one of the involved parties rather than handling it according to a telephone number with a fixed association to a line as in the classical PSTN where the telephone number identifies both, the party and the line. The classical example of what this group covers is the personal number service.

The hierarchically lower groups cover in particular the following:

  • When the same line and/or substation is shared by several parties: H04M 3/42238;
  • When a multi-mode terminal moves between different access networks of which at least one is a mobile extension to a fixed access point: H04M 3/42246
  • When the subscriber is nomadic in that he uses different terminals: H04M 3/42263
Special rules of classification

This group should only be used when the subject-matter to be classified relates to the problem of overcoming the fixed association mentioned above because cellular and IP-based telephone networks inherently do not use addresses, such as telephone numbers, with such a fixed association.

Local number portability is covered by H04M/42N5.

Diversion of calls from one subscriber to another subscriber, i.e. from one subscription to another H04M 3/54 takes priority; Implementation details for such service in Intelligent Networks are covered by H04Q 3/005.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents the following expressions/words "follow-me"; "personal mobility"; "personal number service"; "portability"; "portable service"; "service profile"; "service 0700 in germany", "persönliche Rufnummer" often used.

{in networks}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for providing supplementary services relating to deregulated telephone networks or to special service telephone numbers. Three hierarchically lower groups are dedicated to

Carrier selection: H04M 3/42289

Local number portability: H04M 3/42297

Number translation services, in particular freephone: H04M 3/42306.

Special rules of classification

When the supplementary service is implemented by an Intelligent Network, H04M 2207/12 is allocated. Intelligent Networks in general are covered by H04Q 3/0029

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following abbreviations are often used:

ILEC

incumbent local exchange carrier

CLEC

competitive local exchange carriers

{in private branch exchanges}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements which are specifically adapted to a private context as for example in an office or even at home. Private in this context is the opposite of public in the Public Switched Telephone Network.

Three hierarchically lower groups are dedicated to

Special rules of classification

Multi-site arrangements which are classified in H04M 7/009

{Location-based services which utilize the location information of a target}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements where the service adapts its behaviour to the spatial context of the subscriber.

Special rules of classification

If the service itself is explicitly covered by one of the H04M 3/00 group, this group is allocated in combination.

{Presence services providing information on the willingness to communicate or the ability to communicate in terms of media capability or network connectivity}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements where the service adapts its behaviour to the personal context of the subscriber, in particular its ability and/or willingness to communicate.

Special rules of classification

If the service itself is explicitly covered by one of the H04M 3/00 groups, this group is allocated in combination.

{Text-based messaging services in telephone networks such as PSTN/ISDN, e.g. User-to-User Signalling or Short Message Service for fixed networks}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements where text messages are transmitted as add-on to signalling mechanisms for telephonic communication. Furthermore, interactions of calls and text messages such as calls triggering a message or messages triggering a call are covered here.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Short messaging service in wireless networks

H04W 4/14

Arrangements for automatic redialling (at the subscriber's set H04M 1/27)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for facilitating the redial of a recently called party.

Whereas in H04M 3/424 the recall is initiated by the calling party, in H04M 3/48 it is initiated by the network.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Arrangements for automatic redialling at the subscriber's set

H04M 1/27

Arrangements for placing incoming calls on hold
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for suppressing verbal communication to the party which has put the call on hold. Four hierarchically lower groups are dedicated to:

  • the application of call hold in the context internet dial-up: H04M 3/4281
  • circuits enabling the call hold functionality: H04M 3/4283
  • providing content potentially in the form of advertising or entertaining nature to the party which has be put on hold Music-on-hold: H04M 3/4285
  • notifying the party on hold of its removal from hold: H04M 3/4286
  • call waiting: H04M 3/4288
Arrangements for screening incoming calls {, i.e. evaluating the characteristics of a call before deciding whether to answer it (based on the calling party profile H04M 3/42059; based on location H04M 3/42348; based on presence H04M 3/42365; diversion H04M 3/54)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements where the call context is analysed in order to decide if the call is offered to the called party. If the party to be screened has defined upfront certain information that is being analysed as well, the hierarchically lower group H04M 3/4365 is to be used.

Special rules of classification

If the screening rules are stored in association with the calling party H04M 3/42059 is to be allocated in combination. In case of a spatial context, H04M 3/42348 and in case of a personal context (presence) H04M 3/42365 is to be allocated in combination. If the call which is not offered to the called party is not terminated but forwarded (diverted) to a different party, H04M 3/54 takes priority.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents the following expressions/words "do not disturb" and "incoming call barring" are often used.

Additional connecting arrangements for providing access to frequently-wanted subscribers, e.g. abbreviated dialling (at the subscriber's set H04M 1/27; automatic redialling H04M 3/424)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Additional connecting arrangements for providing access to frequently-wanted subscribers, e.g. abbreviated dialing at the subscriber's set

H04M 1/27

Automatic redialing

H04M 3/424

Arrangements for calling a number of substations in a predetermined sequence until an answer is obtained
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for alerting a number of substations of the same call. If the substations are alerted at the same time then the hierarchically lower group H04M 3/465 is to be used. This group covers features such as call coverage and call hunting.

Special rules of classification

Call distribution is to be classified in H04M 3/523. If all the substations to be alerted are associated with the same subscriber, the subject-matter is to be classified as a personal number service in H04M 3/42229. If for a specific context only one alternative [substation] is defined, the subject-matter is to be classified as call diversion in H04M 3/54.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents the following expressions/words "call hunting", "call hunt groups", "call-coverage" often used.

Arrangements for recalling a calling subscriber when the wanted subscriber ceases to be busy
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for calling back a calling subscriber when the wanted subscriber ceases to be busy; i.e. the calling subscriber is the served user in that even though the initial call is not established, a service is invoked which monitors the status of the called party (or both) to enable, when the calling party returns from busy, a "recall" from the calling to the called party. The conventional term is "Completion of calls on busy" [CCBS].

Special rules of classification

Call completion on no reply [CCNR] as well as any other call backs are covered by H04M 3/42195.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents the following abbreviations are often used:

CCBS

Call completion on busy subscriber

CCBS

Completion of calls to busy subscriber

In patent documents the following expressions/words "rückruf bei besetzt" and "anrufliste" are often used.

Arrangements for providing information services, e.g. recorded voice services or time announcements
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements where information services are provided via voice calls. The hierarchically lower groups distinguish between non-interactive (H04M 3/4872) and interactive (H04M 3/493) services but since the information to be provided is usually determined by some sort of interaction, H04M 3/493 is to be considered the default group and H04M 3/4872 only in exceptional cases. H04M 3/493 is used for interactive voice response systems and voice portals as well as for all services provided by these systems. Voice-browser based methods and arrangements are covered by H04M 3/4938.

Special rules of classification

When the information service is location-dependent, the subject-matter is to be classified by the combination of H04M 3/487 and H04M 3/42348. Information services not provided via voice calls are covered by H04L 67/02.

Centralised arrangements for answering calls; Centralised arrangements for recording messages for absent or busy subscribers (H04M 3/487 takes precedence; centralised dictation systems H04M 11/10); {Centralised arrangements for recording messages}
Definition statement

This place covers:

With the exception of hierarchically lower group H04M 3/51, centralised arrangements for answering calls, that is servers without a switching function but with access to the voice path.

The hierarchically lower group H04M 3/51 covers call centers which usually imply a queuing function whereby the calls are answered before they are distributed via an automatic call distribution to a respective agent, however a call that is not queued is essentially switched as in a conventional PBX.

