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Network-based multimedia communications and directory system and method of operation

  • US 6,064,723 A
  • Filed: 04/07/1998
  • Issued: 05/16/2000
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/16/1994
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A network hub of a communications system operable to interact within that communications system with other network hubs through internal data lines, the network hub comprising:

  • a plurality of computer systems, each comprising a local area network adaptor system;

    a local area network coupled to each of the local area network adaptor systems within the plurality of computer systems;

    a first one of the plurality of computer systems comprising certain digital connection processor systems each coupled to at least one external messaging facility through communication paths utilizing digital communications protocols;

    a second one of the plurality of computer systems comprising certain analog connection processor systems each coupled to at least one external messaging system through communication paths utilizing analog communications protocols;

    a third one of the plurality of computer systems comprising a database server system operable to access and manage a database, the database comprising directory information comprising records containing profile information and operational preference information for users of the communications network, the network hub operable to receive updates to the directory information from other network hubs and alter the information stored in the database; and

    a fourth one of the plurality of computer systems comprising a communications system operable to manage communications between the network hub and other network hubs through the high speed communication lines coupled to the fourth computer system.

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