A research and development project to determine the electronic design, functioning and software of a low cost universal system to be added to voicemail systems to provide full TTY (TDD,TT) access to the resources of a voice mail system, including fax-back and access to databases. The system will utilize a low cost baudot capable modem with TTY detection with voice pass-through. The modem, unlike computer modems, is designed for use on a voice telephone line, and will normally pass calls to an existing voice mail system. The modem will detect the presence of a TTY and will switch TTY calls to a personal computer running software that will handle and process the TTY call.
Anticipated Results: The project will result in the design of a low cost baudot modem, at a breadboard stage, which will answer a telephone line, selectively pass voice calls through without interference and detect TTY calls. Upon detection of a TTY call the modem will convert the baudot signals to standard computer ASCII, and will send the signal out a standard RS-232 serial port to a standard IBM compatible personal computer where software will provide a text interface to the caller and process the call. The project will include the basic software to handle the call, including taking messages, providing information and offering other services. The system would enable any voice mail system to effectively handle TTY callers. A secondary goal is to design the hardware unit with a manufacturing parts cost of under $100. Phase two would result in a production model and completed software for mass market sales.