The hierarchically lower group H04M 3/527 covers virtual assistants which are providing the same services a human assistant (also referred to as secretary) would provide but in an automatic way. Services relate to the handling outgoing calls, supplementary services during a call, or the handling of incoming calls. Systems facilitation the interaction between a real human assistant and the party being assisted, are classified in H04M 3/5108

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Information services (takes precedence)

H04M 3/487

Dictation recording and playback systems

H04M 11/10

Special rules of classification

If an explicit group for a specific server exist this takes priority such as for:

Centralised call answering arrangements requiring operator intervention {, e.g. call or contact centers for telemarketing}
Definition statement

This place covers:

With the exception of H04M 3/5108, call centers whereby a call center is rather a functional concept of enabling agents to handle calls, either incoming or outgoing, centrally for a legal entity like a company or a Public Safety Answering Point. H04M 3/5116 covers calls to emergency telephone numbers in general. The technical core of a call center is a queuing and distribution function which is covered by H04M 3/523. H04M 3/5108 covers methods and arrangements for facilitating the interaction between a real human assistant and the party being assisted.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Emergency calls initiated by fire, police, burglar or other alarm systems

H04M 11/04

{Details of processing calls and other types of contacts in an unified manner (unified messaging in packet-switching networks H04L 51/56)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Unified messaging in packet-switching networks

H04L 51/56

Centralised call answering arrangements not requiring operator intervention
Definition statement

This place covers:

Virtual assistants which are providing the same services a human assistant (also referred to as secretary) would provide but in an automatic way.

Special rules of classification

Methods and arrangements with a human assistant like a secretary or a call center agent are covered by H04M 3/51 or H04M 3/60 when it is a switchboard operator using an attendant console. When the specific service provided by the virtual assistant is a directory service, H04M 3/4935 takes priority.

Centralised arrangements for recording incoming messages {, i.e. mailbox systems}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mailbox systems and services, in particular voice mail systems. Other types of messaging are only covered as far as they predominantly relate to voice or are provided by telephonic communication systems such as for example fax.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Centralised arrangements for recording facsimile documents

H04N 1/324

Special rules of classification

Services which combine telephonic communication and predominately text-based messaging are covered by H04M 7/0042 - H04M 7/0054. Predominantly text-based messaging as such is classified in H04L 51/00, e.g. e-mail or instant messaging.

Arrangements for diverting calls for one subscriber to another predetermined subscriber {(based on the calling party profile H04M 3/42059; based on location H04M 3/42348; based on presence H04M 3/42365; to voice mail H04M 3/53308)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for call diversion, that is the redirection of a call from one destination to another alternative destination.

Special rules of classification

If it is context specific if the redirection should take place and to what destination, other groups as mentioned in the title are to be allocated in combination. Many other services like personal number service, the number translation services as well as call coverage and hunt groups also direct the call to a destination not explicitly specified by the calling party but their motivation is different from that of providing per context one specific alternative for the called party. The most prevalent contexts are call forwarding unconditional, call forwarding on busy and call forwarding on no reply/no answer. It the diversion is to voice mail H04M 3/53308 takes priority.

If the diversion rules are stored in association with the calling party H04M 3/42059 is to be allocated in combination. In case of a spatial context (location), H04M 3/42348 and in case of a personal context (presence) H04M 3/42365 is to be allocated in combination. If the call which is not offered to the called party is terminated without forwarding, H04M 3/436 takes priority.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents the following expressions/words call forwarding, "call diversion", "call redirection" , "call deflection", "anrufweiterleitung", "anrufumleitung" and "anrufweiterschaltung" are often used.

Arrangements for connecting several subscribers to a common circuit, i.e. affording conference facilities (video conference systems H04N 7/15)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangement for providing conference calling, that is a multiparty conversation. Features which facilitate the user interaction with the conference arrangements are covered by H04M 3/563.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Computer conferences

H04L 12/1813

Video conference systems

H04N 7/15

Special rules of classification

When the application does not predominantly relates to multiparty conversation but multiparty collaboration the subject-matter is to be classified in either H04L 12/1813 for computer conferences or H04N 7/15 for video conference systems. Only in case of different medias supplementing a predominantly audio-based conference, H04M 3/567 is to be used.

Audio processing such as mixing and spatial distribution is only covered as long as it does not relate to sound field processing per se which is covered by H04S 7/30 or echo suppression which is covered by H04M 9/02.

Protocols for floor control are covered by H04L 65/403.

{relating to a participants right to speak (arrangements for multi-party communication with floor control, e.g. for conferences, H04L 65/4038, H04L 65/4046, H04L 65/4053)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Arrangements for multi-party communication with floor control, e.g. for conferences

H04L 65/4038

Arrangements for multi-party communication with distributed floor control, e.g. for conferences

H04L 65/4046

Arrangements for multi-party communication without distributed floor control, e.g. for conferences

H04L 65/4053

Arrangements for transferring received calls from one subscriber to another; Arrangements affording interim conversations between either the calling or the called party and a third party (substation line holding circuits H04M 1/80)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Method and arrangements for transferring an ongoing call. The term "transfer" is to be construed narrowly because documents related to services like call forwarding use the term "transfer" where, contrary to the present case, the call is not "ongoing"

Special rules of classification

Substation line holding circuits are covered by H04M 1/80.

Semi-automatic systems, i.e. in which the numerical selection of the outgoing line is under the control of an operator
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements where a switchboard operator is been given access to telephonic communication services, for example via an attendant console of a private branch exchange.

Whereas the switchboard operator is an intermediate person which initially answers the call in order to assist in finding the final destination a call center operator is in general the final destination.

Special rules of classification

If the intermediate is an interactive voice response system H04M 3/5166 takes priority.

Synonyms and Keywords

The following expressions are often used in this context: switchboard operator, attendant console, receptionist

Manual exchanges (substation equipment in general H04M 1/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Arrangement which provide for manually connecting a group of telephone lines mutually to one another or to an outside line by way of plug and socket. When the manual operation only consists in the [numerical] selection of the other line, then this is covered by H04M 3/60.

Constructional details (jacks, jack-plugs H01R 24/58)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Jacks, jack-plugs

H01R 24/58

Arrangements for interconnection between switching centres
Definition statement

This place covers:

Interconnection arrangements between switching centres, id est telephonic communication networks rather than individual switches.

Internet telephony and traditional circuit-switched telephony requiring interworking between the two, see in this respect also ITU-T Recommendation Y.2261, "PSTN/ISDN evolution to NGN".

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Transmission arrangements in general

H04B

Selecting arrangements

H04Q 3/00

Special rules of classification

Whereas H04M relates to telephonic communications in general, in the context of H04M 7/00 distinction is made between circuit-switched CS and packet-switched PS networks providing telephonic communications.

In this respect, some groups relate only to CS, others to the interworking of CS and PS, H04M 7/009 is used independent of CS or PS and H04M 7/006 is used only for PS.

H04M 7/0003: CS-PS-interworking

H04M 7/0012: CS-PS-interworking

H04M 7/0024: CS-PS-interworking

H04M 7/009: CS-PS agnostic

H04M 7/0096: CS (not active)

H04M 7/06: only used for CS-PS-interworking

H04M 7/08: CS (not active)

H04M 7/12: CS-PS-interworking

H04M 7/14: CS (not active)

H04M 7/16: CS (not active)

{Details of application programming interfaces [API] for telephone networks; Arrangements which combine a telephonic communication equipment and a computer, i.e. computer telephony integration [CPI] arrangements}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Arrangements which allow interactions on a telephone and a computer to be integrated or coordinated. The main focus of this group relates to architectural modifications in terms of nodes and their interaction which are potentially more generic than a single service.

Furthermore, this group covers Application Programming Interfaces for telephonic communication networks such as CSTA, JTAPI, TSAPI and TAPI for private networks but also Parlay, Parlay X and its successors for public networks.

Special rules of classification

Specific services provided over already existing arrangements covered by this group are covered by H04M 7/0024. Private Branch Exchanges with Computer Telephony Integration arrangements are covered by H04M 3/42323 and Call or Contact Centers with Computer Telephony Integration arrangements are covered by H04M 3/5183.

