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Self configuring data card terminal

  • US 5,396,545 A
  • Filed: 10/22/1993
  • Issued: 03/07/1995
  • Est. Priority Date: 11/08/1991
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A method for initially configuring and thereafter operating a card transaction terminal, the transaction terminal including a programmed microcomputer, electronic communications circuitry for communicating with computer systems via a telephone line in conducting card transactions, and a memory for storing at least one telephone number, comprising the steps of:

  • (1) causing the communications circuitry to seize the telephone line;

    (2) dialing a first string of digits associated with a host computer system;

    (3) detecting whether the host computer system is connected in response to dialing of said first string of digits;

    (4) in response to detection that the host computer system is not connected in response to dialing of said first string of digits, dialing a modified string of digits associated with said host computer system;

    (5) detecting whether the host computer system is connected in response to dialing said modified string of digits;

    (6) storing an access flag indicative of whether the host computer system was connected in response to dialing of said first string of digits or said modified string of digits; and

    (7) responsive to the state of said access flag, automatically utilizing either a second string of digits associated with a computer system or a second modified string of digits associated with said computer system for subsequent communications,whereby the transaction terminal is automatically operative to configure itself to a telephone system of a user.

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