{Services and arrangements where telephone services are combined with data services (arrangements which combine a telephonic equipment and a computer H04M 7/0012)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Services which combine telephonic communication with data services and the combined service is predominantly a telephonic communication service. E.g. Click to dial is covered by H04M 7/003.

Special rules of classification

If the combined service is predominantly a data service than H04L takes priority. Modifications, in particular regarding the arrangement or the application programming interface which are more generic and not specific to an individual service are covered by H04M 7/0012. In other words, platform modifications are covered by H04M 7/0012 whereas individual services are covered in H04M 7/0024.

{where the data service is provided by a stream of packets which are rendered in real time by the receiving terminal (network streaming of media packets H04L 65/60)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Network streaming of media packets

H04L 65/60

{Networks other than PSTN/ISDN providing telephone service, e.g. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) , including next generation networks with a packet-switched transport layer (H04L 65/00 takes precedence; aspects not specific to the type of network H04M 3/00; special services in those networks H04M 3/42)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements where telephonic communication is provided over packet-switched networks.

Access arrangements for conventional telephones, in particular residential gateways.

OAM&P and security aspects in the context of packet-switched telephony if they are specific to telephonic communications.

Special rules of classification

H04L 65/00 takes precedence. This group is only to be used in combination with a group in H04M 3/00 and any aspects not specific to the type of network are covered only be H04M 3/00 and lower groups whereby in particular the special services are classified in H04M 3/42 and lower. Furthermore, any modifications to the packet-switched network that are required to provide the telephonic communication service are covered by H04L. If the telephonic communication is provided over a network where packet-switched and circuit-switched networks interact, this is covered by H04M 7/1205

Security aspects in packet-switched networks in general are covered by H04L 63/00 and OAM&P for packet-switched networks in general is covered by H04L 41/00 and H04L 41/06.

{in systems involving PBX or KTS networks}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Multi-site arrangements for what is covered otherwise by H04M 3/42314.

{Trunk circuits}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group relates to circuit-switched networks but is not active.

using auxiliary connections for control or supervision {, e.g. where the auxiliary connection is a signalling system number 7 link}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Common channel signalling but only in relation to packet-switched network [signalling] such as SIGTRAN which relates to SS7 over IP, Bearer Independent Call Control BICC, or SIP-T which relates to the encapsulation of SS7 in SIP.

Special rules of classification

Protocol interworking without encapsulation is covered by H04M 7/126

for phantom working {(phantom working in transmission of digital information H04L 5/20)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group relates to circuit-switched networks but is not active.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Phantom working in transmission of digital information

H04L 5/20

{where the types of switching equipement comprises PSTN/ISDN equipment and switching equipment of networks other than PSTN/ISDN, e.g. Internet Protocol networks}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for interworking circuit-switched and packet-switched telephonic communications networks.

{Details of network access arrangements or protocols}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements where it can be distinguished between access and core network and only the access network is being modified.

{Details of core network interconnection arrangements}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements where the networks that are being interconnected are hierarchically on the same level, contrary to H04M 7/121 where the access network is hierarchically lower than the core network. When the circuit-switched network is a wireless core network this is covered by H04M 7/1235 and when the packet-switched network is an IP Multimedia System this is covered by H04M 7/123

{where PSTN/ISDN interconnects two networks other than PSTN/ISDN}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements where the circuit-switched network is involved for the establishment of calls between terminals directly connected to packet-switched networks

Special rules of classification

This group essentially covers Personal Computer to Personal computer scenarios, whereas other scenarios are covered by H04M 7/1245

{where a network other than PSTN/ISDN interconnects two PSTN/ISDN networks}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements where at least one terminal is directly connected to a circuit-switched network, Also covers IP trunking.

Special rules of classification

This group essentially covers Phone to Personal Computer, Personal Computer to Phone and Phone to Phone scenarios, whereas Personal Computer to Personal Computer scenarios are covered by H04M 7/124.

{Details of gateway equipment}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Details of circuit-switched packet-switched gateways which are not covered explicitly by any of the groups H04M 7/126, H04M 7/1275, H04M 7/128, H04M 7/1285, H04M 7/129, H04M 7/1295.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Data switching network gateways

H04L 12/66, H04L 65/102

{Interworking of session control protocols}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Interworking of signalling systems for circuit-switched systems such as SS7 or DSS1, and signalling systems for packet-switched systems such as SIP or H.323.

{Methods and means to improve the telephone service quality, e.g. reservation, prioritisation or admission control}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods in gateways directed to handle a plurality of subscribers. These are potentially carrier-graded gateways rather than residential gateways which are covered by H04M 7/0069

{Details of addressing, directories or routing tables}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements which provide for the interworking of address of the different signalling systems as mentioned with respect to H04M 7/126, in particular E.164 telephone numbers, also referred to as E.164 Number Mapping, and SIP Uniform Resource Identifiers.

{Details of finding and selecting a gateway for a particular call}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements relating to path-finding.

Special rules of classification

Least cost routing is covered by H04M 15/00.

{Details of providing call progress tones or announcements}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for handling call progress tones known from circuit-switched networks in packet-switched network

Special rules of classification

Methods and arrangements for providing ringing current or supervisory tones in circuit-switched networks is covered by H04M 19/02.

{Details of dual tone multiple frequency signalling}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Methods and arrangements for handling DTMF tones known from circuit-switched networks in packet-switched networks.

Arrangements for interconnection not involving centralised switching
Definition statement

This place covers:

Private Branch Exchanges, e.g. for making connections among the internal telephones of a private organization.

Key telephone systems, i.e. a telephone system in which the telephones have multiple buttons to directly select individual Central Office lines (without dialling a 9 as in PBX).

Acoustic echo cancelling, acoustic echo suppression for telephone systems.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Constructional features of cordless telephones

H04M 1/0202

Speech Amplifiers

H04M 1/60

Substation extension arrangements using two or more extension per lines

H04M 1/715

Automatic or semi automatic exchanges

H04M 3/00

Subscriber line circuits (from the central exchange office)

H04M 3/005

Arrangements for connecting several subscribers to a common circuit, i.e. affording conference facilities

H04M 3/56

Paging systems

H04M 11/022

Door telephones

H04M 11/025

Methods for damping of acoustic waves

G10K 11/16

Speech analysis - synthesis techniques for redundancy reduction

G10L 19/00

Speech enhancement

G10L 21/02

Detection of presence or absence of speech signals

G10L 25/78

Digital adaptive filtering

H03H 21/0012

Transceivers

H04B 1/38

Line echo cancelling

H04B 3/23

Computer conference systems

H04L 12/1813

Video conference systems

H04N 7/15

Video door telephones

H04N 7/186

Selecting arrangements providing connection between main exchange and sub-exchange or satellite

H04Q 3/58

Details of transducers for preventing acoustic reactions

H04R 3/02

Preventing of acoustic reactions in def-aids sets

H04R 25/45

Special rules of classification

Further details of subgroups

It includes two-way communication systems between a limited number of parties as, for examples, vehicle interphone systems (door telephones H04M 11/025, video door telephones H04N 7/186, paging systems G08B 3/1008, hands free subscriber equipment H04M 1/6033).

It includes systems with subscriber controlled access to a line as key telephone systems. Subgroups are defined and clear by their title (keyboard equipment in semi-automatic systems H04M 3/62, subscriber line circuits H04M 3/005).

These groups are not anymore used as they were differentiating systems according to the type of line and access used.

Two-way loud-speaking telephone systems with means for suppressing echoes or otherwise conditioning for one or other direction of traffic. This can be done for example, estimating level of noise or speech, suppressing near and far end background noise, introducing insertion losses (controlling gain) for reducing singing phenomenon. Subgroups includes H04M 9/085, where digital techniques are used, H04M 9/087 with subdivision in different frequency bands for transmitting and receiving part and H04M 9/10 with switching of direction of transmission by voice frequency. (active noise canceling by regenerating original acoustic wave in anti-phase G10K 11/178, detection of presence or absence of speech signals in general G10L 25/78)

This important subgroup refers to the acoustic echo canceling techniques where sound emitted by a local transmitter (loudspeaker) is picked up by a receiver (microphone) and then sent to the far end user together with the voice of the near end user. With the use of adaptive filter, for example, acoustic echo is estimated and subtracted. Also aspects of residual echo (echo left after an incomplete echo cancellation), insertion of comfort noise are classified here (in vocoders H04W 84/12 ). Hybrid echo also known as line echo or electrical echo (generated in the hybrid circuit "fork" inserted between a two-wire local loop and the four wire transmission facility) is instead classified in H04B 3/23 (digital adaptive filter per se H03H 21/0012). In H04M 3/002 instead documents covering aspects of echo cancellation or echo suppression on the network side (Central Office) are covered. Prevention of acoustic reactions in hearing aids is covered by H04R 25/45 .

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

ABF

Adaptive Beamformer

AEC

Acoustic Echo Canceller

AGC

Automatic Gain Control

AP

Affine Projection

APA

Affine Projection Algorithm

AR

Auto-recursive

CPE

Customer Premise Equipment: any phone equipment (key systems, PBX's, answering machines, etc.) which reside on the customers premises

ERLE

Echo Return Loss Enhancement

FIR

Finite Impulse Response

GSC

Generalized Sidelobe Canceller

HKTS

Hybrid Key Telephone System: telephone system that can be used as a PBX or as a Key Telephone System

IIR

Infinite impulse response

KSU

Key Service Unit (common control unit of a KTS)

KTS

Key Telephone System

LMS

Least Mean Square (algorithm used in echo cancelling)

MDF

Multi Delay Filter

MMSE

Minimum Mean Square Error

MSE

Mean Square Error

NLMS

Normalized Least Mean Square (algorithm used in echo cancelling)

PNLMS

Proportionate NLMS

RLS

Recursive Least Square (algorithm used in echo cancelling)

SAEC

Stereophonic AEC

SER

Signal to Echo Ratio

SPNLMS

Sparse partial update NLMS

SVD

Singular Value Decomposition

VAD

Voice Activity detector

Two-way loud-speaking telephone systems with means for conditioning the signal, e.g. for suppressing echoes for one or both directions of traffic
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For line transmission in general

H04B 3/20

Telephonic communication systems specially adapted for combination with other electrical systems
Definition statement

This place covers:

Telephonic communication systems adapted for combination with other electrical systems e.g. combinations with application servers or physical implementation of xDSL-systems.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Signalling or calling systems not related to signalling or calling in telephonic communications (i.e. not related to the control of telecommunication networks); Order telegraphs; Alarm systems

G08B

Transmission of digital information

H04L

{with telemetering systems (telemetering in general G08C)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Typically, electricity or gas meters are read from a remote location via the telephone network. Other types of meters may be used: water, tank fluid level, vending machine stock level, environmental and pollution conditions. Generally, two alternative models are used for remote meter reading: polling and alert, alerts being triggered by thresholds or timers.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Remote reading of utility meters

G01D 4/002

Tele-metering in general

G08C

The metering is transmitted by a channel of a phone connection dedicated to data (e.g. SMS, GPRS)

G08C 17/00

Reporting to a device located outside the home and the home network

H04L 12/2825

Web-based protocols

H04L 67/02

Relates to telemetry by calling (a) substation/s from a main station, but not using the telephone network

H04Q 9/00

Special rules of classification

If the main aspect is remote control via the telephone line and there is also a remote meter reading via the telephone line, then classification in both H04M 11/002 and H04M 11/007 is expected.

If the meter level is an indication of an alarm condition, subgroup H04M 11/04 is preferred

Some documents might have aspects to be classified both in H04M 11/002, H04M 11/062 and G08C 17/02 (e.g. remote control by telephone and the reception device in a home is forwarding the remote control to signals after conversion to specific appliances).

{using recorded signals, e.g. speech}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Telemetering via telephone connection using recorded signals, e.g. speech.

{with remote control systems (remote control in general G08C)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Controlling devices via the telephone line is the subject of this subgroup.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Remote control in general

G08C

Remote control via wireless link

G08C 17/00

Remote control via home network

H04L 12/2803

Controlling appliance services in a home-network

H04L 12/2818, H04L 12/2825

Web-based protocols

H04L 67/02

Special rules of classification

Documents where the remote control consists solely in the setting of parameters for remote reading by telephone should be classified in H04M 11/002 only and not in H04M 11/007.

Some documents might have aspects to be classified both in H04M 11/002, H04M 11/007 and G08C 17/02 (e.g. if you remote control by telephone and the reception device in a home is forwarding the remote control to signals after conversion to specific appliances)

with bell or annunciator systems
Definition statement

This place covers:

A sound is produced in order to reach a person or a subgroup of person immediately. A telephonic communication system has to be used for this purpose.

The telephonic communication system is a private system, such as an intercom (H04M 11/025) or an annunciator systems for hospitals (H04M 11/027).

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Signalling in general

G08

{Paging systems (personal calling arrangements or devices G08B 3/1008; selective calling networks H04W 84/022)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

H04M 11/022 relates to pagers, which are end subscriber devices allowing simplex transmission or reception of text. Paging techniques used in the context of a wired telephone network or in the context of local premises are classified in this subgroup.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Finding location

H04M 3/42229

Personal communication services

H04M 3/42229

Special services or facilities

H04M 2242/00

Paging systems

H04M 2242/26

Determination of the location of a subscriber

H04M 2242/30

Personal calling arrangements or devices

G08B 3/1008

Public address systems

H04R 27/00

Paging techniques as integral part of wireless networks

H04W 84/02

{Door telephones (adapted for television H04N 7/186)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

The door phone systems, are classified in H04M 11/025 unless they are part of a closed circuit television system for monitoring premises.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Constructional features of door telephones

H04M 1/0291

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Interconnection arrangements not including central switching

H04M 9/00

Locks

E05B

Systems for screening visitors and access control

G07C 9/00

Door telephones adapted for closed circuit television systems

H04N 7/186

{Annunciator systems for hospitals}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Systems for calling nurses in a hospital that use a telephonic system.

with alarm systems, e.g. fire, police or burglar alarm systems
Definition statement

This place covers:

Use of the telephone network in alarm notification.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For portable telephones for use in emergency situation

H04M 1/72418

For call centres used for emergency applications

H04M 3/5116

Special services or facilities for emergency applications

H04M 2242/04

With determination of the subscriber location use

H04M 2242/30, H04W 64/00, H04L 67/52

Signalling in general

G08

Alarm systems in general

G08B 25/00

Broadcast systems adapted for emergency communications

H04H 20/59

Provision and call routing of emergency telephone numbers

H04Q 3/0029

Services facilitating emergency connection

H04W 4/90

{using recorded signals, e.g. speech}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Use of the telephone network in alarm notification using recorded signals, e.g. speech.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Alarm systems in general

G08B 25/00

Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems

G08B 25/00

Characterised by the transmission medium

G08B 25/01

Using recorded signals, e.g. speech

G08B 25/012

Provision and call routing of emergency telephone numbers

H04Q 3/0029

Simultaneous speech and data transmission, e.g. telegraphic transmission over the same conductors
Definition statement

This place covers:

This subgroup relates to transmitting simultaneously speech and data on the telephone line. "Simultaneous" does not include only the case where data and speech are transmitted exactly at the same time, but more generally the cases where data and voice are both transmitted on the same telephone connection, for instance competing for time access to this resource.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Telephone sets using digital voice transmission, (e.g. Internet phones)

H04M 1/253

Telegraphy in general

H04L

Packet multiplexing, where some packets are generated from data and others from voice

H04L 12/64

Special rules of classification

Avoid classifying in H04M 11/06. Use H04M 11/062, H04M 11/064, H04M 11/066, H04M 11/068 instead.

{using different frequency bands for speech and other data}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This subgroup contains many documents -- some are very old-- where it is taken advantage of the fact that "sounds" above a certain frequency can not be heard by modulating data above this frequency. However, many recent documents relate to xDSL equipments (modems and concentrators). The xDSL family allows high speed access to the Internet and multimedia services over the local loop. The local loop is formed of an unshielded twisted pair (UTP) and connects the subscriber xDSL modem at customer premises to subscriber line concentrator like a DSLAM (Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer) at the central office for connection to a broadband network. Splitters, comprising filters for each frequency band, are necessary so that the subscriber telephone and the data equipments do not interfere. The data bands definition, and the techniques for combining the data signals in the data bands depend on the type of xDSL: ADSL (Asymmetric DSL), SDSL (Symmetric DSL), HDSL (High speed DSL), VDSL (Very high speed DSL), MDSL (Multirate DSL), RADSL (Low Rate Adaptive DSL).

As an example, the frequency bands of ADSL are as follows. The voice part of the spectrum (the lowest 4 kHz) is separated from the rest by a passive filter, called a POTS splitter. ADSL makes use of advanced modulation techniques, such as discrete multitone (DMT) technology. DMT divides the bandwidth from about 10 kHz into a set of 265 independent subchannels, each 4 kHz wide. By measuring the quality of the subchannels and then assigning a bit-rate to each based on its quality, DMT customizes the transmit signal for every line. In doing so, it automatically avoids regions of the frequency spectrum that are too noisy or too attenuated to support reliable communications. If the quality of a subchannel degrades enough to affect a system's error performance, the data rate on that subchannel is lowered and the excess traffic moves to a subchannel capable of supporting it. The result is robust communications over single twisted pairs. As its name implies, ADSL transmits data asymmetrically at different rates upstream toward the central office and downstream toward the subscriber.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Access interface units for simultaneous transmission of speech and data, e.g. digital subscriber line (DSL) access interface units

H04M 3/007

Testing a digital subscriber line using xDSL modems

H04M 3/304

Testing of physical copper line parameters, e.g. capacitance or resistance

H04M 3/305

xDSL line qualification

H04M 3/306

Constructional details of impedance networks whose electrical mode of operation is not specified or applicable to more than one type of network of radio frequency interference filters. This is relevant for the LPF and HPF in the splitter

H03H 1/0007

Testing crosstalk effects – includes Dynamic Spectrum Management used in optimization of DSL transmission parameters

H04B 3/487

Negotiation of transmission parameters prior to the communication (transmission speed and modulation)

H04L 5/1438

Internet access

H04L 12/2856

Modulated-carrier systems and analog front ends; means for connecting modulators, demodulators or transceivers to a transmission line

H04L 27/0002

Documents having features related to the DMT modulation

H04L 27/26

Signal structure of multicarrier modulation systems

H04L 27/2602

Constructional details of splitters

H04Q 1/02

DSL access multiplexers

H04Q 11/0478

{Data transmission during pauses in telephone conversation}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This subgroup relates to transferring data on the telephone line and interrupting the data transfer when there is voice to be transmitted.

In a first aspect, this subsubgroup relates to techniques that take advantage of the fact that speech is mostly composed of silences. During these silences, data can be sent without the subscriber noticing it, provided that it is replaced at the receiving telephone by blanks. In order to receive and remove the data, the start and the end of the data segments is signalled from one end to the other.

In a second aspect, this subgroup also concerns techniques for interrupting a data communication which was happening when no any voice communication was going on the telephone line. The objective of such systems is to avoid that the subscriber can not use his telephone for voice communication when for instance his modem is transmitting data.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Notifying a called subscriber of an incoming call during an ongoing call, e.g. Call Waiting

H04M 3/4288

{Telephone sets adapted for data transmision}
Definition statement

This place covers:

In band modems (voice band, narrow band). Since base band transmission on the telephone network is not possible, data needs to be modulated. Modems allow the modulation of data so that data can be sent instead of speech via the telephone network. Most modems have several operating modes and need to exchange training sequences before exchanging data. Circuit details of the galvanic isolation between the line side and the subscriber side are a topics of particular interest

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Details about acoustic couplers between a telephone and an external device

H04M 1/215

Telephone devices for the deaf

H04M 3/42391

Negotiation of transmission parameters prior to communication - Handshaking - such as transmission speed and modulation type

H04L 5/1438

Modulation techniques in general

H04L 27/00

Telemetry and telecontrol details

H04Q 9/00

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents the following abbreviations are often used:

TTY

teletypewriter

In patent documents the following expressions/words "analog modem", "digital modem", "dialup modem", " fax modem", " in band modem", "smart modem", " voice modem" are often used.

{using time division multiplex techniques; (integrated services digital networks H04Q 11/0428)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Time division multiplexing at the telephone subscriber end. Very often, there is an equipment for multiplexing speech and data on the phone line.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Integrated services digital networks

H04Q 11/0428

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Time division multiplexing systems

H04J 3/16

specially adapted for optional reception of entertainment or informative matter
Definition statement

This place covers:

A special arrangement at the telephony end subscriber side for handling in a special way information received via phone line which relates to a special service. The information transmitted relates for example to time, gaming information, route navigation or electronic messages.

Voice or sound, e.g. DTMF Digital Tone Multi Frequency, is usually interpreted by an automatic device, which may carry out voice recognition.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Means for retrieving and displaying personal data about calling party

H04M 1/575

Telephony special services

H04M 3/42

Display of information about the caller (CLID)

H04M 3/42042

Arrangements in the network for providing information services, e.g. recorded voice services, time announcement

H04M 3/487

Interactive Voice Response systems

H04M 3/493

Browsing from a telephone or fax

G06F 16/957

Systems in which the information is continuously available on a carrier over the whole network

H04H 20/81

Intra-layer communication

H04L 69/32

In OSI layer 7

H04L 69/329

Video communication

H04N 7/14

Two way working for television

H04N 7/17309

{using a television receiver, e.g. viewdata system}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Minitel /videotext systems since television receivers are meant to include any screen display working in conjunction with the telephone. The situation where the class H04M 11/08 would have been given but the device has a display.

with dictation recording and playback systems
Definition statement

This place covers:

Centralised dictation systems accessible via the telephone network for recording and playback. Playback may involve tape recorder features. What characterizes the word dictation is that the ultimate purpose of dictation is to have the text typed or written, but at a later stage. The word "centralised" specifies that the system considered is not just at the subscriber side. Use of voice mail systems for dictation.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Arrangements for recording conversations in a (mobile) phone

H04M 1/656

Combinations of dictation devices with cordless phones

H04M 1/72433

Arrangements for recording conversations within the telephone network, e.g. in an exchange

H04M 3/42221

Voice mail servers

H04M 3/533

Information storage based on relative movement between record carrier and transducer

G11B

Dictation systems as such

G11B 31/00

Party-line systems (substation equipment H04M 1/00; exchange equipment H04M 3/00, H04M 5/00; metering arrangements H04M 15/36)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Arrangements in which two or more customers are connected directly to the same link or circuit.

Relationships with other classification places

Substation equipment

H04M 1/00

Exchange equipment, automatic, manual

H04M 3/00, H04M 5/00

Metering arrangements

H04M 15/36

Arrangements for metering, time-control or time indication {; Metering, charging or billing arrangements for voice wireline or wireless communications, e.g. VoIP}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Charging or billing arrangements e.g. generation of metering signals, tariffs, rating plans, charge calculations and bill generation details for voice wireline and wireless communications including VoIP. Also rating/charging for added value services, or other services using prepaid calling cards, SIM cards or the mobile phone itself, insofar as these services are metered, rated and billed by the network operator.

Relationships with other classification places

Prepayment wire-line, wireless systems.

H04M 17/00

Accounting or billing for wireless communications

H04W 4/24

Data switching networks.

H04L 12/00

Payment schemes, architectures or protocols, data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial or supervisory purposes.

G06Q

Coin inlet arrangements; Coins specially adapted to operate coin-freed mechanisms

G07F 7/00

Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges, constructional details of telephone exchanges

H04M 3/00

Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers; Analogous equipment at exchanges.

H04M 1/00

Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges

H04M 3/00

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Metering, testing arrangements therefor

H04M 3/248

Telephonic communication systems adapted for combination with other electrical systems

H04M 11/00

Time controlling arrangements, time indicating arrangements counters per se

G06M, H03K

Payment schemes, architectures or protocols

G06Q 20/00

Commerce

G06Q 30/00

Apparatus for performing or posting payment transactions, complete banking systems; Coded card-freed arrangements adapted for dispensing or receiving monies or the like and posting such transactions to existing accounts,

G07F 7/00, G07F 19/00

Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Technical aspects of billing, charging, accounting, tariffing for the transport of data packets in wireless or wireline data networks, including data sub networks of wireless voice networks.

H04L 12/14

Charging or billing for services specially adapted for wireless communications

H04W 4/24

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers

H04M 3/42

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Call

any kind of communication

{Third party charged communications}
Definition statement

This place covers:

I.e. third party can be a predetermined communication line of the user if he initiates a communication from another device and asks to be billed on his main device

according to class of calling party
Definition statement

This place covers:

Calling party is the party initiating the communication i.e. A-party

with meter at substation {or with calculation of charges at terminal}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Calculation of charges at substation, e.g. at the mobile terminal, or notify subscriber of charges e.g. Advice-of-Charge (AoC)

the meter {or calculation of charges} not being controlled from an exchange
Definition statement

This place covers:

Metering or calculation of charges not controlled from an exchange, i.e. autonomous calculations of charges in the terminal

{Distributed metering or calculation of charges}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Distributed metering or calculation of charges, e.g. in different nodes like for mobiles between HLR and VLR, or between the terminal and the billing function

{Arrangements for preventing metering, charging or billing}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Metering,charging or billing preventing arrangements i.e. parameters, characteristics that identify whether to charge for a service or not

Special rules of classification

WARNING: Groups H04M 15/44 - H04M 15/90 do not correspond to former or current IPC groups.

{Billing record details, i.e. parameters, identifiers, structure of call data record [CDR]}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Billing record details, i.e. parameters, identifiers, structure of Call Data Record (CDR), or Toll Ticket (TT), or Automatic Message Accounting (AMA)

{Dynamic individual rates per user}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Dynamic individual rates, e.g. individual communication rate determination method allowing the service provider to dynamically generate an individual rate plan for the user

{Augmented, consolidated or itemized billing statement or bill presentation}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Augmented, consolidated or itemized billing statement, e.g. additional billing information, bill presentation, layout, format, e-mail, fax, printout, itemized bill per service or per account, cumulative billing, consolidated billing

{Real-time negotiation between users and providers or operators}
Definition statement

This place covers:

On line or real-time flexible customization or negotiation between user and provider or operator, or between operators and providers

{Fraud detection or prevention means}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Fraud detection or prevention means related to metering, charging /billing in wire-line or wireless, voice or data

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Fraud detection and prevention in wireless networks

H04W 12/12

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Detection or protecting against malicious traffic

H04L 63/14

Fraud detection and prevention in wireless networks

H04W 12/12

{Secure or trusted billing, e.g. trusted elements or encryption}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Secure and trusted billing, e.g. trusted elements, encryption, digital signature, codes or double check mechanisms to secure billing calculation and information

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Wireless network security

H04W 12/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Network security

H04L 63/00

Wireless network security

H04W 12/00

{Connection to several service providers}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Connection to several service providers

{for cross-charging network operators}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Interconnection, inter-operator accounting or billing, billing agreements between different operators, e.g. billing identifier added on the CDR in order to cross charge the other operator

{for resellers, retailers or service providers}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Resellers-retail or service providers billing, e.g. agreements with telephone service operator, activation, charging/recharging of accounts, bill directly reseller's customers

{for operator independent billing system}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Independent billing system i.e. billing system owned by resellers or service providers (not by the operator)

{using mediation}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Arrangements for mediation, i.e. device or program to reformat CDRs from one or more switches in order to adapt to one or more billing program formats

{for revenue sharing}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Revenue sharing between telecommunication operators and service providers or location owners (e.g. for public telephones, etc.)

{for hybrid networks}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Hybrid network i.e. charging, billing arrangements for connection made over different networks, e.g. wireless and PSTN, ISDN, etc.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Telephonic communication systems adapted for combination with other electrical systems

H04M 11/00

{for VoIP communications}
Definition statement

This place covers:

VoIP charging/billing

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Voice over IP, VoIP Protocols and Services

H04L 65/40

{for integrated multimedia messaging subsystem [IMS]}
Definition statement

This place covers:

IMS charging or billing, i.e. Integrated Multimedia messaging Subsystem charging/billing; IMS in general, see H04L 65/1016; IMS based services and session control, see H04L 65/40, H04L 65/1066.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

IP multimedia subsystem [IMS]

H04L 65/1016

Real-time session management in data packet switching networks

H04L 65/1066

Session initiation protocol [SIP]

H04L 65/1104

Support for real-time services or applications in data packet switching networks

H04L 65/40

{based on statistics of usage or network monitoring}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Network monitoring; statistics on usage on A-party or B-party number, on used services, etc

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Network monitoring per se

H04L 43/00

{based on real time}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Real time metering, charging or billing

{based on actual use of network resources}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Charging/billing only for the actual communication time, i.e. billing the user for the actual time used by the service, not for the time awaiting responses due to network problems; Billing the user when there is a satisfied QoS, only for the time the user receives communication data

{based on the service used}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Service related metering or charging or billing

{based on trigger specification}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Trigger specification e.g. trigger or code input into a device to specify a service

{based on the content carried by the session initiation protocol [SIP] messages}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Charging based on the content carried by the SIP messages

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Real-time session management in data packet switching networks

H04L 65/1066

Session initiation protocol [SIP]

H04L 65/1104

{On-line charging system [OCS]}
Definition statement

This place covers:

OCS i.e. Online Charging System , unified online charging and online control capabilities that can be used as a unified charging engine for all network services, making it a core basis for convergent billing in the network

{Off-line charging system}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Off-line Charging System

{Policy and charging system}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Policy and Charging System

{Transmitting arrangements for sending billing related information}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sending billing related information over a non-traffic network channel or another connection than the one actually used, e.g. signaling, D-channel, data and voice

{Payment of value-added services}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Payment of value-added services, mainly when their charges are added on the telecommunications bill, e.g. payment of non-telecom services, m-commerce, on-line banking, etc.

{Administration or customization aspects; Counter-checking correct charges}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Administration or customization aspects, or modify settings or limits or counter-check correct charges

{Account settings, e.g. limits or numbers or payment}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Account settings, e.g. users, terminals, limits, numbers or payment

{Modifying recharging resources}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Modify recharging resources, e.g. banking, credit or phone account

{Activating new subscriber or card}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Activate new subscriber or card

{by the user}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Administration or customization by the user

{using the Internet}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Administration or customization aspects like modify account settings, checking accounts using Internet or WAP, etc. i.e. on-line real-time billing, able to see billing information while in communication via the internet

{using the user's device}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Using the user's device e.g. phone, PDA, etc

{by the operator}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Administration or customization by the operator

{Validating charges}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Validate charges

{Re-crediting user}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Re-credit user, i.e. repay user with the amount or free time after finding an error in calculating the charges

{Backing up}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Details of metering, charging or billing backups

{Customizing according to wishes of subscriber, e.g. friends or family}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Customization according to wishes of subscriber, e.g. customer preferences, friends and family, selecting services or billing options, Personal Communication Systems (PCS)

{Account location specifications}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Account location specifications

{Card based account, e.g. smart card, SIM card or USIM}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Card based account, e.g. smart card, SIM card or USIM)

{Account identification}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Account identification

{via service number, e.g. calling card}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Account identification via service number, e.g. calling card

{by SIM, e.g. smart card account in SCP, SDP or SN}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Account identification by SIM, e.g. smart card account in SCP, SDP or SN

{Synchronization of distributed accounts}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Synchronization of distributed accounts

{Linked or grouped accounts, e.g. of users or devices}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Linked or grouped accounts, or devices, or users, or user access,

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Systems involving a hierarchy between servers

H04L 63/104

Wireless access security

H04W 12/08

{shared by users}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Linked or grouped accounts, shared by users, e.g. group accounts or one account for different users, master-slave

{shared by technologies}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Linked or grouped accounts, shared by technologies, e.g. one account for different access technologies (PSTN or wireless) , or prepay and post-pay

{for closed subscriber group [CSG]}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Linked or grouped accounts for closed Subscriber Group (in 3GPP) i.e. group of subscribers that belong to a restricted access group of cells and differentiated charging is applied e.g. CSG or femto-cells, Home Node B (HNB) cells, Home e-Node B (HeNB),

{involving multiple accounts per user}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Multiple accounts per user

{per terminal or location, e.g. mobile device with multiple directory numbers}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Multiple accounts per user per terminal or location; Mobile with multiple directory numbers

{per service, e.g. prepay or post-pay}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Multiple accounts per user per service, e.g. prepay and post-pay

{per technology, e.g. PSTN or wireless}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Multiple accounts per user per technology, e.g. PSTN or wireless

{per card}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Multiple accounts per card

{Account specifications on parallel communications}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Account specifications on parallel communications

{Redistributing amount between accounts}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Redistribute amount between accounts

{dynamically}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Redistribute amount between accounts dynamically

{by user request}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Redistribute amount between accounts by user request

{Reserving amount on the account}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Reserve amount on the account , e.g. according to estimated costs for a typical communication duration or according to the estimated volume to be transferred

{Virtual purses}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Virtual purses i.e. prepaid value is distributed between user specific virtual purses each associated with a respective metered resource

{Rating or billing plans; Tariff determination aspects}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Rating aspects, e.g. rating parameters or tariff determination aspects, reduced or increased tariffs. General billing plans, e.g. numbering plans, rate centers c

{Flat-fee}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Flat-fee

{using class of subscriber}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Rating dependent on class of subscriber

{based on quality of service [QoS]}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Rating depending on the Quality of service (QoS)

{Determining tariff or charge band}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Rating depending on determined tariff or charge band

{based on network load situation}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Rating depending on load situation, e.g. Current network load, traffic load or available resources

{location-dependent, e.g. business or home}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Location dependent rating, e.g. business or home

{Roaming or handoff}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Roaming or handoff depending rating]

{Selecting cheaper transport technology for a given service}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Select cheaper transport technology for a given service, e.g. use for data connection WLAN rather than GSM/UMTS/GPRS or use company's communication network rather than a public network

{Selecting least cost route depending on origin or type of service}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Select least cost route depending on origin or type of service

{Group MMS or SMS; Point-to-multi-point services or broadcast services}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Group MMS or SMS; Point-to-multi-point services, broadcast services

{involving reduced rates or discounts, e.g. time-of-day reductions or volume discounts}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Reduced rates or discounts, e.g. time-of-day reductions, volume discounts, cell discounts, group billing, frequent calling destination(s) or user history list

{involving increased rates, e.g. spam messaging billing differentiation}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Increased rates i.e. increase price of communication in order to avoid user misuse e.g. spam messaging billing differentiation

{Trial service, i.e. free of charge service for trial purposes}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Trial service i.e. free of charge or reduced charging of a service for trial purposes

{Dynamic pricing, e.g. change of tariff during call}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Dynamic pricing, e.g. change of tariff during call

{Criteria or parameters used for performing billing operations}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Criteria, parameters used for performing billing operations, metric aspects

{Time based data metric aspects, e.g. VoIP or circuit switched packet data}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Time based data metric aspects, e.g. VoIP or circuit switched packet data

{Data or packet based}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Aspects of data metering or packet based metering,.

Special rules of classification

(used only for additional classification of documents in order to cover all different aspects of billing metrics e.g. : time, data, in the same billing structure)

classification is done in H04L 12/14.

{Message based}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Message based, e.g. SMS

{Session based}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Session based metering,.

{Access based}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Access based metering,.

{Transaction based}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Transaction based metering,.

{based on the number of used channels, e.g. bundling channels, frequencies or CDMA codes}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Based on the number of used channels, e.g. bundling channels or frequencies or CDMA codes

{Unit based}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Unit based metering, charging.

{Pulse based}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Pulse based metering, charging.

Based on the number of used services, e.g. call forwarding or call barring

{Based on the number of used services, e.g. call forwarding or call barring}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Based on the number of used services, e.g. call forwarding or call barring

{Event based}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Event based metering, charging

{Money or currency based}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Money or currency based metering, charging

{Charging for signaling or unsuccessful connection}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Charging for signaling or unsuccessful connection

{Notification aspects}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Time (before or after or during communication) or frequency (in regular intervals, dynamically) of notifications to the user e.g. display messages related to user's balance, Advice of Charge (AoC), etc.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Notification of users, e.g. alerting for incoming communication or change of service

H04W 68/00

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following abbreviations are often used:

AoC

Advice of Charge

{Dynamic change of the length or frequency of the notification interval}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Dynamic change of the length or frequency of the length of the notification interval, e.g. depending on the remaining available prepaid credit

{Types of notifications}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Types of notifications to the user e.g. display messages announcements, flashing indication

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Notification of users, e.g. alerting for incoming communication or change of service

H04W 68/00

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following abbreviations are often used:

AoC

Advice of Charge

In patent documents the following expressions/words "advice of charge or aoc", "notification or notify or notice", "display", "announcement", "alert", "message" and "optical indication" are often used.

{Announcement, e.g. IVR dialogue}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Types of notifications to the user announcements, e.g. IVR dialogue, intelligent peripheral or switch

{Message, e.g. SMS}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Types of messages, e.g. alphanumeric text, SMS, MMS, EMS or www-based messaging service

{optical, e.g. icon}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Types of optical notifications, e.g. flashing indication of a lamp, icon, soft-key or symbo

{Tone, e.g. beeper}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Types of tone, notifications to the user, e.g. beeper, sound, wave

{characterised by the type of condition triggering a notification}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Notifications send when a specific condition, service or event is met

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Notification of users, e.g. alerting for incoming communication or change of service

H04W 68/00

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following abbreviations are often used:

AoC

Advice of Charge

In patent documents the following expressions/words "advice of charge or aoc", "notification or notify or notice", "display", "announcement" and "alert" are often used.

{Low balance or limit reached}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Notifications send when there is low balance or limit reached , e.g. zero-credit

{Successful event}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Notification when a successful event, e.g. successful recharge or delivery of a service

{Unsuccessful event}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Notifications send when there is an Unsuccessful event, e.g. service rejected due to low credit

{Cumulative charges}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Notifications send when there are cumulative charges

{Request users acknowledgement prior to use}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Notifications send when the system should request users acknowledgement prior to use

{Recipients of the notification}
Definition statement

This place covers:

When and how the notifications or AOCs are send

{multiple parties, e.g. multi party AOC}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Notifications send to multiple parties, e.g. multi party AOC

{a predetermined or undetermined destination, e.g. notifying a prepaid accounting server of a successful delivery of a service}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Notifications send to a predetermined or undetermined destination, e.g. notifying a prepaid accounting server of a successful delivery of a service, a connection, or chargeable content to a mobile terminal

{Provision for limiting connection, or expenditure}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Provision for limiting connection, or expenditure e.g. limit on communication expenses or account

{for continuing the call beyond the limit using allow grace}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Provision for limiting expenditure by continue allow grace, e.g. accept negative balance

{for continuing the call beyond the limit using an alternative, e.g. alternative account}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Provision for limiting or expenditure by continue alternative, i.e. alternative account to continue use, e.g. Alternate Billing Service (ABS)

{linked escalation limits, i.e. establish, first or second limit}
Definition statement

This place covers:

linked escalation limits, establish, first or second limit

{limit per application}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Provision for limiting connection, or expenditure per application

{limit per terminal}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Provision for limiting connection, or expenditure per terminal

{limit per user or user related number}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Provision for limiting connection, or expenditure per user or user related number

{severing connection after predetermined time or data}
Definition statement

This place covers:

severing connection after predetermined time or data, etc. or upon reaching limit or blocking the device

{using Intelligent Networks [IN] or Advanced Intelligent Networks [AIN]}
Relationships with other classification places

Selecting arrangements

H04Q 3/00

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Provisions for intelligent networking

H04Q 3/0029

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following abbreviations are often used:

AIN

Advanced Intelligent Network

IN

Intelligent Network

{using near field or similar technologies}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Charging, metering aspects using bluetooth, or near field i.e. wireless communication links like blue-tooth, Wi-Fi, near filed used to communicate charging or billing related information.

Prepayment {of wireline communication systems, wireless communication systems or} telephone systems (using a coded card to authorise calls from a telephone set H04M 1/675)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Prepaid aspects for wire-line and wireless communications including VoIP. Also any other prepaid related aspect like recharging functionality, usage and features of calling cards, SIM, etc.

Relationships with other classification places

Charging, billing for voice wire-line communication networks

H04M 15/00

Accounting or billing for wireless communications

H04W 4/24

Data switching networks.

H04L 12/00

Payment schemes, architectures or protocols, data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial or supervisory purposes.

G06Q

Methods or arrangements for processing data by operating upon the order or content of the data handled

G07F 7/00

Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges

H04M 3/00

Time controlling arrangements; Time indicating arrangements (counters per se)

G06M, H03K

Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers; Analogous equipment at exchanges.

H04M 1/00

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Using a coded card to authorise calls from a telephone set

H04M 1/675

Metering, testing arrangements there for

H04M 3/248

Payment schemes, architectures or protocols

G06Q 20/00

Commerce

G06Q 30/00

Apparatus for performing or posting payment transactions, complete banking systems; Coded card-freed arrangements adapted for dispensing or receiving monies or the like and posting such transactions to existing accounts,

G07F 7/00, G07F 19/00

Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Technical aspects of billing, charging, accounting, tarifing for the transport of data packets in wireless or wireline data networks, including data sub networks of wireless voice networks.

H04L 12/14

Charging or billing for services specially adapted for wireless communications

H04W 4/24

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers

H04M 3/42

{Disposable prepaid communication devices}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Disposable prepaid communication devices e.g. wireless disposable telephones

{Cocot systems, i.e. private ownership of payphones}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Cocot systems, private ownership of payphones

Coin-freed or check-freed systems {, e.g. mobile- or card-operated phones, public telephones or booths}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Coin-freed or check-freed systems e.g. card operated phones or mobiles, public telephones or booths, etc.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Coin-freed or check-freed apparatus per se

G07F

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Cordless telephones, mobiles

H04M 1/725

{with provision for recharging the prepaid account or card, or for credit establishment}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Credit establishment i.e. establishment of credit (codes, vouchers, etc. ) for the payment of telecommunication services .

{automatic recharging with predetermined amount at threshold}
Definition statement

This place covers:

With automatic recharging of account or card with predetermined amount at threshold, e.g. if limit is reached during connection the account is recharged automatically

{selecting interactively a payment method}
Definition statement

This place covers:

With automatic recharging of account or card at threshold and the payment method is selected interactively by the user

{Code type, e.g. alphanumeric code, bar code}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Code type e.g. alphanumeric code, bar code, pattern, punched holes, temporarily valid code, etc

{Pay as you go}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Pay as you go i.e. user establishes payment in advance or while on line but no contract is required as for prepaid account details and usage

Current supply arrangements for telephone systems (for selecting-equipment H04Q 1/28)
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • Feeding from Central Office Exchange to telephone sub stations (Battery function of Subscriber Line Interface Circuits, SLIC).
  • Arrangements for providing ringing current to telephone substations (Ringing function of Subscriber Line Interface Circuit).
  • Ringing current generated at substation, in particular ringing alerts for alerting a user of incoming calls.
  • Current supply source generated at the sub station.
  • Subgroup details:
  • H04M 19/001: This group cover the arrangements at the exchanger for providing current to substation. A SLIC should provide the so called BORSCHT (Battery, Over voltage, Ringing, Signalling, Coding, Hybrid, Testing) functions: this group covers the "B" function. SLIC in general covered by H04M 3/005.Over voltage covered by H04M 3/18. Off hook detection covered by H04M 3/2272.
  • Subgroups cover details about circuits that are clear from the title of the subgroups themselves.
  • H04M 19/02: This group cover the "R" function of a SLIC. Subgroups cover details that are clear from the title of the subgroups itself.
  • H04M 19/04: This group cover ringing current generated at the substation. Ringing tones (as well as visual and tactile alerts) for alerting user of an incoming call should be classified here. Ring back tones are instead covered by H04M 3/42017. Audible, visible and tactile signalling in generals are covered by G08B group.
  • H04M 19/06: Current supply source at subordinate switching centre charged from main exchange.
  • H04M 19/08: In case substation is powered locally, from mains for example. Adjacent fields includes circuit arrangements for charging batteries (H02J 7/00), circuit arrangements for emergency or stand by power supply (H02J 9/00).
Relationships with other classification places

If the current supply refer to the selecting equipment part of the exchange then this aspect is covered by H04Q 1/28.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Customized ring back tones

H04M 3/42017

Uninterrupted power supply for computers

G06F 1/30

Current supply arrangements over Ethernet

H04L 12/10

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Portable communication terminals with means for adapting by the user the functionality or the communication capability of the terminal under specific circumstances

H04M 1/72448

Subscriber line interface circuits (SLIC)

H04M 3/005

Over voltage protection in line interface circuits

H04M 3/18

Subscriber line supervision circuits e.g. off hook detection

H04M 3/2272

Paging systems

H04M 11/022

Door telephones

H04M 11/025

Power supply means for computers

G06F 1/26

Audible signalling system in general

G08B 3/00

Visible signalling system in general

G08B 5/00

Tactile signalling systems in general

G08B 6/00

Details of transformers

H01F 27/00

Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries

H02J 7/00

Circuit arrangement for emergency or standby power supply

H02J 9/00

Arrangements for feeding power to a repeater over a transmission line

H04B 3/44

Systems for transmission via power distribution lines

H04B 3/54

Arrangements for feeding power in transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio waves, e.g. light, infrared

H04L 12/10

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

BORSCHT

Battery, Over voltage, Ringing, Signalling, Coding, Hybrid, Testing

SLIC

Subscriber Line Interface Circuit

AEC

Acoustic Echo Canceller

CPE

Customer Premise Equipment: any phone equipment (key systems, PBX's, answering machines, etc.) which reside on the customers premises

HKTS

Hybrid Key Telephone System: telephone system that can be used as a PBX or as a Key Telephone System

KTS

Key Telephone System

PBX

Private Branch Exchange

UPS

Uninterrupted Power Supply

CO

Central Office

RBT

Ring Back Tone

RTTL

Ring Tone Transfer Language